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 iation locale="en_US">Department of Infectious Diseases, Omid Hospital, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Abbasali Eskandarian Department of Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2021 08 20 2021 12 25 Malaria is a multilateral parasitic infection, which causes wonderful mortality and morbidity worldwide. It sometimes accompanied a quaint appearance. An Iranian 50-year-old man was admitted to Omid, hospital, a specialized cancer hospital in Isfahan, Iran. Because of a 15-year persisted anemia due to misdiagnose of vivax malaria led him to three courses of anticancer chemotherapy and splenectomy. His blood smears were sent to the Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. Our findings from his history, file documents, clinical signs and symptoms, and parasitological and molecular assessments revealed an interesting case, which is reported. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3427 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3427/1239

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 06 440 442 Farzane Shams Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Mohammad Jokar Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Arman Abdous Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Mehran Farhoudi Moghadam Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Farnoosh Arfaee Faculty of Specialized Veterinary Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran 2022 01 27 2022 04 10 No Abstract No Abstract No Abstract https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3563 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3563/1243

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 317 324 Iraj Amir Niaye Shad Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Mohammad Reza Mahmoudi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Mehdi Mohebali 1. Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2. Center for Research of Endemic Parasites of Iran (CREPI), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zahra Atrkar Roshan Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Keyhan Ashrafi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran Behnaz Akhoundi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Bijan Majidi Shad Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran 2021 03 29 2021 10 13 Background: Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by the Leishmania donovani complex that is transmitted by the bites of female sandflies. Mediterranean type of VL caused by L. infantum. While, Roudbar County of Guilan Province has been introduced as a suspected cutaneous leishmaniasis focus; there are no published data on the seroprevalence of VL in Guilan Province. We aimed to investigate the seroprevalence of this disease in Roudbar County. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in 2019-2020 among children less than 12 years of age to determine the seroprevalence of VL by direct agglutination test (DAT). Blood samples were randomly collected from 918 children under 12 years of age refers to the public health center in the clusters. Results: Out of 918 children, 14 (1.52%) showed anti-Leishmania antibodies, with 4 (0.43%), 2 (0.21%), 8 (0.87%) anti-L. infantum antibodies at titers 1:800, 1:1600 and ≥1: 3200 respectively. All children with anti-Leishmania antibody titers of ≥1:800 were evaluated by a physician. Clinical manifestation of VL including fever, anemia and hepatosplenomegaly observed in a 6-year-old boy from Defraz village with anti-Leishmania antibody of titers ≥102400.This patient was admitted to the pediatric hospital in Rasht, capital of Guilan province, Iran and was successfully treated. Conclusion: VL is being circulated with low prevalence in children up to 12 years old in Roudbar, northern part of Iran. Accordingly, it is critical to improve the awareness of physicians and public health supervisors about the importance of this fatal disease in Guilan province and especially in Roudbar area. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3305 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3305/1226

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 425 430 Ismail Yağmur Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey Osman Kocaman Department of Pediatric Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey Osman Dere Department of Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey Mehmet Demir Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey Bülent Katı Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey Mehmet Boleken Department of Pediatric Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Harran University, Şanlıurfa, Turkey 2021 12 07 2022 04 10 Hydatid cyst is a parasitic infection transmitted by oral ingestion of Echinococcus granulosus eggs. Hydatid cyst of the genital tract is rare and the occurrence in the uterus is an extreme rarity. We present an 8-yr-old girl with complaints of swelling of lower abdomen, pollakiuria and bilateral flank pain was brought to Emergency Department of Harran University, Turkey, in Jun 2019. The patient had simultaneous hydatid cysts of the liver, mesentery and uterus. We performed abdominal exploration and completely removed the inner germinal layer of cyst through an incision made in the anterior of the uterine fundus. Then, we applied total excision to the two cysts in the right and left colon mesentery. Finally, we performed partial cystectomy to the cyst in the liver, and we removed the cyst membrane totally. In endemic regions, hydatid cysts should be considered for the diagnosis of children with cystic mass lesions. Uterine-sparing approach should be kept in mind as an option, especially in young women. Early surgical treatment of large pelvic cysts that cause obstructive uropathy may prevent the progression of renal damage. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3516 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3516/1240

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 325 331 Mehdi Zarean Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Pietro Mastroeni Department of Veterinary Medicine, Cambridge University, Cambridge, United Kingdom Elham Moghaddas Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Bibi Razieh Hosseini Farash Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Amene Raouf-Rahmati Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Jamshid Jamali Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Hossein Azadeh Department of Internal Medicine, Rheumatology Division, Orthopaedic Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Vahideh Kam Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran 2022 01 04 2022 07 31 Background: Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, a cosmopolitan intracellular parasite. It can be a risk factor for autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study was designed to investigate the possible association between serological history of T. gondii infection and defined clinical manifestation of RA in Northeast of Iran. Methods: Overall, serum samples were collected from 50 RA patients and 40 healthy controls, from Qaem Hospital in Mashhad City, northeastern Iran in 2018. Seroprevalence of T. gondii infection was determined by ELISA. Results: The prevalence of anti -T. gondii IgG in RA patients 48% (24.50) was significantly higher than the control group 10% (4.40) (P <0.001). Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) and (rheumatoid factor) RF levels between the RA and control groups (P <0.01). Control group were matched with patients for age, gender and living area. Conclusion: Given that a high correlation has been demonstrated between positivity rate of anti-T. gondii IgG and RA in Northeastern Iran, further studies will be necessary to clarify the pathogenesis of T. gondii among these patients. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3543 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3543/1227

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 431 435 Çağatay Ak Department of Gastroenterology, Umraniye Training and Research Hospital, Health Sciences University, Istanbul, Turkey Süleyman Sayar Department of Gastroenterology, Umraniye Training and Research Hospital, Health Sciences University, Istanbul, Turkey Ebru Tarıkçı Kılıç Department of Anesthesiology, Umraniye Training and Research Hospital, Health Science University, Istanbul, Turkey 2021 10 31 2022 09 05 The differential diagnosis of bloody diarrhea is necessary to specify etiology and plan treatment. Misdiagnosis can lead to catastrophic results with the treatments to be given.  In this case report, we present a case of schistosomal colitis mimicking ulcerative colitis in a 26-year-old Guinean male patient diagnosed in 2021. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3496 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3496/1241

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 332 338 EN Machrumnizar Machrumizar Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Trisakti University, Jakarta, Indonesia Arleen Devita Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Trisakti University, Jakarta, Indonesia Yuliana Yuliana Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Trisakti University, Jakarta, Indonesia Suriyani Tan Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Trisakti University, Jakarta, Indonesia 2021 12 01 2022 04 10 Background: Three of Taenia species, named Taenia saginata, T. solium and T. asiatica can be found in Indonesia, but only T. solium can lead to neurocysticercosis. The morphology of those 3 Taenia spp. egg is indistinguishable by standard parasitology procedure. We aimed to use Ziehl Neelsen staining for differentiation of eggs of T. saginata and T. solium. Methods: As many as 40 containers of stool samples from the positive helminthiasis patients in Jakarta, Indonesia were collected during the year 2018. From each container, 10 slides prepared for staining with Kato-Katz technique as the preliminary examination. From those stool samples with positive taeniasis, we then once again made 10 slides/container for Ziehl Neelsen staining. Results: The first 400 slides stained with Kato-Katz technique as preliminary test were all positive for Taenia spp. The second 400 slides, we got 244 slides that gave good results as we could distinguished between the eggs of T. saginata and T. solium, meanwhile the remainder 156 slides gave unconfirmed results. From those 244 slides, 154 slides showed T. saginata eggs with magenta colored and 90 slides showed T. solium eggs with blue/purple colored. The eggs of T. solium slightly smaller if compared to Taenia saginata and had round shape, meanwhile T. saginata eggs were oval in shape. Conclusion: Ziehl Neelsen staining method can be used as an alternative parasitological method to differentiate the eggs of T. saginata and T. solium. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3512 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3512/1228

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 339 348 Fatemeh Bayat Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Afsaneh Motevalli Haghi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mehdi Nateghpour Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Bahman Rahimi-Esboei Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tonekabon, Iran Abbas Rahimi Foroushani Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Amir Amani Department of Natural Products and Medicinal Plants Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran Leila Farivar Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zahra Sayyad Talaee Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Aref Faryabi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2022 01 02 2022 04 10 Background: Malaria parasites cause a tremendous burden of disease in both the tropics and subtropics areas. Growing of drugs resistance in parasites is one of the most threats to malaria control. The aim of study was to investigate the anti-malarial activity of nano-emodin isolated from Rhamnus cathartica on Plasmodium berghei in mice to evaluate parasites inhibition rate using in-vivo test. Methods: The study was conducted in the School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, during 2020. Nano- emodin particles were prepared from Rhamnus cathartica, and confirmed by Zeta Potential Analyzer, DLS and electron microscopy techniques. Mice were infected with P. berghei and treated by emodin nanoparticles. Parasitemia was evaluated in each group in comparison with control group. Toxicity test was done using twice the highest concentration of emodin extract on a separate group of mice and ED50 was calculated. Results: Emodin extract was significantly effective in all concentrations on D4 (P<0.05). The most effective on parasitemia was observed in 400 mg/kg of Liquid Nano-emodin and solid (non-Nano) emodin. ED50 for emodin extract was determined 220 mg/kg. Toxicity test showed no toxic effect on the subjects. Conclusion: The emodin extract is safe, lack of side effects. So, it can be used for more and longer period of time and in higher doses. Emodin extract, either in form of liquid and nanoparticle or in a solid form, has the same therapeutic effect on P. berghei in infected Balb/c mice. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3540 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3540/1229

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 349 357 Homa Hajjaran Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Maryam Ebadizadeh Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Angila Ataei-Pirkooh Department of Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Iran 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 Katayoun Samimi-Rad Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Reza Saberi Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran Saied Reza Naddaf Department of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran 2021 11 19 2022 09 05 Background: Detection of Leishmania RNA virus (LRV) in Old World Leishmania species and their possible role in the disease prognosis requires sensitive and specific methods, preferably independent of the viral genome. We aimed to develop an indirect immunofluorescence antibody (IFA) assay to detect LRV in the Old World Leishmania parasites. Methods: Clinical samples were collected from 86 cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) patients in different endemic areas of CL in Iran, during 2017-2019. For antibody preparation, the viruses were obtained from sediment of an LRV-infected L. major culture-using freeze and thaw cycles followed by gradient cesium chloride centrifugation. The purified viruses were used to immunize a male 3-4 months rabbit. Various dilutions of the LRV-immunized rabbit's serum and a conjugated antibody were deployed to detect LRV in 48 isolates by IFA assay. Results: LRV virus was detected in four of the 48 CL cases using IFA method. Amplification of a partial fragment of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene from the isolates confirmed the IFA results. In phylogeny, the generated RdRp sequences from four isolates were grouped with the other Old World LRVs, but separate from L. aethiopica LRVs, which appeared as a highly supported distinct clade. Conclusion: Further optimization of this approach to detect the LRV directly in lesion scrapings can make it a more reliable tool for field studies and disclosing the virus's possible role in disseminating and unusual clinical features. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3507 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3507/1230

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 358 365 EN Seyedeh Faezeh Sadjjadi Department of Biology, School of Sciences, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran Tahereh Mohammadzadeh Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Fatemeh Hafezi Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran Seyed Mahmoud Sadjjadi Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2021 06 14 2021 10 13 Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is an important zoonotic parasitic disease worldwide. Application of species-specific antigen for serodiagnosis of human CE has not been utilized, so far. In this regard, AgB originated from Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (G1-G3) and E. canadensis (G6/G7) CE cysts, confirmed by molecular biology and sequencing was used for evaluation of their ability in the diagnosis of confirmed human CE.Methods: The hydatid cyst fluid (HCF) of E. granulosus sensu stricto and E. canadensis species were separately, used for preparation of AgB during 2017-2018 in Shiraz and Tehran, Iran. A total of 45 sera samples from confirmed CE patients, 102 sera from healthy people as negative control and 44 sera from other parasitic diseases, were used for measurement of the diagnostic ability of antigen B originated from E. granulosus sensu stricto and E. canadensis species of CE, alone or in 50%:50% mixture using ELISA method. Results: Overall, 38 (84.4%) out of 45 confirmed human CE were positive by ELISA using AgB originated from E. granulosus sensu stricto. This items for AgB originated from E. canadensis was 39 (86.6) out of 45 serum samples. A total of 39 out of 45 samples (86.6%) showed positivity by a mixture of antigen B originating from both species. The specificity of the above tests was calculated as 93.15%, 96.58%, and 93.84%, respectively. Conclusion:  Due to the diversity of the cyst species in human population, application of AgB from prevalent species alone or in combination with other species is suggested. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3363 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3363/1231

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 366 374 Abdurrahman Ekici Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey Ahmet Hakan Unlu Division of Veterinary, Vocational School of Gevas, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey Selahattin Aydemir Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey Fethi Barlik Van Health Services Vocational School, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey Hasan Yılmaz Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Van, Turkey 2021 10 28 2022 09 05 Background: We aimed to investigate the prevalence of Cryptosporidium species detected in humans and calves in the Van region of Turkey. Methods: A total of 150 patients, comprising 60 who were immunosuppressed, 50 who were immunosuppressed and had diarrhea, and 40 who had only diarrhea, were enrolled in this study in the Department of Medical Parasitology, Van Yuzuncu Yıl University Faculty of Medicine, Turkey. Stool samples were taken from the rectums of a total of 50 calves that had 30 diarrhea and 20 that did not have diarrhea, from the stables and farms of 10 central villages of Van, Turkey. All samples were analyzed using modified acid-fast staining, immunochromatographic test, and PCR. Cryptosporidium positive samples were also subtyped. Results: Only C. parvum subtypes were detected in all positive samples. C. parvum was detected in 30 (20%) of the 150 human stool samples, while it was detected in 5 (10%) of the 50 samples from the calves. The GP60 gene region was amplified and sent for sequence analysis to identify the C. parvum subtypes. Conclusion: As a result, C. parvum is found to be an active species that caused cryptosporidiosis is in the Van region. IIdA24G1 subtype of C. parvum were found in both human and calf. Therefore, due to the zoonotic feature of the C. parvum IIdA24G1 subtype, it has been shown that the calves in the region are a significant risk for humans. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3492 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3492/1232

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 375 384 Fang Liu Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China Yan Yan Song Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China Ru Zhang Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China Ruo Dan Liu Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China Peng Jiang Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China Jing Cui Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China Zhong Quan Wang Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, P. R. China 2021 06 24 2021 10 13 Background: In previous studies, a new Trichinella spiralis serine protease 1.1 (TsSP1.1) was identified in surface proteins of T. spiralis muscle larvae (ML) by proteomics analysis, but its functions in T. spiralis infection are unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the roles of TsSP1.1 during larval intrusion of gut epithelium. Methods: From January 2019 to March 2021, complete TsSP1.1 cDNA sequence was cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 at the Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China. Expression and location of TsSP1.1 in the parasite were investigated using indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIFA) and Western blotting. The in vitro intestinal epithelium cells (IECs) intrusion assay was used to ascertain the roles of TsSP1.1 during larval intrusion of IECs and gut epithelium. Results: TsSP1.1 was a surface and secretory protein, which was expressed at various T. spiralis stages, and principally localized at cuticle, stichosome and embryos of the nematode. rTsSP1.1 accelerated larval intrusion of IECs, whereas anti-rTsSP1.1 antibodies impeded larval intrusion. The acceleration and inhibtion was dose-dependently related to rTsSP1.1 and anti-TsSP1.1 antibodies. Block of the IIL with anti-rTsSP1.1 serum also impeded larval intrusion of gut mucosa. Conclusion: TsSP1.1 participates in T. spiralis intrusion of gut epithelium. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/3380 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/3380/1233

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 17 3 2022 09 05 385 392 Ahmad Zarei 1. Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2. Student Research Committee, Baqiyatallah 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 Mahmoud Agholi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran Nematollah Jonaidi Jafari Health Research Center, Life Style Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Tahereh Mohammadzadeh 1. Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2. Health Research Center, Life Style Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2021 06 11 2021 10 13 Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are still considered a public health problem of mankind, particularly in immunocompromised patients. We aimed to determine the prevalence of IPIs with an emphasis on immunocompromised patients in a referral hospital in Tehran Province, Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 442 fecal specimens were collected randomly from patients, referred to Baqiyatallah Hospital in Tehran Province, Iran from May to September 2020. The collected specimens were examined using wet-mount, trichrome and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining, formalin-ether concentration, and agar plate culture. Results: The prevalence of IPIs was found 17.0% (95% CI: 13.6-20.8%). The prevalence of protozoan parasites (16.3%; 95% CI: 13.0-20.1%) was significantly higher than helminthic parasites (0.7%; 95% CI: 0.1-2.0%). Blastocystis spp., Giardia lamblia, and Entamoeba coli were the most common intestinal protozoan with a prevalence of 12.2%, 1.6%, and 1.4%, respectively. E. histolytica/E. dispar/E.  moshkovskii, Iodamoeba bütschlii, Cryptosporidium spp., Chilomastix mesnili as protozoan species and Hymenolepis nana, Dicrocoelium dendriticum, and Ascaris lumbricoides as helminthic species were the other detected parasites. Multiple logistic regression revealed a signi