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Acanthamoeba, a widely distributed free-living amoeba with 20 genotypes identified through rRNA gene sequencing, exhibits varying degrees of pathogenicity influenced by its genotype. This study focuses on assessing the prevalence of Acanthamoeba species in the surface waters of Ilam, located in western Iran, utilizing morphological analysis and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene through the PCR method. A total of 50 water samples were collected from various regions within Ilam city, situated in the southwest of Iran. To isolate Acanthamoeba parasites from the samples, a culture method was used, and all utilized culture media were scrutinized through microscopic and molecular techniques. The parasite’s genotype was determined by sequencing a 500-bp fragment of the 18S rRNA gene. Using microscopic and molecular methods, 19 and 16 water samples tested positive, respectively. The 18S rRNA sequences revealed that the isolates belonged to the T4, T2, and T11 genotypes. This study emphasizes the presence and inclination for close contact with highly pathogenic genotypes of Acanthamoeba in the surface waters of Ilam City. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ruminants and their products play an important role in providing food for many people. They are able to convert plants that cannot be digested by humans into usable protein for humans. New animal feed has been commonly developed for long years. To improve food production from ruminants, it is important to explore new feed sources. New or less exploited types of feed can replace or supplement traditional feeds in ruminant diets. Sesbania is a multipurpose plant that is cultivated for consumption as fodder and green manure. As a fast- growing plant, Sesbania has been mentioned as a food source to reduce feed costs. The food value of some of its species is equal to alfalfa and several other valuable plants. Due to proper digestibility, low fiber, and relatively high protein, it is possible to replace it with hay for livestock, especially small ruminants. In addition, as a tropical legume, Sesbania can easily withstand temperatures above 35°C, which are limiting for most legume plants, and grow well under salinity stress conditions if there is sufficient moisture in the soil. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the nutritional value of Sesbania sp. L. for ruminants. Methods: The present research was carried out in the laboratories and teaching-research station of animal husbandry at the Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan. The experimental treatments included a control diet (without the Sesbania plant), 25, 50, 75, and 100% replacements of the Sesbania plant with alfalfa. The chemical compositions of the Sesbania plant, alfalfa hay, treatments, and other experimental samples, including crude protein, dry matter, ash, acid detergent fiber, and total tannin, were measured by standard methods. The neutral detergent fiber was quantified with the usual method without using the alpha-amylase enzyme and sodium sulfite by removing ash. The amount of gas produced by the samples was recorded at 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours after incubation, and gas production parameters, digestibility of organic matter, their metabolizable energy, ammonia nitrogen concentration, pH, and protozoa population of culture medium were estimated in the treatments. In the gas production experiment, rumen fluid was taken from the rumen of three male sheep fed with a forage-based diet at the maintenance level and before morning feeding using a stomach tube. Ruminal fluid was filtered with a four-layer cheesecloth, mixed, and transferred to the laboratory in a flask containing hot water at 39 °C. To count protozoa at the end of 24 hours, a sample was prepared from the gas culture medium and mixed with 10 ml of 10% formaldehyde, and protozoa were counted using a hemocytometer slide. The resulting data were analyzed with a completely randomized design. In the present experiment, the chemical composition, digestion, and fermentation of the Sesbania plant were also compared with alfalfa hay. Results: Compared to the control, Sesbania-containing diets replaced with alfalfa had significantly the lowest potential and gas production rate at all levels (P < 0.05). The comparison of the Sesbania plant and alfalfa hay showed that the potential and gas production rate of alfalfa were higher than that of the Sesbania plant. In the experimental diets, the partitioning factor, microbial biomass production, and microbial biomass production efficiency were higher at all levels of Sesbania replaced with alfalfa than the control diet, and the levels of 75% and 100% of Sesbania replaced with alfalfa had a significantly higher partitioning factor than the control and other treatments (P < 0.05). However, the truly degradable organic matter was not affected by the experimental treatments. The results of the comparison of the Sesbania plant and alfalfa hay showed that the partitioning factor, microbial biomass production, and microbial biomass production efficiency of the Sesbania plant were significantly higher than alfalfa (P < 0.05). The results of fermentation parameters after 24 hours of incubation showed that the pH of the rumen culture medium was not affected by the experimental treatments, but the ammonia nitrogen concentration was affected by the experimental treatments (P < 0.05), and the control treatment contained the highest ammonia nitrogen concentration. In the comparison of the Sesbania plant with alfalfa hay, the pH of the rumen culture medium was not affected by the experimental treatments, and the ammonia nitrogen concentration of the Sesbania plant was significantly lower than that of alfalfa hay (P < 0.05). The helotrich, entodinomorph, and cellulolytic protozoa population, and the total rumen protozoa population were the highest in the control treatment (29.33) and the lowest in the 100% replacement of the Sesbania plant with alfalfa hay (9.66). The results of the comparison of the Sesbania plant with alfalfa hay showed an increase in the population of Helotrich, Entodinomorph, and Cellulolytic protozoa and the total population of rumen protozoa in alfalfa hay, with a decrease in the population of the Sesbania plant. The results of in vitro digestibility indicated the highest digestibility of dry matter, NDF, and, ADF in the control treatment. The comparison of the Sesbania plant with alfalfa hay revealed that the digestibility of dry matter, NDF, and ADF of alfalfa was higher than that of the Sesbania plant. Conclusion: In general, the results of the present experiment demonstrate that the chemical composition and digestibility of the Sesbania plant are similar to alfalfa hay. Therefore, the Sesbania plant can be considered a suitable substitute for alfalfa hay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Blastocystis is an extracellular and noninvasive unicellular enteric parasite with zoonotic potential. Intestinal epithelial cells produce nitric oxide (NO), primarily on the apical side, in order to target luminal pathogens. L-arginine acts as a substrate for inducible nitric oxide synthesis (iNOS), which leads to the synthesis of nitric oxide. The current study was designed to assess the effect of L-arginine on Blastocystis ST3 in vitro conditions. Materials and Methods: The parasite was cultivated in DMEM F-12`s medium and was then identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the subtype of the parasite was determined which was subtype 3. Then, the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) and flow cytometry methods were used to evaluate the cytotoxicity and probable apoptosis of the prepared druges /substances on CaCO2 cells. This study investigated the concentrations of L-arginine ( 0.1∀ 0.2∀ 0.4, 0.8 and 1.6 mM ) and Metronidazole (1 ∀2 ∀4 ∀8 and 16 μg/ml), and their effect on 24 and 48 hour time points after exposure to the parasite. Then, the final number of parasites was counted after staining with trypan blue by a Neubauer slide and the values of IC50 were calculated for each substance. Results: It was found that after 48 hours∀ the number of live Blastocystis trophozoites decreases with the increase in L-arginine concentration and At the concentration of 1.6 mM the number of live trophozoites was 33.83% (P< 0.05). Conclusion: L-arginine, in high concentrations‚ is capable of inhibiting Blastocystis trophozoites In vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Eucalyptus leaves contain tannins and flavonoids (Asghari and Mazaheriani 2010). Tannins have beneficial and harmful effects depending on their concentration, animal physiological condition and diet composition (Dubai et al. 2011). By increasing the amount of tannins, the digestibility of proteins decreases and prevents the digestion of lignocellulosic materials that are dependent on extracellular enzymes (Babadi et al. 2018). In addition to the anti-nutritional effects of tannins at high concentrations, the positive effects of dense tannins at optimal concentrations include improved live weight gain, increased milk production, reduced NH3-N and methane production in the rumen (Lim and Mortijaya 2007). Using methods that can reduce the amount of tannins, make tannins plants used more and more effectively in animal nutrition (Huang et al. 2018). In addition to chemical methods and other methods for de-tannins, there are also biological methods (Chaji et al. 2020; Mohammadabadi et al. 2020). The enzyme tanase, which leads to the breakdown of tannins, has wide applications in the food and chemical industries. In addition, tanase is used in the production of animal feed (Chavez-Gonzalez et al. 2012). Bacterial tanase can effectively break down and hydrolyze natural tannins and tannic acid (Kumar et al. 2015). Bacterial tanase can effectively break down and hydrolyze natural tannins and tannic acid (Kumar et al. 2015). Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter, as tannin degraders isolated from deer rumen, improved the fermentation parameters of eucalyptus leaves, so the use of these isolates will be useful to improve the nutritional value of tannin-containing plants (Mohammadabadi et al. 2021). Japanese rats with the bacterium Lactobacillus, which produces tannins; Was able to adapt to tannin-rich foods (Sasaki et al. 2005). Therefore, in tropical and subtropical regions, the processing of tannin-rich trees with tanase is very important in animal nutrition systems (Mohammadabadi et al. 2020). Therefore, the current research was conducted to use tannase-producing bacteria to improve the nutritional value of eucalyptus leaves. materials and methods: The tannin-degrading bacteria used in the present experiment were isolated from the rumen of deer and goat Najdi, and their ability to produce tanase and de-tannins them has already been investigated in experiments (Chaji et al. 2020; Mohammadabadi et al. 2020; Mohammadabadi et al. 2021). The tannin degrading bacteria used in the present experiment included Klebsiella pneumoniae and Acinetobacter isolated from deer rumen, Lactobacillus fermentum isolated from Najdi goat rumen and commercial Lactobacillus fermentum. For processing, eucalyptus leaves, after turning them into 3-4 cm pieces, were tested in 10 liters of distilled water containing 1 liter of Nutrient Broth solution containing bacteria (107 cfu / ml) and to anaerobize the environment, immediately were transferred in10 kg plastic bags, and were closed and kept at 37 ° C for 10 days. After leaving the bags, they were dried, ground and mixed with rations, were given to lambs (Mohammadabadi et al. 2021). Experimental treatments include 1- Eucalyptus leaves or diets containing it without processing (control), treatment 2-5- Eucalyptus leaves or diets containing it that were treated with any of the four tannin-degrading bacteria. Then, the nutritional value of eucalyptus leaves alone or in combination with diet of fattening lamb, was studied by two-step digestion and gas production experiments. Results and discussion: The effect of experimental treatments on gas production potential, gas production rate, truly degraded organic matter, and production of microbial biomass of eucalyptus leaves and diets containing it was significant (P <0.05). The gas production potential of all experimental treatments was higher than the control (P <0.05). The digestibility of DM, NDF and ADF of eucalyptus leaves, and diets containing it in all treatments was significantly higher than the control treatment (P <0.05). The effect of experimental treatments on NH3 concentration, pH, and protozoan population of ruminal fluid of eucalyptus leaves and diets containing leaves was significant (P <0.05). Increased gas production in the treated treatments and the reason for significant improvement or numerical of gas production parameters can be attributed to the role of tanase-producing bacteria used in the decomposition of eucalyptus leaf tannin (Yarahmadi et al. 2017). In fact, tannins reduce ruminal fermentation by inhibiting the activity of microorganisms or microbial enzymes (Goel and McCarthy 2012). Increase though numerically of actually decomposed or digested material, microbial efficiency and PF in some treatments indicate the effect of tanase-producing bacteria in the present experiment (Gatacho et al. 2008). Tannins inhibit the digestion of fibers and proteins, so reducing the level of tannins by isolates, increases the activity of proteolytic enzymes and improves the digestibility of feed by releasing nutrients from the tannin binding (Goel et al. 2005). Tannins also reduce the concentration of NH3 by binding to proteins and reducing the rate of protein degradability (Ben Salem et al. 2005). The decrease in protozoan population in the control treatment and its increase during treatment with tanase-causing bacteria is probably due to the polyphenolic structure of these foods (Goel et al. 2005). Conclusion: The results of this experiment showed that the use of tanase-producing bacteria degraded leaf tannins and improved its quality, so their use can be a good way to reduce tannins and improve the nutritional value of eucalyptus leaves for livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Rumen fermentation manipulation aims to maximize the feed efficiency and increase the usefulness of rearing ruminants; in simpler words, the goal of rumen manipulation is to increase processes in rumen fermentation that are beneficial for the host animal and to reduce, change, or eliminate inefficient or harmful processes in rumen fermentation. In this regard, trying to use natural products such as medicinal plants has been widely accepted. The desire and demand of consumers to use healthy meat and livestock products has increased the research to search for natural compounds and additives of plant origin that are beneficial for animal health. The positive effects of medicinal plants on the process of microbial fermentation and reduction of greenhouse gases through their active compounds (such as anthole in fennel or thymoquinone in black seed) have been shown. The present study was designed in two experiments to evaluate the effect of different levels of Foeniculum vulgare and Nigella sativa powder on rumen fermentation parameters and protozoa population of Sanjabi sheep by in vitro and in vivo methods. Materials and methods: The present study was designed and carried out in two experiments, in vitro and in vivo. In the first experiment (in vitro), 18 Sanjabi lambs (four to six months of age) with an average weight of 30.8 ± 6.7 kg were randomly divided into three groups with six replicates. Treatments included: control (basal diet without additives), fennel (basal diet plus 20 grams of fennel per kilogram of concentrate), and black seed group (basal diet plus 20 grams of black seed per kilogram of concentrate). In the second experiment (invitro), 0, 5, 25, and 50 mg of fennel and black seed powder were added to the rumen liquor collected from six Sanjabi lambs (the control group of the first experiment). In both experiments, rumen liquor was taken through the esophageal tube. Gas production, pH, ammonia nitrogen concentration, total volatile fatty acids, in vitro digestibility of organic matter, and protozoa count were measured. In the in vivo experiment, the amount of excrement of sheep was measured by installing nets under the boxes of the animals. Data analysis was done using SAS statistical software. The normality of the counting data (population of protozoa) was first checked by a non-parametric KolomogorovSmirnov test and then analysis was done. The experimental design used in this research was completely randomized and for the first experiment, it was repeated measurements in time. Duncan's multiple range test was used to compare the mean of the treatments. Results and discussion: The results of the in vivo experiment showed that the use of fennel and black seed increased the amount of digested organic matter in the rumen significantly compared to the control (P<0.05). In the in vivo experiment, all studied protozoa populations decreased in all treatments (P<0.05). In the in vitroexperiment, the addition of fennel caused a significant decrease in gas production (P˂0.0001), organic matter digestibility, and microbial mass at the levels of 25 and 50 mg compared to the control (P<0.05). Ammonia nitrogen concentration at all levels of black seed and the level of 50 mg of fennel had a significant decrease compared to the control (P<0.05). Total protozoa population and Entodinium spp. subfamily was affected by both fennel and black seed treatments in vitro and showed a significant decrease (P˂0.0001). The results of this study showed that black seed and fennel have anti-protozoa properties and can reduce different protozoa populations both in vitro and in vivo. Also, low levels of fennel can improve the fermentation efficiency by increasing the degraded organic matter and reducing gas production. In addition, the results obtained from this research showed that fennel and black seed medicinal plants had the potential to manipulate and change the process of rumen fermentation, and their anti-protozoal effects were evident and significant in both experiments. However, the effects of these plants on the fermentation process in vitro and in vivo did not follow the same process in most of the fermentation parameters, and in vitro results cannot be fully and reliably generalized to the conditions inside the rumen of live sheep. Conclusions: The levels of fennel and black seed used in this study can reduce different protozoa populations and improve the process of rumen fermentation, although more researches are needed with different levels of these herbs to get more results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: In Iran, corn silage is an important part of ruminant forage. Mechanical processing of corn forage can improve the properties of corn silage. In this process, chopped fodder is processed using toothed rollers. In this way, it is increased the digestibility of starch and cell wall. Barley starch has a fast ruminal fermentation, and while increasing the production of microbial protein, it can cause an increase in the incidence of digestive abnormalities in ruminants. Neutral detergent fiber (NDF) of sugar beet pulp is very digestible. This study was conducted in order to investigate the effect of two processing levels of corn silage and barley grain and sugar beet pulp on silage quality, feed intake, digestibility of nutrients, rumen parameters, and feed intake behavior of Kermani sheep. Materials and methods: In this research, four 2-year-old Kermani lambs with an average weight of 42 ± 2.8 kg were used in a 2x2 factorial experiment in the form of a Latin square design in four periods of 21 days. The experimental diets were: 1) processed corn silage + concentrate with barley seeds, 2) processed corn silage + concentrate with sugar beet pulp, 3) unprocessed corn silage + concentrate with barley seeds, 4) unprocessed corn silage + concentrate with sugar beet pulp. The daily diet was distributed in two equal portions on 8/00 and 18/00. Research data were stored in Excel software and statistically analyzed with SAS software. Results: Silage processing decreased the percentage of dry matter (DM) and NDF, increased NH3-N, pH (4.42 and 4.04, respectively, P=0.02), and sensory evaluation (15 and 18, respectively, P=0.02) score of silage. Feed intake was higher in the processed silage diets and the diet with barley grain. The digestibility of organic matter (OM) and NDF were higher in the diet containing sugar beet pulp. Ruminal NH3-N (mg/dL) (21.17 and 22.81, respectively, P=0.02) was higher in diets containing processed silage at two and eight hours after feeding, while it was lower in diets containing sugar beet pulp at 6 hours after feeding. The pH of the rumen fluid in the diet containing sugar beet pulp with processed silage was significantly higher than in other experimental diets at eight hours after feeding (P=0.01, 6.92), the population of rumen protozoa was higher in the unprocessed silage and barley grain diets. Feed intake time was higher in unprocessed silage diets. However, the most rumination time was related to the sheep fed processed silage diets. The highest chewing time was in barley seeds diets. Conclusion: Although corn fodder processing caused a decrease in the sensory evaluation score in the processed silages, it caused an increase in DM intake and OM intake in diets containing this type of silage. The effect of processing silage on animal responses was greater than that of barley grain or sugar beet pulp on these responses. It is recommended to process corn fodder with a dry matter of about 30 percent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Despite the central importance of ruminants in providing human nutritional requirements, their relatively low production efficiency often leads to increased production costs and pollutes the environment. In this connection, using supplements and feed additives have been considered efficient strategies for improving the efficiency of livestock production. The plant-based feed additives, including essential oils and plant extracts, are the products that improve the efficiency of ruminant production by ameliorating the rumen digestion and fermentation. On the other hand, using the supplements, such as different fat sources as the energetic supplement in animal diets has had several positive impacts such as reducing ruminal acidosis, reducing methane production and consequently declining environmental pollution, and improving feed energy efficiency and the performance of animals. Regarding the growing importance of high-quality products and special interest of consumers for the safety and quality of animal products in recent years, the feed additives of natural and green origin have been of great interest for animal nutritionists in recent decades. In this context, the current research aimed at investigating in vitro the savory essential oil effects on rumen fermentation, microbial protein synthesis, and protozoal population in two diets supplemented with fish and soybean oils. Materials and methods: The essential oil was extracted by steam distillation using a Clevenger apparatus, and subsequently analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The effects of essential oil on fermentation parameters were tested in vitro at 0, 150, 300, 450, and 600 mg/L in two diets supplemented with fish and soybean oils incubated for 24 hours. Results: None of the rumen fermentation parameters was affected by the diet type. The gas produced over 24 h of incubation, in vitro true dry matter and organic matter degradability decreased linearly with increasing doses of the essential oil (P<0.01) in both experimental diets. However, the partitioning factor as well as the microbial protein, and the efficiency of microbial protein synthesis increased none-linearly (linearly and quadratically) and linearly, respectively, with the essential oil dosage (P< 0.01). The ruminal ammonia concentration decreased none-linearly with the essential oil dosage (P<0.01). Total protozoa numbers as well as most of the rumen common protozoal genera were reduced by increasing doses of the essential oil (P<0.01). Total concentration of volatile fatty acids (VFA) increased at the doses up to 450 and 300 mg/L of the essential oil in the fish oil and soybean oil containing diets, respectively (P<0.05), and decreased thereafter at higher doses. The acetate molar proportions decreased none-linearly and that of propionate increased quadratically in both diets with essential oil dosage (P< 0.05). Conclusion: Generally, the findings indicated that using the savory essential oil, especially at low and medium doses, improved rumen fermentation through enhancing microbial protein synthesis, reducing ammonia and protozoa population, and increasing TVFA. Hence, the above-mentioned doses of this essential oil can improve rumen fermentation thereby enhancing the farm animals' productivity. However, the savory essential oil seems to have a negative impact on some rumen microorganisms at 450 mg/L and higher doses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection in the world, with resistant cases spreading. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Ferulago angulata extracts and essential oil on Trichomonas vaginalis protozoan. Materials and Methods: In this study, methanol, ethyl acetate and hexane extracts and essential oil of F. angulata aerial parts were prepared and tested to determine the minimum lethal concentration (MLC) and the percentage of growth inhibition (GI%). The tests were carried out on two clinical isolates of T. vaginalis under aerobic conditions and against metronidazole and control. The tests were surveyed after 24 and 48 hours of incubation. Results: After 24 hours, the MLC of methanol, ethyl acetate and hexane extracts and essential oil were 250, 500, 250 and 500 μg/ml, respectively. The MLC of ethyl acetate and hexane extracts were reduced to 250 and 125 μg/ml, after 48 hours. GI% at Sub-MLC for extracts and essential oils were 24.3% to 93.2%, after 24 hours, and from 51.6% to 95.1% after 48 hours. Also, the mean MLCs of metronidazole after 24 and 48 hours were 9.3 and 4.6 μg/ml. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that F. angulata has anti-trichomonial potential. Thus, more investigations it is necessary to purify the constituents of essential oil and extracts. Further in vitro and in vivo experiments will clarify the antimicrobial potential of the plant to make a more correct judgment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acanthamoeba is one of free-living amoebas, which are very abundant in nature. As a free-living amoeba, this parasite has a very high lethality, especially in people with underlying diseases, so researchers are always looking for a way to combat it. Drug plants are a good way to fight Acanthamoeba species. In this study, we aimed to investigate the lethal effect of the extract of Oliveria decumbens vent and Peganum harmala alcoholic extract on Acanthamoeba. Material and Methods: In this study using the extract from an extract of Oliveria decumbens vent and Peganum harmala with concentrations of 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg/ml to investigate the lethal effect of this extract. The plant was treated with Acanthamoeba amoebae after three times (24, 48, and 72) hours. Ethical Considerations: This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Jahrom University of Medical Sciences ( IR.JUMS.REC.1398.029) Results: The present research showed that using different concentrations at three times (24, 48, and 72) hours the effect of the extract on trophozoites and cysts of Acanthamoeba was shown. The highest lethality is related to the concentration of 20 mg/ml using a combination of both extracts at the time 72 hours and the lowest lethality is related to the concentration of 1.25 mg/ml of Oliveria decumbens vent at the time 24 hours. Conclusion: Observations indicate that the alcoholic extract of Oliveria decumbens vent and Peganum harmala had a perfect effect both separately and in a combination of both extracts. These two extracts had a synergistic effect on the lethal effect of Acanthamoeba amoeba. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction[1]Utilization of all potential existing resources as animal feed, especially the resources that have no use, can compensate the deficiency of forage and decrease the cost of livestock rations. Conocarpus erectus tree grows on the tropical and subtropical coasts throughout the world. This plant was cultivated in Kuwait, since it can grow on warm climate and salty water. Conocarpus erectus was considering for its resistance against heat; due to its resistance and compatibility with warm climate condition, infertile soil, soil improper aeration and drainage, air pollution, as well as compacted soils, its cultivation has been developed in such areas. This plant has lower nutrient requirements, it is an evergreen shrub and highly resistant against salinity and drought, and if soil is not humid, it will tolerate drought. The extension areas of this plant is in USA, Bahama, Caribbean, Central and South America from Mexico to Brazil on the Atlantic coasts, from Mexico to Ecuador on the pacific coasts, and west of Africa and Melanesia and Polynesia. This plant has widely been cultivated in Khuzestan, Bushehr, and Hormozgan in Iran. Considering its very rapid growth, this plant is pruned daily by municipalities, and its transportation out of cities and disposing is expensive as well as will cause the contamination of environment. Therefore, application it in the ration of livestock would be a proper option to utilize this plant residues. The present experiment was conducted for determining the appropriate amount and form of the Conocarpus leaves in the diet of finishing lambs. Materials and Methods The present experimental were conducted in Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan. The Conocarpus leaves was prepared from shrubs pruning by municipality in spring season and transferred to the research station for ensiling or drying. To prepare Conocarpus silage, soft branches containing leaves were chopped and ensiled after adding 2% sulfuric acid/kg dry matter (V/W). In order to prepare the dried Conocarpus, the leaves were dried out by exposing to fresh air in the shade and then stored. Twenty-four male Arabic lambs with an average weight of 33 ± 3 kg were used in a completely randomized design with 3 treatments and 8 replications. Experimental treatments were consisted of control diet (without Conocarpus) and diets containing 50% silage or dried leaves of Conocarpus replaced with corn silage. For measuring the nutrients digestibility during seven days, the feed orts and feces were daily weighted and about 10% of them were kept in the plastic bags at -20˚C. At the end of seventh day, the orts and feces samples were mixed and one representative sample obtained. The samples were oven-dried and grounded using 1 mm mesh screen. The chemical composition of Conocarpus leaves, rations, feed orts and feces, included: dry matter, acid detergent fibers, ash, crude protein, neutral detergent fibers, lignin, and tannin of Conocarpus leaves were measured. The dry matter intake, initial weight, every two weeks weight, final weight were recorded and feed conversion ratio and feed efficiency were calculated. Ammonia nitrogen, pH, protozoa population of rumen fluid, blood parameters consisted of glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and BUN, were measured. The results data was analyzed using the GLM procedure of SAS (version 9.4). The differences among treatments were evaluated using Duncan’s adjustment, when the overall F-test was < 0.05. Results and Discussion The use of Conocarpus leaves had no effect on the dry matter intake, the apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, protein, NDF, ADF, ammonia nitrogen concentration, rumen fluid protozoa population, blood cholesterol, triglyceride and urea nitrogen. The final weight, average daily weight gain, total weight gain of lambs, feed conversion ratio and total feed efficiency were not affected by experimental treatments. The Conocarpus contains the compounds such as tannin, saponin, and other polyphenolic compounds, which have caused the decline of the feed consumption. There are certain proteins in ruminant salvia, which are capable to bind with these anti-nutrient compounds and decreasing their impact on feed consumption. The nutrients digestibility were not affected by the experimental treatments. Diet containing tannin increased DM digestibility but, had no effect on ether extract (EE), crude fiber, and ash digestibility and decreased protein digestion. The growth performance and was not affected by the experimental treatments. Supplementing the ration of finishing steers with the herbal mixture containing tannin had no effect on the final weight and average daily gain. The concentration of rumen fluid ammonia in current experiment was in optimum range (8.5-30 mg/l). Rumen fluid pH is biologically in the normal range of 6.1 – 6.9. The effect of the secondary metabolites on the rumen pH were different in various studies, from no influence to incremental effects. The concentration of blood plasma glucose in current experiment was in physiological range of 30 to 60 mg/dl. The feeding the finishing lambs with the extracted tannin of the pomegranate peel, as the rich source of tannin, had no effect on the blood glucose concentration. The concentration of blood urea nitrogen was not affected by the experimental diets. Conclusion According to the results of present experiment, diets containing dried or ensiled Conocarpous leaves had no adverse effects on digestion of nutrients, finishing performance, and blood and rumen parameters of finishing lambs in this experiment. Therefore, it is possible to replace both silage and dried leaves of Conocarpus in the diet of finishing lambs until 50% instead of corn silage.

BACKGROUND: Mice are the most common laboratory animals used in research. Parasitic infections in laboratory animals affect both the research results and the health of researchers. OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to investigate the infection status of intestinal parasites of mice in three main animal houses in Tehran. METHODS: In this study, 75 mice (25 from each animal house) were randomly purchased from an animal breeding house in Tehran and investigated. Mice were euthanized and autopsied. In order to study the gastrointestinal protozoa, wet smears were prepared from different parts of the intestine and feces and stained with Giemsa and Ziehl-Neelsen if necessary. Afterwards, the intestinal contents were examined and helminths were separated. If necessary, specific staining was used to diagnose helminths. RESULTS: Among the detected parasites, Aspiculuris tetraptera was the most prevalent (% 93.3). The mice were also infected with Syphacia obvelata (% 62.6), Hymenolepis nana (% 61.3), Tritrichomonas muris (% 22.6), Giardia muris (% 21.3), Spironucleus muris (% 18.6), Hymenolepis diminuta (% 17.3), and Cryptosporidium (% 6.6). CONCLUSIONS: Out of 75 adult mice studied, all had at least one parasite. This can affect the research results and jeopardize the health of researchers and related personnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction2 Utilization of all potential existing resources as animal feed, especially the resources that have no use, can compensate the deficiency of forage and decrease the cost of livestock rations. Conocarpus erectus tree grows on the tropical and subtropical coasts throughout the world. This plant was cultivated in Kuwait, since it can grow on warm climate and salty water. Conocarpus erectus was considering for its resistance against heat; due to its resistance and compatibility with warm climate condition, infertile soil, soil improper aeration and drainage, air pollution, as well as compacted soils, its cultivation has been developed in such areas. This plant has lower nutrient requirements, it is an evergreen shrub and highly resistant against salinity and drought, and if soil is not humid, it will tolerate drought. The extension areas of this plant is in USA, Bahama, Caribbean, Central and South America from Mexico to Brazil on the Atlantic coasts, from Mexico to Ecuador on the pacific coasts, and west of Africa and Melanesia and Polynesia. This plant has widely been cultivated in Khuzestan, Bushehr, and Hormozgan in Iran. Considering its very rapid growth, this plant is pruned daily by municipalities, and its transportation out of cities and disposing is expensive as well as will cause the contamination of environment. Therefore, application it in the ration of livestock would be a proper option to utilize this plant residues. The present experiment was conducted for determining the appropriate amount and form of the Conocarpus leaves in the diet of finishing lambs. Materials and Methods The present experimental were conducted in Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan. The Conocarpus leaves was prepared from shrubs pruning by municipality in spring season and transferred to the research station for ensiling or drying. To prepare Conocarpus silage, soft branches containing leaves were chopped and ensiled after adding 2% sulfuric acid/kg dry matter (V/W). In order to prepare the dried Conocarpus, the leaves were dried out by exposing to fresh air in the shade and then stored. Twenty-four male Arabic lambs with an average weight of 33 ± 3 kg were used in a completely randomized design with 3 treatments and 8 replications. Experimental treatments were consisted of control diet (without Conocarpus) and diets containing 50% silage or dried leaves of Conocarpus replaced with corn silage. For measuring the nutrients digestibility during seven days, the feed orts and feces were daily weighted and about 10% of them were kept in the plastic bags at -20˚C. At the end of seventh day, the orts and feces samples were mixed and one representative sample obtained. The samples were oven-dried and grounded using 1 mm mesh screen. The chemical composition of Conocarpus leaves, rations, feed orts and feces, included: dry matter, acid detergent fibers, ash, crude protein, neutral detergent fibers, lignin, and tannin of Conocarpus leaves were measured. The dry matter intake, initial weight, every two weeks weight, final weight were recorded and feed conversion ratio and feed efficiency were calculated. Ammonia nitrogen, pH, protozoa population of rumen fluid, blood parameters consisted of glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), and BUN, were measured. The results data was analyzed using the GLM procedure of SAS (version 9.4). The differences among treatments were evaluated using Duncan's adjustment, when the overall F-test was < 0.05. Results and Discussion The use of Conocarpus leaves had no effect on the dry matter intake, the apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter, protein, NDF, ADF, ammonia nitrogen concentration, rumen fluid protozoa population, blood cholesterol, triglyceride and urea nitrogen. The final weight, average daily weight gain, total weight gain of lambs, feed conversion ratio and total feed efficiency were not affected by experimental treatments. The Conocarpus contains the compounds such as tannin, saponin, and other polyphenolic compounds, which have caused the decline of the feed consumption. There are certain proteins in ruminant salvia, which are capable to bind with these anti-nutrient compounds and decreasing their impact on feed consumption. The nutrients digestibility were not affected by the experimental treatments. Diet containing tannin increased DM digestibility but, had no effect on ether extract (EE), crude fiber, and ash digestibility and decreased protein digestion. The growth performance and was not affected by the experimental treatments. Supplementing the ration of finishing steers with the herbal mixture containing tannin had no effect on the final weight and average daily gain. The concentration of rumen fluid ammonia in current experiment was in optimum range (8.5-30 mg/l). Rumen fluid pH is biologically in the normal range of 6.1 - 6.9. The effect of the secondary metabolites on the rumen pH were different in various studies, from no influence to incremental effects. The concentration of blood plasma glucose in current experiment was in physiological range of 30 to 60 mg/dl. The feeding the finishing lambs with the extracted tannin of the pomegranate peel, as the rich source of tannin, had no effect on the blood glucose concentration. The concentration of blood urea nitrogen was not affected by the experimental diets. Conclusion According to the results of present experiment, diets containing dried or ensiled Conocarpous leaves had no adverse effects on digestion of nutrients, finishing performance, and blood and rumen parameters of finishing lambs in this experiment. Therefore, it is possible to replace both silage and dried leaves of Conocarpus in the diet of finishing lambs until 50% instead of corn silage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Acanthamoeba spp., can cause severe and fatal diseases including encephalitis, skin granulomatous and keratitis. Contaminated waters can be a threat to high risk people such as contact lens wearers, patients with eye surgery or eye trauma, and immunocompromised patients. Objective The present study aims to investigate the presence of potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba in coastal water of Caspian Sea in Guilan Province, Iran based on morphological criteria and thermotolerance assay. Materials and Methods In this descriptive study conducted in 2018, a total of 60 water samples were collected randomly from the shores of Rudsar, Chamkhaleh, Kiyashahr, Zibakenar and Bandar-e Anzali (12 samples of 500 mL from each site). Water was filtered by cellulose nitrate membranes with a 0.45 µm pore size and then cultured on non-nutrient agar. They were checked daily for the presence of FreeLiving Amoeba (FLA) based on morphologic characteristics of both trophozoite and cyst using a light microscope (100X). Thermotolerance assay was used to determine the potential pathogenicity of Acanthamoeba spp., and its growth was examined at a temperature of 42°C. Results FLA were grown in 30 out of 60 samples (50%) at a room temperature and in 8 (26.6 %) at a temperature of 42°C. Acanthamoeba were identified in all sampling sites, where 8 samples were potentially pathogenic using thermotolerance assay. Conclusion There is pathogenic Acanthamoeba spp in coastal waters of Caspian Sea in Guilan Province. Since this province attracts many tourists annually, it is necessary that high-risk people including contact lens wearers and immunocompromised patients in this area be warned by health organizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Today, in spite of the progress made in all sciences especially in medicine and health, parasitic diseases are still a major health and economic problem in many countries, especially developing countries. These countries are losing a lot of manpower, consuming high costs and time in order to eradicate and control the parasites; therefore, it has caused many problems. In this study, the prevalence of intestinal parasites in the specimens sent to the Central Laboratory and also Shahid Sadoughi Hospital laboratory in Yazd during 2015-2016 was investigated based on age, sex and season. Methods: The sampling method was as easy and with the census from total of referrals to the Central Laboratory and also Shahid Sadoughi Hospital laboratory of Yazd during 2015-2016. Most of the stool specimens were prepared in three steps and one step by direct method (Physiology serum and Lugol's solution) and then were examined by the light microscope. Results: 40351 cases were investigated. The highest number of referrals and positive cases were related to the summer season and the least positive cases were related to the winter season. The age groups of 0-10 and 30-40 years old had the highest levels of infection, respectively. There was a significant relationship between age and infection prevalence (P=0.001). Conclusion: The findings of this study indicate that the frequency of intestinal parasites in Yazd province was low due to warm and dry weather and the fit health level was low and significantly decreased compared to previous years, but similar to other parts of the country, the highest prevalence was related to low ages and Giardia and Blastocystis hominis.

Introduction: Among the free living amoeba, Naegleria fowleri and Naegleria australiensis are considered as the cause of death due to primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM). As the water of swimming pools are the sources of free living amoeba, this study conducted to detection of Naegleria and identification of N.australiensis from swimming pools. Materials and Methods: Eighty water samples were collected from 20 swimming pools of Kerman province in summer 2018 and the residual chlorine, pH and temperature were measured, then filtered and cultured. After morphological identification of amoeba, genus identification and species confirmation were performed by PCR and comparison of PCR product sequence in gene bank, respectively. Results: The temperature and residual chlorine of water were at standard level in 50% and 93.7%, respectively. Overall 8.75% of water swimming pool samples were contaminated with amoeba with similar morphology to Naegleria. The results of PCR were confirmed the present of Naegleria in 7 samples. The contamination percent was higher in men timetable (10%) and in one meter of wall of swimming pools (12.5%). Comparison of PCR products showed the high percentages of Identity and Query Coverage with recorded sequences of N.australiensis and it was deposited in NCBI with accession number MT292609. Conclusion: The present research showed that 25% of swimming pools in Kerman province are contaminated with N. australiensis. Regarding to the pathogenic potential of N. australiensis for human and animals, it is necessary, the health workers think about for more disinfection of swimming pools water for preventing of possible infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Acanthamoeba, also called amphizoic amoebae, could live in various environmental sources including water, soil, dust and also human and animal tissues. This amoeba could develop diseases such as keratitis and encephalitis in high-risk individuals. Objective: The present study was conducted considering the possible contamination of hospital wards with Acanthamoba and the lack of knowledge regarding their loads in the dust of hospital wards of Guilan province. Materials and Methods: In Guilan 2018, a total of 108 dust samples from wards including ophthalmology, ENT, hematology and chemotherapy were collected from internal environment of educational hospitals and examined for the presence of Acanthamoeba spp. by morphologic features of both trophozoites and cyst stages. Termotolerant assay was conducted in order to determine the presence of potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba species. The collected samples were then rinsed in sterile water, and the washed solution was filtered using a vacuum pump and 0.45 μm membrane filters. In the end, the filter was cultured on Non-nutrient agar (NNA). Results: Forty out of 109 samples were positive for Acanthamoeba spp. Temperature tolerance test indicates that 13 out of 40 samples could be potentially pathogenic because they grow at high temperature (42ºC). The frequencies of freeliving amoebae in chemotherapy, ophthalmology, ENT and hematology wards were 38.8%, 39% and 29.6% ,respectively. Conclusion: As revealed, potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba was detected from dust samples of hospital wards. Presence of the potentially pathogenic and nonpathogenic Acanthamoeba in hospital wards should be a concern for health authorities. Therefore, improvement of sanitation services is recommended for the prevention of infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, species composition, density and biomass of zooplanktons including Rotatoria, Protozoa and Meroplanktons were sampled using Juday net with mesh size of 100 µ at depths of 5, 10 and 20 meters in southern Caspian Sea (Babolsar) in two seasons of cold (Feb. 2015) and warm (June 2015) . This study identified Asplanchna sp. and Synchaeta sp. from Rotatoria, and Balanus sp., Pelecypoda larvae, Balanus cypris and Nereis sp. larvae from Meroplankton. Globogeria sp. was the only protozoa observed in this study. Two way ANOVA analysis showed that sampling site and season had significant effect on density and biomass of zooplankton (P

BACKGROUND: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoon with worldwide distribution that infects human and a wide spectrum of warm- blooded animals. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study is to survey the prevalence of T.gondii antibody in slaughtered livestock in slaughterhouse with modified agglutination test in Sanandaj in 2015. METHODS: Totally 343 serum samples were collected from 130 cows, 111 sheep and 102 goats from May to July 2015 in Sanandaj slaughterhouse. Sera were examined with modified agglutination test (MAT) for T.gondii antibody and 1.40 titer antibody and above was considered as positive. RESULTS: Antibodies of T.gondii were found in sera of 51 out of 343 (15.45%) samples. From 51 seropositive sera, 13 cows (23.84), 13 goats (12.74%) and 9 sheep (8.1%) were infected. The differences among species were statistically significant (P≥.002). CONCLUSIONS: Results indicate that T. gondii in sheep, goats and especially cows is prevalent, so consumption of undercooked meats should be avoided, also the prevention methods of infection should be taught to the people and due to the possibility of limitations in the results of serological tests, repetition of the study using molecular techniques is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, external parasites infestation of carp fishes in Zarrineh-rud river, was examined. The species which were examined included capoeta, cyprinus carpio, carasius and ctenophoran. The fish were caught from summer 2012 to summer 2013 and their skin, fins and gills were examined to detect external parasites. During the year a total of 480 fish were caught alive and transferred to the laboratory and examined following anesthesia and identification. Microscopic examinations were conducted on samples taken from the skin, fins and gills and the isolated parasites were studied under the light microscope (4x-100x magnification). Finally, collected data were analyzed by Excel,v.2013 and SPSS,v.19 and the student T-test was run to determine the relationship between the variables. Totally, seven different parasite species, including two species of protozoa, four monogenea and a crustacean were identified, all of which had direct life cycle (Dactylogyrus lenkorani, Dactylogyrus Iamellatus, Dactylogyrus extensus, Clinostomum complanatum, Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, Trichodina sp, Lernaea sp, Paradiplozoon sp.). According to the results, seventy percent of the fishes were infested by the mentioned species of parasites. Ichthyophthirius multifiliis was the most prevalent parasite (65.00%), whereas Paradiplozoon sp.1 was the least (0.54%), at p

Background & objectives: Parasitic infections are among important health problems all over the world especially in developing countries. Considering the epidemiological importance of parasitological diseases and necessity to evaluation the parasites prevalence in different areas and populations, current study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in patients admitted to the laboratories of Baqiyatallah Hospital in Tehran. Methods: This is a retrospective cross sectional study in which stool examination reports of all referred patients (70978) to central and emergency laboratories of Baqiyatallah hospital were evaluated during 2010-2014. In this course, at least one stool sample of patients was assessed by direct smear and formalin-ethyl acetate methods. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS 16. Chi-square test was used for comparison of the prevalence. Results: From 70978 patients, 42421(59.77%) and 28557(40.23%) were male and female, respectively. From 2617 infected individuals, 1841(70.3%) and 776 (29.7%) were males and females, respectively. The prevalence of pathogen and non-pathogen intestinal parasites was 2283(87.23%) and 334(12.76%) respectively. Also the prevalence of intestinal helminthes and protozoa in infected population was 0.42% and 99.57%, respectively. Blastocystis hominis and then Giardia lamblia were the prevalent parasites. Conclusion: In current study the prevalence of parasites is lower than those reported in other investigations. Differences in geographical location, sample size, duration and type of study (prospective or retrospective) and study population may be effective agents. The higher prevalence of "Blastocystis hominis" in comparison with other parasites can attract more attention to improve the quality of laboratory and clinical diagnosis of this protozoa

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of garlic powder on fermentation characteristic and rumen microbes of Arabian sheep.At first step the best level of garlic was determined. Then Animals were fed for 35 days with control diet and supplemented with garlic (2% per kg DM). Apparent digestibility, rumen fermentation parameters, number of protozoa and blood metabolites (glucose, urea and cholesterol) was determined. The results of the first phase, to determine the optimal level showed that dry matter digestibility were not affected by the presence of garlic in the diet, but numerically it was the highest in the diets containing 2% garlic powder (P>0.05). Also, NDF digestibility was the highest amount in this diet (P

Background and Aims: Acanthamoeba, the causative agent of granulomatous amebic encephalitis )GAE), is among the most prevalent free-living amoebas (FLA) existing in water, soil and dust. This study was conducted to determine FLA and identify Acanthamoeba genotypes isolated from stagnant water in Kashan, Iran. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive study, 138 stagnant water samples were collected from Kashan mosques and public parks. The samples were filtered (0.45μm) and cultured onto non-nutrient agar for the presence of FLA. Acanthamoeba spp. was identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using specific primers, which amplified a 490 bp fragment. Among ten sequenced isolates of Acanthamoeba, different genotypes were determined by sequence analysis. The parameters such as pH, temperature, sampling season and related results were recorded and analyzed using SPSS16. Results: The rate of FLA was 88.4 %, 59.4% of which were confirmed as Acanthamoeba spp. using PCR method. The rate of Acanthamoeba T4 and T2 genotypes were 80% and 20%, respectively. There was a significant relation between FLA rate and sampling season (P= 0.01). The highest rate of FLA and Acanthamoeba was observed at pH 7. There was no significant relationship between FLA and Acanthamoeba spp. with pH and temperature. Conclusions: The rate of FLA and Acanthamoeba in stagnant water were high in Kashan. The dominant Acanthamoeba genotype (T4) is pathogen. Due to serious amoeba-induced complications, hygienic education is recommended to increase the public awareness on transmission and health/preventive measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Contaminated raw vegetables play an important role in the distribution of the parasitic infections. Parasitic contamination of vegetables may occur during the cultivation or marketing process. Identifying the rate and type of parasites transmitted by vegetables has public health impact on the population. Objective: This study aimed to determine the rate and type of parasitic contamination of the market vegetables in the city of Rasht, northern Iran. Materials and Methods: This analytical-descriptive study was conducted on 342 samples from 12 types of fresh vegetables. They were washed with water containing detergent and centrifuged. The sediments were microscopically examined for parasitic contamination by direct method. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS.21 using Chi Square and Fisher's Exact Test. Results: Human pathogenic parasites were identified in (4.1%) of the specimens. In general, (5.3%) of the vegetables were contaminated with both pathogenic and commensal organisms. Parasitic contaminations were identified on vegetables such as Coriander, Water cress, Parsley, Mint, Choochagh (Eryngium planum), Khaliwash (Ziziphora tenuior). Locally grown vegetables were significantly more contaminated than those grown out of Guilan Province (P < 0.006). Six species of pathogenic helminthes (eg., Hook Worm, Toxocara spp., Trichostrongylus spp., Trichuris spp., Strongyloides spp, Diploscapter spp.), two kinds of Free-living amoeba (Acanthamoeba spp. and Naegleria spp.) and also three kinds of protozoan commensal organisms (eg., Entamoeba. coli, Endolimax nana, Entamoeba spp ) of human gastrointestinal tract were identified. Among the tested vegetables, Choochaq (Eryngium planum) had the highest rate of parasitic contamination. Although vegetable contamination in warm seasons was more prevalent, the seasonal difference was not statistically significant (P < 0.133). Numerous types of Free-living nematodes' eggs , larval and adult stages were found in 65.8 % of the tested vegetables. Conclusion: Few protozoan and helminthes were detected in the examined vegetables. Local vegetables were more contaminated than those from out of province. In this study, the rate of vegetable parasitic contamination was lower than expected. However, in order to prevent the parasitic infections, more attention and care during washing the vegetables particularly local ones is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Acanthamoeba is an opportunistic protozoan pathogen that is known to infect the cornea to produce eye keratitis and the central nervous system to produce lethal granulomatous encephalitis. The overall aim of the present study was to determine the anti-amoebic potential of natural compound Peganum harmala against the trophozoites and cysts of Acanthamoeba in vitro. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, a clinical isolate of Acanthamoeba was cultured and genotyped. The ethanolic extract of Peganum harmala was prepared. The trophozoites and cysts were collected by washing in page's saline. Various concentrations (1.25, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/ml) of the ethanolic extract and polyhexanide 0.02% drop as positive control were tested at three different times (24, 48 and 72 h) on trophozoites and cysts of Acanthamoeba in vitro. The viability of trophozoites or cysts was tested by eozin method, MTT, and flowcytometry analysis. Results: The results revealed that alcoholic extract had remarkable inhibitory effect on the proliferation of Acanthamoeba cysts as compared to non-treated control, and the inhibition was time and dose dependent. In the presence of 10 mg/ml ethanolic extract in medium culture after 72 h, no viable trophozoites were determined and 21.10% cysts of Acanthamoeba were viable. Percentage of trophozoites and cysts viability after adding polyhexanide 0.02% drop in medium culture after 72 hours was 0% and 23.71%, respectively. Conclusion: Ethanolic extracts of Peganum harmala could be considered a new natural compound against the Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts. Further works are required to evaluate the exact effect of this extract on Acanthamoeba agents in animal models [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A survey on parasitic infection of Barboid fishes of Khouzestan Province in southwest Iran was conducted from spring 2002 to autumn 2004. A total of 296 specimens from five fish species were examined. The specimens were collected from five stations including Ahwaz, Golestan, Mollasani and Dez Reservoir on Karoun River and Hamidieh Reservoir and Shadegan Lagoon on Karkheh River. The fishes were transported alive to the laboratory where they measured and weighed and then killed by cutting their spinal cord. Eleven parasites were separated of which seven were identified to the species level and four to the genus level. Of the protozoans we found Ichlyophthirius multifiliis, Trichodina sp., Goussia sp., Balantidium sp. and of the myxozoans we observed Myxobolus persicus, Mkaruni, M nodulointestinalis, Miranicus, Mmesopotamia, Myxobolus sp., Myxidium rhodei, and Myxidium pfiefferi. We reported three new parasites and eleven new hosts for Iranian freshwater fishes and three new hosts for three Myzoxoans.

, (Received 21 Jun, 2008 ; Accepted 12 Nov, 2008) AbstractAccording to the statistics provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), about 80% of the world population nowadays uses herbal drugs for treatment of diseases. Natural products obtained from medicinal plants, serve as a great source for drug production and are the main basis of new drug compounds. Unicellular organisms (Protozoa) are the cause of deaths and spread of diseases in various societies, especially in developing countries. There are anti-malaria herbal dugs produced from various medicinal plants, some of which are used for treatment of the disease and some under study. The first anti-malaria drug was quinine, produced from bark of the Cinchona tree. Recently, the drug artemisinin has been introduced by Chinese scientists for the treatment of malaria and is currently used extensively. Coetaneous leishmaniosis (salak) is one of the endemic diseases in most parts of Iran. Common drugs used against leishmaniosis (such as glucantim), have severe side-effects and in 10 to 25% of cases, there is a recurrence of the disease. Emetine is one of the drugs obtained from a root of the plant Ipecac, which is used for treatment of the disease sub-cutaneously. Giardiasis is an acute protozoan infection usually with no clinical symptoms, however, may appear as acute or chronic diarrhea. According to the announcement of WHO, more than 2/3 of the world’s population is infected with intestinal parasites and the prevalence of giardia is higher than other intestinal parasites. Herbal drugs, such as wild garlic, eucalyptus and thyme, are some of the major plants which can annihilate the giarda cysts. Annually, 75000 to 100000 people die of amebiasis (dysentery) worldwide. Due to the motility of the organism, it causes sever pathological changes and sometimes colon ulcers, and if entered into the blood stream, it may appear as liver or brain abscess. Medicinal plants such as ipecac, mango, and papaya tree are some of the anti-amebic (Entamoeba histolytic) plants. Trichomoniasis is a protozoal urogentital infection in men and women transmitted through sexual intercourse. The most effective drug against trichomona is metronidazole, albeit, there are several reports on its side effects and its spread of resistance. Medicinal plants, such as Myrtle and Lavender are among the main plants whose extracts and essence are effective against Trichomonas vaginalis. J Mazand Univ Med Sci 2008; 18(67): 118-132 (Persian)

Introduction: Intestinal parasites have world wide prevalence and are considered to be as one of the leading hygienic and economic problems in the world. It can be said that there is nowhere in the world without parasitic infestations. The present study was conducted to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites in patients referring to Yazd Central Laboratory in 2000-2002. Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional, analytic and descriptive study including 13388 stool specimens examined by two methods; Formalin-Ethyl Acetate and direct Method for intestinal parasites and Scotch tape method for Enterobius vermicularis. Results: 13388 samples examined included 6913 women and 6475 men. Parasites were observed in 1151 cases (8.6%) including 618 (53.7%) men and 533 (46.3%) women, respectively. Of these, 98.6% were infected with protozoa and 1.4% with helminths. Giardia lambdia (41.05%), E.coli (27.45%) and Blastocystis hominis (15.51%) were the most common infecting organisms. Helminth infections were few, but the highest frequency was related to Hymenolepis nana and Enterobious vermicularis. Maximum frequency was reported in summer. There was a significant association between stool consistency and infestation by intestinal parasites (P=0.002). There was a significant relationship with sex, too (P=0.001) Conclusion: In the present study, the most common parasites were Giardia, E.coli and Blastocystis hominis (higher than five), but the prevalence was less as compared to previous similar studies in other regions, which could be because of the hot and dry weather, better personal hygiene and improved sewage system of Yazd.

Background and Aim: Acanthamoeba species are abundant in soil and water samples and isolated from eye wash equipment sectors in medical laboratory. This single cell is as a cause of opportunistic infections, especially in patients with AIDS and organ recipients. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify the Acanthamoeba spp. from Tonekabon Rivers. Materials and Methods: This study was a descriptive study. 100 samples were collected from the river in the Tonekabon city and were cultured on nutrient agar medium. Then Acanthamoeba to evaluate and identify common species identified using morphological and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. Results: 23 samples (23%) of the Acanthamoeba were identified morphologically and also using specific primers to amplify a 500 bp 18SrRNA. After sequencing, it was found that genotypes of Acanthamoeba, belongs to a new species, Acanthamoeba palestinensis. Conclusions: The results show that A. palestinensis is one of the Amoebic keratitis risk factors in Tonekabon rivers. Health planners must take note and make people aware of the risk of contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: High prevalence of parasitic infections can be the result of asymptomatic infections. A number of regular and ongoing epidemiological studies are prerequisites in order to control these infections. This study was carried out with elementary school students to achieve an overview of the spread of parasitic infections in Zanjan city, Iran. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, using random cluster sampling, 854 of 6-12 year-old students were selected from 10 primary schools in Zanjan by three methods of direct smear, formalin-ether concentration and Scotch tape. Results: Overall, 139 students (16.3%) were found to be infected by intestinal parasites. The protozoa Entamoeba coli (4.56%), Chilimastix mesnili (4.33%), Blastocystis hominis (3.04%), Giardia lamblia (2.34%), Iodamoeba butschlii (1.87%), Enterobius vermicularis (1.52%), Endolimax nana (0.46%), Dientamoeba fragilis (0.23%), Hymenolepis nana (0.11%), Sarcocystis (0.11%) were the most common parasite types. There was a significant difference in parasite prevalence between age and parents' education. However, no significant difference was found with gender, family income, and residence. Conclusion: The results indicated that the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections in primary schools was in low level and in comparison with 1994's study in Zanjan city it has significantly decreased. With regard to the prevalence of intestinal parasites in study areas, improvement of health awareness among students and parents especially in the field of personal health seems necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interoduction: Gasteroenteritis is one of the problems worth consideration all over the world. It is one of the important causes of mortality, especially in children < 5 years of age, in developing countries including Iran. The aim of this descriptive study was to determine the demographic conditions influencing the presence of causative bacteria and protozoa, followed by antibiograms of isolated bacteria from stool samples of patients with gasteroenteritis referring to Nikoopour Clinic in the city of Yazd, Iran from 1998 – 2001. Materials and method: A total of 470 samples were microbiologically examined by direct method, culture and then antibiogramed. In order to isolate the possible bacteria, differential and selected media were used. Also, wet – mount technique was applied for detection of protozoa. Results: Results revealed that 272 samples (57.9%) were infected by pathogenic bacteria or protozoa. 138 (50.8%) pathogenic specimens were from male patients and the remaining 134(49.3%) were from female patients. Isolated species were: Enteropathogenic E.coli 117(43%), Shigella 51(18.8%), Salmonella.interetidis 25(9.2%), C.jejuni 16(5.9%), Giardia lambdia 51(18.8%) and Amoebae spp 12(4.4%). The most commonly detected shigella species was dysenteriae, (74.5%) while boydii with 2% was the least common type observed in the specimens. Except shigella, all the other bacteria were more common in males than female, but insignificant statistically. In order to determine the sensitivity and/or resistance of pathogenic bacteria, antibiogram test was performed using selected antibiotic disks such as Ampicillin, Nalidixic Acid, Ciprofloxacin, Gentamycin and Sulfamethaxazole. Conclusion: Results revealed that some patients were probably infected by pathogenic factors other than bacteria or protozoa. Since all viruses and parasites are almost resistant to antibiotics and on the other hand, administration of antibiotics may lead to resistance of bacterial agents, it seems necessary that the stool samples should be cultured and antibiogramed before treatment with antibiotics. The most common bacterial agent isolated in this study was E coli enteropathogens and the most effective antibiotic against it was Nalidixic acid.

Background: Toxoplasma gondii, is a mandatory intracellular protozoa, that many people worldwide are infected with. In children, the infection enters central nervous system and leads to inflammation of the gray matter. Autism, is a complex developmental disorder, altering social communication, with unknown origin. Neuropathological changes in autism are the same as those occurred in brain toxoplasmosis. The objective of this survey was to evaluate positive serology of toxoplasma gondii, in autistic children. Methods: This case-control study was done on 3-12 years old children, referring to the neurology and psychiatry sub-special clinics of Baqiyatallah hospital and also autistic children of Omid-e Asr and Navid-e Asr general rehabilitation centers in Tehran, Iran. 40 autistic children were placed in the case group and 40 children, suffering from no neuropsychiatric disease or other ones, were placed in the control group. A folder, containing demographic data, type of the disorder, onset of diagnosis and child characteristics at birth, such as time of birth (preterm/ term) fulfilled for each child. Sampling was done with 5 ml blood, for determining IgM and IgG antibody levels against toxoplasma gondii, using ELISA method. Data analyzed by the software SPSS ver. 17 and descriptive and analytic analysis were done, using central and dispersion indexes and also chi-Square test. Results: The autistic group contained 34 boys and 6 girls (85 and 15 percent respectively), with the average age of 6 (±2.71) years old [minimum of 2.33 and maximum of 12]. The average age at the time of diagnosis was 4.01 (±1.87) years old. 87. The non-autistic group contained 17 boys and 23 girls (42.5 and 57.5 percent respectively), with the average age of 5.67 (±3.09) years old [minimum of two and maximum of 12]. IgM and IgG serology of all autistic children were negative, while in non-autistic group, 2.5 percent (1 child) were positive and 97.5 percent (39 ones) were negative. There were no statistically significant difference among these two groups according to the serology results. (P=0.31). Conclusion: There was no statistically significant difference in comparing positive serology of toxoplasmosis, between the two groups. However, to obtain a perfect result, a larger sample size are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis, one of the most common infectious diseases among humans and livestock, with its operating Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoa intracellular parasites, may cause serious infections in humans and animals to be domesticated. Epidemiologic studies show Toxoplasma antibodies in the serum for at least 1/3 adult population in most countries, however, previous infection and spread of organisms represents a broad and powerful contact and ability of Toxoplasma to infect humans. Serologic tests for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis are often the size of the antibodies used. Objective: Prevalence of Serum Antibodies (IgM and IgG) Toxoplasma gondii in Guilan by ELISA Method Materials and Methods: In this descriptive and analytical study, 800 sera of individuals referred to the medical diagnostic laboratories in Guilan in 1391 were randomly selected, and using ELISA, IgG and IgM antibodies against Toxoplasmosis were measured. Results: Based on the results of total 800, of the 301 men and 499 women, 261 (62/32 percent) had IgG antibody against a Toxoplasmosis of IgM antibody and all were negative. Population of men (9/87 percent) and women (22/75%) of IgG antibody were detected. Using chi square test, no significant relationship was found between antibody prevalence and age, sex, job location and no history of contact with pets. Conclusion: The results confirm the necessary test to diagnose toxoplasmosis. Promotion of health awareness among people can also reduce the risk of toxoplasmosis. Conflict of interest: non declared [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Free living amoebas are opportunistic pathogens that usually exist in different environmental conditions such as warm and polluted water, even in water supply networks and they could cause serious diseases in humans. So, due to their medical importance, identification of free living amoeba in water resources is necessary. Materials and Methods: Water samples were collected from 70 water wells, 30 water resources and 20 water supply networks in the first six months of 2010. Then, the samples were cultured on non-nutrient agar and the amoeba were collected and stained by Giemsa stain for morphological studies. Results: 42 out of 120 samples (35%) contained free living amoeba. Out of them, 31 samples (73.81%) were polluted with one amoeba and 11 (26.19%) with one amoeba. The frequency of Acanthamoeba species (39 cases) was higher than that of Neagleria (14 cases) and the wells were more polluted than others (44.40%). Based on morphological characteristics, four pathogenic ameba were identified (Naegleria fowleri, Acanthamoeba polyphaga, A.castellani and A.astronyxis). Conclusions: The results showed that water resources contained free living amoeba and some important and pathogenic species of these amoebas were identified by morphological characteristics. Thus, it is necessary to employ new methods for disinfection and filtration of water resources so that the infection with free living amoeba and infectious agents is prevented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Free living amoebas are opportunistic pathogens that usually exist in different environmental conditions such as warm and polluted water, even in water supply networks and they could cause serious diseases in humans. So, due to their medical importance, identification of free living amoeba in water resources is necessary. Materials and Methods: Water samples were collected from 70 water wells, 30 water resources and 20 water supply networks in the first six months of 2010. Then, the samples were cultured on non-nutrient agar and the amoeba were collected and stained by Giemsa stain for morphological studies. Results: 42 out of 120 samples (35%) contained free living amoeba. Out of them, 31 samples (73.81%) were polluted with one amoeba and 11 (26.19%) with one amoeba. The frequency of Acanthamoeba species (39 cases) was higher than that of Neagleria (14 cases) and the wells were more polluted than others (44.40%). Based on morphological characteristics, four pathogenic ameba were identified (Naegleria fowleri, Acanthamoeba polyphaga, A.castellani and A.astronyxis). Conclusions: The results showed that water resources contained free living amoeba and some important and pathogenic species of these amoebas were identified by morphological characteristics. Thus, it is necessary to employ new methods for disinfection and filtration of water resources so that the infection with free living amoeba and infectious agents is prevented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]