Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 07 158 167 Beheshteh HAGHPARAST-KENARI Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran AND Toxoplasmosis Research Center (TRC), Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Shahabeddin SARVI Toxoplasmosis Research Center (TRC), Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Mehdi SHARIF Toxoplasmosis Research Center (TRC), Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Ehsan AHMADPOUR Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Seyed Abdollah HOSSEINI Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran AND Toxoplasmosis Research Center (TRC), Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Ahmad DARYANI Toxoplasmosis Research Center (TRC), Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran AND Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran 2020 06 07 Background: Soil is one of the environmental sources of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts. The other hand, genotype of the parasite is one of the important factors for its pathogenicity. Due to the importance of toxoplasmosis on public health, this study aimed to isolation and genotyping of T. gondii in environmental soil samples of Mazandaran Province, north of Iran. Methods: Overall, 192 soil samples were collected from different areas in Mazandaran Province from Apr to Sep 2014. The flotation method was used for recovering oocysts. Then, soil samples were investigated for DNA detection of T. gondii using nested PCR of RE gene, genotyping with Semi-nested PCR of GRA6 gene and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis. Results were analyzed using Chi-squared test. A significant difference was considered with a P<0.05. Results: From 192 soil samples, T. gondii DNA was detected in 150 samples (78.1%). Then genotype of 23 samples was determined (91.3% type I and 8.7% type II). Conclusion: Prevalence of T. gondii in soil samples of Mazandaran province, north of Iran is high and T. gondii GRA6 type I is predominant. Soil can be the most important source of severe toxoplasmosis in this province. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2934 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2934/1027

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 08 272 277 Oktay ALVER Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey Mehmet BAYKARA Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, Uludag University, Bursa Turkey Merve YÜRÜK Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey Nazmiye ÜLKÜ TÜZEMEN Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Uludag University, Bursa, Turkey 2020 06 08 Acanthamoeba species are vision-threatening agents by causing cornea infections known as Acanthamoeba keratitis. A 5 year-old kid with the complaints of erythema, eyelid edema, inflammation, limitation of eye movements in the right eye, and having no history of wearing contact lenses or trauma, was diagnosed of Acanthamoeba conjunctivitis through laboratory examinations in the Ophthalmology clinic. The visual sharpness of the patient improved after the treatment. A 44 year-old female patient suffering from pain, stinging, irritation, and inability to see in the left eye with the history of wearing contact lenses or trauma was diagnosed of Acanthamoeba keratitis through laboratory examinations. The agent was isolated and identified as "A. castellani" in the Genotype "T2". Examination of the left eye on the 15th day of treatment indicated that all complaints disappeared except for the cataract originated visual loss. However, the first diagnosis of Acanthamoeba keratitis appeared in the literature on a case with no history of wearing contact lenses and trauma it is found to be attention grabbing. We think that Acanthamoeba should not be ignored among microbial agents that cause eye infection with or without trauma and contact lens usage history. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2951 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2951/1041

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 08 248 252 Neda SASANNEJAD Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Javad KHOSHNEGAH Department of Veterinary Clinical Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Amin BAKHSHANI Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Hassan BORJI Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran 2020 06 08 Background: Toxocara canis is a gastrointestinal nematode of dogs and other canids with high zoonotic potential. Human infection occurs following ingestion of infective eggs that have been passed in the dogs’ feces. Contact with contaminated soils, is one of the most important risk factors for human infection by T. canis eggs. However, in recent studies transmission of infective eggs, through human contact with contaminated dogs’ hair have been proposed. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of Toxocara eggs on the hair and feces of dogs which attended to Veterinary Clinic of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran. Methods: A total 100 dogs which attended to the clinic were used in the present study. The hair samples were collected from the head, back and perineal region of dogs’ body. Besides collecting hairs, fecal samples were also collected and analyzed for the presence of T. canis eggs. Results: T. canis eggs were found in 11% of the hair samples and 10% of the feces samples. Additionally, it has been observed that the risk factors impact such as breed, season of sampling, sex, hair length, indoor-outdoor access and age, were not significant on the T. canis eggs presence in the faecal and hair samples. Conclusion: Human exposure to the hair of dogs, may be significant risk factor for infection and regular anthelmintic treatment, hygiene of animals and public education of the importance of dogs are recommended to prevent human toxocariasis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2946 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2946/1037

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 09 287 289 Azar Danesh SHAHRAKI Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Azam ZAFARBAKHSH Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Amirreza FARHADIAN DEHKORDI Department of General Medicine, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2020 06 09 Abstract Abstract Abstract Abstract Abstract Abstract https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2954 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2954/1044

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 07 168 176 Seyyed Jafar NOSRATABADI Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Nasim HAYATI ROODBARI Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Hossein MODARRESI Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Alireza FARSINEJAD Department of Laboratory Hematology and Blood Banking, Faculty of Allied Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran Majid FASIHI HARANDI Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran 2020 06 07 Background: In recent decades platyhelminths have been used as model organisms to address some of the fundamental questions related to the growth and development of animal organisms. Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors (EGFR) and Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGF-beta) have a regulatory role in the growth and development of Echinococcus species. This study determined the effect of alpha-tocopherol on the expression of EGFR and TGF-beta genes in three in vitro developmental stages of E. granulosus. Methods: E. granulosus protoscoleces were cultured in diphasic medium containing bovine serum and CMRL 1066. Three developmental stages of E. granulosus, i.e. invaginated protoscoleces, evaginated protoscoleces and three-proglottid worms, were treated by alpha-tocopherol (250 μg/ml for 36 h) and the expression of EGFR and TGF-beta genes were evaluated by using qPCR analysis. Results: Intact protoscoleces were successfully developed to the segmented worms in diphasic culture media. Higher levels of both EGFR and TGF-beta gene expression were observed in the invaginated protoscoleces as well as the segmented worms in comparison to the non-treated controls. Conclusion: Administration of alpha-tocopherol to different developmental stages of E. granulosus significantly enhanced EGFR and TGF-beta expression in the parasite. Both oxidant and non-oxidant activities of alpha-tocopherol could explain the study findings. Overexpression of the genes could in turn enhance growth factor effects and facilitates the viability of the parasite. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2935 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2935/1028

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 08 278 281 Maryam AFSHOON Pediatric’s Center of Excellence, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammadreza ABDOLSALEHI Department of Infectious Diseases, Pediatric’s Center of Excellence, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Golnaz ALINIA Pediatric’s Center of Excellence, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Katayoun BORHANI Department of Infectious Diseases, Pediatric’s Center of Excellence, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Bahareh YAGHMAIE Pediatric’s Center of Excellence, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mahmoud KHODABANDEH Pediatric’s Center of Excellence, Children’s Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2020 06 09 Visceral leishmaniasis is a common parasitic disease between humans and animals, transmitted by sandflies (Phlebotomus) in the Mediterranean countries, including Iran. The statistics have been reported less than real due to errors in the diagnosis and reporting of affected cases. In this report, we will present the symptoms and manifestations of this disease to reduce late detection and exacerbating factors. The patient was a three-year-old girl from Tehran, Iran who had ascites and hepatomegaly. When she was 9 month-old, she was diagnosed as autoimmune hepatitis after liver biopsy and she was treated with immunosuppressive drugs (Azathioprine, prednisolone, and cyclosporine) for 22 months, but later she suffered from fever, pancytopenia, and hepatosplenomegaly. Then a bone marrow biopsy was done for her. There was a large amount of Leishman body in her bone marrow and treatment for Kala-azar was started for her. In patients with prolonged fever and splenomegaly, especially association with pancytopenia, consider leishmaniasis. Immunosuppressive drugs can disseminate parasitic diseases, including visceral leishmaniasis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2952 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2952/1042

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 08 253 258 Naser NAZARI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Saeedeh SHOJAEE Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mahboobeh SALIMI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mehdi MOHEBALI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Navid AHMADIFARD Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Yazdan HAMZAVI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Zabihollah ZAREI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Reza FARAHMAND-RAD Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran Arezoo BOZORGOMID Department of Microbiology, Asadabad School of Medical Sciences, Asadabad, Iran Peyman HEYDARIAN Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran 2020 06 08 Background: Our knowledge of the epidemiology of rodents’ parasitic agents in Iran is scarce, although some of these pathogens play an important role in human and veterinary medicine, such as Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum. The purpose of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in rodents of northwestern Iran between Mar and Dec 2015. Methods: Overall, 157 serum samples from rodents (101 Meriones persicus, 41 Mus musculus, and 15 Cricetulus migratorius) were assayed by the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) for antibodies to T. gondii and N. caninum. Results: We found a prevalence of 20.38% (32/157) for N. caninum, 35% (55/157) for T. gondii. Co-presence of antibodies to N. caninum and T. gondii was found in 10 (6.36%) rodents. A significant association was found between the rodents species and seropositivity to N. caninum (P<0.05) but there was no association with rodents species for T. gondii. The overall prevalence of the aforementioned parasites was higher in male versus female rodents. Conclusion: The high seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis and neosporosis in rodents in the study area has implications for translocation of these infections across wider geographical regions since these rodents are mostly preyed on by cats or dogs; hence, which can transfer the parasite to other hosts. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2947 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2947/1038

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 07 177 186 Sayed Hussain MOSAWI Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Abdolhossein DALIMI Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Najibullah SAFI World Health Organization Country Office, Kabul, Afghanistan Fatemeh GHAFFARIFAR Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Javid SADRAEI Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran 2020 06 07 Background: Malaria is threatening more than half of Afghanistan population. Asymptomatic malaria is notable problem against malaria controlling strategies. In this study we evaluated the asymptomatic malaria status in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan in 2017. Methods: Overall, 296 finger blood samples were taken on DNA Banking Cards and microscopic slides from asymptomatic individuals in Jalalabad city. We used a novel post real time PCR high resolution melting analysis beside microscopy and semi-nested multiplex PCR to evaluate status of asymptomatic malaria in this city. Results: The prevalence of asymptomatic malaria in Jalalabad city was determined 1.7% (5/296), 7.43% (22/296) and 7.78% (26/296) by microscopy, Seminested multiplex PCR and qRT-PCR-HRM, respectively. Out of 26 positive cases were detected by qRT-PCR-HRM, 21, 1 and 4 cases were detected P. falciparum, P. vivax and mixed infection of P. falciparum and P. vivax, respectively. Conclusion: Our data indicating on existence of significant number of asymptomatic reservoirs that assists in prolonged endemicity of the disease. On the other hand, the molecular methods are better alternatives for microscopy especially for monitoring of asymptomatic cases of malaria. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2938 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2938/1029

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 09 282 286 Seyed Mohammad HOSSEINI Department of Pathology, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran Amir Hossein MOSHREFI Young Researchers and Elite Club, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran Aryan ESFANDIYARI Young Researchers and Elite Club, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran Mohammad Reza YOUSSEFI Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran Alireza NASSIRI Young Researchers and Elite Club, Babol Branch, Islamic Azad University, Babol, Iran 2020 06 09 According to the last information of IUCN Red List, Eurasian lynx has been endangered since 2010. The population of this animal is heavily affected by infectious parasites. Two adult Eurasian lynx (one male and one female) were illegally hunted and found dead in Parvar National Park, Semnan Province, Iran. After the autopsy, the tissue and parasite samples were collected from gastrointestinal tract and transferred to 70% alcohol. Samples were recovered and identified as Joyeuxiella spp.  Sonsino, 1889. Tissue samples were taken from the place of sticking of parasites on the intestinal wall, for histopathological examination, and were transferred to 10% buffered formalin. Following routine processes and H&E staining, the slides were examined microscopically. Main histopathological observations were epithelial hyperplasia and destruction, inflammatory cell infiltration in mucosa and submucosa of jejunum. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first report and histopathological study of Joyeuxiella spp. in the world in Eurasian lynx. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2953 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2953/1043

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 08 259 265 Ali Ehsan SHAHBAZI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Massoud SAIDIJAM Department of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Amir Hossein MAGHSOOD Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Mohammad MATINI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Moosa MOTAVALI HAGHI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran Mohammad FALLAH Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran 2020 06 08 Background: Hydatidosis is a cosmopolitan zoonotic infection and Hamadan Province in the west of Iran is one of the most important foci of human hydatidosis in Iran. The aim of the current study was the genetic characterization of hydatid cysts operated from humans in Hamadan Province. Methods: Seventy-two hydatid cysts samples including 50 paraffinized and 22 fresh human hydatid cysts collected from different hospitals in Hamadan Province, western Iran. The cysts' DNA genome was extracted by kit and PCR was performed for amplifying the fragments of 400 and 450bp for nad1 and cox1 mitochondrial genes, respectively. Genotype diversity and sequence variations of the cysts' isolates were studied by related software. Results: DNA from all (100%) paraffinized and fresh hydatid cysts samples extracted successfully. All paraffinized and fresh hydatid cysts samples were amplified by PCR assay using nad1gene, however, only 18 and 8 samples from paraffinized and fresh hydatid cyst samples was amplified using cox1 gene, respectively. The sequences analysis indicated that, 98.61% the Echinococcus granulosus samples were belong to the genotype G1 and 1.39% were G3 genotype. Conclusion: Genotypes of E. granulosus in human samples in Hamadan Province are G1 and G3 and these findings are proved by phylogenic analysis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2949 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2949/1039

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 07 187 195 Fatemeh TABATABAIE Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Taher ELMI Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Majid KHANMOHAMMADI Department of Laboratory Sciences, Marand Branch, Islamic Azad University, Marand, Iran Lame AKHLAGHI Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mahmoud MAHAMI-OSKOUEI Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Mehdi ARSHADI Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran AND Al-Zahra Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran 2020 06 07 Background: Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that belongs to the family Coccidae. We aimed to evaluate IgG avidity and the changes of anti-Toxoplasma immunoglobulins M (IgM) and G (IgG) in patients with acute leukemia and lymphoma. Methods: Ninety eight patients with Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and lymphoma, selected from patients referring to Imam Reza Hospital of Tabriz (38°04′N 46°18′E), in terms of the presence of anti-Toxoplasma IgM, IgG, IgG avidity antibodies and the major risk factors were evaluated. Results: The results of pre-chemotherapy evaluation showed that of the examined patients, only two cases, one patient with ALL and another patient with lymphoma, had a positive IgM titer. Overall, 46 cases had positive IgG titers, including 20 patients with AML, 15 patients with ALL and 11 patients with lymphoma. Three (3.06%) patients were positive for anti-T. gondii IgM and one of them was with new infection of toxoplasmosis in lymphoma patients. The post-chemotherapy IgG titer evaluation showed 46 [46.9% (95% CI 37.4–56.7)] positive IgG cases that this result was similar to the result of pre-treatment phase. One [1% (95% CI 0.2–5.6)] positive IgG avidity case was detected using ELISA method, in a patient with lymphoma whose IgM was also positive. There was no significant difference between the type of leukemia and the history of contact with cat. Conclusion: Performing specialized tests to diagnose toxoplasma infection before starting treatment, in immunodeficiency patients who undergo chemotherapy, is necessary; therefore, these tests should be considered in therapeutic protocols. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2939 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2939/1030

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 08 266 271 Nasser HAJIPOUR Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran Mohammad ZAVARSHANI Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahrekord Branch, Islamic Azad University, Shahrekord, Iran 2020 06 08 Background: Rabbits contain several parasites that can be harmful to their health as well as human being’s health due to the probability of causing parasitic zoonosis. The present research was designed to study ectoparasites and endoparasites of New Zealand White rabbits in North West of Iran and potential risks of parasitic zoonosis for researchers and owners. Methods: Totally, 50 rabbits were purchased from rabbit sellers and breeders in suburbs of Urmia and Tabriz between Jul and Dec 2016. The rabbits were assessed for ectoparasites by hair brushing, skin scraping, acetate tape preparation and othic swabs. They were euthanized and inspected for helminths and protozoa infection. Faecal sampling was carried out directly from recti and the oocysts or cysts were isolated using sedimentation and floatation techniques and the sporulated oocyst were identified based on morphological. Results: The following parasites, with their respective prevalence; Nematoda: Passalurus ambigus 54%, Trichostrongylus retortaeformis 42%, Nematodirus leporis 32%, Cestoda: Cysticercus pisiformis 26%, Protozoa: Eimeria steidae 44%, E. magna 30%, E. media 12% and Arthropoda: Sarcoptes scabiei 18% and Cheyletiella parasitivorax 38%. No significant difference was recorded in infection rate between male and female rabbits. Conclusion: Both domestic and wild rabbits are a potential source of human parasitic zoonosis, and strict hygienic practices are recommended during and after handling rabbits or in case of exposure to their feces. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2950 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2950/1040

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 07 196 203 Alexis Israel VARGAS NAVA Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University Autonomous of Sinaloa, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico Nohemí CASTRO DEL CAMPO Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University Autonomous of Sinaloa, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico Idalia ENRÍQUEZ VERDUGO Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University Autonomous of Sinaloa, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico Jesús José PORTILLO LOERA Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University Autonomous of Sinaloa, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico Claudia Leonor BARRAZA TIZOC Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University Autonomous of Sinaloa, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico Soila Maribel GAXIOLA CAMACHO Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics, University Autonomous of Sinaloa, Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico 2020 06 07 Background: Toxocara spp. is a zoonotic parasite that can infect human; children are the largest group at risk of infection. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and viability of Toxocara spp. eggs in the soil of public parks. Methods: Overall, 1180 soil samples from 236 public parks in four sectors of the city of Culiacan were collected at random, between Jun and Dec, 2013. The presence of Toxocara spp. eggs was determined by light microscopy using a centrifugation-flotation technique and viability by trypan blue staining technique. Results: Of the 236 parks sampled, 18 were positive to Toxocara spp. resulting in a prevalence of 7.6% and viability of 94.4% with a P<0.05. Detection of Toxocara spp.in soil samples was 16.5% and viability 94.7% with a P<0.05. Parks positive to Toxocara spp., had sports fields and playgrounds (94.4%), trees and green areas (88.8%). Conclusion: Although a low prevalence of Toxoxara spp. eggs in the soil of public parks was found, they exhibited high viability, suggesting that the soil from these public parks is a source of infection for pets and humans especially children. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2940 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2940/1031

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 07 204 213 Akram SEPAHVAND Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran AND Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Ahmad HOSSEINI-SAFA Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hossein Ali YOUSOFI Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran AND Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Mohammad Hassan TAJEDINI Applied Physiology Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Reza PAHLAVAN GHAREHBABAH Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advance Medical Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran Nader PESTEHCHIAN Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran AND Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2020 06 07 Background: We aimed at genotyping and evaluating the predominance of G. duodenalis assemblages isolated from patients referred to medical laboratories in Khorramabad, Iran from Nov 2015 to Sep 2016. Hence, the development of a cost-effective HRM approach to determine genotypes of G. duodenalis based on the triosephosphate isomerase (tpi) gene was examined and the genotyping results with and without diarrhea was compared. Methods: Seventy G. duodenalis positive fecal samples were collected. A microscopic confirmation for the presence of Giardia spp. was performed, cysts of 70 Giardia spp. positive specimens were concentrated using sucrose flotation technique and sucrose solution PCR amplification was performed on 69 of 70 (98.5%) samples, and High Resolution Melting (HRM) analysis was performed using a software. Results: The results showed two distinct genotypes (assemblages A and B) of G. duodenalis but infections with mixture of both assemblages were not detected. The genotypes of G. duodenalis showed that the sub assemblage AI, BIII and BIV were present in a proportion of 68.1%, 20.3% and 11.6% respectively in samples. Assemblage AI was significantly (P<0.05) more frequently found in patients with diarrhea. Conclusion: The sub-assemblage AI, BIII, and BIV are more zoonotic potential. According to the comparison of the results of this study with the results of previous studies in this area and around of it, as well as the way people live and keep pets. This pattern established in Khorramabad city. HRM can be an ideal technique to detect and genotyping of G. duodenalis in clinical samples. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2941 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2941/1032

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 07 214 222 Shaghik BARANI Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Habibollah TURKI Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran Reza SHAFIEI Vector-Borne Diseases Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran Fatemeh JAFARZADEH Department of Parasitology, Shahid Beheshti Universtiy of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hoda HOSSEINZADEH MALEKI Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Saber RAEGHI Department of Laboratory Sciences, Maragheh University of Medical Sciences, Maragheh, Iran 2020 06 07 Background: To characterize the epidemiological, clinical, hematological and biochemical features of 33 cases hospitalized with pediatric visceral leishmaniasis (PVL) in North Khorasan Province of Iran from 2005 to 2015. Methods: The serological, hematological and biochemical tests were employed in 33 children between 8 months to 6 yr with a final diagnosis of acute visceral leishmaniasis (VL). The diagnosis of VL was established by microscopic demonstration of Leishmania spp. amastigotes inactive bone marrow aspiration (BMA). Results: The most common presenting features were anemia (82.5%), fever (75%), and hepatosplenomegaly (45.4%). Various hematological parameters showed that most patients were suffering from moderate to severe microcytic hypochromic anemia (78.8% had RBC count less than 4 million cells/ul, 67.7% Hb less than 8 fl). 66.7% of them were leukopenic (WBC: less than 5× 103 /μL) and 24.2% had decreased platelet counts. Pancytopenia was observed in 18.2% of cases. MCV, MCH, and MCHC levels were below the reference range in 88%, 90% and 85.1% of the patients respectively. Moreover, aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels were increased in 53.33% and 6.66% of the patients respectively. 92.9% of cases were C-reactive protein (CRP) positive. Bone marrow was found hyper-cellular in all of them, and myeloid to erythroid ratio (M/E) was more than 4 in 39.1% of cases. Plasma cells slightly were increased in 60% of patients and megakaryocytes were decreased in thrombocytopenic patients. Conclusion: Bone marrow/splenic aspiration still remains the gold standard test despite its risk and pain for patients. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2942 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2942/1033

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 07 223 232 Oscar A REBOREDA-HERNANDEZ Pathology Laboratory, Department of Morphology, Biological Sciences National School, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexi-co City, Mexico Adriana L JUAREZ-SERRANO Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Biological Sciences National School, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico Ivan GARCIA-LUNA Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Biological Sciences National School, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico Nora L RIVERO-RAMIREZ Pathology Laboratory, Department of Morphology, Biological Sciences National School, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexi-co City, Mexico Rocio ORTIZ-BUTRON Neurobiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Biological Sciences National School, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico Benjamín NOGUEDA-TORRES Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Biological Sciences National School, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, Mexico Nayeli GONZALEZ-RODRIGUEZ Pathology Laboratory, Department of Morphology, Biological Sciences National School, National Polytechnic Institute, Mexi-co City, Mexico 2020 06 08 Background: There are only two anti-trypanocidal drugs available, both have a lot of side effects. This is the pioneer study designed to evaluate the Arthrospira maxima effect in Trypanosoma cruzi -infected mice and macrophages. Methods: A. maxima was administered in vivo, and in vitro (120µL/mL; 200 µL/mL; 500 µL/mL; 852 µL/mL) as prophylaxis, and treatment. In vitro, phagocytosis and viability were measured in macrophages cultures supplemented with A. maxima, and T. cruzi-infected. In vivo A. maxima was supplemented to T. cruzi-infected mice in order to obtain the parasitemia curves, parasite amount, and histopathologic changes. This assay was performed in Biological Sciences National School of National Polytechnic Institute, Mexico City, in 2019. Results: In vivo, A. maxima administration exacerbates the immune innate host´s response, followed by mice early death. In vitro, A. maxima supplementation promote T. cruzi- macrophage phagocytosis, but also a sooner T. cruzi- infected macrophage death. Conclusion: A. maxima administration overactive the immune system, decreasing the parasitemia, but causing a severe tissue damage. Then, this nutraceutical has a paradoxical effect on intracellular parasitic infections such as Chagas disease. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2943 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2943/1034

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 08 233 239 Leila KIANIFARD Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran Mohammad YAKHCHALI Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran Mehdi IMANI Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran 2020 06 08 Background: Fascioliasis is a worldwide zoonotic disease caused by the trematodes Fasciola hepatica in humans and animals. Proteases are essential for the survival of parasites and have important activities such as penetration, tissue migration, and egg hatching. This study was conducted to analyze cysteine protease of the miracidia and eggs of F. hepatica, and to assess the effects of pH and temperature on the proteases activity and stability. Methods: Adults F. hepatica were isolated from infected livers and were morphologically identified in 2018. Eggs collected from the adults and incubated in distilled water at 28 °C for 16 d to produce miracidia. The extract was collected from miracidia and eggs. A substrate for cathepsin B (Z-Arg-Arg-Pna) was used to assess the enzyme activity at different (2-12) pH levels. After homogenization, protein level was measured with Bradford method. Estimation of optimum temperature and pH was performed in the temperature range of 10-90 ° C and pH values from 2-12. Results: The highest activity of the miracidia and eggs enzyme extracts for Z-Arg-Arg-pNA was at pH 4. The miracidia extract was most stable at neutral pH and the eggs extract was most stable in acidic pH. The optimum temperature activity for both stages was 40 °C. These proteases were stable up to 40 °C. Conclusion: Upon the importance of pH and temperature in the life cycle of F. hepatica, the current findings can be used for induction of some modifications in pH and preventing the activity of the enzymes for decrement of the efficacy of miracidia penetration into the intermediate snails and egg hatching of this zoonotic parasite. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2944 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2944/1035

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 15 2 2020 06 08 240 247 Meysam SHARIFDINI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Omar M. AMIN Institute of Parasitic of Diseases, Scottsdale, AZ, USA Keyhan ASHRAFI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Nader KARAMZADEH Department of the Environment, Guilan Provincial Office, Rasht, Iran Iraj MOBEDI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Behnaz RAHMATI Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Zahra HESARI Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran 2020 06 08 Background: The raccoon, Procyon lotor Linn. (Procyonidae) is native to North and Central America but has been introduced in several European and Asian countries including Japan, Germany and Iran. Objective of this study was to determine frequency of gastrointestinal and tissue helminthes from feral raccoons in Iran. Methods: During 2015-2017, 30 feral raccoons including 12 males and 18 females were collected from Guilan Province, northern Iran (the only region in Iran where raccoons are found). The gastrointestinal tracts and tissues such as lung, liver and muscles were examined for presence of helminthes. Results: Twenty raccoons (66.7%) were found infected with five intestinal helminth species. The prevalence of infection with Strongyloides procyonis Little, 1966 (Nematoda) was 63.3%, Plagiorchis koreanus Ogata, 1938 (Trematoda) (13.3%), Centrorhynchus sp. Lühe, 1911 (Acanthocephala) (10.0%), Camerostrongylus didelphis Wolfgang, 1951 (Nematoda) (3.3%), and Spirocerca lupi Rudolphi, 1809 (Nematoda) (3.3%). No larvae or adult worms were found in other tissues of the examined raccoons. Conclusion: Most of the raccoons were infected with S. procyonis. The public health importance of zoonotic parasites transmittable through raccoons, the rapid control and decrease of raccoon populations and their distribution in Iran are also discussed. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/2945 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/2945/1036