Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 22 28 Faezeh NAJAFI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Sasan REZAIE Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Eshrat Beigom KIA Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mahmoud MAHMOUDI Dept. of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mehdi MOHEBALI Dept. 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 Mohammad Javad GHARAGOZLOU Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Bagher ROKNI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Gholamreza MOWLAVI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran Sadegh Khodavaisy Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: Fascioliasis is a zoonotic disease caused by the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica. Drug resistance, high costs of treatment and economic losses in meat production have emerged the need of alternative control measures into consideration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro ovicidal activity of Paecilomyces lilacinus fungus on F. hepatica eggs. Methods: P. lilacinus isolated from the soil of natural environment was challenged on F. hepatica eggs to observe the bio control effect of nematophagous fungi on trematode helminth eggs. The study was conducted in Tehran University of Medical Sciences, in 2015. Within 21 d of experiment, destructive effects exhibited on the eggshells were investigated using optical and Scanning Electron Microscopy. Results: The effective role of P. lilacinus on damaging the eggs of F. hepatica was noticed. Conclusion: This finding is promising for advantageous use of nematophagus fungi as a natural constituent in hyper endemic areas for certain helminthic infections like fascioliasis with diverse kinds of herbivores as egg passer hosts. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1513 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1513/669

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 1 11 Iraj SHARIFI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Mohammad Reza AFLATOONIAN Tropical and Infectious Diseases Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Mohammad Hossein DAEI PARIZI Afzalipour Hospital, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Ali HOSSEININASAB Afzalipour Hospital, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Mahshid MOSTAFAVI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Mehdi BAMOROVAT Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Abass AGHAEI AFSHAR Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Mehdi MOHEBALI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hossein KESHAVARZ Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hamid DANESHVAR Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Zahra BABAEI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Hossein MAHMOUDVAND Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Mohammad Ali MOHAMMADI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Fatemeh SHARIFI Pharmaceutics Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Mohammad BARATI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hossein KAMIABI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Tabandeh KHALEGHI Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) has strong links with poverty, substantial medical and veterinary impacts. This review aimed to focus in studies published during 1994-2016 on VL in southeastern Iran. Methods: The present review is based on expert knowledge and historical studies published during the past 23 yr (1994-2016) on VL in southeastern Iran. In addition, related literature found in PubMed by using the keywords such as visceral leishmaniasis, kala-azar, and Leishmania infantum are included. Results: Overall, 118 children aged 4.2 yr were detected as infected with human VL (HVL). The majority of the cases were from Orzoieh district (37.1%) in southwest of Kerman Province, followed by Sirjan (15.7%), Jiroft (14.8%), Kahnuj (9.3%) and to lesser extent from other areas. The male to female ratio was 1.7. The three most frequent clinical features were represented by fever (100.0%), anemia (95.0%) and splenomegaly (91.5%). Altogether, 42.0% of the VL cases developed secondary bacterial infections, the overall case-fatality rate was 3.4%, and majorities (88.0%) of the VL patients were undernourished. Overall, 733 dogs and wild canines were examined by different techniques with various seroprevalence ranges. Conclusion: In southeastern Iran, VL is endemic in Orzoieh district in Kerman Province. While the dogs are implicated as the main domestic reservoir of VL, wide range of wild canines can serve as a secondary potential reservoir host. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1511 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1511/667

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 143 147 Fatemeh MEMARI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Dept. of Medical Biotechnology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Maryam NIYYATI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zeynab JONEIDI Dept. of Molecular Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Opportunistic infections due to free-living amoebae such as Granulomatous Amoebic Encephalitis (GAE), cutaneous acanthamoebiasis and disseminated infections could be the causative agent of mortality in people living with HIV/AIDS. In this study, we report the occurrence of the Acanthamoeba belonging to the T4 genotype isolated from nasal and oral swabs of a 15 -yr-old man with HIV infection. HIV was confirmed using ELISA kit and RT-PCR assay. The isolated strain showed pathogenic potential using thermo and osmotolerance assays. This patient might be vulnerable to develop GAE or disseminated infections and depending on the immunologic status of the patient, this could be a health threat. Monitoring of such patients, appropriate diagnostic procedures and improved-HIV related care can alter the outcome of such infections.  https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1529 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1529/684

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 123 129 Ali YOUSEFI Young Researchers and Elites Club, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Ali ESLAMI Dept. of Microbiology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Sadegh RAHBARI Dept. of Microbiology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Iraj MOBEDI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: The prevalence and intensity of endo and ectoparasites in shrews inhabiting in the Dasht-e Razan of Hamedan Province, Iran, were determined in this study. Methods: By live traps, 64 shrews belong to species bicoloured white-toothed shrews (Crocidura leucodon) were trapped during 2010-2012. Captured animals were euthanized and their gender recorded. The blood thick and thin smears were stained with Geimsa and examined for protozoan parasites. Then, ectoparasites were collected and preserved in 70% ethanol and after necropsies; different organs were examined for helminthes. Results: The prevalence of collected helminthes of Crocidura leucodon were; Capillaria crociduri (18.7%), Vigisolepis secunda (26.5%), Coronacantus sp (15.6%), Capillaria hokkaidensis (45.3%), and its ectoparasites were; Nymphs of three species of ticks; Haemaphysalis sp (32.8%), Ornitodoros sp (23.4%), Hyalomma sp (9.4%), one species of louse, Polyplax reclinata (18.7%) and one species of flea Leptopsylla sp (39.1%). Among the collected parasites, all helminthes and one sucking louse, P. reclinata are reported for the first time in Iran. Statistically analysis with the Chi-square test did not show any significant relation between gender and endoparasites (P>0.05), but the ectoparasites had significant differences with gender (P<0.05). No significant correlation was found between the altitude and the parasite species richness (Spearman's test: P>0.05). Conclusion: This study reports 9 species of parasites and 5 species of them were identified for the first time in Iran and some of them are vectors of several important zoonoses agents. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1526 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1526/681

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 29 37 Mohammad MATINI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Hossein REZAEI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Mohammad FALLAH Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Amir Hossein MAGHSOOD Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Massoud SAIDIJAM Dept. of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Tayebeh SHAMSI-EHSAN Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: In spite of sufficient knowledge about phenotypic variation of Trichomonas vaginalis, its genetic characteristics are poorly understood. We carried out a molecular epidemiology study in which in vitro metronidazole susceptibility of T. vaginalis isolates was considered. Methods: This study was conducted on 862 women admitted to Gynecology Clinics in Hamadan, west of Iran, during 2014-2015. After recording the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of participants, vaginal swab samples were taken and subjected to microscopic examination, culture, in vitro sensitivity testing and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. Results: T. vaginalis was detected in 1.9% (16/862) of the samples using two parasitological methods. The all T. vaginalis isolates that subjected to drug susceptibility analysis were sensitive to metronidazole with MICs ranged from 0.4 to 12.8 µg/ml. T. vaginalis genotyping by using actin gene and PCR-RFLP analysis identified three actin type; A (9, 56%), I (6, 38%) and E (1, 6%). No significant correlation was observed between actin genotypes and their clinical manifestation (P>0.05).  Conclusion: The prevalence of T. vaginalis infection is not noticeable in the region and the most of isolates are hypersensitive to metronidazole. Further studies are needed to clarify the efficiency of the actin gene, as a reliable genetic marker, for molecular epidemiology of trichomoniasis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1514 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1514/670

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 12 21 Dorota LITWIN Dept. of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland WenChieh CHEN Dept. of Dermatology and Allergy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University of Munich, Munich, Germany AND. Women’s Health Center, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, New Taipei, Taiwan Ewa DZIKA Dept. of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland Joanna KORYCIŃSKA Dept. of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran Mitra MOHAMMADI BAZARGANI Agriculture Institute, Iranian Research organization for Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran Mehdi MOHEBALI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran Richard BURCHMORE Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Science, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom Ghasem Hosseini SALEKDEH Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute of Iran, (ABRI), Karaj, Iran Elham KAZEMI-RAD Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran, Iran AND Dept. of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Reza KHORAMIZADEH Biosensor Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, TUMS, Tehran, Iran AND Dept. of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tums, Tehran, Iran 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: The mechanisms of virulence and species differences of Leishmania parasites are under the influence of gene expression regulations at posttranscriptional stages. In Iran, L. major and L. tropica are known as principal agents of cutaneous leishmaniasis, while L. infantum causes visceral leishmaniasis. Methods: As a preliminary study, we compared the proteome mapping of the above three Iranian isolates of Leishmania species through the 2-dimension electrophoresis (2-DE), and identified the prominent proteins by Liquid Chromatography (LC) mass spectrometry. Results: We reproducibly detected about 700 protein spots in each species by using the Melanie software. Totally, 264 proteins exhibited significant changes among 3 species. Forty nine protein spots identified in both L. tropica and L. major were similar in position in the gel, whereas only 35 of L. major proteins and 10 of L. tropica proteins were matched with those of L. infantum. Having identified 24 proteins in the three species, we sought to pro­vide possible explanations for their differential expression patterns and discuss their rele­vance to cell biology. Conclusion: The comparison of proteome profiling pattern of the 3 species identified limit up and limit down regulated or absent /present proteins. In addition, the LC-MS data analy­sis showed that most of the protein spots with differential abundance in the 3 species are involved in cell motility and cytoskeleton, cell signaling and vesicular trafficking, intracellu­lar survival / proteolysis, oxidative stress defense, protein synthesis, protein ubiquitina­tion / proteolysis, and stress related proteins. Differentially proteins distributed among the species maybe implicated in host pathogenecity interactions and parasite tropism to cutaneous or visceral tissue macrophages https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/651 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/651/532

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 541 546 EN Elham HAJIALILO Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Maryam NIYYATI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences,Tehran, Iran Mohammad SOLAYMANI Farabi Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mostafa REZAEIAN 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 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: Free-living amoeba (FLA)-related keratitis is a progressive infection of the cornea with poor prognosis. The present study aimed to investigates the con­tact lenses of patients with keratitis for pathogenic free-living amoebae. Methods: Overall, 62 contact lenses and their paraphernalia of patients with kerati­tis cultured and tested for the presence of free-living amoebae using morphological criteria. Unusual plates including plates containing mix amoebae and Vermamoeba were submitted to molecular analysis. Results: Out of 62 plates, 11 revealed the outgrowth of free living amoeba of which 9 were Acanthamoeba, one plates contained mix amoebae including Acan­thamoeba and Vermamoeba and one showed the presence of Vermamoeba. These two latter plates belonged to patients suffered from unilateral keratitis due to the mis­used of soft contact lenses. One of the patients had mix infection of Acanthamoeba (T4) and V. vermiformis meanwhile the other patient was infected with the V. vermiformis. Conclusion: Amoebic keratitis continues to rise in Iran and worldwide. To date, various genera of free-living amoebae such as Vermamoeba could be the causative agent of keratitis. Soft contact lens wearers are the most affected patients in the country, thus awareness of high-risk people for preventing free-living amoebae re­lated keratitis is of utmost importance. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/652 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/652/533

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 547 553 EN Mehdi NATEGHPOUR Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Gholamhossein EDRISSIAN Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Afsaneh MOTEVALLI HAGHI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Leila FARIVAR Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Elham KAZEMI-RAD Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: The number of malaria cases is declining worldwide; however, it remains as a serious health problem. Diagnosing unusual cases is the most im­portant issue to manage the problem. This study designed to describe the number of falciparum and vivax malaria infected patients referred to Malaria Reference Labora­tory in Tehran University of Medical Science from 2000 to 2012. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted based on the collected question­naires from each patient referred to the laboratory. Diagnosing results and demo­graphic information for positive cases were analyzed using SPSS software. Problem­atic cases were evaluated for any difficulties in diagnosis or in clinical signs. Scanning and molecular methods were performed whenever there was an atypical case referred to the laboratory. Some of the samples had various difficulties for diagnosing such as presence of fussed gametocytes and schizonts of Plasmodium falciparum in peripheral blood and CCHF like hemoragic disorders. Results: Plasmodium vivax caused a large proportion of the cases (76.1%) in con­trast with P. falciparum that included smaller proportion (22.8%) and the rest (1.1) belonged to mixed infection. Most of the positive cases (69.6%) were belonged to Afghani people. Men (94.6%) showed more infection than women (5.4%), moreo­ver the most infection (44.5%) was seen at a range of 21-30 yr. Conclusion: In the case of existing atypical issues to diagnose, it is needed to per­form more precise microscopical examination beyond the current standard condi­tions. Sometimes molecular method is required to verify the exact agent of the dis­ease. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/653 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/653/534

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 554 560 EN Sanaz RASOLZADEH Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Mostafa HAJI FATAHALIHA Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Maryam HOSSEINI Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Reza JAFARI Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Abolfazl MIAHIPOUR Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Ali Akbar MOVASSAGHPOUR Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Zohreh BABALO Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Sima RAFATI Molecular Immunology and Vaccine Research Lab, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Mehdi YOUSEFI Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran AND Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: Natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in early stages of innate immune responses against viral and tumoral attacks. Activation of NK cells by leishmaniasis results in secretion of cytokines such as interferon (IFN)-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, which enhances the phagocytosis and clear­ance of parasite. Lipophosphoglycan 3 (LPG3), the Leishmania homologous with GRP94 (glucose regulated protein 94), a member of HSP90 family, contributes to LPG assembly as the most abundant macromolecule on the surface of Leishmania promastigotes. Methods: We purified NK cells from healthy individuals (n=10) using magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) technology. Purified NK cells were co-incubated with different concentrations of recombinant LPG3 (rLPG3), and its N-terminal (NT) and C-terminal (CT) fragments. Finally, the production of IFN-γ and TNF-α by NK cells were measured by ELISA. Results: Recombinant LPG3 but not its fragments (CT and NT), can signifi­cantly enhance the production of TNF-α by NK cells (P<0.05). Moreover, rLPG3, CT, and NT fragments were markedly stimulated the secretion of IFN-γ by NK cells (P<0.001). Conclusion: The Leishmania LPG3 antigen can effectively activate NK cells, in vitro. Leishmania LPG3 participates in the innate immunity against leishmaniasis and thereby improves the effective parasite destruction. However, its efficiency should be tested in vivo. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/654 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/654/535

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 561 570 EN Somaia Saif ABU-AKKADA Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt Eman Dorry Hussein EL KERDANY Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt Rasha Fadly MADY Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt Radwa Galal DIAB Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt Gehan Abd Elatti KHEDR Clinical Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt Karam Imam ASHMAWY Parasitology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Egypt Wael Mohamed LOTFY Parasitology Department, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Egypt 2015 12 14 2015 12 14 Background: Encephalitozoon cuniculi infects a wide range of homoeothermic animals, including man. Complications due to this microsporidian have been reported only in immunocompromised patients. Reports on E. cuniculi in immunocompetent humans are lacking, most probably, because it is not linked to any clinical manifestations in such hosts. The present work was carried out with the aim of studying, for the first time in Egypt, the prevalence of E. cuniculi infection of urinary tract among non-HIV immunocompromised patients and immunocompetent individuals. It tested also the influence of some factors on the risk of infection. Methods: Blood and urine samples were collected from 88 persons (44 non-HIV immunocompromised patients and 44 subjects as immunocompetent control group). IFAT serological assay and Weber’s green modified trichrome stain (MTS) urine smears were carried out. Molecular study by PCR was also performed to detect DNA of E. cuniculi in urine samples. A full history sheet was fulfilled for each subject to test the suspected risk factors. Results: The IFAT examination confirmed the presence of antibodies against E. cunic­uli in 44.3% of the human subjects. The seroprevalence of E. cuniculi was significantly higher in the immunocompromised patients compared with the immunocompetent individuals (77.3% versus 11.4%). Compared with IFAT (the gold standard), the sensitivity and specificity of Weber’s green MTS smears were 69.23% and 89.80%. By using PCR, no positive cases were detected among human subjects. Conclusion: A high prevalence of E. cuniculi infection in the studied individuals was noted. Although infection was found in some immunocompetent individuals, the im­mune status of the host remains the corner stone for occurrence of the infection. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/655 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/655/536

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 10 4 2015 12 14 571 576 EN Somayeh GHOTLOO Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mostafa HAJI MOLLAHOSEINI Dept. of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Dept of Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advance Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ali NAJAFI Dept. of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Farshid YEGANEH Dept. of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran 2015 12 14 revealed a significant stimulation of immune cells by transcription of high level of TNF-α and positive reaction against Theileria antigen in Theilerin skin test (DTH). Conclusion: The equal immunological results achieved in both above mentioned vaccines verified the satisfactory immunity for aerobic bioreactor theileriosis vaccine for advance mass vaccination in the field on a large scale https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/388 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/388/356

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

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

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

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

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

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

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