Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 19 23 Amir BAIRAMI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Sasan REZAEI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 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 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Background: Among the most important parasitic disease, causing diarrhea, Gi­ardia lamblia is noteworthy. Nowadays detection methods for these parasites in­clude parasitological methods such as microscopic examination. The sensitivity of these methods relies on the expertise and experience of examiners. In contrast, molecular methods such as PCR are less dependent on the expertise of the exam­iner. Here we developed a PCR for the detection of G. lamblia genome in stool samples in comparison with microscopy, which is the gold standard. Methods:  For the evaluation of primers, 22 positive samples and 47 negative samples were used. QIAamp DNA Stool Mini Kit (QIAGEN, Germany) was used for DNA extraction from feces. Primers for PCR were designed using Primer-BLAST which uses Primer 3 to designing specific primers (NCBI/ Primer-BLAST). Results: Sensitivity of the PCR was done with 100% (95%CI: 84.56-100) for the detection of G. lamblia DNA isolated from patients stool samples which were posi­tive for G. lamblia cysts and/or trophozoites using microscopy as gold standard. In comparison with microscopy, PCR had showed the specificity of 97.87% (95%CI: 88.71-99.95). Conclusion: We designed new primers for the Giardia, and PCR method for the rapid and accurate identification of Giardia parasites established. With considera­tion to the routine diagnosis techniques in medical parasitology and their limita­tions such as time consuming, laborious, less sensitivity etc. This G. lamblia PCR is a sensitive and specific application for the diagnosis of G. lamblia and provides us a reliable method in the routine intestinal parasitic infection laboratory diagnosis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/805 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/805/646

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 1 9 Tadesse HAILU Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, P.O.Box 79, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Background: Leishmaniasis is an obligate intercellular protozoon that affects animals and human. It has zoonosis and/or anthroponosis transmission. Human and veterinary medicine, environmental science and wildlife conservation special­ists have many commonalities in case of visceral leishmaniasis. Still the above disciplines respond against leishmaniasis in a separate way.   The aim of this re­view is to indicate inter- and intra- sectoral collaboration for planning future con­trol strategies. Methods: literatures written on visceral leishmaniasis and one health approach were systematically reviewed from the year 1969 to 2014 from Pub Med, Scopus, Medline and Google scholar sources. Result: Such a one health approach would enhance biomedical progress; im­prove medical and veterinary serves, entomological control and wildlife conser­vation for Visceral Leishmaniasis especially in endemic areas. Conclusion: Inter- and intra – sectoral collaboration in the leishmaniasis con­trol is limited in Ethiopia. Therefore, incorporating one health approach or inte­grated inter- and intra – sectoral collaboration for visceral leishmaniasis control is an effective control strategy in endemic areas. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/803 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/803/658

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 116 120 Elif Ayşe ÇİZMECİ Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, School of Medicine, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey Nermin KELEBEK GİRGİN Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, School of Medicine, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey Ilkay CEYLAN Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, School of Medicine, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey Tekin TUNCEL Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey Oktay ALVER Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey Emin Halis AKALIN Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Malaria is a parasitic disease that is starting to be encountered in intensive care units (ICU) worldwide, owing to increasing globalisation. Severe malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum, is characterised by cerebral malaria, acute renal failure, hypoglycaemia, severe anaemia, splenomegaly and alveolar oedema. We present the case of a 25-yr old male patient who presented to the Emergency Department of Uludag University in Bursa, Turkey in the winter of 2014 with complaints of fe­ver for three days. His medical history revealed a 14-month stay in Tanzania. Staining of blood smears revealed characteristic gametocytes in accordance with P. falciparum infection. The day after admission, he had an epileptic seizure after which his Glasgow Coma Scale was 6, so he was intubated and transferred to the ICU. A computerized tomography scan revealed findings of cerebral oedema. Intravenous mannitol was administered for 6 days. Intravenous artemisinin was continued for 10 days. Due to refractory fevers, anti-malarial treatment was switched to quinine and doxycycline on the 14th day and on the 16th day the fe­vers ceased. This case emphasizes that cerebral malaria should be suspected in cases of seizures accompanying malaria, and treatment should be initiated in the ICU. Furthermore, resistance of P. falciparum to artemisinin should be in mind when a response to therapy is lacking. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/819 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/819/663

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 98 103 Somayeh MAGHSOODLOORAD Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran Ali HAGHIGHI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Khojasteh SHARIFI SARASIABI Paramedical Faculty, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Niloofar TAGHIPOOR Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Nahid HOSSEINZADEH Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Latif GACHKAR Tropical and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ehsan NAZEMALHOSSEINI MOJARRAD Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Elham MAGHSOODLOORAD Sayyad Shirazi Hospital, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Background: The present study was formulated in order to determine pol­ymorphism of dihydropteroate synthetase gene (dhps) of Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) in Hormozgan Province, southern Iran and mutations at codons 382, 383, 512, 553, and 585 associated with resistance of P. vivax to sulfadoxine. Method: One-hundred eighteen isolates of P. vivax were prepared within 2007-2008 to determine dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthase (dhfr-ts) gene. The isolates were determined in the study of genetic diversity of dihy­dropteroate synthetase gene (dhps) of P. vivax. The study was performed via PCR test and nucleotide sequencing. Results: Of 118 blood samples infected by P. vivax, 46 and 72 samples be­longed to Minab and Jask, respectively. No mutation was detected at 5 target codons. However, among these 118 samples, three isolates (2.54%) were found to have a mutation at the new codon 421. Conclusion: Since mutation was detected in dihydrofolate reductase (Pvdhfr) gene in the same samples but no mutation was found at five main codons of Pvdhps gene, it can be concluded that P. vivax, considering their mutations in Pvdhfr, is still susceptible to sulfadoxine and therefore, to fansidar in Hor­mozgan Province, Southern Iran. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/816 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/816/660

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 24 29 Farnaz KHEIRANDISH Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Mohammad Hassan KAYEDI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Behrouz EZATPOUR Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Khatere ANBARI Dept. of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Hamid Reza KARIMI ROUZBAHANI Deputy of Treatment, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Ali CHEGENI SHARAFI Dept. of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Deputy of Health, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Abolfazl ZENDEHDEL Dept. of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Negar BIZHANI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Bagher ROKNI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Background: The purpose of this study was to perform seroepidemiological investigation for determining the status of human fasciolosis in Pirabad Village, Lorestan Province, western Iran. Methods: Blood samples were taken from residents of the village including 801 individuals. Sera were separated and stored at -20°C until used. The samples were analyzed using ELISA. Results: Anti-Fasciola antibodies were detected in 6 (0.7%) individuals. Difference between age, sex and drinking or swimming in the surface water with seropositivity to fasciolosis was not significant. Out of 7 shepherds, 1 (14.3%) was seropositive. Due to the small number of shepherds, comprehensive statistical inference in this regard cannot be done. Significant difference was detected between seropositivity to fasciolosis and consuming local freshwater vegetables during the last 6 months (P=0.001). Conclusion: Metacercariae carrying local freshwater plants might be the main source of contamination because consumption of these kinds of vegetables was confirmed by all participants. Awareness of local communities regarding the danger of freshwater plant consumption, through health education programs, will decrease the risk of infection. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/806 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/806/649

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 10 18 Gharib KARIMI Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran Ahmad MARDANI Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran Maryam ZADSAR Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Background: Toxoplasmosis is a common parasitic disease. There is likelihood of exposure to Toxoplasma gondii in blood donors during the periods of life. Currently, laboratory screening of blood donors for T. gondii is not routinely available. The objectives of this review were to study the effects of T. gondii on blood safety and to approach for risk reduction in blood recipients. Methods: A literature search was performed using Cochrane library, PubMed, Scopus, Google scholar IranMedex, SID and Magiran without time limitation. All studies, which had reported the prevalence of T. gondii in Iranian blood donors in both English and Farsi languages, were evaluated and reviewed. The contents of the transfusion medicine text books related to this issue were reviewed. Searching keywords were "Blood Donors" or "Blood Transfusion" and "Toxoplasma" or "Toxoplasmosis" and Iran. Results: In order to study the prevalence of T. gondii in Iranian blood donors, six studies have been reviewed. IgG and IgM antibodies varied between 12.3% to 52.8% and 0% to 5.47%. Some of these studies have suggested to doing the screening for all blood donors. However, based on parasitological and epidemio­logical evidences, there is little chance for parasite transmission by blood transfu­sion. Conclusion: By considering the moderate prevalence, difficulty in the differentiation between recent and past infections, and cost-effectiveness, it is not possible and rational to perform screening of donated blood. To reduce the risk of parasite transmis­sion, leukofilteration method is recommended. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/804 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/804/659

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 121 125 Reza SHAFIEI Vector-borne Diseases Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran AND Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Mohsen NAJJARI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Ali KARGAR KHEIRABAD Dept. of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Golamreza HATAM Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Shiraz, Iran 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Cystoisospora belli, formerly Isospora belli, as an opportunistic infection agent, is seen in immunocompromised patients like HTLV-1. We describe here cystoiso­sporiasis in an HTLV1 Iranian female in Mashhad, northwestern Iran in 2012 who presented with a debilitating diarrheal illness and great weight loss. C. belli was de­tected in her stool by modified acid-fast staining and then by molecular detection. Serologic testing was negative for HIV but she showed positivity for HTLV-1 in­fection. Treatment with TMP/SMX led to improvement of her diarrhea but she died after one year due to malabsorption syndrome. Adequate detection of C. belli diarrhea in immunocompromise patients of HTLV1 in endemic area can be cured by TMP/SMX. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/820 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/820/664

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 104 109 Hamed KALANI Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Ahmad DARYANI Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Mehdi SHARIF Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Ehsan AHMADPOUR Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Ahad ALIZADEH Department of Biostatistics, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Mohtaram NASROLAHEI Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Shahabeddin SARVI Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Farzad KALANI Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Roghiyeh FARIDNIA Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Background: Toxoplasmosis is considered as one of the most common infectious diseases caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Tachyzoite is the main form of Toxoplasma and continuously is maintained in cell culture or injected into the mice peritoneal cavity. This study was designed to evaluate the survival rate of RH strain of T. gondii tachyzoites in different cell free, nutrient and biological media at different temperatures. Methods: This experimental study was performed at the Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran, in 2010. One ml of each solution including hypotonic saline (0.3%), normal saline (0.85%), RPMI-1640 (RPMI), RPMI with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), RPMI with 20% FBS, ovine hydatid cyst fluid, pasteurized milk of cow, and phosphate buffered saline (PBS) along with 4×104 T. gondii tachyzoites were added to plate wells and incubated in 4 °C, 22 °C, 37 °C, and 37 °C under 5% CO2. The survival rate and viability as­sessment of parasites were performed daily and the results were analyzed using Univariate tests. Result: Tachyzoites survival rate in PBS (4 °C) and normal saline (4 °C) were con­siderably high, compared to other solutions in different conditions (P<0.001). The best temperature for Toxoplasma maintenance was 4 °C (P<0.001). Conclusion: This study introduces two available and economical solutions, PBS (4 °C) and normal saline (4 °C) media, for maintenance of Toxoplasma tachyzoites as appropriate choice media for a noticeable period of time (11 days) in vitro. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/817 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/817/661

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 30 34 Mohammad YAKHCHALI Dep. of Pathobiology, Parasitology Division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran Kia BAHRAMNEJAD Dep. of Pathobiology, Parasitology Division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Background: Fasciolosis, caused by the liver flukes of the genus Fasciola, is one of the most prevalent diseases of domestic livestock and human throughout the world, imposing considerable economic losses. The present study was aimed to assess the effects of different pH values on hatching rate of Fasciola miracidia. Methods: The flukes were isolated from the infected livers of the slaughtered ruminants at the abattoir of Urmia City, Iran, crushed thoroughly and sieved for isola­tion of the Fasciola eggs. The eggs were washed up several times by PBS (0.01N, pH 7.2). They were incubated at different pH values of 7±0.1 (control) and 3-9.5 (treatments) at 28°C for 16 days. Results: The maximum hatching rate was observed at pH 7 (14.93±0.65%), while no miracidia were hatched at pH 3 and/or pH 9-9.5. There were significant differences between the hatching rate of the treatments and that of the control group. Conclusion: Water pH is proven to be a crucial factor affecting the life cycle of Fasciola and its epidemiology. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/807 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/807/650

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 126 130 Bahador SARKARI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Niloofar BAVARSAD AHMADPOUR Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Abdolali MOSHFE Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran Homa HAJJARAN Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 We describe a case of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) due to Leishmania tropica in a 50-year-old Iranian man lived in a VL-endemic area in southwest of Iran. The patient presented with a 3-month history of fever and splenomegaly. Clinical signs and serological findings were suggestive of VL. Spleen biopsy was taken from the patient and intracellular forms of Leishmania amastigotes was seen in Giemsa stained smears. The patient was treated with pentavalent antimonial compound with complete resolution of his systemic signs and symptoms. DNA was extracted from the microscopic slides of the spleen biopsy and the nagt (N-Acetylglucosamine-1-Phosphate Transferase) gene of Leishmania was PCR-amplified. Sequence analysis of the PCR product demonstrated that the case has 99% identity with those of available sequences of L. tropica. Intra-species variation within isolate was 0-0.1%; whereas, inter-species differences of the isolate with those of L. major and L. infantum was significantly higher. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/821 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/821/665

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 110 115 Azzam AFIFI Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Omdurman Islamic University, Sudan Abdel-Aziz A. AHMED Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Khartoum, Sudan Yassir SULIEMAN Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Shendi, Sudan Theerakamol PENGSAKUL Faculty of Medical Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90110, Thailand 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Background: Schistosomiasis is one of the major communicable diseases of public health and socioeconomic importance in developing countries. This study assessed the situation of schistosomiasis among villagers of the New Halfa Agricultural Scheme, Sudan. Methods: An epidemiological survey was carried out in three randomly selected residential sites: Village 19, Village 26 and Talat shagrat Camp, from October to December 2013. Feces and urine samples were collected from 2433 individual (1195 male and 1238 female) and examined for schistosomiasis infection. The prevalence and intensity of infection were calculated according to study sites and participants’ sex and age-group. Results: There was no infection with Schistosoma haematobium among the examined individuals, while the overall prevalence of S. mansoni infection was 27.4% and the mean intensity among those infected was 261.1 eggs per gram (epg). A high preva­lence and intensity of infection was found among the residents of Talat shagrat Camp, followed by the other two villages. The prevalence of infection among males was 41.4%, and among females was 13.9%. On the other hand, the intensity of in­fection among females was 293.4 epg and among males 187.6 epg. A high preva­lence of infection was found in the age-groups 11-20 years and > 50 years. High intensity of infection was present in the age-groups 31-40 years and > 50 years. Conclusion: The finding of the study shows the need for an integrated control program against schistosomiasis. Mass treatment, provision of adequate clean-water supply and combating the intermediate snail host are suggested. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/818 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/818/662

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 35 45 Ying ZHANG Dept. of Medical Genetics, Wuhan University School of Basic Medicial Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China Young-An BAE Dept. of Molecular Parasitology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 440-746, South Korea Hong-Ying ZONG Dept. of Medical Parasitology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China Yoon KONG Dept. of Molecular Parasitology, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Suwon, 440-746, South Korea Guo-Bin CAI Dept. of Medical Parasitology, Wuhan University School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Background: Parasite proteases have important roles in cleavage of host proteins during the invasion of host tissues and participate in the parasite’s evasion from the host’s immune response. The aim of the present study was to estimate a metalloproteinase properties of Taenia solium metacestode (TsMP) during host-parasite interactions, and evaluate its potential as a serodiagnostic antigen for cysticercosis. Methods: The cDNA coding for the mature catalytic domain of TsMP was cloned into pGEX-6P-1 expression vector. A recombinant glutathione S-transferase and TsMP fusion protein was induced. After refolding and purification, enzymatic properties of the recombinant metalloproteinase were observed. Immunoblot assay was processed to evaluate its potential as a serodiagnostic antigen for cysticercosis. Results: The recombinant TsMP protein showed proteolytic activity, which preferred host extracellular matrix proteins such as collagen and fibronectin as degradable substrates. In immunoblot assay, 87.5% of sera from patients with cysticercosis showed strong reactivity. In sera from patients with other parasitic infections and from normal controls, it showed high specificity. Conclusions: TsMP might be involved in the processing of numerous host proteins and play an important role in the parasite life cycle. A single recombinant TsMP antigen could have a potential value for serodiagnosis of cysticercosis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/808 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/808/651

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 131 135 Seyed Masoud ZOLHAVARIEH Dept. of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran Alireza NORIAN Dept. of Pathobilogy, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran Morteza YAVARI Dept. of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran 2016 03 14 2016 03 14 Dioctophyma renale infection is found in a wide range of mammalian species, typically in temperate areas of the world. Here, we report for the first time, the parasitism of a domestic dog by D. renale in Hamedan, Iran, a mountainous cold region, lacking significant amounts of rainfall, high humidity and temperature. A 2.5 yr old male mixed breed dog was presented with a two months history of progressive hematuria and muscle weakness. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry were performed with results indicating impaired renal function. Urinalysis, showed hematuria as well as parasitic eggs, suggestive of D. renale infection. Urinary system ultrasonography revealed a hypoecogenic tubular structure in the right kidney. The animal was treated with fenbendazole (45 mg/kg, PO, QD - five days) and ivermectin (0.02 mg/kg, SC, single dose). One week later, repeated laboratory examination confirmed presence of at least one alive worm in the affected kidney. A unilateral nephrectomy was performed; one female (60 x 5 cm) and one male (30 x 3.8 cm) live worm were taken out of the extremely thin walled right kidney. One month later, due to failure of the remained kidney and poor condition, the patient deceased. We conclude that dioctophymosis can be found in cold and or relatively dry area. Moreover, the results showed that the worm was not affected with common anthelmintic drugs. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/822 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/822/666

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 1 2016 03 14 577 583 EN Zaid O IBRAHEEM Pharmacology Unit, Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia Roslaini ABDUL MAJID Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia Sabariah MOHD NOOR Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia Hasidah MOHD SIDEK School of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, UKM-Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia Rusliza BASIR Pharmacology Unit, Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: Nowadays, scourge of malaria as a fatalistic disease has increased due to emergence of drug resistance and tolerance among different strains of Plasmodium falciparum. Emergence of chloroquine (CQ) resistance has worsened the calamity as CQ is still considered the most efficient, safe and cost effective drug among other antimalarials. This urged the scientists to search for other alternatives or sensitizers that may be able to augment CQ action and reverse its resistance. Method: Three β-carbolin derivatives, namely, harmalin, harmol and harmalol were tested for their anti-plasmodial and CQ resistance reversal effects against P. falciparum 3D7 and K1. SYBRE Green-1 based drug sensitivity assay and isobologram analysis were used to screen the mentioned effects respectively. Results: All of them showed moderate anti-plasmodium effect and harmalin was the most effective as compared to the others in reversing CQ resistance and tolerance. Conclusion: The mentioned phytochemicals are not ideal to be used as conven­tional anti-malarials and only harmalin can be suggested to reverse CQ resistance in P. falciparum K1. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/657 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/657/538

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 584 589 EN Mohammad Taghi RAHIMI Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Seif Ali MAHDAVI Amol faculty of Paramedics, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Behzad JAVADIAN Amol faculty of Paramedics, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Rozita REZAEI Amol Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Mahmood MOOSAZADEH Health Sciences Research Center, School of Health, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Mehri KHADEMLOU Health Center Province, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Seyed Hosein SEYEDPOUR Health Center Province, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Abolghasem SYADATPANAH Dep. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: Toxoplasmosis in immunocompetent people is generally asympto­matic but in immunocompromised patients including HIV/AIDS, can­cer pa­tients, and organ transplant recipients, etc. it can lead to serious pathological problems. The objective of current study was to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies in HIV/AIDS patients using ELISA technique in Mazanda­ran Province, northern Iran. Methods: Overall, 82 serum samples (61 males and 21 females) were collected from HIV/AIDS patients in Mazandaran Provinces, in 2013. Sera were surveyed employing ELISA assay. Data were analyzed using Chi-Square or Fisher exact test. In addition, before sampling a questionnaire was filled out for each subject. Results: Overall seroprevalence of examined sera was 96.3% for IgG antibody but none of the sera shown IgM antibody against T. gondii. The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in males and females was 96.7% and 95.2%, respectively. An antibody titer of >1 IU/ml was considered as positive. Furthermore, none of the included variables statistically was significant. Conclusions: Seroprevalence of chronic (latent) toxoplasmosis in HIV/AIDS patients in Mazandaran Province is high compared to toxoplasmosis in general population. Consequently, the risk of acquiring Toxoplasma encephalitis in exam­ined seropositive HIV/AIDS patients of Toxoplasma is high. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/659 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/659/540

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 590 598 EN Razi NASERIFAR Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran Fatemeh GHAFFARIFAR Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Abdolhosein DALIMI Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Zohreh SHARIFI Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran Kavous SOLHJOO Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran Kami HOSSEINIAN KHOSROSHAHI Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: Severe and fatal complications of toxoplasmosis urge development of effective vaccines against the disease. The current study was performed to evalu­ate cocktail DNA vaccine containing plasmids encoding GRA5, SAG1, and ROP2 genes of Toxoplasma gondii in BALB/c mice in Tarbiat Modares University in 2012. Methods: The plasmids containing complete GRA5, SAG1, and ROP2 genes were mass extracted and then the recombinant plasmids were administered via intramuscu­lar injections according to immunized mice three times with three-week intervals. Then splenocytes were cultured, and proliferation as well as cytokine as­says were carried out. The other mice in each group were inoculated by the parasite and mortality of the mice was evaluated on a daily basis. Results: The results of cytokine assay for INF-γ were higher in the mice that re­ceived the cocktail DNA containing recombinant plasmids. Evaluation of prolifera­tion of splenocytes using the MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazo­lium bromide) assay indicated induction of cellular response. Measurement of total IgG and the isotypes of IgG1 and IgG2a showed that the cocktail DNA stimulated IgG and IgG2a production in comparison with the control groups (P<0.05). Furthermore, the survival rate of mice in the groups that received the cocktail DNA was significantly higher than that in the control groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: Administration of the cocktail DNA vaccine led to production of higher levels of IFN-γ, confirmed by secretion of IgG2a, and the immune response was shifted toward Th1. Thus, the cocktail DNA containing the recombinant plas­mids can be an appropriate candidate for immunization against toxoplasmosis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/660 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/660/541

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 599 604 EN Marzieh ASHRAFMANSOURI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Bahador SARKARI Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Gholamreza HATAM Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Parvaneh HABIBI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Samaneh ABDOLAHI KHABISI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a parasitic disease with a relatively wide distribution in different areas of the world, including Iran. The parasite is mainly diagnosed microscopically, but serological approaches might be useful for diagnosis as well.  This study aimed to assess the efficacy of an immunoblotting system for serodiagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Iran. Methods: Sixty-one sera samples from parasitologically confirmed CL patients and 50 sera samples from healthy controls along with 50 sera sample from non-CL patients were collected. Native strain of Leishmania major was cultured in Schnei­der medium and soluble Leishmania antigens were prepared from amastigotes-like parasites. All of sera samples were evaluated by an immunoblot­ting system. Results: Components of 14 to 135 kDa were detectable by the sera of CL pa­tients. From 61 sera of CL patients, 59 cases (96.7%) detected a 63 kDa subunit and 51 cases (83.6%) recognized a 32-35 kDa component. Among all subunits, the 63 kDa band showed the highest sensitivity (96.7%) and a 75 kDa band had the highest (98%) specificity. Conclusion: Immunoblotting has a satisfactory performance in diagnosis of CL and this test can be used, as an aid, for proper diagnosis of CL. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/661 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/661/542

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 605 616 EN Neelima GUPTA Centre of Excellence Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, M.J.P. Rohilkhand University, Bareilly-243 006,U.P., India Dileep K. GUPTA Fisheries and Aquaculture Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Bareilly College, Bareilly-243 006, U.P., India Priyanka SINGHAL Centre of Excellence Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, M.J.P. Rohilkhand University, Bareilly-243 006,U.P., India 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: The genus Pallisentis is an endoparasitic acanthocephalan inhabit­ing the intestinal walls. Hooks and spines of the worm are significant taxonomical and adaptive tools. Methods: The parasites were fixed, dehydrated and examined under Olym­pus BX 53 Microscope with DIC attachment, digital camera and CELLSENS imag­ing system [Light microscopy (LM)] and fixed in 2% glutaraldehyde in 0.1 M cacodylate buffer, dehydrated, rotary-coated with gold palladium in NeoCoater 100-240V and examined in Neo JCM-6000 [scanning electron microscopy (SEM)]. Results: P. punctati n. sp. (prevalence 65.51%; mean intensity 3-6 par/host) is de­scribed. Females almost twice as large as males; proboscis hooks small; collar spine rows similar [16] and constant in both sexes but number of spines per row greater in females [22] than males [14]; trunk spine rows 28-39 (spines per row 14-18) in females and 20-26 (spines per row 10-12) in males. spine length of females almost twice as long as males, spines extend up to posterior testis in males and ¾ of total body length in females, Saefftigen’s pouch present, nuclei in cement gland 10-11, seminal vesicle, bursa and egg size small. SEM indicated lack of micro sculptures, and spines embedded on pre-trunk and trunk. Sex-based differences apparent (hook sizes, greater number of spines per row and longer spines in pre-trunk and trunk of females). Male trunk spine was narrower and of lateral spine with characteristic hooked appearance. Conclusion: A new species of Pallisentis based on LM and SEM is described, sexual diversity in hook and spine structure is reported. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/662 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/662/543

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 617 624 EN Farzaneh ZAHABIUN Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Seyed Mahmoud SADJJADI Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran AND Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Farideh ESFANDIARI Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: : Permanent slide preparation of nematodes especially small ones is time consuming, difficult and they become scarious margins. Regarding this prob­lem, a modified double glass mounting method was developed and com­pared with classic method. Methods: A total of 209 nematode samples from human and animal origin were fixed and stained with Formaldehyde Alcohol Azocarmine Lactophenol (FAAL) followed by double glass mounting and classic dehydration method us­ing Canada balsam as their mounting media. The slides were evaluated in differ­ent dates and times, more than four years. Different photos were made with differ­ent magnification during the evaluation time. Results: The double glass mounting method was stable during this time and compa­rable with classic method. There were no changes in morphologic struc­tures of nematodes using double glass mounting method with well-defined and clear differentiation between different organs of nematodes in this method. Conclusion: Using this method is cost effective and fast for mounting of small nematodes comparing to classic method.  https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/663 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/663/544

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 625 631 EN Amir TAVAKOLI KARESHK Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran