Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 448 462 Pooya GHASEMI NEJAD ALMANI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Iraj SHARIFI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Bahram KAZEMI Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Biotechnology Dept., School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zahra BABAEI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Mojgan BANDEHPOUR Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Biotechnology Dept., School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Samira SALARI Research Center for Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Ebrahim SAEDI DEZAKI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Leishmaniasis represents a major public health concern in tropical and sub-tropical countries. At present, there is no efficacious vaccine against the disease and new control methods are needed. One way to access this important goal is to knock out genes of specific macromolecules to evaluate the effect of deletion on the growth, multiplication, pathogenesis and immunity of the parasite. The aim of this study was to design and clone molecular constructs to knock out N-acetylglucosamine phosphatidylinositol de-N-acetylase (GPI12) gene in Leishmania major. Methods: For designing and making molecular constructs, we used pLEXSY-neo2 and pLEXSY-hyg2 vectors. The molecular constructs were cloned in E. coli strain Top10. The molecular constructs were transfected by electroporation into L. major in two stages. Results: The molecular constructs were confirmed by Colony PCR and sequencing. The recombinant strains were isolated by selective antibiotics, after which they were confirmed by PCR, Southern and Western blots. Conclusion: Recombinant parasites were created and examined for subsequent study. With the use of molecular constructs, it was possible to remove and study gene GPI12 and to achieve a live recombinant Leishmania parasite that maintained the original form of the antigenic parasites. This achievement can be used as an experimental model for vaccine development studies. Further investigations are essential to check this model in a suitable host. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1344 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1344/622

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 431 440 Farooq RIAZ Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Imran RASHID Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Haroon AKBAR Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Wasim SHEHZAD Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Saher ISLAM Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Amna Arshad BAJWA Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Khalid SAEED Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan Kamran ASHRAF Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Parasitology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite, which infects one-third population of world. Humans and animals acquire infection by ingesting oocytes from feces of cats or by meat of other animals having cysts that may lead to congenital, ocular or cephalic toxoplasmosis. Either it is important to detect T. gondii from meat of food animals from retail shops or directly at slaughterhouses, which is meant for export. Methods: The current research was done without time limitation using such terms as follows: “Toxoplasma gondii”, “Meat”, “Tissue cyst”, “PCR”, “LAMP”, “Screening” and “Immunological assay” alone or in combination, in English language. The used electronic databases for searching included as follows: PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science and Science Direct. The searches were limited to the published papers to English language. Results: Sensitivity of different molecular techniques for diagnosis of Toxoplasma is real-time PCR > LAMP > conventional PCR. In addition to these DNA analysis tools, bioassay in mice and cats is considered as “gold standard” to detect T. gondii. Conclusion: This review article will help the readers for grasping advantages and limitations of different diagnostic tools for screening meat samples for T. gondii. This review also makes bibliography about the type of meat sample to be processed for diagnosis and different primers or sequences to be targeted for T. gondii by number of researches for its detection from meat or tissue sample using DNA amplification techniques. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1342 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1342/620

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 585 590 Bahador SARKARI Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Asieh FATEMI ESFEDAN 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 Samaneh ABDOLAHI KHABISI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Amir SAVARDASHTAKI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Farshad HOSSEINI Dept. of Radiology, Imam Sadjjad Hospital, Yasuj, Iran Ardavan SHAHBAZI Dept. of Surgery, Shahid Beheshti Hospital, Yasuj, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Spleen is an unusual location for hydatid cyst. Here we report a case of primary splenic hydatid cyst in a 41-yr-old Iranian woman from Yasuj, southwest of Iran. The patient had been admitted to Shahid Beheshti Hospital because of abdominal pain. Abdominal sonography revealed a hypoechoic lesion of 150 X 130 mm in the spleen, suggestive of hydatid cyst. Splenectomy was performed for the patient and surgical interventions revealed a hydatid cyst occupying most of splenic parenchyma. She was discharged on the 5 day of her operation. Postoperative diagnosis and confirmation of hydatid cyst was done by histopathological, molecular and serological approaches. Histopathological evaluation revealed the classical laminated layer of hydatid cyst. DNA was extracted from a part of cyst and PCR amplified. Sequencing and analysis of PCR product revealed that the isolate has the most similarity with G1 strain of Echinococcus granulosus. Patient’s serum was positive for IgG anti-hydatid cyst antibodies, using antigen-B ELISA. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1360 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1360/638

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 559 567 Adekayode Olarinwaju SONIBARE Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria Olusiji Sunday SOWANDE Department of Animal Production and Health, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria Shamusideen Oladeinde IPOSU Department of Animal Production and Health, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria Joshua LUKA Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria Michael AYANKOSOI Department of Animal Production and Health, College of Animal Science and Livestock Production, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria Adeniyi Olugbega EGBETADE Department of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: The performance and parasitology of semi-intensively managed West African dwarf (WAD) lambs were evaluated following exposure to gastrointestinal helminth infected paddock and varied protein-energy feeds. Methods: Twenty four lambs obtained from the Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics and brought to Directorate of University farm (DUFARM) of Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Ogun state, Nigeria, where the research was carried out in 2014, were grouped into four each containing six animals based on different energy-protein feed combination thus; group 1(G1) low energy low protein, group 2 (G2) low energy high protein, group 3 (G3) high energy low protein and group 4 (G4) high energy high protein. Experimental animals were supplemented with concentrate feed after grazing on daily in a nematode infected paddock. Clinical signs of infection were monitored. Live weight, faecal egg count (FEC), worm counts, packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin concentration (Hb) and red blood cell count (RBC) were determined using standard methods. Results: Anorexia and intermittent diarrhea were the observed signs. Worm counts did not differ significantly (P=0.309) among the groups. The weight and FEC differed significantly (P˂0.05) across the days and among the groups, while haematological parameters increased significantly (P˂0.05) across the days and among the groups. Conclusion: Lambs in G2 followed by G4 showed improved parameters and superior performance when compared to the other groups. It is therefore recommended that feed high in protein content is capable of mitigating deleterious effect of gastrointestinal helminth parasitism. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1356 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1356/634

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 463 470 Gholamreza HASSANPOUR Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hossein MIRHENDI Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mehdi MOHEBALI Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ahmad RAEISI Department of Medical Entomology & Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sci-ences, Tehran, Iran Hojjat ZERAATI Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hossein KESHAVARZ Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2016 12 27 2016 12 27 Background: We aimed to quicken and simplify the detection of Plasmodium in blood samples by developing and testing a pan-Plasmodium real-time PCR for accurate screening of individuals suspected of malaria. Methods: A single primer/probe set for pan-species Plasmodium-specific real time PCR targeting a conserved region of the small subunit 18S ribosomal DNA was designed and evaluated for rapid diagnosis and screening of malaria infections using dried blood smears. FTA cards were used for rapid and simple DNA extraction. Results: The primers and probes showed a positive response with the DNA extracted from bloods infected with P. falciparum and P. vivax but not with DNA extracted from various smears from uninfected blood samples. Seven positive cases positive by both microscopy and nested PCR were found among 280 blood samples taken from in South and Southeast Iran. Five samples were identified as positive for P. vivax and two as positive for P. falciparum. All positive samples were positive by real-time PCR. Furthermore, all 38-blood samples positive by microscopy were positive by real-time PCR. No microscopy-negative samples were positive by real-time PCR. Conclusion: By using a simple FTA card for DNA extraction and by application of the real-time PCR developed in this study, sensitivity similar to nested-PCR and microscopy was achieved. This format simplifies the detection of Plasmodium in large numbers of samples. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1364 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1364/640

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 441 447 Toraj AHMADI JOUYBARI Clinical Research Development Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Khadije NAJAF GHOBADI Clinical Research Development Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Bahare LOTFI Clinical Research Development Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Hamid ALAVI MAJD Department of Biostatistics, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Nayeb Ali AHMADI Department of Medical Lab Technology, Proteomics Research Center, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Be-heshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammad ROSTAMI-NEJAD Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Abbas AGHAEI Clinical Research Development Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: The aim of the study was assessment of defaults and conducted meta-analysis of the efficacy of single-dose oral albendazole against T. trichiura infection. Methods: We searched PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Science Direct, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and WHO library databases between 1983 and 2014. Data from 13 clinical trial ar­ticles were used. Each article was included the effect of single oral dose (400 mg) albendazole and placebo in treating two groups of patients with T. trichiura infection. For both groups in each article, sample size, the number of those with T. trichiura infection, and the number of those recovered following the intake of albendazole were identified and recorded. The relative risk and variance were computed. Funnel plot, Beggs and Eggers tests were used for assessment of publication bias. The random effect variance shift outlier model and likelihood ratio test were applied for detecting outliers. In order to detect influence, DFFITS values, Cook’s distances and COVRATIO were used. Data were analyzed using STATA and R software Results: The article number 13 and 9 were outlier and influence, respectively. Outlier is diagnosed by variance shift of target study in inferential method and by RR value in graphical method. Funnel plot and Beggs test did not show the publication bias (P=0.272). However, the Eggers test confirmed it (P=0.034). Meta-analysis after removal of article 13 showed that relative risk was 1.99 (CI 95% 1.71 - 2.31). Conclusion: The estimated RR and our meta-analyses show that treatment of T. trichiura with single oral doses of albendazole is unsatisfactory. New anthelminthics are urgently needed. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1343 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1343/621

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 591 594 Masoud SOOSARAEI Student Research Committee, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Shahriar ALIZADEH Department of Pathology, Social Security Organization, Hakim Jorjani Hospital , Gorgan, Iran Mahdi FAKHAR Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Elham Sadat BANIMOSTAFAVI Department of Radiology, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 We report an unusual case of primary hydatid cyst of the mandibular angle without glands involvement, in the left supraclavicular region of the neck with no involvement of any other regions of the body. In July2012, a25-yr old woman, from Golestan Province, Northeast Iran was admitted to ourENTClinic, with one-year history of a progressively increasing swelling, pain and gradually growing mass located in the left side of neck region. The patient was diagnosed by Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FANC) and histopathology examination. Hydatid cyst should be considered in differential diagnosis of soft tissue mass such as branchial cleft cyst (BCC) and or dermoid cyst in the cervical region especially in endemic areas. Moreover, FANC could be recommended as a valuable, rapid, simple, and safe procedure to diagnose hydatid cyst especially in unusual locations.   https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1361 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1361/639

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 568 573 Alireza SAZMAND Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria AND Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, School of Health, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran Barbara EIGNER Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria Mohammad MIRZAEI Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran Seyed Hossein HEKMATIMOGHADDAM Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran Josef HARL Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria Georg Gerhard DUSCHER Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria Hans-Peter FUEHRER Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria Anja JOACHIM Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Although camels represent a valuable source of food, wool and hide in many countries, in-depth information about their vector-borne pathogens is scarce compared to other animals. The aim of the current study was to characterize vector-borne protozoa in the blood of dromedaries from Iran by molecular tools. Methods: From June to July 2014, 200 peripheral blood samples were collected from asymptomatic one-humped camels in two provinces of Kerman and Sistan- va-Baloochestan in central and southeastern Iran. Microscopic examination was performed on Giemsa-stained blood smears, and drops of blood were spotted on Whatman FTA® cards for further analyses. Genomic DNA was extracted from the cards, and PCR was carried out for the detection of piroplasms and trypanosomes, followed by sequence analysis of positive samples. Results: One sample was positive Trypanosoma spp. trypomastigotes in light microscopy. PCR results revealed one positive sample each with Theileria annulata and Trypanosoma evansi. Conclusion: Camels were identified as hosts for bovine Mediterranean theileriosis in the investigated area. The presence of Tr. evansi, the causative agent of surra disease, was also confirmed in camels of Iran. Further studies are recommended in order to investigate their impact on the health and productivity of camels and other livestock in this region. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1357 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1357/635

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 471 479 Arshad VEYSI Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hassan VATANDOOST Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Reza YAGHOOBI-ERSHADI Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Reza JAFARI Isfahan Health Research Station, National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Mohammad Hossein ARANDIAN Isfahan Health Research Station, National Institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Mostafa HOSSEINI Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Reza FADAEI Isfahan Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Javad RAMAZANPOUR Isfahan Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Kamal HEIDARI Isfahan Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Ali SADJADI Isfahan Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Mohammad Reza SHIRZADI Department of Zoonosis, CDC, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran Amir Ahmad AKHAVAN Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) is a neglected disease with public health importance that is common in many rural areas of Iran. In recent years, behavioral resistance and/or bait shyness against the common rodenticide among reservoir hosts of ZCL have been reported. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Klerat® and zinc phosphide against natural reservoir of ZCL. Methods: This survey was carried out in four villages located 45 to 95 km far from Esfahan City Esfahan province, central Iran from April to November 2011. The rodent burrows were counted destroyed and reopened holes baited around all villages. Effect of rodent control operation on the main vector density and incidence of ZCL were evaluated. Results: The reduction rate of rodent burrows after intervention calculated to be at 62.8% in Klerat® and 58.15% in zinc phosphide treated areas. Statistical analysis showed no difference between the densities of the vector in indoors and outdoors in intervention and control areas. The incidence of the disease between treated and control areas after intervention was statistically different (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Klerat® could be a suitable alternative for zinc phosphide in a specific condition such as behavior resistance or occurrence of bait shyness. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1346 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1346/624

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 574 579 Tolga DINC Dept. of General Surgery, Ankara Numune Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey Selami Ilgaz KAYILIOGLU Dept. of General Surgery, Ankara Numune Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey Okan Murat AKTURK Dept. of General Surgery, Ankara Numune Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey Faruk COSKUN Dept. of General Surgery, Ankara Numune Training and Research Hospital, Ankara, Turkey 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Vast majority of complaints and physical examination findings of hydatid disease are common in emergency room patients. Different emergency presentations of hydatid cyst disease and their treatment are evaluated. We studied preoperative laboratory findings of these patients to identify any parameters to predict hydatid cyst-biliary system communication. Methods: We reviewed the files of patients who underwent emergency surgery due to liver hydatid cysts and related conditions between March 2010 and March 2014 in Ankara Numune Research and Training Hospital, Turkey, retrospectively. Patients were grouped, regarding to the presence of biliary system involvement. Results: Twelve patients (9 males, 3 females) were included. We identified two groups. Biliary system involved group (n=9) had significantly higher pre-operative gamma glutamine transferase and alkaline phosphatase levels (P=0.036). No significant difference was noted regarding other pre-operative laboratory findings. Mortality rate was 17%. Conclusion: Medical literature lacks sufficient information about hydatid disease related non-traumatic emergency surgeries. Preoperative elevated gamma glutamyl transferase and alkaline phosphatase levels may be questioned as a warning about cyst-biliary communication in hydatid cyst patients with abdominal pain in the emergency room. Future studies with larger sample sizes are needed. In addition, prolongation of the time before diagnosis in these patients may result in life threatening complications. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1358 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1358/636

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 480 488 Hakim AZIZI Dept. of Medical Parasitology, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran AND Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Bahram KAZEMI Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Dept. of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mojgan BANDEHPOUR Dept. of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mehdi MOHEBALI Dept. of Medical Parasitology, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran AND Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ali KHAMESIPOUR Skin and Leprosy Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mojgan ARYAEIPOUR Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hajar YAGHOOBI Dept. of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti 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 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: The current study was designed to evaluate immune responses induced by DNA vaccines encoding 8-kDa subunit of antigen B (HydI) of Echinococcus granulosus and murine interleukin 12 (IL-12) as genetic adjuvants in BALB/c mice. Methods: Expression plasmid pcDNA3.1 containing HydI (pcHyd1) as vaccine along with the murine interleukin 12 (pcMIL12) as adjuvant were used. Thirty-five mice in the five experimental groups received PBS, empty pcDNA3.1, pcHydІ, pcMIL-12, and pcHydІ+ pcMIL-12 in days zero, 14th and 28th. Two weeks after the last immunization, evaluation of the immune response was performed by evaluating the proliferation of splenic lymphocytes, IFN-γ and IL-4, determination of IgG isotyping titer. Results: Mice that received the pcHydI+pcMIL12 exhibited higher levels of lymphocyte proliferation compared to mice that received the pcHydI alone (P<0.001), and produced significantly more IFN-γ in comparison to other groups (P< 0.001). In addition, they produced significantly less IL-4 than mice receiving the PBS and the empty plasmid (P<0.023). The IgG2a levels were clearly higher in pcHydI+pcMIL12 group in comparison with the groups of pcHydI alone, empty plasmid, and PBS. In contrast, IgG1 was elevated in the group of pcHydI. Conclusion: Co-delivery of IL-12 with DNA encoding 8-kDa subunit of antigen B was effective significantly in inducing the immune response in mice. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1347 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1347/625

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 580 584 Mohammad Taghi AHADY Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran Nastaran SAFAVI Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran Alireza JAFARI Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran Zahra MOHAMMADI Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran Solmaz ABED Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran Sahar POURASGAR Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Ardabil Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ardabil, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: The aims of this study were to examine the prevalence of trichomoniasis among women aged 18 to 48 yr in Ardabil, northwestern Iran and the relationship between demographic factors and the risk of infection. Methods: Vaginal discharge samples of 914 women aged 18 to 48 yr, referred to Gynecology Clinic of Sabalan Hospital of Ardabil, Iran in 2014, were collected and Trichomonas vaginalis infection was examined using wet mount and Dorset culture medium. In addition, demographic data was collected using a questionnaire as well as clinical examination, and analyzed with SPSS ver. 16, using Chi-square test, and t-test. Results: Of the 914 samples studied, 3.38% by wet mount and 4.48% by parasite culture were infected by T. vaginalis. Sensitivity of direct or wet mount method was 75.6% compared to culture method (standard). We found a significant statistical relationship between trichomoniasis infection and preterm birth (P=0.011). Conclusion: The prevalence of trichomoniasis in Ardabil compared to global statistics (5%-74%) is low. Interestingly, the results of this study (4.84%) were consistent with the results obtained in Tabriz (4.46%). https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1359 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1359/637

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 489 498 Hadi MIRAHMADI Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran AND Dept. of Parasitology, Mycology and Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran Alireza SALIMI KHORASHAD Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran AND Dept. of Parasitology, Mycology and Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran Alireza SOHRABNAHAD Dept. of Parasitology, Mycology and Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran Peyman HEYDARIAN Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Negar BIZHANI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Leishmaniasis is a sand fly-borne disease caused by the protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Leishmania. Because of the preventing and controlling methods, clinical course, prognosis and choice of treatment are differing from species; differentiation of species is critical. The present study was aimed to detect the parasite species using the PCR-RFLP method. Methods: A total of 130 Giemsa-Stained slides from suspected Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) patients were examined under a light microscope at×1000. DNA from each slide was extracted PCR method was undertaken with HSP70 genes and the PCR products were digested with a restriction enzyme HaeIII (BsuR1). The study was conducted in the laboratory of Zahedan University of Medical Sciences in the Sistan and Baluchestan Province, southeastern Iran in 2015. Results: From 130 suspected samples, 59 (45.3%) were positive by the microscopic examination, meanwhile 64 (49.2%) were positive by PCR-RFLP, Leishmania species were recognized, and L. tropica was introduced as predominant species in current study. Conclusion: PCR-RFLP is a valuable technique for distinguish of Leishmania species. Furthermore, anthroponotic CL is the dominant cause of CL in Sistan and Baluchestan Province. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1348 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1348/626

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 499 506 Kareem HATAM-NAHAVANDI Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran Mehdi MOHEBALI Department of 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 MAHVI Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran, Iran AND Center for Water Quality Research, Institute for Environmental Research (IER), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hossein KESHAVARZ Department of 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 Hamid-Reza NAJAFIAN Department of 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 Disease Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Sasan REZAEI Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mostafa REZAEIAN Department of 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 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: As a waterborne pathogen, Cryptosporidium is one of the most common causes of gastroenteritis in human and hoofed livestock animals. This study aimed to investigate the distribution of Cryptosporidium spp. in human and livestock wastewaters in Iran, by the 18S rRNA sequence analysis. Methods: A total of 54 raw wastewater samples collected from three urban treatment plants and two slaughterhouses during 2014-2015 in Tehran, Iran. The presence of the Cryptosporidium oocysts was assessed by immunofluorescence with monoclonal antibodies. To characterize the oocysts at the molecular level, the 18S rRNA gene of Cryptosporidium was PCR amplified and sequenced. Results: Of the 54 wastewater samples examined, 34 (62.9%) were positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts using the IFA. Of these, 70.5% (24/34) were positive by PCR, that 91.6% (22/24) were successfully sequenced. The species of C. andersoni (95.4%) and C. xiaoi (4.6%) were detected in livestock wastewater samples. Conclusion: C. andersoni was the major Cryptosporidium sp. found in the aquatic environmental wastewater samples. The high rate of detection of C. andersoni in domestic wastewater was probably the result of the predominancy of this species in cattle herds in Iran. The current study is the first report of C. xiaoi in Iran. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1349 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1349/627

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 507 514 Adel SPOTIN Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Sanaz TAGHIZADEH EGHTEDAR Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Abbas SHAHBAZI Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Asghar SALEHPOUR Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Seddigheh SARAFRAZ Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND East Azerbaijan Province Health Center, Tabriz Health Center, Tabriz, Iran Seyyed Ali SHARIATZADEH Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Mahmoud MAHAMI-OSKOUEI Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: The aim of this study was to identify the Trichomonas vaginalis strains/haplotypes based on identifying their probable variations in asymptomatic patients referred to Tabriz health centers, northwestern Iran. Methods: Sampling was taken from 50-suspected women to T. vaginalis in northwestern Iran. The obtained samples were smeared and cultured. Fifty DNA samples were extracted, amplified and identified by nested polymerase chain reaction and PCR-RFLP of actin gene using two endonuclease enzymes: MseI and RsaI. To reconfirm, the amplicons of actin gene were directly sequenced in order to identify the strains/haplotypes. Results: PCR-RFLP patterns, sequencing and phylogenetic analyses revealed definitely the presence of the G (n=22; 73.4%) and E (n=8; 26.6%) strains. Multiple alignments findings of genotype G showed five haplotypes and two amino acid substitutions in codons 192 and 211 although, no remarkable unique haplotype was found in genotype E. Conclusion: The accurate identification of T. vaginalis strains based on discrimination of their unknown haplotypes particularly those which are impacted on protein translation should be considered in parasite status, drug resistance, mixed infection with HIV and monitoring of asymptomatic trichomoniasis in the region. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1350 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1350/628

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 515 526 Sima PARANDE SHIRVAN Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Hassan BORJI Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Ahmadreza MOVASSAGHI Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Mohammadreza KHAKZAD Zakaria Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad Branch, Mashhad, Iran Hamidreza FARZIN Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Mashhad, Iran Mohsen MALEKI Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Alireza HAGHPARAST Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Inverse relationship between helminths infection and immune-mediated diseases has inspired researchers to investigate therapeutic potential of helminths in allergic asthma. Helminth unique ability to induce immunoregulatory responses has already been documented in several experimental studies. This study was designed to investigate whether excretory/secretory (ES) and somatic products of Marshallagia marshalli modulate the development of ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation in a mouse model. Methods: This study was carried out at the laboratories of Immunology and Parasitology of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran during spring and summer 2015. Allergic airway inflammation was induced in mice by intraperitoneal (IP) injection with ovalbumin (OVA). The effects of ES and somatic products of M. marshalli were analyzed by inflammatory cell infiltration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), pathological changes and IgE response. Results: Treatment with ES and somatic products of M. marshalli decreased cellular infiltration into BALF when they were administered during sensitization with allergen. Pathological changes were decreased in helminth-treated group, as demonstrated by reduced inflammatory cell infiltration, goblet cell hyperplasia, epithelial lesion and smooth muscle hypertrophy. However, no significant differences were observed in IgE serum levels, cytokines and eosinophil counts between different groups. Conclusion: This study provides new insights into anti-inflammatory effects of ES and somatic products of M. marshalli, during the development of non-eosinophilic model of asthma. Further study is necessary to characterize immunomodulatory molecules derived from M. marshalli as a candidate for the treatment of airway inflammation. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1351 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1351/629

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 527 533 Amin SAEIDINIA Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Ilnaz TAVAKOLI Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Mohammad Reza NAGHIPOUR Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Behnaz RAHMATI Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Hossein GHAVAMI LAHIJI Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Omid SALKHORI Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Keyhan ASHRAFI Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran AND Research Center for Fascioliasis and Parasitic Diseases, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: We aimed to determine the status of strongyloidiasis in mentally disabled population in the institutional places in Rasht City, the capital of Guilan Province, northern Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 8 institutions for mentally retarded population in Rasht in 2013. Before collecting the samples, a questionnaire was filled out for each participant by an expert person. A single  stool sample was obtained from each of the 173 subjects and examined using direct wet mount, formalin-ether concentration technique and agar plate culture method.  Results: A total of 173 mentally disabled individuals aged 2-57 (25.69±11.56) yr old were studied. Stool examination showed that 51 (29.5%) cases were infected with at least one parasite. Of 173 studied cases only 10 (5.8%) individuals were infected with pathogenic parasites, of which 2 (1.2%) cases were infected with Strongyloides stercoralis and 8 (4.6%) with Giardia lamblia. On the other hand, 42 (24.3%) of the studied population were infected with non-pathogenic intestinal protozoa such as Blastocystis hominis (n=29, 16.8%), Entamoeba coli (n=16, 9.2%) and Endolimax nana (n=4, 2.3%). Mixed protozoal infections were observed in 8 (4.6%) individuals. Conclusion: The prevalence rate of S. stercoralis in mentally disabled individuals in Rasht was somewhat higher than those of normal population of the province. The same picture was seen when the prevalence of G. lamblia and non-pathogenic protozoa in normal and mentally disabled populations were compared. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1352 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1352/630

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 534 541 Soheyla AKHZARI Dept. of Laboratory Sciences, School of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamadan, Iran Hossein REZVAN Dept. of Laboratory Sciences, School of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamadan, Iran Masoud ZOLHAVARIEH Dept. of Laboratory Sciences, School of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamadan, Iran AND Dept. of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Para-Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Leishmaniasis is a worldwide disease prevalent in tropical and sub- tropical countries in the world. Characterization of inflammatory responses produced in cutaneous leishmaniasis has not yet been completed. Methods: The specific primers were designed for ten pro-inflammatory genes including CCL4, CCL3, TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-12P35, IL-12P40, CCL5, CCR5, IL-1β and IFN- γ and their expression were assessed and compared using RT-PCR in the lesion and peripheral blood neutrophils in Leishmania infected BALB/c mice. Results: None of the pro-inflammatory genes was expressed in the healthy tissue and except IFN-γ others were down-regulated by the parasite in the lesion in untreated mice. In mice treated with anti-Leishmanial drugs, the expression of the pro-inflammatory genes restarted. The figure of pro-inflammatory gene expression in neutrophils was different was from the lesions in treated and untreated mice. Conclusion: Leishmania is capable to suppress the expression of pro-inflammatory genes in the lesions but not in neutrophils. The expression of TNF-α in the lesions and down-regulation of IL-1β in neutrophils could be accounted as an indication for healing of cutaneous leishmaniasis. The results open a new window on characterization of Leishmania lesions and clarifying the role of neutrophils in Leishmania infections. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1353 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1353/631

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 542 548 Ruma JAS Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kshudiram Bose Sarani, Kolkata, India Joydeb GHOSH Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kshudiram Bose Sarani, Kolkata, India Kinsuk DAS Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kshudiram Bose Sarani, Kolkata, India 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Cross antigenicity is the major problem in developing a reliable tool for immunodiagnosis and immunoprophylaxis of parasitic diseases. Mixed infection due to different types of gastrointestinal parasites is more common than single species infection under field condition. Methods: The present study was undertaken to detect antigenic cross-reactivity among Haemonchus contortus, Oesophagostomum columbianum and Trichuris ovis of goats by SDS-PAGE and western blot analysis using hyperimmune sera (HIS) rose in rabbit separately against the antigens of the three nematode species. Results: Thirteen, 16 and 14 polypeptides in crude somatic antigen (CSAg) of H. contortus (CSAg-Hc), O. columbianum (CSAg-Oc) and T. ovis (CSAg-To), respectively, were resolved in SDS PAGE analyses. It was revealed that 54 kDa peptide was shared by H.contortus and O. columbianum, whereas 47 kDa peptide was shared by O. columbianum and T. ovis. Western blot analyses revealed that three immunogenic polypeptides (MW 54, 49 and 42 kDa) in CSAg-Hc, five in CSAg-Oc (54, 47, 44, 38 and 35.5 kDa) and CSAg-To and five polypeptides (90, 51, 47, 39.5 and 31 kDa) in CSAg-To cross-reacted with the heterologous HIS. Four species-specific immunoreactive polypeptides (92, 85, 65 and 39 kDa) of H. contortus and two (72 & 26 kDa) in O. columbianum were also identified in the study.  Conclusion: The shared polypeptides and species-specific polypeptides might be evaluated as protective antigen and subsequently exploitation for developing immunodiagnostic and for immunoprophylactic tools of for these common nematode species.  https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1354 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1354/632

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 11 4 2016 12 25 549 558 Begna TULU Dept. of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia AND Dept. of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Madawalabu University, Goba, Ethiopia Solomon TAYE Dept. of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Madawalabu University, Goba, Ethiopia Yohannes ZENEBE Dept. of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia Eden AMSALU Dept. of Nursing, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia 2016 12 25 2016 12 25 Background: Although there are efforts being underway to control and prevent intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) in Ethiopia, they are still endemic and responsible for significant morbidity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of IPIs and their association with nutritional status among primary school children of Delo-Mena district, South Eastern Ethiopia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from April to May 2013. Demographic data was obtained, and IPIs was investigated in a single-stool sample by both direct stool examination and formol-ether concentration techniques. Anthropometric measurements were taken to calculate height for-age (HAZ), BMI-for-age (BAZ) and weight-for-age (WAZ) for the determination of stunting, thinness and underweight, respectively using WHO AntroPlus software. SPSS version 20 was used for statistical analysis and p value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Among 492 children studied (51% boys, aged 6–18 years, mean 10.93 +2.4) an overall IPIs prevalence of 26.6% was found. The prevalence of S. mansoni, E. histolytica/dispar, H. nana, A. lumbricoides, G. lambilia, T. trichiura, S. stercolaris, E. vermicularis, Hookworms and Taenia spp were 9.6%, 7.7%, 5.3%, 3.7%, 2.0%, 1.6%, 1.4%, 1.2%, 0.8% and 0.2% respectively. Stunting and underweightedness were observed in 4.5% and 13.6% of children and associated with IPIs (P<0.001) and (P=0.001), respectively. Conclusion: IPIs and its associated malnutrition remain a public health concern in Delo-Mena district. Therefore, the overall health promotion activities coupled with snail control and de-worming to the students is crucial. Additionally, initiatives aimed at improving the nutritional status of school children are also important. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1355 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1355/633