Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 397 407 Alireza Mohammadi Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Abdolhossein Dalimi Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Fatemeh Ghafarifar Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Majid Pirestani Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran Majid Akbari Department of Microbiology, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran 2024 04 14 2024 07 30 Background: We aimed to identity Helicobacter pylori endosymbiont in Acanthamoeba-positive samples in natural and laboratory conditions. Methods: Overall, 134 samples were collected from hospital environments. Microscopic and PCR test were used for detection of Acanthamoeba and H. pylori. The real-time PCR method was used to check the active presence of H. pylori within Acanthamoeba under natural conditions from hospital samples and in co-culture laboratory conditions. Results: The rate of contamination of hospital samples with Acanthamoeba was 44.7%. Out of 42 Acanthamoeba PCR-positive samples, 13 isolates (31%) were positive in terms of H. pylori endosymbiont according to sampling location. H. pylori is able to penetrate and enter the Acanthamoeba parasite. Conclusion: H. pylori is able to contaminate Acanthamoeba in natural and laboratory conditions. The presence of pathogenic Acanthamoeba in various hospital environments and the hiding of Helicobacter as an endosymbiont inside it can pose a serious threat to the health of hospitalized patients. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4224 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4224/1386

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 384 396 Aref Teimouri Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Shima Mahmoudi Biotechnology Centre, Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice, Poland Atefeh Behkar Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Keivan Sahebi Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Hassan Foroozand Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Gholamreza Hassanpour Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hossein Keshavarz 1. Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2. Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 10 25 2024 11 16 Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite capable of crossing the placenta in pregnancy and infecting the developing fetus, leading to various congenital anomalies and even abortion. Acute Toxoplasma infection is responsible for almost all cases of congenital toxoplasmosis in immunocompetent pregnant women. Prenatal screening for acute toxoplasmosis primarily involves maternal serology and fetal ultrasound imaging. When serological or ultrasound findings suggest acute infection, further diagnostic tests are necessary to confirm fetal infection. Currently, molecular methods to detect the parasite’s DNA, including polymerase chain reaction-based methods, on amniotic fluid are the gold standard tests for the diagnosis of congenital toxoplasmosis. In this review, we aim to discuss various aspects of screening and diagnostic methods for toxoplasmosis in pregnancy, including (i) current serological assays, screening approaches, and future perspectives; (ii) the role of imaging techniques, with an emphasis on ultrasound; (iii) principles and recent advances in diagnostic molecular methods; (iv) emerging techniques, such as point-of-care-based tests and biosensors, and microRNAs as novel biomarkers of acute infection; and (v) an overview of screening programs in different countries, important epidemiological determinants, and recommendations for Toxoplasma screening health policies. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4414 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4414/1385

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 480 483 Mustafa Akkuzu Diyarbakir Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey Ahmet Yavuz Diyarbakir Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey Berat Ebik Diyarbakir Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey Ümit Karabulut Diyarbakir Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey Ali Üzel Diyarbakir Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey Ferhat Bacaksız Diyarbakir Gazi Yasargil Training and Research Hospital, Diyarbakır, Turkey 2024 09 18 2024 11 24 This article discusses Fasciola hepatica infection, a zoonotic parasite that lives in the liver bile ducts. A 31-year-old female patient was diagnosed with symptoms such as nausea, increased liver enzymes, and right upper quadrant pain for about a year. The parasite was detected in the common bile duct by Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) and removed by Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangio Pancreatography (ERCP). Treatment was performed with 10 mg/kg triclabendazole. Eosinophilia, abdominal pain, and dietary history are important clues in the diagnosis of infection. Imaging methods, especially EUS, play a critical role in diagnosis. With this method, parasites can be seen as mobile hyperechogenic structures. If untreated, parasites can survive in their hosts for many years, therefore early diagnosis and treatment are important in preventing complications. It is recommended to monitor the eosinophil levels and serological test results of patients after treatment. As a result, EUS is a very valuable diagnostic tool in suspected cases. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4379 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4379/1395

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 475 479 Amir Bairami Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Kourosh Kabir Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Behrouz Abbasi Alaei Health Center, Fardis Prison, Karaj, Iran Saeed Bahadory Deputy of Treatment, Imam Hasan Mojtaba Hospital, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran Mostafa Rezaeian 1. Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2. Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 04 11 2024 10 17 Background: Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis, which causes health and emotional damages to the sufferers annually. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of T. vaginalis and its related risk factors among the high-risk women in the city of Karaj, central Iran. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between October 2021 and September 2022. In all 192 samples were taken from high-risk women referred to the center for vulnerable women and also from women in Fardis Prison of Karaj. All samples were examined by culture and microscopic method. Results: The overall prevalence of T. vaginalis in high-risk women was estimated at 7.8% (15/192). Subgroup prevalence was also assessed according to the severity of symptoms, and no significant association was observed between the prevalence and the symptoms’ severity. Conclusion: Due to the high prevalence of the parasite among vulnerable/high-risk women, particularly in people with poor socioeconomic conditions, preventive health measures in this high-risk group seem necessary. Nevertheless, given that men have no symptoms but may be carriers of the parasite, the same study is also recommended for men. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4234 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4234/1394

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 515 516 Hamidreza Majidiani Healthy Aging Research Centre, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran 2. Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran Seyyed Amir Hosseini Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran 2024 09 15 2024 11 24 Not applicable. No Abstract. Not abstract. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4369 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4369/1401

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 408 417 Sabreen Hadi Fadhil Department of Biology, College of Science, Baghdad University, Baghdad, Iraq Entsar Jabbar Saheb Department of Biology, College of Science, Baghdad University, Baghdad, Iraq 2023 09 22 2024 04 29 The parasite Toxoplasma gondii infection causes toxoplasmosis. Although it is frequently asymptomatic, primary infection in pregnant women can result in serious and debilitating disease in the fetus. Increased knowledge of the significance of parasite genotype in determining infectivity and illness severity is among recent breakthrough. Interleukin 18 (IL-18) is an essential cytokine in immune response regulation and promotes Th1 and Th2 differentiation as well. This study aims to shed light on the risks of elevated levels of IL-18 in aborted women with toxoplasmosis through evaluate the risk or protective function of alleles or genotypes for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of IL-18 (rs 1946519), which may be related to the susceptibility to toxoplasmosis. IL-18 levels in patient and control blood samples were determined using ELISA, and the SNP IL-18 (ra 1946519) was subjected to the high resolution method. The results showed that when compared to healthy pregnant women, the IL-18 serum levels of recurrent abortion with toxoplasmosis, recurrent abortion without toxoplasmosis, and healthy non-pregnant women decreased with significant differences. Additionally, a strong association between patients and controls was found in the SNP IL-18 data. Recurrent abortion women with toxoplasmosis and recurrent abortion women without toxoplasmosis with the genotypes AA and AC had significantly lower IL-18 serum levels than healthy pregnant women, according to the distribution of IL-18 serum levels by SNP. In conclusion, the serum level of IL-18 varied by genotype in patients with substantial differences compared to controls, while the SNP of IL-18 has been linked as a risk factor in toxoplasmosis-infected recurrent abortion women.   https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4044 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4044/1387

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 484 488 Oğuz Karcıoğlu Department of Chest Diseases, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey Ayşen Kara Department of Chest Diseases, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey Olcay Kurtulan Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey Serknan Uysal Department of Thoracic Surgery, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey Ziya Selçuk Department of Chest Diseases, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey 2024 07 31 2024 11 24 Echinococcus granulosus remains a global public health issue. Although predominantly affecting the liver, the lungs are the second most affected organ and often undergo surgical intervention. Here, a case managed by bronchoscopy and medical therapy is presented. A 26-year-old woman was presented with a cough, hemoptysis, and a 5 kg weight loss in the last two months. Chest imaging identified a 4 cm centrally cystic mass lesion in the middle lobe of the right lung, which was suspicious of lung cancer. Bronchoscopy revealed a whitish, plastic-like object that was difficult to extricate and obstructed the middle lobe bronchus. We removed the material and purulent secretions covering it and opened the middle lobe bronchus totally. The histopathological study verified its consistency with hydatid cyst. There was no evidence of a hydatid cyst on computerized thomography after bronchoscopy. The lesion in the left lobe of the liver, confirmed to be suggestive of a hydatid cyst via ultrasonography, was treated using the PAIR technique. We administered oral albendazole to continue the treatment. It may be a reasonable approach to postpone surgery in order to preserve lung tissue in patients who have undergone complete removal of hydatid cyst material via bronchoscope. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4328 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4328/1396

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 517 519 Saeed Pirmoradi Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran Mohammad Darvish Khadem Department of Basic Sciences, Division of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran Zohre Monjezi Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Technology, Agricultural Sciences and Nat-ural Resources University of Khuzestan, Mollasani, Iran Somayeh Bahrami Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran Chukwunonso O. Nzelu 1. Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Infectious Diseases, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, Cum-ming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada 2. Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada 2024 11 24 Not Abstract. No Abstract. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4445 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4445/1402

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 418 427 Ana Cristina González-Morales Department of Invertebrates Zoology, Biological Sciences School, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, México Zinnia Judith Molina-Garza Department of Invertebrates Zoology, Biological Sciences School, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, México Ricardo Gomez-Flores Department of Immunology and Virology, Biological Sciences School, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, México Juan José Zárate-Ramos Department of Parasitology, Agricultural Sciences Campus, Veterinary Medicine and Zootechnics School, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, México Lucio Galaviz-Silva Department of Invertebrates Zoology, Biological Sciences School, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, México 2024 01 29 2024 08 11 Background: We aimed to develop a sandwich ELISA, using polyclonal antibodies against excretory/secretory (E/S) antigens specific to coproantigens present in Toxocara canis-positive dogs. Methods: Antibodies were produced at Biological Sciences School, Autonomous University of Nuevo León, México in 2023 by immunization of rabbits with antigenic extracts from in vitro cultures of T. canis larvae. Assays were performed on 100 stool samples from pet dogs, measuring sensitivity, specificity, and cross-reactivity against other parasitic infections. Results: High values of sensitivity (100%), specificity (90.9%), and positive (93.47%) and negative (95.45%) predictive values were obtained, respectively. We obtained an E/S protein with a molecular weight of 70 kDa, which showed high sensitivity and specificity by ELISA, but it presented cross-reactivity against Ancylostoma caninum and Strongyloides stercoralis. Conclusion: Additional studies are necessary to increase the specificity percentage since this assay demonstrated significant potential as a useful and inexpensive diagnostic tool for immunodiagnostic in dog feces. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4135 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4135/1388

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 489 495 EN Pınar Gurkaynak Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Karabuk University Training and Research Hospital, Karabuk, Turkey Nejla Yılmaz Gocen Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Bornova Turkan Ozilhan State Hospital, Izmir, Turkey Ahmet Mert Yanık Department of Internal Medicine, Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey 2024 03 12 2024 08 23 Malaria has become widespread, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, owing to disruptions experienced during the Covid-19 pandemic. Both cerebral malaria and acute kidney injury are important indicators of severe malaria. Depending on the degree of acute renal failure, hemodialysis/hemofiltration treatment is required. Our patient was a 22-year-old male from the Republic of Chad. The patient with confusion came to our country 15 days prior and was admitted to the internal medicine intensive care unit. Initially, Thrombocytopenic Thrombocytic Purpura (TTP) was considered because of clinical and laboratory similarities. As the patient had a history of coming from an endemic area, anemia, thrombocytopenia, and splenomegaly, malaria was considered. The patient was diagnosed with falciparum malaria due to the presence of multiple ring-shaped trophozoites and banana gametocytes. The patient with cerebral malaria, hyperparasitemia (parasite load 15%), hyperbilirubinemia and acute kidney injury was considered to have severe malaria. Intravenous artesunate was planned, but since it could not be obtained immediately, oral artemether+lumefantrine was started, and the patient became conscious at the 24th hour of treatment. During the follow-up, the patient's creatinine levels increased to 6.9, and the patient was subjected to hemodialysis several times. After effective hemodialysis and antimalarial treatment, the patient was discharged without sequelae on the 20th day of hospitalization. This case report is thought to be important in that it emphasizes that the diagnosis of malaria may be delayed due to its confusion with microangiopathic hemolytic anemias, and that it emphasizes the importance of correct management of complications. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4185 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4185/1397

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 428 439 Abdullahi Samaila 1. Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Ma-laysia 2. Department of Pharmacology, College of Health Sciences, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina State, Nigeria Rusliza Basir Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia Nur Aimi Liyana Abdul Aziz Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia Abdusalam Alarabei Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia Mukhtar Gambo Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Umaru Musa Yar’adua University, Katsina State, Nigeria Maizaton Atmadini Abdullah Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia Mohd Khairi Hussain Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia Norshariza Nordin Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia Roslaini Abd Majid Department of Pre-Clinical, Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 2024 05 23 2024 11 24 Background: The interplay of OGG1, 8-Oxoguanine, and oxidative stress triggers the exaggerated release of cytokines during malaria, which worsens the outcome of the disease. We aimed to investigate the involvement of OGG1 in malaria and assess the effect of modulating its activity on the cytokine environment and anemia during P. berghei malaria in mice. Methods: Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection in ICR mice was used as a malaria model. OGG1 concentration and oxidative stress levels in P. berghei-infected mice and their control counterparts were assessed during malaria using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. OGG1 activity in malaria mice was modulated using treatment with TH5487 and O8-OGG1 inhibitors. The effects of modulating OGG1 activity using OGG1 inhibitors on cytokine release and anemia during P. berghei malaria infection were assessed by cytometric bead array and measurement of total normal red blood cell count respectively. Results: The plasma OGG1 level was significantly upregulated and positively correlated with parasitemia during P. berghei malaria in mice. Modulation of OGG1 ameliorated malaria severity by improving the total normal RBC count in TH5487 and O8-treated mice. Modulation of OGG1 with TH5487 caused significant reductions in serum levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-6, and IL-10. Similarly, OGG1 modulation activity using an O8-OGG1 inhibitor caused a significant reduction in serum levels of TNF-α, IL-2, IL-6, and IL-10. Conclusion: The findings indicate the involvement of OGG1 in the P. berghei malaria infection. OGG1 inhibition by TH5487 and O8-OGG1 inhibitors suppressed excessive cytokine release, and this may represent a novel therapeutic strategy for ameliorating the severity of malaria infection. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4240 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4240/1389

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 496 501 Mahya Allahmoradi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Faezeh Najafi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mona Koosha Department of Vector Biology and Control of Diseases, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Elham Kazemirad Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Alireza Latifi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Saied Reza Naddaf Department of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Hamed Mirjalali Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mehdi Mohebali Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Homa Hajjaran Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Domenico Otranto 1. Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy 2. Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong Gholamreza Mowlavi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 07 13 2024 11 24 Rodents are the primary reservoir hosts for zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) caused by Leishmania major. Knowing reservoir hosts is crucial for leishmaniasis surveillance and control programs in endemic areas. In this study, we examined an archived spleen of Rattus norvegicus obtained during a pest control program in 2000 in Tehran, the capital of Iran. The sample was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing to determine the presence of Trypanosomatidae based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1 gene. Amplification and sequencing of the discriminative region of the ITS1 gene followed by BLAST analysis showed the highest similarity with L. major isolates. Also, the phylogenetic analysis revealed that our sample was grouped with L. major isolates retrieved from the GenBank database. This finding might support the claim that R. norvegicus acts as a potential reservoir host for L. major. Further studies, including a survey on more rodent samples as well as studying sandflies in the area, might uncover the possible presence of such pathobiological conditions in ZCL transmission in urban and suburban settings. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4300 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4300/1398

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 440 447 EN Bruna Baccega Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil Juliana Monteli Fenalti Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil Alexia Brauner de Mello Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil Yan Wahast Islabão Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil Paloma Taborda Birmann Neurobiotechnology Research Group, Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology, Technological Development Center, UFPel, Brazil Alessandra Neis Postgraduate Program in Biotechnology, Technological Development Center, UFPel, Brazil Marjorie de Giacomti Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil Francielle Liz Monteiro Laboratory of Virology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary, UFPel, Brazil Silvia de Oliveira Hubner Laboratory of Virology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary, UFPel, Brazil Rodrigo de Almeida Vaucher Research Laboratory in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Microorganisms (LaPeBBioM), UFPel, Brazil Nara Amélia da Rosa Farias Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil Roghayeh Norouzi Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran Abolghasem Siyadatpanah Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran Camila Belmonte Oliveira Parasitology Laboratory, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Brazil 2024 04 22 2024 10 15 Background: Avian trichomoniasis is an important disease that causes bird mortality, both wild and captive, around the world. This study evaluated the in vitro cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and antiparasitic activity of citral (3.7-Dimetil-2.6-octadienal) and geraniol (trans-3.7-Dimetil-2.6-octadien-1-ol) against Trichomonas gallinae trophozoites. Methods: In vitro assays were conducted at the Laboratory of Protozoology and Entomology (LAPEN) at the Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), Brazil in 2019 using tests with 106 parasites and citral and geraniol at concentrations ranging from 10 to 100 μM and four controls: NC (culture medium and trophozoites), MTZ (trophozoites plus 100 μM of metronidazole), and TW (trophozoites plus vehicles used for solubilizing derivatives (0.01% Tween). Results: The citral (60 μM) and geraniol (50 μM) concentrations reduced the trophozoitesʼs viability by 100%. The molecular docking experiment demonstrated that citral and geraniol might inhibit a hydrogen enzyme for T. gallinae survival. Conclusion: The major compounds of lemongrass have potential antitrichomonal activity against T. gallinae in vitro. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4250 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4250/1390

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 502 508 EN Syed Arif Division of Veterinary Medicine, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar (IVRI), Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, India Deepa Lahkar Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science, Assam, India Sophia Gogoi Department of Veterinary Microbiology, College of Veterinary Science, Assam, India Bendangla Changkija Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science, Assam, India Parikshit Kakati Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary Science, Assam, India Lukumoni Buragohain Department of Animal Biotechnology, College of Veterinary Science, Assam, India Mamta Pathak Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University, Aizawl, Mizoram, India Tinku Das Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science, Assam, India 2024 05 07 2024 07 30 A 2-year-old female Assam Hill goat was presented with a clinical history of anorexia, fever, mild anemia, rough body coat, dehydration, tachycardia, dyspnea and swelling of palpable lymph nodes. Hematology revealed low hemoglobin, packed cell volume, red blood cell and thrombocyte count. Biochemical analysis showed increased serum concentration of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatinine and urea in comparison to the normal reference range. Microscopic examination showed intra-erythrocytic forms of Theileria species. Molecular and phylogenetic analysis of partial 18S rRNA gene sequence confirmed Theileria luwenshuni infection. The goat was treated with buparvaquone and oxytetracycline and recovered uneventfully. A three-month follow-up showed no recurrence. This study reveals the presence of T. luwenshuni in Assam, India and it should be considered in differential diagnosis and as one of the important pathogens of clinically sick goats. The present case report provides a rational approach to diagnosis and treatment for a goat infected with pathogenic T. luwenshuni in Assam, India. To our knowledge, the present communication describes about the first successful therapeutic management of pathogenic T. luwenshuni infection in a goat supported with molecular evidence from Assam, a north-eastern state of India. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4259 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4259/1399

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 448 456 Olamilekan Banwo Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria Olalekan Jeremiah Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria Rofiat Adesina Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria Abraham Adeyemo Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria Olusegun Fagbohun Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria 2023 05 29 2024 05 17 Background: Haemonchosis is a major parasitic infestation in ruminant livestock, causing significant economic losses annually. The causative organisms are helminths of the genus Haemonchus spp. Detection of the causative agent is important for effective management and control of the disease. Molecular detection and characterization of parasites is a very dependable approach for parasite identification, especially where morphological characterization is unreliable. Methods: To detect and characterize Haemonchus species in cases of haemonchosis at a Municipal abattoir in Ibadan, Nigeria; abomasal samples were collected from cattle at the abattoir. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect and amplify 320 bp internal transcribed spacer-2 (ITS-2) and 400 bp external transcribed spacer (ETS) genes of the adult worms in the samples. Multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic tree reconstruction were carried out to further confirm the presence of the worms. Results: PCR, multiple sequence alignment, and phylogenetic reconstruction confirmed the presence of H. placei in the abomasal samples and further confirmed the species as a distinct species of bovine worms at the abattoir. Multiple sequence alignment also revealed genetic sites that can be employed to distinguish H. placei from H. contortus and H. similis. Conclusion: Molecular techniques; PCR and sequence analysis are very important and reliable in the diagnosis of parasitic diseases. This will help to formulate effective control measures for eradication of the parasite. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3967 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3967/1391

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 509 514 Ismail Eren Birol Department of Medical Pathology, Karaman Training and Research Hospital, Karaman, Turkey Sukru Toprak Department of General Surgery, Karaman Training and Research Hospital, Karaman, Turkey Fatih Gurel Department of Radiology, Karaman Training and Research Hospital, Karaman, Turkey 2024 08 07 2024 10 05 From a global perspective, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hydatid cyst disease are both common; however, the endemic and zoonotic nature of hydatid cysts (due to Echinococcus larvae) makes the simultaneous detection of the two conditions a rare occurrence. In this case report, in a 43-year-old male patient, we aim to draw attention to the potential coexistence of HCC and liver hydatid cysts by presenting a case in which HCC tissue was detected in the cyst wall—removed by emergency surgery due to cyst perforation. Hydatid lesions in the liver may exhibit tumor-like growth characteristics. Consequently, identifying a hydatid cyst concomitant with HCC can be challenging, particularly when HCC has developed within the cystic structure. Careful assessment of resected tissues and detailed diagnostic approaches can facilitate the identification of such cases, even if the risk of HCC in patients with hydatid cysts is marginal. It may be advisable to suggest periodic monitoring with HCC-related markers and liver imaging methods. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4335 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4335/1400

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 457 464 Clara Bessi Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina 2. Institute of Animal Production Research (INPA), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina Mariano Emmanuel Ercole Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina 2. Institute of Animal Production Research (INPA), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina Fernando Adrian Fariña Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina 2. Institute of Animal Production Research (INPA), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina Francisco Montalvo Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina 2. Institute of Animal Production Research (INPA), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina Valeria Fassa Department of Genetics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina Marcelo Acerbo Department of Swine Production, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina Miriam Mabel Ribicich Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina 2. Institute of Animal Production Research (INPA), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina Mariana Inés Pasqualetti Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina 2. Institute of Animal Production Research (INPA), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina 2023 08 07 2024 03 11 Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the survival of Trichinella spiralis and T. pseudospiralis in decaying wild boar tissue and assess their freezing tolerance in experimentally infected animals. Methods: The present study was conducted in Buenos Aires City, Argentina during the 2018-2019 period. Two wild boars were used, one infected with 20,000 muscle larvae (ML) of T. spiralis and the other with T. pseudospiralis. Both animals were euthanized 19 weeks post-infection. Limbs from each boar were placed over soil in plastic containers to assess ML survival in decaying tissue, under natural temperature and humidity, shielded from rain. Weekly samples were taken for artificial digestion, and the ML were inoculated into mice to determine their reproductive capacity index (RCI). Additionally, to evaluate the freezing tolerance of the ML, muscle samples were stored at -18°C. Six samples were taken and digested after 2, 4, 7, 9, 11, and 14 days, with subsequent inoculation into mice to assess RCI.  Results: T. spiralis remained infective in decaying wild boar tissue for 11 weeks, while T. pseudospiralis remained infective for only 4 weeks. The freezing tolerance assay showed that T. spiralis ML remain infective for 9 days. However, T. pseudospiralis ML remain infective for only 2 days at -18°C. Conclusion: The findings highlight the survival strategies of T. spiralis and T. pseudospiralis in different environmental conditions, which may have implications for understanding their transmission dynamics in wild animals. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4015 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4015/1392

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 19 4 2024 11 24 465 474 Sahar Semnan Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Scienc-es, Tehran, Iran Eshrat Beigom Kia Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Meysam Sharifdini Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Enayat Darabi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zohreh Fakhrieh Kashan Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 06 16 2024 08 05 Background: Strongyloides stercoralis is one of the neglected tropical diseases. We aimed to verify the genetic diversity of S. stercoralis with attention to clinical features of the infection in patients using the Cox1 gene and DNA sequencing. Methods: Using parasitological methods, S. stercoralis was isolated from stool samples of patients who had been referred to Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. The patients originated from three endemic provinces of Iran including Guilan and Mazandaran in the north and Khouzestan in the south of Iran. After recording the clinical symptoms of the patients, DNA extraction of the isolates, PCR, and sequencing of the Cox1 gene region were performed. The gene sequences were analyzed by Chromas, Bio edit, and Dna SP 6.0, and phylogenetic analysis using MEGA 7. Results: Overall 10 isolates of S. stercoralis were collected from patients 55 to 73 years old. Among the patients, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and cutaneous clinical symptoms were the most common, respectively. Ten isolates were classified into 4 haplotypes, 2 of which were specific to this study. Haplotypes 2 and 3 were placed in a subclade with haplotypes including isolates from dogs in Cambodia. Haplotype 4 which is hereby introduced in the world for the first time included an isolate from a patient with hyper-infection syndrome and disseminated strongyloidiasis. Conclusion: The Cox1 gene showed genetic diversity for S. stercoralis isolates. Accordingly, no significant genetic difference was observed between the sequences from patients with hyper-infection and non-hyper-infection. The only isolate from a patient with disseminated and hyper-infection strongyloidiasis was genetically different from all other isolates in the present study. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4281 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4281/1393