Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 290 295 Mehdi SHARIFI-RAD Department of Medical Parasitology, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran AND Department of Medical Parasitology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Mansour DABIRZADEH Department of Medical Parasitology, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran Iraj SHARIFI Department of Medical Parasitology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran AND Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Zahra BABAEI Department of Medical Parasitology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran AND Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: Leishmaniasis is important vector-borne parasitic disease worldwide, caused by the genus Leishmania. The objective of the current study was to identify genetic polymorphism in L. major, one of the species causing cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), isolated from southeastern Iran, using Permissively Primed Intergenic Polymorphic-Polymerase Chain Reaction (PPIP-PCR) method. Methods: Overall, 340 patients with suspected CL were examined. They referred to the Central Laboratory in Chabahar, Iran during Apr 2013 to Feb 2014. Microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained slides from lesions as well as aspirates cultured in Novy- Mac Neal-Nicolle (NNN) Media was employed in order to diagnose CL in these patients. Our analyses detected 86 suspected subjects as having CL from which 35 isolates were cultured successfully. PPIP-PCR method was performed on extracted genomic DNA from selected isolates in order to determine the genetic polymorphism among L. major isolates. Results: The electrophoresis patterns demonstrated two genetic profiles including A or A1 patterns between all samples tested. Frequency of A and A1 sub-types were 33 (94.3%) and two (5.7%), respectively. Conclusion: Both host and parasite factors may contribute to the clinical profile of human leishmaniasis in the endemic foci of the disease. Here we showed that genetic variations pertaining to the Leishmania parasites might determine, in part, the clinical outcomes of human leishmaniasis.  https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1197 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1197/644

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 411 416 Mohsen NAJJARI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mohammad EBRAHIMIPOUR Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Amir KAHEH Dept. of Pathology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Mohammadreza KARIMAZAR Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2016 10 01 2016 10 01 Strongyloidiasis is a frequent misdiagnosed parasitic infection in the world that caused by Strongyloides stercoralis. In Iran, the disease is predominantly reported from warm and humid climate provinces. The patient was a 54-yr-old man, originated from Khuzestan Province with a history of pemphigus and diabetes that was treated with high-dose of corticosteroid drugs before admission in a non-private hospital in Shiraz, Iran in 2014. After different primary diagnosis and administrating of several drugs, endoscopy and histopatholgical biopsy revealed a massive S. stercoralis infection in the duodenal mucosa and gastric wall. In spite treating with anti-helminthic drugs in the last days, due to using different steroid drugs, clinical manifestations of the patient were exacerbated and he was expired on the seventeenth day due to severe dyspnea. Physicians’ awareness and using various diagnosis methods like serology, endoscopy, and biopsy should be considered in the endemic areas. In suspicious cases, anthelmintic drugs should be started before the initiation of immunosuppressive therapy. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1223 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1223/723

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 364 370 Salman KHAZAEI Dept. of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Shahab REZAEIAN Dept. of Epidemiology, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Zaher KHAZAEI Dept. of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Kurdistan, Iran Elham GOODARZI Dept. of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Kurdistan, Iran Somayeh KHAZAEI Dept. of Paramedicine, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran Mahdi MOHAMMADIAN Dept. of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran Hamid SALEHINIYA Dept. of Public Health, School of Public Health, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran AND Minimally Invasive Surgery Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Erfan AYUBI Dept. of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Abdollah MOHAMMADIAN-HAFSHEJANI Social Determinants in Health Promotion Research Center, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran AND Dept. of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological and clinical aspects of patients with hydatid cyst during 2011 to 2014. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Khorasan Razavi Province, the Northeast of Iran, from 2011 to 2014. The study population was all cases with hydatid cyst who diagnosed in governmental and private laboratories, hospitals and health centers (HC) in Khorasan Razavi Province during 2011-14. Results: The prevalence rate of hydatidosis was 1.44 per 100000 individuals. Of 357 cases, 54.9% were women, 40.3% rural, 45.8% housewives, and 3.4% were Afghan. The mean age of women was higher than that of men (39.13±18.9 compared to 34.7±17.9 yr, respectively, P-value=0.025). The highest proportion of cases (39.2%) was in the age group of 21-40 yr old. Abdominal pain was reported in 42.3% of cases. Liver involvement was the most common localization of hydatid cyst reported in 59.4% of patients, and 8.4% had multiple organ involvement. The common diagnosis methods of the disease were radiology (42.3%) followed by CT scan (37.8%). 45.9% of patients had domestic dog and hygiene principles of washing the vegetables was adhered by 6.7% of patients. Conclusion: The prevalence of human hydatidosis, as a most important neglected disease, should be considered by health policy-makers in public health domain. In addition, educational programs to better recognition of the disease symptoms, and to identify the infection sources are needed in high risk group of population. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1207 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1207/716

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 426 428 Faezeh SHABANI AZIM Student Scientific Research Center, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mitra ZARE BAVANI Zoonosis Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Bahram NIKMANESH Zoonosis Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Luciferase Immunoprecipitation System Assay, a Rapid, Simple, Quantitative, and Highly Sensitive Antibody Detection for Parasitic Diseases https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1217 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1217/725

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 296 302 Mohammad YAKHCHALI Dept. of Pathobiology, Parasitology Division, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nazlu Campus, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran Asaad HOSSEINPANAHI Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Nazlu Campus, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran Reza MALEKZADEH-VIAYEH Artemia and Aquatic Animals Research Institute, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: The present study was carried out to detect the infection of larval stages of Trichobilharzia species in the snail Lymnaea auricularia in northwestern Iran based on DNA analysis. Methods: A total number of 320 snails of L. auricularia were sampled from four water-bodies located in the suburb of Urmia City, North West Iran, during May to November 2011. The snails were first microscopically inspected for the infection with larval stages of trematodes. Genomic DNA was extracted from the snails and PCR was performed to amplify a fragment of the ribosomal DNA of Trichobilharzia species in the infected snails. Results: Microscopic examinations indicated that 11.25% (36 out of 320) of the snails were infected with larval stages of trematodes, while the PCR patterns showed a much higher infection rate (31.25%, 100/320). According to the PCR, the infections were caused by the larval stages of T. szidati (21.56%, 69/320) and T. franki (9.69%, 31/320) or both of them (8.44%, 27/320). The infected snails were observed in three out of the four studied sites. The highest infection rate in a single site was 50% (25/50). Only 7.81% (25 out of 320) of the infected snails were from the plain areas, while the remaining was from high altitudes. Conclusion: Results of this study contribute the utility of the employed technique for quick and accurate detection of the infection with trichobilharzian species in their intermediate host snails, which may have potential zoonotic role in the region. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1198 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1198/708

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 417 721 Sima RASTI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Rouhullah DEHGHANI Social Determinants of Health (SDH) Research Center, Department of Environmental Health, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Hassan NAEIMI KHALEDI Laboratory of Shaheed Beheshti, Hospital, Kashan, Iran Sayed Mahdi TAKHTFIROOZEH Student Research Committee, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Elahe CHIMEHI Dept. of Environmental Health, School of Health, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Contamination of human and animal body tissues with flies’ larvae and diptera cause myiasis. A 26 yr old female patient refers to Kashan Shahid Beheshti Hospital, central Iran because of urogenital infection, pain in the right part of stomach, smelly and reddish vaginal discharge and frequent urination. In the first checking, urine sample was taken. In the sample, active and alive larvae were seen. The live samples were taken to the Environmental Health Department Lab of Kashan University of Medical Sciences in clean glass jars. In the morphological survey, Psychoda sp larvae were identified. In Iran, this study is the first report of this species of larva that causes urinary myiasis. This fly larva is not carnivore or bloodsucker and feeds on bacterial agents. Observance of personal hygiene especially during defecation and urination is essential to prevent contamination of this type of myiasis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1215 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1215/614

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 371 376 Ali RAMAZANI Dept. of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran Reza HAMIDNEZHAD Dept. of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran Alireza FOROUMADI Dept. of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Seyed Abbas MIRZAEI Dept. of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran Somayyeh MADDAHI Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization, Zanjan, Iran Seyed Mehdi HASSANZADEH BCG Vaccine Unit, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: Aurones are naturally occurring compounds that belong to flavenoids family and have antiplasmodial effects. This study investigated some new aurones derivatives against chloroquine sensitive Plasmodium falciparum. Here we report the synthesis, in vitro antiplasmodial activity and cytotoxic evaluation of 11 compound from derivatives of (Z)-2- benzylidene-4, 6-dimethoxybenzofuran-3(2H)-one. Methods: The cytotoxic evaluations of active compounds were performed with MTT (3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5 diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay on human breast cancer cell lines; MCF7 and T47D. Results: From 11 compounds M3, M6 and M7 compounds showed good antiplasmodial effect against chloroquine-sensitive 3D strain of P. falciparum with IC50 (50% inhibitory concentration) values of 7.82, 7.27 and 2.3 µM respectively. No noticeable toxicity was‌ observed with these compounds when tested against tested cell lines. Conclusion: The replacement of the 4 and 5 positions at ring B of aurone derivatives, with propoxy and bromide (Br) respectively was revealed highly advantageous for their antiplasmodial effect. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1208 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1208/717

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 429 430 Thomas MCCLOUGHLIN Dublin City University-St. Patrick's Campus, Dublin, Ireland 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Sight for Sore Eyes: Diplostomum and Tylodelphys in the Eyes https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1218 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1218/726

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 303 315 Wike Astrid CAHAYANI Master Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia Eviana NORAHMAWATI Dept. of Anatomic Pathology, Dr. Saiful Anwar Hospital/Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia Niniek BUDIARTI Division of Tropical Infection, Dept. of Internal Medicine, Dr. Saiful Anwar Hospital/Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia Loeki Enggar FITRI Dept. of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: We aimed to reveal the role of CD11b and hypoxia-inducible factors-1alpha (HIF-1α) expressions on monocytes and alveolar macrophages of lung tissue, and the levels of serum surfactant protein-D (SP-D) in severe malaria-associated acute lung injury (ALI). Methods: The C57BL/6 mice were divided into control group, renal malaria group (inoculated with 106 Plasmodium berghei ANKA), and cerebral malaria group (inoculated with 107 P. berghei ANKA). The expressions of CD11b and HIF-1α in lung tissue were observed by immunohistochemistry, and serum SP-D levels were measured by ELISA. This study was conducted from June 2014 to February 2015 in the Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang. Results: The CD11b expression on pulmonary tissue of renal and cerebral malaria mice were significantly higher than control mice (P=0.002; P=0.002), as well as the HIF-1α expression on pulmonary tissue (P=0.002; P=0.002). The level of serum SP-D in renal malaria and cerebral malaria mice were significantly higher than control mice (P=0.002; P=0.002). We found a strong correlation between the expression of CD11b and HIF-1α in lung tissue (r=0.937, P=0.000), as well as between CD11b expression and serum SP-D levels (r=0.907, P=0.000) and between HIF-1α expression and serum SP-D levels (r=0.913, P=0.000). Conclusion: Severe malaria-associated ALI increased the expression of CD11b and HIF-1α in the lung tissue and increased serum SP-D levels of C57BL/6 mice significantly. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1199 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1199/709

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 422 425 Shahnam BABOLI Neurosurgery Ward, Khanevadeh Military Academic Hospital, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Simin BABOLI School of Medical Education Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Saeed SOLEIMAN MEIGOONI Infectious Diseases Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Brain hydatid cyst constitutes one of the leading causes of cranial mass in the endemic region, especially among the children. Symptoms of the disease are associated with rising of intracranial pressure and focal neurological deficit. Surgical excision of the cyst is essential to treatment. Here we present a 19 yr-old male livings in Ardabil, northwest of Iran, referred to Neurosurgery Clinic in Khanevadeh University Hospital, Tehran, Iran with a large brain hydatid cyst and atypical symptoms. He was treated by surgical excision of the cyst without any complication. There were not any clinical or radiological signs of recurrence after one-year follow-up. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1216 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1216/724

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 377 382 Majid MANSOURI Department 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 Gholam Reza MOWLAVI Department 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 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: Wild boars, Sus scrofa, of wide distribution considered as a potential source of zoonotic parasites. The current study aimed to assess the prevalence of helminth infections in wild boars in the Persian Gulf coastal area (Bushehr Province), Southwestern Iran. Methods: Twenty-five wild boars, including 11 males and 14 females, were collected during a course of vertebrate pest control in the Bushehr Province, southwestern Iran in 2013. The specimen were immediately dissected and carefully searched for the parasites. During necropsy, each organ was examined macroscopically for presence of any helminthic agents. Tissue samples were taken from each organ. Moreover, samples were taken from the content of digestive system. Blood samples were also collected from each boar. All the samples were evaluated for helminth infections by parasitological methods. Results: Twenty-two (88%) of the wild boars were infected with at least one helminth. Out of 25 wild boars, 1 (4%) were infected with Cysticercus tenuicollis, the larval stage of Taenia hydatigena, 13 (52%) with Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus, 17 (68%) with Metastrongylus spp, and 20 (80%) with Ascarops spp. Hydatid cyst was detected in the lung of one of the wild boars. No Trichinella spp. larvae were detected in any of the tissues of the animals when evaluated by artificial digestion method. In addition, no contamination with microfilaria was detected in any of animals when the blood samples were tested with Knott’s method. Conclusion: Wild boars are contaminated by some helminthes including zoonotic ones. These animals could be involved in the epidemiology of zoonotic helminth by acting as reservoir hosts. This in turn may bring potential risk for locals and residents of the Bushehr Province, Southwestern Iran. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1209 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1209/718

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 316 324 Maryam NOROUZI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Seyyed Javad SEYYED TABAEI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Maryam NIYYATI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Vafa SABER Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, International Branch of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hamed BEHNIAFAR Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate, intracellular protozoon that develops its sexual stage in cat’s intestinal epithelial cells as definitive host and develops its asexual stage in different tissues of a wide range hosts called intermediate host. The protozoon is a food-borne and worldwide parasite that can cause serious complications such as abortion in pregnant women, encephalitis, and ocular toxoplasmosis. The present study aimed to genotype T. gondii strains isolated from patients with toxoplasmic retinochoroiditis. Methods: Fifty-two blood samples were taken from patients with ocular toxoplasmosis, from July 2013 to July 2014. The specimens were collected from three ophthalmological hospitals of Tehran, Iran. After that, DNA extraction was performed using kit on separated buffy coats of serologically positive blood samples. Then PCR was done in GRA6 gene. For digestion of products, MseI endonuclease was used. Finally, some of the PCR products were sequenced. Results: All of 52 samples were found positive by serological and PCR-RFLP methods and all of isolated strains belong to type III genotype. Type III genotype has the highest prevalence in Iranian ocular toxoplasmic patients. Conclusion: T. gondii, particularly its type III should not be neglected as a cause of retinochoroiditis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1201 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1201/710

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 383 388 Hossein MAHMOUDVAND Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Seyed Reza MIRBADIE School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran Mehdi GHASEMI KIA Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University, Kerman, Iran Ebrahim BADPARVA Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Saeedeh SHAMSADINI LORI Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Majid FASIHI HARANDI Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: This investigation aimed to evaluate the in vitro scolicidal effects of Pistacia khinjuk methanolic extract against protoscoleces of hydatid cysts and its acute toxicity in mice NMRI model. Methods: Protoscoleces were aseptically extracted from sheep livers having hydatid cysts. Various concentrations of the essential oil (12.5- 100 mg/mL) were used for 10 to 60 min. Viability of protoscoleces was confirmed using eosin exclusion test (0.1% eosin staining). Twenty-four male NMRI mice were used to assess the acute toxicity of P. khinjuk. Results: P. khinjuk extract at the concentrations of 100 mg/mL after 10 min of exposure killed 100% of protoscoleces. Similarly, the mean of mortality rate of protoscoleces after 20 min of exposure to the concentration of 50 mg/mL was 100%. The LD50 of the intraperitoneal injection of the P. khinjuk methanolic extract was 2.8 g/kg and the maximum non-fatal dose was 1.7 g/kg. Conclusion: The findings demonstrated effective scolicidal effects of P. khinjuk extract with no considerable toxicity that might be a natural source for the producing of new scolicidal agent. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1210 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1210/719

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 325 331 Somaye SADEGHI Dept. of Immunotherapy and Leishmania Vaccine Research, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran AND Immunogenetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Negar SEYED Dept. of Immunotherapy and Leishmania Vaccine Research, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Sima RAFATI Dept. of Immunotherapy and Leishmania Vaccine Research, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Tahereh TAHERI Dept. of Immunotherapy and Leishmania Vaccine Research, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: The present study was conducted to investigate the optimized timing for macrophages induction and nitric oxide (NO) production against invading Leishmania parasite. Methods: The present study examined the murine macrophage cell line, B10R, in three different states. In the first state, the cells were first infected with L. major and then treated with IFN-g and LPS as stimulants. In the second state, the cells were infected after stimulation with IFN-g and LPS. In the third state, the cells were only exposed to stimulants as controls. In all the three states, cell culture supernatants were collected at three points in time (6, 24 and 48 h) and the amount of NO production was measured using Griess assay. Results: The treatment of macrophages with inducers prior to infection with stationary phase parasite led to the secretion of significant amounts of NO, particularly at early time points quit contrary to the cells infected with parasites prior to induction. The amount of NO produced by cells induced after infection was detected significantly lower. Conclusion: The induction of macrophages prior to infection with parasites leads to the production and secretion of greater amounts of NO, resulting in an increased ability to suppress and inhibit parasite proliferation even in the early stages of infection. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1202 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1202/711

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 389 395 Fabiana Nabarro FERRAZ Dept. of Basic Health Sciences, Sector of Parasitology, State University of Maringa, Maringa, Brazil Denise Lessa ALEIXO Dept. of Basic Health Sciences, Sector of Parasitology, State University of Maringa, Maringa, Brazil Ana Paula GRUENDLING Dept. of Basic Health Sciences, Sector of Parasitology, State University of Maringa, Maringa, Brazil Mônica Lúcia GOMES Dept. of Basic Health Sciences, Sector of Parasitology, State University of Maringa, Maringa, Brazil Max Jean de Ornelas TOLEDO Dept. of Basic Health Sciences, Sector of Parasitology, State University of Maringa, Maringa, Brazil Silvana Marques DE ARAÚJO Dept. of Basic Health Sciences, Sector of Parasitology, State University of Maringa, Maringa, Brazil 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: The study evaluated qualitative PCR, primers 121-122 as a tool to follow up evolution parasite load of Trypanosoma cruzi. Methods: The study was conducted at the State University of Maringa, in 2015. Step 1, dilutions 1/10 were performed from T. cruzi-Y strain to obtain preparations of 50,000-0.05 parasites/mL from which DNA were extracted, quantified, and amplified. Step 2, the extracted DNA in the dilutions 5-0.05 parasites/mL was re-diluted 1/10, 1/100, 1/1000, quantified, and amplified. Polyacrylamide gels were photographed and thicknesses of the 330 bp kDNA fragments were measured. Results: Step 1, in the dilutions 50,000-50 parasites/mL kDNA fragments had same thickness and, dilutions 5-0.05 parasites/mL showed progressive decrease in thicknesses and staining intensity of the 330 bp fragments. Step 2, demonstrated that dilutions of five (re-dilutions 1/10 and 1/100) and 0.5 (1/10) parasites/mL produced similar thicknesses of the 330 bp fragments obtained in Step 1. However, very dilute DNA samples make difficult to reproduce the fragments thicknesses. Conclusion: PCR, despite its limitations, was able to detect progressive decrease in thicknesses/staining intensity of kDNA fragments in the dilutions 5-0.05 parasites/mL. Hence, has the potential to be used to follow-up evolution of parasite load, not by quantifying the number of parasites, but by dynamic evolution of the fragments thicknesses during etiological treatment. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1219 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1219/720

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 332 338 Ghodratollah SALEHI SANGANI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hamed MIRJALALI Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Shohreh FARNIA 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 2016 09 28 2016 09 28 Background: Cryptosporidium and Isospora are known as one of the main cause of diarrhea in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised subjects, all over the world. Incidence of enteropathogens such as Cryptosporidium spp. and Isospora belli considerably has increased, since immunodeficiency virus (HIV) rapidly disseminated. In addition, cancer patients are highly susceptible to opportunistic infections. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of cryptosporidiosis and isosporiasis in immunocompromised patients in Tehran. Methods: This study carried out on patients admitted to Imam Khomeini hospital during 2013-2014. Stool samples collected from 350 immunocompromised patients.Formol-ether concentration was performed for all stool samples. Zeil- Neelsen technique was applied to stain the prepared smears and finally, all slides were examined by light microscope. Results: Out of 350 patients, 195 (55.7%) and 155 (44.3%) were male and female,respectively. Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in 3 (0.9%) samples including one sample from HIV+/AIDS patients and 2 samples from organ transplant recipients.Isospora oocysts were detected in 4 (1.1%) samples consisting 2 HIV+/AIDS patients, one patients suffering from malignancy and one patients with other immunodeficiency diseases. Conclusion: Cryptosporidium sp, and I. belli are the most prevalent gastrointestinal parasitic protozoans that infect a broad range of individuals, particularly those patients who have a suppressed or deficient immunity system. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1203 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1203/712

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 3 2016 12 21 396 405 Hatem SHALABY Dept. of Parasitology and Animaffiliation> Hamid MOKHAYERI Dept. of Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Deputy of Health, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Arezoo BOZORGOMID Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Bagher ROKNI 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 2017 09 17 2017 09 17 Background: The aim of this study was the seroepidemiological survey for detecting the status of human fasciolosis in Lorestan Province, western Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2015-16. Based on statistical estimations, 1256 serum samples were collected from different parts of Lorestan Province, western Iran, and stored at -20 °C until use. The collected serum samples were analyzed at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran using indirect ELISA method. Results: Anti-Fasciola antibodies were detected in 16 (1.3%) individuals. Regarding the seropositivity to fasciolosis, no significant differences were found between age groups, sex, level of education and occupation; however significant differences were observed regarding location, consuming local freshwater plants and water resources (P<0.02.) Conclusion: Local freshwater plants and unfiltered water resources were probably the main sources of the infection. Health education by local health centers to elevate awareness of people, and providing facilities for safer drinking water, especially in rural areas may help decrease the risk of fasciolosis infection in this region. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1770 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1770/761

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 3 2017 09 17 398 407 Reza REZAEI Dept. of Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran Khosrow HAZRATI TAPPEH Dept. of Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran AND Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran Shahram SEYYEDI Dept. of Immunology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran Peyman MIKAILI Dept. of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran 2017 09 17 2017 09 17 Background: Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease that appears with a range of symptoms including cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral leishmaniasis. The present study sought to determine the antileishmanial effect of the extract of Artemisia dracunculus (Tarragon) compared to control treatment with pentavalent antimony (meglumine). Methods: This experimental study was performed in 2014-2015. A. dracunculus were collected from West Azerbaijan Province, Iran and dried; then the ethanolic extract of the plant was prepared. The effect of different concentrations of Artemisia's extract was compared with Glucantime ® in the stationary phase by MTT colorimetric assay and Trypan blue staining. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (HPBMCs) treated with L. major and production of IFN- γ and IL-4 cytokines measured at concentrations of 25, 20, 10 and 5µg/ml A. dracunculus. Results: Treatment with the extract did not affect the survival of the parasites during the first 48 h; however, on the third day (72 h), all concentrations significantly reduced the number of parasites with an efficacy of more than 50% at 10 µg/ml (P<0.01), 20µg/ml (P<0.001), and 25 µg/ml (P<0.0001). Moreover, IFN-γ and IL-4 secretion from the HPBMCs was significantly affected in a dose-dependent manner, compared to the control (no extract). The IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio further confirmed this notion. Conclusion: A. dracunculus extract cannot only exert potent antileishmanial activity but may also enhance cellular immunity to this parasite. Further studies are required to determine the main compound(s) responsible for these effects of the plant. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1771 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1771/762

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 3 2017 09 17 408 412 Morteza HOSSEININEJAD Dept. of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran Mohammadreza MAHZOUNIEH Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran Naser SHAMS ESFANDABADI Dept. of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran 2017 09 17 2017 09 17 Background: This study aimed to reveal the serological prevalence of Neospora caninum in large dairy farms in Isfahan Province, central Iran. Methods: Serum samples were collected from 1500 cattle living in four large dairy farms in Isfahan Province, Iran during 2014-2015 and examined for anti N. caninum IgG antibodies.  Overall, 113 serum samples were also collected from the dogs living in these areas; suspecting to be risk factors for this infection. All the serum samples were investigated to find IgG antibodies by using ELISA. Dogs' sera were also analyzed by indirect fluorescent antibody test. Results: Totally, 395 out of 1500 bovine samples (26.33%) were positive for N. caninum: 34%, 21.61%, 23.03% and 29.01% in four investigated clusters (farms). Infection rate was significantly more in cows with the history of abortion. The infection rate in dogs was 17.69%: (20 out of 113). Conclusion: The results show a high seroprevalence of the infection and possibly the role of the dogs in horizontal transmission of the infection.  https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1772 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1772/763

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 3 2017 09 17 413 422 Ahmad Z. AL-HERRAWY Dept. of Water Pollution Research, National Research Center, 12622 Dokki, Giza, Egypt Mahmoud A. GAD Dept. of Water Pollution Research, National Research Center, 12622 Dokki, Giza, Egypt 2017 09 17 2017 09 17 Background: The aim of this study was to compare between slow and rapid sand filters for the removal of free-living amoebae during drinking water treatment production. Methods: Overall, 48 water samples were collected from two drinking water treatment plants having two different filtration systems (slow and rapid sand filters) and from inlet and outlet of each plant. Water samples were collected from Fayoum Drinking Water and Wastewater Holding Company, Egypt, during the year 2015. They were processed for detection of FLAs using non-nutrient agar (NNA). The isolates of FLAs were microscopically identified to the genus level based on the morphologic criteria and molecularly confirmed by the aid of PCR using genus-specific primers. Results: The percentage of removal for FLAs through different treatment processes reached its highest rate in the station using slow sand filters (83%), while the removal by rapid sand filter system was 71.4%. Statistically, there was no significant difference (P=0.55) for the removal of FLAs between the two different drinking water treatment systems. Statistically, seasons had no significant effect on the prevalence of FLAs in the two different drinking water treatment plants. Morphological identification of the isolated FLAs showed the presence of 3 genera namely Acanthamoeba, Naegleria, and Vermamoeba (Hartmannella) confirmed by PCR. Conclusion: The appearance of FLAs especially pathogenic amoebae in completely treated drinking water may cause potential health threat although there is no statistical difference between the two examined drinking water filtration systems. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1773 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1773/764

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 3 2017 09 17 423 432 Tinashe KUREYA Provincial Medical Directorate, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Mutare, Zimbabwe Augustine NDAIMANI Dept. of Nursing Science, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe Maxwell MHLANGA Dept. of Nursing Science, College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe 2017 09 17 2017 09 17 Background: Malaria outbreaks are common in Zimbabwe. They are common in Manicaland, which has the greatest burden of malaria in the country. Methods: A matched case control study was conducted to investigate the malaria outbreak in ward 13 and 14 of Chipinge district in Manicaland Province in Zimbabwe, week 30 to week 40 of year 2015. A sample size of 92 (46 cases and 46 controls) was used. Guided interviews were conducted with the aid of a structured questionnaire and a checklist. The investigation assessed factors associated with contracting malaria and the community knowledge levels on malaria. Results: Participants who stayed in houses with open eaves had 2.4 odds (95% CI=1.0; 5.6) of contracting malaria compared to those who lived in houses without open eaves. Staying within a radius of 3 km from the river or swamp also predisposed people to contracting malaria (OR =2.7, 95%CI=1.2; 6.3). People who had no insecticide treated mosquito nets hanged in their bed rooms had odds of 2.2 (95%CI=1.2; 6.4) of contracting malaria compared to those that hanged insecticide-treated mosquito nets in their bedrooms. Consequently, among people exposed to outdoor activities in the evening and at night, those that had insecticide-treated mosquito nets hanged in their rooms were more protected from malaria than those that did not. Conclusion: There is high need to intensify all pillars in the malaria prevention and control programs and maintenance of a strong surveillance system to prevent future occurrences of outbreaks. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1774 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1774/765

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 3 2017 09 17 433 440 In Young OH Dept. of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea Kyung Tae KIM ALPHAGENE Co., Ltd., Singu University, Business Incubation Center, Seongnam, Korea Ho Joong SUNG Dept. of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Health Sciences, Eulji University, Seongnam-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea AND Dept. of Senior Healthcare, BK21 Plus Program, Graduate School, Eulji University, Daejeon, Korea 2017 09 17 2017 09 17 Background: Dirofilaria immitis, a filarial nematode, is the most important parasite-affecting dogs, causing cardiopulmonary dirofilariasis. Current diagnostic tools for detecting D. immitis include morphological assays, antigen detection, and X-ray. Herein, we developed a method for the molecular detection of D. immitis in blood using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Methods: The study was conducted at Eulji University, Republic of Korea in 2016. To detect D. immitis-specific gene regions, we aligned the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) genes of seven filarial nematodes and designed primers targeting the unique region. We used dog glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH)-targeted primers as the internal control. We conducted PCR-amplified genomic DNA from canine blood samples. The products were confirmed by sequencing. Results: Gene alignment revealed a D. immitis COI-specific gene region, and the activity of designed primers was confirmed by PCR and sequencing. Plasmid DNA made from the PCR products was a positive control. The limit of detection for our method was 50 copies. The