Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 13 20 Mohammad Hamedanipour Infectious Diseases Research Center, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mohammad Barati Infectious Diseases Research Center, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zahra Mirabedini Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 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 Alireza Latifi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Zahra Kakooie Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 08 03 2025 01 26 Background: Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is a highly infectious parasitic disease in Iran. Although various diagnostic methods are available, identifying a sensitive and specific approach remains essential for effective treatment and disease management. We aimed to compare microscopy, the Leishmanin Skin Test (LST), and the Direct Agglutination Test (DAT) for diagnosis of human CL. Methods: Fifty samples were obtained from clinically suspected CL cases. The results of conventional methods, including microscopy, the LST, and the DAT, were then compared among these samples. For microscopical examination considered a gold standard, smears were stained with Giemsa 10% and then examined for the observation of amastigote forms for the LST, 0.1 ml of standard Leishmanin solution was intradermally injected into positive patients, and then indurations were measured after 48-72 hours; an induration of ≥5 mm was considered positive. Additionally, anti-Leishmania antibodies were detected using DAT on positive collected serum samples. Results: Out of 50 samples collected from individuals suspected of CL, 66% (33/50) of them showed positive results using microscopic examination. Among these 33 patients diagnosed with CL, 9% (3/33) tested positive in the LST, and only 1 (3%) patient showed specific antibodies against   Leishmania using DAT. Conclusion: The microscopy method appears to be more suitable for diagnosing CL. However, there is a clear need for additional diagnostic methods with more validity for CL. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4330 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4330/1404

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 1 12 Maryam Aghaei Skin Diseases and leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Shahrzad Aghaei Skin Diseases and leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2. Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Technologies, Shahrekord, University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran Zabihollah Shahmoradi Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Centre, Department of Dermatology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran Seyed Hossein Hejazi Skin Diseases and leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran 2023 09 13 2025 01 12 Background: Apoptosis, a determined form of programmed cell death (PCD), occurs in multi-cellular and single-celled organisms. Given that a general understanding of apoptosis in single-cell Leishmania is crucial for designing disease control policies, we reviewed the apoptosis mechanism and the proteins involved. Methods: The information was obtained from articles published in PubMed, SciELO, Science Direct, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases (1998-2021). Search terms used were” apoptosis” or” Leishmaniasis”. Results: The 77 subjects were included in the study that revealed the significance of the apoptosis process for Leishmania survival. Although, various stimuli induce Leishmania apoptosis, the proteins involved in apoptosis have been poorly understood. Metacaspases in Leishmania instead of caspase and death receptors in mammals play the same role in the PCD pathways. Also, other apoptotic proteins in Leishmania such as endonuclease G (EndoG), caspases- like cysteine proteases, TSN (Tudor Staphylococcal Nuclease), and Zinnia endonuclease 1 (ZEN1) lead to phenotype similar to mammalian apoptosis. Furthermore, there are differences in these mechanisms between the different species of Leishmania and studies to illustrate downstream events related to the serine phosphatidylcholine exposure, cytochrome C secretion, etc. remain an ongoing challenge. Conclusion: Determining the essential regulatory proteins in the Leishmania apoptosis and the specific present of metacaspases in parasite, is effective for designing new therapeutic strategies against leishmaniasis and vaccine development. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4038 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4038/1403

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 27 148 152 EN Saghi Rashidifar Department of Microbiology, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Mohammad Gharavi Department of Parasitology, School of Allied Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Naser Harzandi Department of Microbiology, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Zohreh Momeni Department of Microbiology, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran Malihe Hasan Nezhad Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2024 11 02 2025 02 27 Cryptosporidium species are a significant cause of persistent untreatable diarrhea in HIV-positive patients, especially in developing countries; however, extra-intestinal instances are rarely documented. Herein, we present three cases of pulmonary cryptosporidiosis in HIV patients at Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Despite the combination treatment with antiretroviral therapy, azithromycin, and paromomycin, the death of all 3 patients occurred due to severe complications. These cases highlight the importance of early diagnosis and management of respiratory cryptosporidiosis in HIV patients with low CD4 counts. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4420 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4420/1418

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 27 158 160 Haewon Byeon Worker's Care & Digital Health Lab, Korea University of Technology and Education (KOREA TECH), Cheonan 31253, South Korea 2025 01 28 2025 02 27 No Abstract. Not Abstract.  https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4508 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4508/1420

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 21 31 Enayat Darabi 1. Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2. Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Seyed Mahmoud Sadjjadi Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Tahereh Mohammadzadeh Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisoning Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mehdi Karamian Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran Seyed Mohammad Owji Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Bahareh Sedaghat Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran 2024 11 08 2025 02 26 Abstract    https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4426 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4426/1405

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 27 153 157 EN Nader Shakib Azad Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran Mohsen Kalantari Research Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Health, Department of Medical Entomology and Vectors Control, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Masoumeh Amin Research Center for Health Sciences, Institute of Health, Department of Medical Entomology and Vectors Control, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran Afshin Barazesh Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran 2024 09 03 2025 02 06 Myiasis infection is caused by the invasion of flies' eggs and larvae into different tissues of the host's body. The rarest form is urogenital myiasis, which can occur even in men with a much lower probability than women, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. The case of this study is a 5-year-old boy from suburbs of Bushehr City, southern Iran who referred to the Pediatrics Department of Persian Gulf Hospital in Bushehr due to constant fever and significant weight loss. In urine evaluation, the presence of Chrysomya bezziana larvae was confirmed. The larvae of several species of myiasis-producing flies can attack the urinary-genital system of people and cause urogenital symptoms. Therefore, it is necessary to diagnose and accurately identify the species of larvae that cause myiasis in order to properly treat affected patients. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4353 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4353/1419

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 32 43 Mohsen Arbabi Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Atefeh Haddad Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Seyed Mostafa Hosseipour Mashkani Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Uni-versity of Technology Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia Hossein Hooshyar Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran 2025 02 26 Background: Dicrocoeliasis is an important helminthic zoonosis reported from many parts of the world. Due to low-performance medications, drug delivery is a great challenge in improving the treatment of this liver fluke infection. We aimed to determine the anthelmintic properties of Nanosilver oxide (AgO) against Dicrocoelium dendriticum infection. Methods: The impacts of various concentrations of AgO nanoparticles (50-200 µg/ml) for 12-24 hours were compared with closantel, a chemical drug. The anthelmintic efficacy was evaluated using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique. The synthesized nanoparticles were analyzed for structural assessment using XRD, UV–VIS spectroscopy, and SEM. The XRD pattern shows the formation of AgO nanoparticles. Results: The UV-VIS spectra showed the broad peak, corresponding to Ag nanoparticles. SEM images of treated parasites by AgO (200 µg/ml) showed severe damage, which includes complete loss of sensory papillae and destruction of prominent network structures and tegument vesicles. The mortality rate increases with the increase in the concentration and exposure time of the parasite to nanoparticles. Besides the MTT assay, the toxicity of AgO, at concentrations of 800 µg/ml was 8.7%. Conclusion: AgO NPs have potent anthelmintic effects on liver fluke D. dendriticum. This is the first research that assessed the effect of AgO NP on liver fluke D. dendriticum. Hence, the present study provides a basis for future research on the control of this common trematode. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4534 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4534/1406

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 44 53 Shabnam Asfaram Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran Zabih Zarei Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Roghayeh Teimoorpour Department of Medical Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran Zahra Heidari Department of Medical Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran Sohrab Iranpour Department of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran Payman Azghani Department of Medical Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran Seyed Eghbal Motavallibashi Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran Zahra Rakhshidan Meshkin-Shahr Health Center Laboratory, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran Zahra Khademi Department of Biology, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran Behnam Mohammadi-Ghalehbin 1. Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran 2. Department of Medical Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran Shahram Habibzadeh Department of Infectious Disease, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Ardabil University of Medical Science, Ardabil, Iran Soheila Molaie Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran 2024 03 27 2024 10 23 Background: We aimed to investigate the serological and molecular characteristics of Toxoplasma gondii infection among pregnant women and their aborted placentas in Meshkin-Shahr City during 2019-2020. Methods: Blood samples of 210 pregnant women were evaluated for anti-T. gondii antibodies and related risk factors were determined. Also, the sera of aborted women and their buffy coats and aborted placenta tissues were used to detect anti-Toxoplasma antibodies and the parasite’s DNA, respectively. The parasite genotypes were determined by the PCR-RFLP using the SAG3 gene.  Results: The overall prevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgG was 24.3% and only 1% of participants were seropositive for the IgM antibody. There was a significant relationship between raw or unwashed vegetable consumption, contact with soil, vegetable/fruit washing type, and seropositivity (P<0.05). During pregnancy, 4.7% of women encountered an abortion and 30% and 50% of cases were positive for IgG antibodies before and after abortion, respectively. Only two cases were IgM seropositive after abortion. In the avidity IgG test, 20% of cases showed low avidity. BLAST and phylogenetic analysis exhibited that all isolates belonged to the type III T. gondii genotype. Although two women with spontaneous abortions showed seropositivity for IgM T. gondii antibody, parasite DNA was detected in three cases. Conclusion: The seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection is not high in pregnant women. Seropositive women are not safe from congenital transmission. T. gondii type III is the etiology of fetus infection in mothers with spontaneous abortion. It seems that screening and essential care are still necessary during pregnancy. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4212 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4212/1407

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 54 64 EN Mohammad Mahdi Heidari Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran Asghar Fazaeli Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran Samad Nadri Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran Negin Torabi Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran Mehrzad Saraei Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran 2023 10 10 2025 02 26 Background: We aimed to investigate the effect of chitosan nanoparticles loaded azithromycin on reducing the number of Toxoplasma gondii tissue cysts in the brain of a mouse model. Methods: Chitosan nanoparticles and azithromycin loaded nanoparticles were synthesized using microfluidic system and characterized using dynamic light scattering (DLS) and TEM images. Forty BALB/c mice after infection with a cyst forming T. gondii strain, were divided into four groups daily receiving PBS, 10 mg/kg azithromycin, 10 mg/kg chitosan nanoparticles, and 10 mg/kg chitosan nanoparticles loaded azithromycin, respectively, for 10 days. Immediately after end of the treatment, the mice were sacrificed and the tissue cyst burden in their brain was investigated using an optical microscope and compared by ANOVA statistical test. Results: The average particle size and dispersion index for chitosan nanoparticles were 193.66 nm and 0.43, and for nanoparticles containing azithromycin drug, they were 233.66 nm and 0.21, respectively. The amount of drug loading was 1.8% and the drug release was more than 90% after less than 48 hours. The stability of nanoparticles did not change significantly after 28 days of observation. Toxoplasma tissue cyst numbers obtained in a range of 1.48 to 1.95 in 10 ul brain suspension with no significant differences among the groups of treated mice. Conclusion: The synthesis of chitosan nanoparticles loaded with azithromycin by microfluidic system could make the particles with more uniformity and stability and high loading of the drug with low cost and more convenient conditions. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4054 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4054/1408

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 65 74 EN Bizuayehu Gashaw Department of Biology, College of Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia Endalew Yizengaw Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia Fasikaw Nigatie Amhara National Regional State Health Bureau, Tefera Hailu Hospital, Sekota, Ethiopia Endalkachew Nibret 1. Department of Biology, College of Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia 2. Institute of Biotechnology, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia 2024 08 20 2025 02 26 Background: Leishmania aethiopica is the leading cause of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Ethiopia. Different clinical manifestations might be related to host immunity, which itself can be influenced by the host's nutritional status. However, there is limited evidence that associates nutritional status with CL in Ethiopia. We investigated the relationship between clinical variables of CL and malnutrition. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in June 2024. Patient data was analyzed from those treated for CL and screened for nutrition from January 2022 to May 2024 at Tefera Hailu and Addis Zemen Primary Hospitals. Nutritional status was assessed through Anthropometric measurements. Results:  A total of 470 CL patients were treated, with a prevalence of 14.65/100, 000 population affected.  Out of the total CL patients, 217 were assessed for nutrition, 22% were malnourished. Malnutrition was most prevalent in mucosal (30%) and recurrent cases (38.5%), compared to localized (20%) and new cases (21%) respectively. Conclusions:  Malnutrition might have the potential to shape the clinical manifestation and treatment outcome in CL patients. In CL endemic areas nutritional supplement with the treatment of CL could require for better patient outcome. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4347 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4347/1409

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 75 82 Fariba Berenji Department of Parasitology and Mycology School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Seyed Aliakbar Shamsian Department of Parasitology and Mycology School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Zeinab Teimourisani Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Mohammad Reza Bagherpoor Department of Parasitology and Mycology School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Mehdi Zarean 1. Department of Parasitology and Mycology School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran 2. Cutaneous Leishmania Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Jamshid Jamali Department of Biostatistics, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Nayereh Ghomian Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Mahnaz Broumand Rezazadeh Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad Universi-ty of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran Bibi Razieh Hosseini Farash Department of Parasitology and Mycology School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran 2. Cutaneous Leishmania Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran 2024 09 15 2024 11 24 Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common health issue during pregnancy and may be influenced by parasitic infections such as Blastocystis hominis. This study aims to assess the role of Blastocystis hominis infection as a potential risk factor for IDA in pregnant women. Methods: A total of 208 pregnant women were enrolled in this cross-sectional study, including 98 women with IDA (case group) and 110 women without IDA (control group), conducted at Imam Reza and Ghaem Hospitals in Mashhad, Iran during 2022–2023. Hemoglobin and ferritin levels were measured in all participants, with anemia defined as hemoglobin <11 g/dL and ferritin <15 μg/L. Stool samples were collected from all participants to detect B. hominis and other parasitic infections using direct smear, formalin-ether concentration, and modified acid-fast staining methods. Statistical analyses were performed using independent samples t-test and chi-square test, with a significance level of P<0.05. Results: The prevalence of B. hominis infection was significantly higher in the case group (38.8%) compared to the control group (10.9%) (P<0.001). Hemoglobin and ferritin levels were significantly lower in the case group (P<0.001). However, no significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of socioeconomic status, education, or occupation. Conclusion: B. hominis infection may contribute to iron deficiency anemia in pregnant women. Screening for parasitic infections in anemic pregnant women, particularly B. hominis, could improve anemia management during pregnancy. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4371 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4371/1410

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 83 90 Yahya Bayraktar Aksaray Training and Research Hospital, General Surgery Department, Aksaray, Turkey Mehmet Eryılmaz Department of General Surgery, University of Health Science, Konya City Hospital, Konya, Turkey Mehmet Ulutaş Department of General Surgery, University of Health Science, Gaziantep City Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey Alpaslan Şahin Department of General Surgery, University of Health Science, Konya City Hospital, Konya, Turkey Gürcan Şimşek Department of General Surgery, University of Health Science, Konya City Hospital, Konya, Turkey Şerife Yüksekkaya Department of Microbiology, University of Health Science, Konya City Hospital, Konya, Turkey 2024 12 16 2025 02 26 Background: Approximately 25% of hepatic hydatid cysts rupture into the biliary tract. The precise effect of bile within the cyst on protoscoleces remains unclear. We aimed to elucidate the effect of bile on protoscoleces. Methods: The contents of hydatid cysts from the livers of three sheep were aspirated under sterile conditions. The aspirated contents were divided into 50 separate Eppendorf tubes (5 cc). Samples from each tube were stained with 0.1% eosin Y. Pink stained protoscoleces were considered dead under light microscopy (x100). A total of 100 protoscoleces were counted in each sample, and the number of live and dead protoscoleces was recorded. The tubes were randomly divided into five groups. Group 1 served as the control, Group 2 received normal saline (NS), Group 3, received hypertonic saline, Group 4 received bile, and Group 4 received diluted bile. The number of live and dead protoscoleces was recorded at the end of the first and second hours. Results: Compared to the initial count of live protoscoleces, the number of live protoscoleces increased at hours 1 and 2 in Groups 2 and 4. No live protoscoleces remained at hours 1 and 2 in Group 3. There was no significant change in Group 5. When compared to the control group, a significant increase in viability was observed only in Group 4 (P=0.001). Conclusion: Bile of sheep does not exhibit scolicidal effects; rather, it positively affects protoscoleces by increasing viability. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/4483 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/4483/1411

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 20 1 2025 02 26 91 99 Hossein Mahmoudvand Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Amal Khudair Khalaf Department of Microbiology, College of Medicine, University of Thi-qar, Thi-qar, Iraq Ezatollah Fazeli Moghadam Nutritional Health Research Center Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Javad Ghasemian Yadegari Department of Pharmacognosy, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Ahmad Adineh Department of Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran Amir Jalili Student Research Committee, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran 2024 09 29 2025 01 13 Background: Medicinal plants and their derivatives due to having high availability, low cost, low toxicity, and high efficacy are recognized as significant reservoirs of a diverse array of valuable therapeutic compounds. We aimed to investigate the lethal effects of carvone (CV) on protoscoleces of hydatid cyst, in laboratory and ex vivo conduthor> Siamak MORADIAN Fellowship in Vitreoretinal Surgery, Ophthalmic Research Center, Labbafinejad Medical Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mehdi FARHADI Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: The diagnosis of ocular toxoplasmosis is mainly based on clinical features. However, ocular fluid testing by PCR may be very helpful for approval or rejection of this etiology. In this study, we utilized a nested-PCR technique, targeting the B1 partial sequence to analyze the aqueous and vitreous samples for evaluating the presence of the Toxoplasma DNA. Methods: Fifty aqueous or vitreous humor samples were obtained from patients with clinical features of ocular toxoplasmosis admitted to ophthalmology hospitals and clinics in Iran, within 2014. The samples were subsequently subjected to DNA extraction and purification. For nested amplification of the Toxoplasma B1 gene, two primer pairs were used. The outer and inner primers are expected to produce a 193 bp and a 96 bp fragments, respectively. Results: The first-round PCR resulted in the detection of T. gondii in 58% of samples by amplification of the expected 193bp DNA fragment. The nested-PCR using the inner primers, detected 15 additional samples from those with negative amplicons in the first round PCR (overall positivity of 88%). In addition, vitreous samples showed relatively more positive cases than aqueous humor in detection of the infection. Conclusion: The nested-PCR protocol using the B1 gene, with the high detection power, could be a useful complimentary method to clinical diagnose of ocular toxoplasmosis. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1518 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1518/673

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 63 68 Nahid JALALLOU Dept. of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedicine, AJA University, Tehran, Iran Shahrokh IRAVANI AJA Cancer Research Center (ACRC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Mostafa REZAEIAN Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Atefe ALINAGHIZADE Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Hamed MIRJALALI Dept. of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedicine, AJA University, Tehran, Iran AND Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: Blastocystis is one of the most common parasites, reported from both human and animals. This parasite is more prevalent in regions with low levels of hygiene, close contact with animal and unsuitable disposal systems. The aim of the study was to subtype Blastocystis sp., isolated from diarrheic and non-diarrheic patients using sequencing of 18S ribosomal DNA. Methods: Totally, 300 stool samples were collected from diarrheic and non-diarrheic patients referred to Imam Reza Hospital, Tehran from Apr to Aug 2015. All samples were concentrated using conventional Formalin – ether technique and recognized under light microscope. The fresh stool samples were also cultivated in clotted fetal bovine medium and examined for growing of Blastocystis every 48 h with direct smear slides for 10 d.DNA extraction was performed on all positive samples. Amplified DNA fragment of 18S rDNA was sequenced and compared with reference genes, previously deposited in Genbank database. Results: The number of diarrheic and non-diarrheic patients participated in the study was 134 (44.66%) and 166 (55.34%), respectively. Three subtypes 1, 2, 3 were identified from positive samples. Subtype 2 was the most prevalent (36.5%) followed by subtype 1 (33.3%) and subtype 3 (30.2%). There were no mixed subtypes. Furthermore, the most prevalent subtypes in diarrheic and non-diarrheic patients were subtype 2 (39.28%) and subtype 1 (37.14%), respectively. Conclusion: Blastocystis sp., is one of the most prevalent unicellular parasites among diarrheic and non-diarrheic patients. Indeed, ST2 was the most prevalent subtype particularly in those samples collected from diarrheic patients. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1519 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1519/674

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 69 82 Huu-Hung NGUYEN Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Doan-Trung VO Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Thi-Tuyet-Trinh THAI Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Thi-Thanh-Thao LE Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Thanh-Dong LE Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam Nghia-Son HOANG Institute of Tropical Biology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: Toxocariasis is a prevalent zoonosis disease caused by the closely related nematode species Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati which parasitise Canidae and Felidae respectively. In paratenic hosts, larvae of these worms cause multiple organ damage. However, how these paratenic hosts response to these worms and whether any common biomarker can be applied for diagnosis are still unclear. Methods: Excreted/secreted (E/S) antigens were prepared by culture of T. canis larvae in vitro. Using a western blot (WB) assay the humoral IgG responses, induced by Toxocara spp. larvae to the worm’s E/S antigens in different infected hosts including mice, rabbits and human, were examined. Results: In a mouse model of toxocariasis, intraperitoneal injection of T. canis larvae induces inflammatory leukocyte accumulation in the liver and the lungs but not in the brain, although a remarkable number of larvae were detected in this organ. Mice and rabbits responded differently to Toxocara spp. resulting in distinct heterogenous WB band patterns. Mice and rabbits both responded to a 33.1 kDa E/S constituent that turned out to be the most sensitive protein for serodiagnosis. Sera from human toxocariasis patients showed heterogenous WB band patterns similar to those observed in rabbits and all responded to the 33.1 kDa band. Conclusion: 33.1 kDa E/S protein can be considered as a critical common biomarker for toxocariasis immuno-diagnosis in both paratenic animals and human and its specificity requires further investigation. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1520 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1520/675

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 83 89 Hossein HOOSHYAR Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Shahrbanou GHAFARINASAB Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Mohsen ARBABI Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Mahdi DELAVARI Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran Sima RASTI Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: Based on genotyping study of human isolates of Giardia lamblia; humans are mainly infected by two assemblages A and B. The present study was carried out to determine the sub-assemblages of G. lamblia isolated from food handlers referred to Kashan health centers, central Iran, 2015. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 3653 stool samples collected from food-handlers that annually refer to health center for getting a health certification and examined microscopically for G. lamblia cyst. Totally, 44 isolates were selected from 47 Giardia positive samples. Cysts were partially purified by the sucrose density gradient method. After freeze-thaw cycles, genomic DNA was extracted using QIAamp Stool Mini kit. A single step PCR-RFLP method was used to amplify a 458bp fragment at the glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) locus, restriction enzymes BspLI and RsaI were used for distinguish between genotypes A and B and their subgroups. Results: Of 44 isolates, 24(54.5%) were sub-assemblage AII, 9(20.5%) group B including 7(15.9%) BIII and 2(4.6%) BIV sub-assemblage and 11(25%) isolates showed a mixed pattern of AII and B. Sub-assemblage AI was not detected in this study. Conclusion: The higher rate of sub-assemblage AII demonstrated an anthroponotic origin of the infection so infected food-handlers could directly transmit this protozoan to consumers via contaminated food and water. For finding of pattern of transmission and distribution of Giardia assemblages and sub-assemblage, more studies in human and animal population in different regions are necessary. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1521 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1521/676

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 90 100 Sakineh PIRAHMADI Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Sedigheh ZAKERI Malaria and Vector Research Group (MVRG), Biotechnology Research Center (BRC), Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran Ahmad RAEISI National Programme Manager for Malaria Control, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: Asymptomatic malaria infection provides a reservoir of parasites, causing the persistence of malaria transmission. It accounts an important challenge for successful management of the control, elimination, and eradication programmes in any malaria-endemic region. This investigation was designed to assess the presence and the prevalence of asymptomatic carriers in Iranshahr district of Sistan and Baluchistan Province (2013-2014), with a considerable population movement, during the malaria elimination phase in Iran. Methods: Finger-prick blood samples were collected from symptomless (n=250) and febrile (n=50) individuals residing in Iranshahr district, easthern Iran (Hoodian, Mand, Chah-e Giji, Jolgehashem, Esfand, Dalgan and Chahshour) during Jan 2013 to Dec 2014, and Plasmodium infections were detected using light microscopic and highly sensitive nested-PCR techniques. Results: Thick and thin Giemsa-stained blood smears were negative for Plasmodium parasites. In addition, based on nested-PCR analysis, no P. vivax, P. falciparum, and P. malariae parasites were detected among the studied individuals. Conclusion: Investigation the absence of asymptomatic carriers in Iranshahr district was illustrated and achieving malaria elimination in this area is feasible in a near future. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1522 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1522/677

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12 1 2017 02 27 101 107 Mehdi KHOSHSIMA SHAHRAKI Dept. of Parasitology & Mycology, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran Mansour DABIRZADEH Dept. of Parasitology & Mycology, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran Mahdi AFSHARI Dept. of Community Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran Yahya MAROUFI Dept. of Parasitology & Mycology, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran 2017 02 27 2017 02 27 Background: The purpose of this study was seroepidemiological and parasitological assessment of Toxocara canis infection in children and dogs in Zabol and Chabahar, Iran. Methods: This study was a descriptive-analytic study with a simple random sampling of children under 14 yr old, referring to urban, rural, and tribal laboratories of Zabol and Chabahar, Sistan and Baluchestan Province, Iran in 2016. Demographic data, clinical, and laboratory conditions of patients were collected through interviews, questionnaires, and blood count measuring. The prevalence of IgG antibodies against T. canis was assessed by ELISA. T. canis eggs in dogs (as the original host) were also assessed by examining animal feces. Then the data were analyzed using SPSS 19 software and descriptive statistics, chi-square and ANOVA statistical tests. Results: Totally, 364 patients were enrolled, of which 51.6% were female and mean±SD age of participants was 7.2 (±3.7) yr. IgG antibodies against T. canis was observed in 3.8% of cases. A significant association was found between the seroprevalence of T. canis and eosinophil (P=0.003) and red blood cell count (P=0.04). We also found a significant association between serological prevalence of T. canis and demographic parameters, such as city of residence (P=0.003), gender (P=0.04), consumption of vegetables (P=0.01), and the living place (P=0.04). Mean antibody titration was 2.2 ±1.1, with statistically significant difference among age groups (P=0.001). In addition, T. canis infection was positive in 27.5% of dogs living in the study areas. Conclusion: High risk of infection represented in patients referring to laboratories of Zabol and Chabahar. In addition, given the fact that dogs are the final hosts to transfer Toxocara infection to humans, this study emphasizes the need to control the population of stray dogs in the region to prevent the development of disease in the human society. https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/view/1523 https://ijpa.tums.ac.ir/index.php/ijpa/article/download/1523/678

Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iranian Journal of Parasitology 1735-7020 12