Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 13 1 2018 03 14 11 23 Harpreet KAUR Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India Ankita THAKUR Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India Sukhbir KAUR Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, 160014, India 2018 03 14 2018 03 14 Background: Currently, there is no vaccine available for any form of leishmaniasis for human use, including visceral leishmaniasis (VL). The treatment relies on drugs associated with severe toxic side effects and increased parasite drug resistance. At present, there is a strong need to develop and implement a successful vaccine against this disease. Therefore, we evaluated immunoprophylactic potential of a cocktail of low molecular weight antigens along with various adjuvants. Methods: The three antigens (2015, Department of Zoology, Panjab University, Chandigarh), 31kDa, 36 kDa and 51 kDa of L. donovani were used in this study. Inbred BALB/c mice were immunized with 10 µg of cocktail antigens i.e. 31+36+51kDa alone and along with different adjuvants (ALD, saponin, and liposome). Mice were boosted twice at an interval of 2 wk and after last dose; mice were given challenge infection with 107 promastigotes. Mice have sacrificed15 d post immunization and on 30, 60, 90 post-challenge days for evaluation of different parameters. Results: Immunized animals showed reduced parasite load, increased DTH responses and elevated levels of IgG2a antibody. The levels of Th1 cytokines were higher as compared to Th2 cytokines in immunized animals. Conclusion: Best results were obtained with cocktail of 31+36+51+liposome and this combination conferred maximum protection. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2040 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2040/802

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 13 1 2018 03 14 1 10 Shima MAHMOUDI Pediatric Infectious Disease Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hossein KESHAVARZ Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2018 03 14 2018 03 14 Background: Although rigorous efforts have substantially decreased the malaria burden through decades, it still threatens the lives of millions of children. Development of an effective vaccine can provide important approach in malaria control strategies. Unfortunately, development of an effective vaccine for falciparum malaria has been hindered by the extreme complexity of malaria parasite biology, complex and diverse parasite genomes, and immune evasion by the parasites as well as the intricate nature of the parasites infection cycle. The aim of this review was to discuss the different approaches to malaria vaccine development until now. Methods: Scientific databases, including MEDLINE (via PubMed) and SCOPUS were searched up to 30 Jan 2017 and the articles regarding malaria vaccine development were taken into examination. Results: Several strategies for malaria vaccine development including pre-erythrocytic vaccines, antibody-based subunit vaccines, vectored vaccines, whole sporozoite vaccines, genetically Attenuated parasites and sporozoite subunit vaccine, erythrocytic vaccines, sexual stage vaccine, transmission-blocking vaccine as well as synthetic peptides and conjugate vaccine has been introduced. However, the success has been limited thus far. Conclusion: Although development of malaria vaccine over the past 70 year has been continued, the discovery, development, and licensing of a malaria vaccine formulation, which meets safety, affordability, accessibility, applicability, and efficacy has not yet been achieved. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2039 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2039/821

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 13 1 2018 03 14 145 148 Moslem SEDAGHATTALAB Dept. of Internal Medicine, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran Arsalan AZIZI Dept. of Pathology, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran 2018 03 14 2018 03 14 Leishmaniasis, as a vector-borne disease, is transmitted by sandfly and caused by Leishmania protozoa. Brain involvement rarely occurs in visceral leishmaniasis. In this paper, a rare case of pons involvement by visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is reported. A 54 yr old man from Southwest of Iran (Yasuj) presented to the Emergency Ward with a 3-wk history of headache (continuous, throbbing, and general), fever, chills, weakness, anorexia, and weight loss. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2056 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2056/818

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 13 1 2018 03 14 114 119 Davood ANVARI Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran Dariush SAADATI Dept. of Nutrition and Animal Breeding, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran Reza NABAVI Dept. of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran Majid ALIPOUR ESKANDANI Dept. of Nutrition and Animal Breeding, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zabol, Zabol, Iran 2018 03 14 2018 03 14 Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate, intracellular parasite which causes the toxoplasmosis in humans and warm-blooded animals. Red meat is an important source for transmission of the infection to humans. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Toxoplasma among imported and indigenous cattle in the Sistan region. Methods: One hundred samples from slaughtered cattle were collected from two abattoirs of Zabol and Zahedan, South East of Iran in 2015. Each sample was a mixture of three muscle, including tongue, cardiac, and triceps. Additional data of each cattle, including sex, breed, age, indigenous or imported, location of slaughter, management practices, and feeding system were obtained through observations and interviews. Infection by T. gondii was determined by PCR method. Results: The prevalence of Toxoplasma in indigenous cattle was 6% and in imported cattle was 26%, and this difference was statistically significant (P=0.006). Moreover, the prevalence of Toxoplasma was statistically associated with management practices (P=0.01) and feeding system (P=0.001). However, relationship between the prevalence of Toxoplasma with age, breed, sex, and location of slaughter was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Since the prevalence of Toxoplasma among imported cattle is higher than indigenous cattle, so strict supervision for importing livestock from neighboring countries is necessary. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2052 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2052/814

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 13 1 2018 03 14 24 30 Amir BAIRAMI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Sasan REZAEI Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mostafa REZAEIAN Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2018 03 14 2018 03 14 Background: Diarrheal disease annually causes 760000 deaths in children, and 1700 million new cases are reported each year worldwide. Among the parasites, Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia intestinalis, and Cryptosporidium spp. are the most important infectious agents leading to diarrhea. Clinical presentations due to these parasites are more or less similar, and microscopy is not as much as sensitive for the detection. The aim of this study was to set up and evaluate a Multiplex PCR Assay for Synchronous Identification of Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia intestinalis, and Cryptosporidium spp. in Stool Samples Methods: Samples were obtained from different sources such as culture media and patient stool samples. Primer pairs were designed using primer-BLAST, and for the extraction of DNA, the QIAamp DNA stool mini kit was used. The study was conducted in Tehran, Iran and completed in 2016. Results: The current multiplex PCR assay for the detection of E. histolytica achieved sensitivity and specificity of 86.36% (95% CI: 65.09% to 97.09) and 95.74 % (95% CI: 85.46% to 99.48%), respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of the test for G. intestinalis was 90.91% (95% CI: 70.84% to 98.88%) and 95.74% (95%CI: 85.46% to 99.48%), respectively, and for the detection of Cryptosporidium, multiplex PCR showed a sensitivity of 90.91% (95% CI: 70.84% to 98.88%) and specificity of 95.74% (95%CI: 85.46% to 99.48%). Conclusion: Multiplex PCR in this study showed admissible sensitivity and specificity for the detection of E. histolytica, G. intestinalis, and Cryptosporidium spp. in fecal samples. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2041 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2041/803

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 13 1 2018 03 14 149 155 Bahador SARKARI Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran AND Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Majid MANSOURI Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Shamsi NOORPISHEH GHADIMI Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Samaneh ABDOLAHI KHABISI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran Abdolla DOSHMANZIARI Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2018 03 14 2018 03 14 Wild boars may be infected with several zoonotic parasitic infections including Fasciola spp. We reported a case of Fasciola infection in a wild boar in Bushehr Province in southwestern Iran. The sample was isolated from the liver of a hunted wild boar. A few of adult worms were fixed and stained. DNA was extracted from apical and lateral parts of the worms and PCR amplified, targeting NADH dehydrogenase subunit 1 (nad1) and cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) mitochondrion genes. Although the worm was quite long and looked much similar to F. gigantica, sequencing and analysis of PCR products of nad1 and cox1 genes revealed that the isolate has the most similarity with F. hepatica. This is the first report of molecular evaluation of Fasciola spp. from wild boar in Iran. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2057 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2057/819

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 13 1 2018 03 14 120 126 Farnaz KHEIRANDISH Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Ebrahim BADPARVA Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Hossein MAHMMOUDVAND Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Elahe BEIRANVAND Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran Simin BABAEI Student Research Committee, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Bahram NASIRI Student Research Committee, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran 2018 03 14 2018 03 14 Background: Regarding hydatid cyst (cystic echinococcosis, CE) as a human public health problem in the West of Iran, molecular data related to the genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus in cattle and sheep in these regions are still insufficient. Here, we evaluated the genotypes of E. granulosus infecting sheep and cattle in western Iran. Methods: Totally, 36 hydatid cysts including 18 hydatid cysts of sheep and 18 hydatid cysts of cattle were collected from Khorramabad slaughterhouse (Lorestan Province), Western Iran between May to September 2014. Protoscoleces or germinal layers were collected from individual cysts, DNA was extracted, and genotyping was performed by sequencing and analyzing mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene. Results: In sequencing analysis, all of sheep isolates belonged to genotype G1 (sheep strain). Among cattle hydatid cyst isolates, 16/18 (88.9%) were belonged to genotype G1 and 2/18 (11.1%) were belonged to G3 genotype. The phylogenetic analysis showed two clusters; one of the clusters includes cattle G3 genotype and the other cluster represents sheep and cattle G1 genotype that were isolated. Conclusion: The common sheep strain/G1 is predominant genotype in the western part of Iran, followed by G3 genotype, circulating among the animal hosts in this region. Further studies covering a larger number of isolates might be necessary to see if there are other genotypes in the hydatid cyst population in this region of Iran. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2053 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2053/822

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 13 1 2018 03 14 31 38 Hamid AZARIAN MOGHADAM Dept. of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Public Health, Teh of the Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection is still considered as a complicated issue. This study was aimed to elucidate the status of infection in the blood donors and the probable importance of blood transfusion in the transmission of the infection through detecting both immunological and genetic markers of acute and latent infection. Methods: Totally 235 blood samples from blood donors were collected. The levels of anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies were examined by specific ELISA kits. cDNA were synthesized from total extracted mRNA molecules from the serum samples and SAG1 gene, specific for tachyzoite form, were amplified using Real-Time PCR technique.Demographic information of study subjects including their gender, age, job,and habitat were recorded. Results: Out of 235 serum samples, 80 (34.04%) and 4 (1.71%) were positive regarding anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies, respectively. Real-Time PCR results showed that 14 out of 200 (6.97%) of blood donor had mRNA molecules of SAG1 gene. The positive results of Real-Time PCR of SAG1 in female gender and housekeepers were significantly higher than those of male gender and other job categories. Conclusion: The prevalence of chronic and acute infection is high in Iranian blood donors. Additionally, evaluation of antibodies could not be reliable, because several donors negative for anti-T. gondii IgM antibodies had detectable SAG1 mRNA molecules.Hence, it seems that molecular diagnostic tests are essential to detect acute infections. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/394 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/394/350

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 9 3 2014 09 15 429 434 EN Hamidreza Azizi Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran. Behrouz Shiran Department of Biotechnology and Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran. Arash Borjian Boroujeni Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran. Milad Jafari Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord, Iran. 2015 10 14 Background: Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide spread disease. The present study examined the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among animals of ediblemeat (cattle and sheep) in Chaharmahal va Bakhtiari Province (Southwest of Iran) in 2012. Furthermore, we attempted for the first time to identify this parasite from the meat products in the province. Methods: The tongue, brain, femur muscle and liver of 50 sheep and 70 cattle as well as 50 samples