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Many microscopic-based epidemiological surveys on the prevalence of human intestinal pathogenic and non-pathogenic protozoa including intestinal amoeba performed in Iran show a high prevalence of human intestinal amoeba in different parts of Iran. Such epidemiological studies on amoebiasis are confusing, mainly due to recently appreciated distinction between the Entamoeba histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii. Differential diagnosis can be done by some methods such as PCR-based methods, monoclonal antibodies and the analysis of isoenzyme typing, however the molecular study of these protozoa in Iran is low. Based on molecular studies, it seems that E. dispar is predominant species especially in the central and northern areas of Iran and amoebiasis due to E. histolytica is a rare infection in the country. It is suggested that infection with E. moshkovskii may be common among Iranians. Considering the importance of molecular epidemiology of amoeba in Iran and also the current data, the present study reviews the data currently available on the molecular distribution of intestinal human amoeba in Iran.

Background: Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide endemic disease. In congenitally infected infants and AIDS patients, toxoplasmosis causes high rates of morbidity and mortality. In these cases antibody detection is difficult; so detection of parasite or its components could be useful tool for early detection and following treatment of the infection.Methods: Sixty-three BALB/c mice were injected intra-peritoneal with 5×103 tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii RH strain, nine mice were sacrificed daily for 7 days. Fourteen mice were in­jected with phosphate buffer saline as control group. Dot-ELISA was performed for detection of T.gondii antigen in mice sera and capture - ELISA was done as golden standard assay too.Results : Toxoplasma gondii antigen was detected from day 2 in mice sera ; 22% of mice sera on day 2, 33% on day 3,77% on day 4 and 100% on day 5 till their death on day 7 had shown antigene­mia by dot - ELISA, no positive result was detected in control mice by dot- ELISA.Conclusion: Dot-ELISA is a sensitive method for diagnosis of T. gondii infection in the animal model; also, this technique is more rapid and easy to perform method in comparison with cap­ture-ELISA.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Due to the relationship between small bowel parasites and dyspepsia, investigation on the prevalence of such parasites among dyspeptic patients seems to be important. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of small bowel parasites within a group of dyspeptic patients who have been referred to endoscopy ward of selected hospitals in Tehran, Iran. METHODS: This analytical study was performed on 130 patients who had undergone upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in endoscopy ward of Baghiatollah, Valiasr and Imam Khomeini hospitals of Tehran during 2004-2006. Duodenal aspiration, duodenal biopsy, and stool exam (S/E) were hired to find any infection with such parasites. Moreover, rapid urease test was used in order to find infection with Helicobacter pylori. These patients had no history of malignancy, genetic and/or metabolic diseases, and any history of treatment with antibiotics at least for 3 consecutive days within past month. FINDINGS: Stool exam was obtained from 105 patients, however all 130 patients had undergone duodenal aspiration and duodenal biopsy giardia was isolated from 4 patients (3.9%). Duodenal aspiration and biopsy were positive for giardia among 2(1.5%) and 1(0.8%) patients respectively. No infection with cryptosporidium, isospora, and cyclospora was detected. According to rapid urease test 61 patients (46.9%) were infected with Helicobacter pylori. Those with giardiasis were simultaneously infected with helicobacter pylori. CONCLUSION: It seems that giardiasis and infection with other small bowel parasites are not so important among dyspeptic patients, while Helicobacter pylori play an important role among such patients. In addition, larger number of stool exam infected with giardia can be diagnosed with formalin ether concentration method.

Background: Strongyloides stercoralis, the etiological agent of strongyloidiasis, is one of the most common parasitic nema­tode with the unique ability to complete its life cycle and proliferate within the host. Although it is an endemic parasite in Iran, no molecular characterization is available on isolates originated from the country. Therefore, this study was con­ducted for molecular identification of human Strongyloides isolates in the three most prevalent provinces."nMethods: After microscopical examination and agar plate culture of nearly 1500 stool samples, 20 isolates of S. stercoralis filari­form larvae were recovered from (Gilan and Mazandaran in north and Khouzestan in south) of Iran. The genomic DNA was extracted from all these samples and two primer sets were selected for amplification. ITS1 region of the rDNA gene was amplified by a nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (nested-PCR). The PCR prod­ucts were sequenced and analyzed in compari­son with the sequences deposited in GenBank."nResults: DNA sequence analysis of ITS1 region showed that all the 20 isolates were S. stercoralis. There was slight varia­tion in the ITS1 region among the isolates. "nConclusion: ITS1 sequencing seems to be a valid target for molecular identification of S. stercoralis.

Background: The aim of this study was to verify the occurrence of intestinal parasitic infections in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients in Iran in comparison with non-HIV individuals. Methods: A total of HIV+/AIDS patients (Group I) and 1220 clinically healthy individuals (Group II) were submitted to coproparasitological examination from 2003 to 2005. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites in group I and group II was 11.4% and 11.6%, respectively, without significant difference between two groups. The prevalence of infection for each helminth and pathogenic protozoan, in every group, was as follows: Group I: Blastocystis hominis (6.1%); Giardia lamblia (4.2%); Cryptosporidium spp. (0.9%); Isospora belli (0.26%); Strongyloides stercoralis (0.26%); Hymenolepis nana (0.13%); and Rhabditis axei (0.13%). Group II: Blastocystis hominis (6.5%); Giardia lamblia (4.1%); Strongyloides stercoralis (0.33%); Hymenolepis nana (0.16%); and Trichostrongylus sp. (0.16%). Although the prevalence of infection for extracellular parasites was not statistically different between two groups, however, the infection rates for enteric coccidians including Cryptosporidium spp. and I. belli were significantly higher in patients at AIDS stage than Group II. Conclusion: The results emphasize the needs for especial consideration of enteropathogenic intracellular coccidians in immunocompromised patients.

Cryptosporidium is an apicomplexan parasite of humans and a wild range of domestic as well as wild animals. An 833-bp fragment of the 18S-rRNA gene was used to identify Cryptosporidium spp. recovered from children and adult patients, in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive and negative patients in Iran. Initial identification of cryptosporidiosis was carried out by Ziehl-Neelsen acid-fast staining method of stool samples. The samples, then, were identified specifically by nested PCR, targeting the most polymorphic region of the 18S-rRNA gene. The genotype encountered was detected by restriction endonuclease digestion of the nested-PCR product. Among 17 analyzed isolates, two different genotypes of Cryptosporidium were identified; 24% of the isolates belonged to C. parvum human genotype, and 76% to the potentially zoonotic species of C. parvum bovine genotype. The results of the present study showed that in contrast to HIV negative individuals, HIV positive individuals were more likely to be infected with zoonotic genotypes of the parasite; it was also confirmed the fact that zoonotic transmission of the parasite in Iran was as frequent as the transmission of anthroponotic origin. These outcomes are helpful for researchers to establish the corresponding prevention and treatment measures.

Toxoplasmosis is a wide distributed opportunistic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii. This was a cross-sectional study of T. gondii antibody titer, which was conducted from June 2003 to August 2004 on renal transplant recipients in Iran. A total of 551 serum samples were obtained from randomly selected population referred from different areas all over the country to Shafa Central Clinic in Tehran. Patient’s information was recorded in a questionnaire before sampling. Two samples of finger-prick blood were collected from each person and antibody titer against Toxoplasma was assessed by Indirect Fluorescence Antibody (IFA) technique on serum samples. Totally 39 cases (7.1%) of samples were positive for antibody by the titer of 1: 20 and higher. On investigation of risk factors, no significant difference was found between consumption of under-cooked meat, close contact with animals, and the source of drinking water and seropositivity rate of toxoplasmosis. The relatively low seroprevalence rate of Toxoplasma infection shows the successful approaches to awareness of transplant recipients about the potential risks of acquisition of infectious diseases due to regular administration of suppressive drugs. However, the regular surveillance through serological screening of Toxoplasma antibody in kidney transplant recipients is advisable.

Amebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica is still mentioned as one of the major health problems in tropical and subtropical areas. E. histolytica has recently been redescribed as two distinct species; E. histolytica and E. dispar. In the present study, we characterized the 70 kDa Heat Shock Protein (HSP70) of E. dispar at molecular level and compared it with that of E. histolytica. With these findings, we were able to distinguishe E. dispar from the infectious E. histolytica. Pairs of 21 nucleotide primers were designed from highly conserved regions of the same gene in other eukaryotic cells. Mentioned primers were utilized in PCR by using isolated genomic DNA template of E. dispar and the PCR fragments were then sequenced. By the time, 1020 nucleotides have been sequenced and characterized within open reading frame of this new gene which encode a polypeptide with 337 amino acids. Nucleotide sequence comparison in gene data banks (NCBI, NIH) for both the partial DNA and its deduced amino acid sequence revealed significant homology with members of the eukaryotic 70 kDa HSP family. Small parts of the mentioned sequences from E. dispar were about 100% identical to the sequences of 70 kDa HSP from E. histolytica other eukaryotic cells. The new partial gene fragment and its encoded protein have been submitted to the gene data banks (NCBI, NIH) and registered under the accession number of AY763790.

Entamoeba histolytica is the etiological agent of invasive amoebiasis, the third leading parasitic cause of mortality in the world. Our aim was to find a molecular correlation between a glucosephosphate isomerase zymodeme analyses in E. histolytica zymodemes. It was demonstrated that natural and recombinant glucosephosphate isomerase enzymes of E. histolytica comigrated in the starch gel electrophoresis, indicating that the isoenzyme pattern of E. histolytica glucosephosphate isomerase could be explained from the primary sequences alone and means that expression of the polypeptides of the described sequences in Escherichia coli are able to reproduce the classical glucosephosphate isomerase isoenzyme patterns.

The determination of Toxoplasma gondii prevalence in a variety of domestic birds is thought as a good indicator of distribution of T.gondii ooccyts in the environment. To verify the potential role of domestic birds in circulating toxoplasmosis in Iran, the present study was conducted in Mazandaran Provinces, northern Iran. Latex agglutination test (LA) antibodies were found in 25 of 58 free-ranging chickens (Gallus domesticus) and ducks (Anas sp.). Also, viable T. gondii was isolated from 7 of 25 seropositive chickens and ducks by bioassay of their brains and hearts into mice. Most of the isolated strains were avirulant to mice. Genotyping of T.gondii isolates using Multiplex PCR for 5 microsatellite markers indicated that 7 isolates were type III. In this study type II and III isolates and mixed genotypes were not found. This study showed that domestic birds could have a potential role in transmitting toxoplasmosis to humans in Iran.

Acanthamoeba keratitis is a vision-threatening infection caused by pathogenic species of the genus Acanthamoeba. In this study, 13 Acanthamoeba keratitis cases were diagnosed among 52 keratitis patients. To confirm the identity of Acanthamoeba at the genus level, a PCR-based method was used, and their pathogenic potential was determined using in vitro cytotoxicity assays on human corneal epithelial cells. Twelve (92.3%) of Acanthamoeba keratitis patients were contact lens wearers; among them eleven (91.7%) wore soft contact lenses. 11/13 (84.6%) isolates were axenised in liquid culture medium, of which 10 (90.9%) isolates disrupted corneal cells. Nine (69.2%) isolates showed Acanthamoeba sp. group II, and four (30.8%) showed group III morphology. To our knowledge this is the first report of determination of Acanthamoeba pathogenicity in Iran. This study confirms the importance of determination of pathogenic potential of Acanthamoeba isolates for clinical purposes.

Enterobiasis is undoubtedly one of the most common human helminths infections through the world, with an estimate of 1000 million cases worldwide. Although adult worms and their eggs are frequently found in inflamed appendices, but the role of the parasite in producing appendicitis in humans still remains controversial. Although acute appendicitis may occur at any age, but it is relatively rare at the extremes of age. A histopathological study of infested appendices with Enterobius vermicularis was performed in Khuzestan province, south western Iran, during 2001 to 2003. All 40 samples had surgically been removed during the emergency operations and histopathological process with (H&E) staining has been performed for each. One of the main objects of this work was to collect more data about the possible role of this highly prevalent human round worm as a causative agent of appendicitis in humans, leading to different types of appendicitis in this part of the country. In this occasion over the slide examinations of the tissue sections, fewer cases than expected, with worm infested appendices were seen exclusively affected with this parasite.

Amoebiasis is one of the most important human diseases in many countries especially in tropical and sub-tropical regions. This study was carried out from August 1999 to February 2002 in order to determine the ratio of Entamoeba histolytica / Entamoeba dispar in some regions of Iran. A total of 16,592 stool samples were randomly collected from different agegroups in central, northern and southern Iran both from urban and rural areas. The samples were examined by direct and formalin-ether concentration methods. Two hundred and twenty six samples (1.36%) were positive for E. histolytica/E. dispar cyst (C.I = 1.18-1.54%). The prevalence of infection with E. histolytica/E. dispar was 0.78%, 3.9% and 4.6% for central, northern and southern part of Iran, respectively. The minimum rate of prevalence was 0.6% in Tehran, Yazd and Ardekan (central Iran), while the highest rate (8.3%) was seen in rural areas of Ahwaz (southern Iran).The study showed that ratio of E. histolytica /E. dispar was higher in southern regions (tropical and subtropical) than other regions. It seems that more sanitary facilities and health trainings are needed in different parts of the country, especially in southern Iran, where the rate of infection is high.

Giardia is one of the most common human parasites and causes a lengthly course of nonbacterial diarrhea. Disease outbreaks due to Giardia infection are often attributed to contaminated water supplies. A major problem associated with detection for this organism is the lack of sensitive and reliable methods. PCR has the potential to address many of the limitations.We have performed a PCR-based method for sensitive detection of Giardia cysts. Because the sensitivity of PCR is a function of the efficiency of DNA extraction from cysts, we have also compared some different methods for DNA extraction from the cysts. Giardia cysts were collected from infected human, partially purified and serially diluted samples were prepared. DNA was extracted by 3 different methods and we found that simple repeated freezing and thawing was the best method for extraction of DNA from the cysts. A 163 bp conserved fragment related to the giardial heat shock protein (HSP70) gene was used as the target for PCR amplification. We were able to detect as few as 5 cysts in the samples. The results suggest the potential utilities of PCR for sensitive detection of Giardia in water sources.

In 1926 for the first time Dobell and laid low synthesized and used Hsre+ s ( horse serum, ringer, egg+ starch rice) as a culture medium for growth of E.histolytica. since then this medium along with tens of other media have been used for growth of E.histolytica and other intestinal microorganisms. This medium has been used worldwide in many diagnostic and research laboratories. In Iran, in the past two decades they have used this medium in the school of public health and Institute of public health research. Rezaeian and (1989) simplified the original formula by not using the albumin of the egg and they found the same efficiency for the cultivation of Amoeba in HSr+ s medium. Since Oct.1996 , we have used HSr+ s medium for cultivation and diagnosis of Entamoeba histolytica. Eighty five percent of stool culture with Entamoeba ( cyst or trophozoite) have been positive, furthermore E. histolytica were cultured in the medium, with the average growth rate of 100000/ ml which indicates an efficient growth rate.

Many microscopic-based epidemiological surveys on the prevalence of human intestinal pathogenic and non-pathogenic protozoa including intestinal amoeba performed in Iran show a high prevalence of human intestinal amoeba in different parts of Iran. Such epidemiological studies on amoebiasis are confusing, mainly due to recently appreciated distinction between the Entamoeba histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii. Differential diagnosis can be done by some methods such as PCR-based methods, monoclonal antibodies and the analysis of isoenzyme typing, however the molecular study of these protozoa in Iran is low. Based on molecular studies, it seems that E. dispar is predominant species especially in the central and northern areas of Iran and amoebiasis due to E. histolytica is a rare infection in the country. It is suggested that infection with E. moshkovskii may be common among Iranians. Considering the importance of molecular epidemiology of amoeba in Iran and also the current data, the present study reviews the data currently available on the molecular distribution of intestinal human amoeba in Iran.

Background: Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide endemic disease. In congenitally infected infants and AIDS patients, toxoplasmosis causes high rates of morbidity and mortality. In these cases antibody detection is difficult; so detection of parasite or its components could be useful tool for early detection and following treatment of the infection. Methods: Sixty-three BALB/c mice were injected intra-peritoneal with 5×103 tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii RH strain, nine mice were sacrificed daily for 7 days. Fourteen mice were in­jected with phosphate buffer saline as control group. Dot-ELISA was performed for detection of T.gondii antigen in mice sera and capture - ELISA was done as golden standard assay too. Results : Toxoplasma gondii antigen was detected from day 2 in mice sera ; 22% of mice sera on day 2, 33% on day 3,77% on day 4 and 100% on day 5 till their death on day 7 had shown antigene­mia by dot - ELISA, no positive result was detected in control mice by dot- ELISA. Conclusion: Dot-ELISA is a sensitive method for diagnosis of T. gondii infection in the animal model; also, this technique is more rapid and easy to perform method in comparison with cap­ture-ELISA.

Background: The aim of this study was to verify the occurrence of intestinal parasitic infections in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients in Iran in comparison with non-HIV individuals. Methods: A total of HIV+/AIDS patients (Group I) and 1220 clinically healthy individuals (Group II) were submitted to coproparasitological examination from 2003 to 2005. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites in group I and group II was 11.4% and 11.6%, respectively, without significant difference between two groups. The prevalence of infection for each helminth and pathogenic protozoan, in every group, was as follows: Group I: Blastocystis hominis (6.1%); Giardia lamblia (4.2%); Cryptosporidium spp. (0.9%); Isospora belli (0.26%); Strongyloides stercoralis (0.26%); Hymenolepis nana (0.13%); and Rhabditis axei (0.13%). Group II: Blastocystis hominis (6.5%); Giardia lamblia (4.1%); Strongyloides stercoralis (0.33%); Hymenolepis nana (0.16%); and Trichostrongylus sp. (0.16%). Although the prevalence of infection for extracellular parasites was not statistically different between two groups, however, the infection rates for enteric coccidians including Cryptosporidium spp. and I. belli were significantly higher in patients at AIDS stage than Group II. Conclusion: The results emphasize the needs for especial consideration of enteropathogenic intracellular coccidians in immunocompromised patients.

Toxoplasmosis is a wide distributed opportunistic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii. This was a cross-sectional study of T. gondii antibody titer, which was conducted from June 2003 to August 2004 on renal transplant recipients in Iran. A total of 551 serum samples were obtained from randomly selected population referred from different areas all over the country to Shafa Central Clinic in Tehran. Patient’s information was recorded in a questionnaire before sampling. Two samples of finger-prick blood were collected from each person and antibody titer against Toxoplasma was assessed by Indirect Fluorescence Antibody (IFA) technique on serum samples. Totally 39 cases (7.1%) of samples were positive for antibody by the titer of 1: 20 and higher. On investigation of risk factors, no significant difference was found between consumption of under-cooked meat, close contact with animals, and the source of drinking water and seropositivity rate of toxoplasmosis. The relatively low seroprevalence rate of Toxoplasma infection shows the successful approaches to awareness of transplant recipients about the potential risks of acquisition of infectious diseases due to regular administration of suppressive drugs. However, the regular surveillance through serological screening of Toxoplasma antibody in kidney transplant recipients is advisable.

Monopartite geminiviruses of the genus Begomovirus have two virion-sense genes, V1 and V2. V2 encodes the viral coat protein, but the function of V1 is largely unknown, although some studies suggest that it may play a role in cell-to-cell movement. Yeast two-hybrid technology was used to identify possible host binding partners of V1 from Tomato leaf curl virus (TLCV) to better understand its function. A protein closely related to a family of plant reversibly glycosylated peptides, designated SlUPTG1, was found to interact with V1 in yeast and in vitro. SlUPTG1 may function endogenously in the synthesis of cell wall polysaccharides, since a bacterially expressed form of the protein acted as an autocatalytic glycosyltransferase in␣vitro, a SlUPTG1:GFP fusion protein localized to the cell wall, and expression of SlUPTG1 appeared to be highest in actively dividing tissues. However, expression of SlUPTG1 in a transient TLCV replication assay increased the accumulation of viral DNA, suggesting that this host factor also plays a role in viral infection. Together, these data provide new insight into the role of V1 in TLCV infection and reveal another host pathway which geminiviruses may manipulate to achieve an efficient infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract   Strongyloides stercoralis is an intestinal nematode in humans, distributed through tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In most individuals, the infection has a chronic nature due to auto-infection at the low level. Accelerated auto-infection, mainly after an alteration in immune status, can cause a syndrome of severe hyper-infection or potentially fatal disseminated strongyloidiasis. Due to the increasing numbers of immunocompromised patients in Iran, strongyloidiasis is an emerging public health concern in the country. In the current study, which was carried out between 2003 and 2005, for the investigation on strongyloidiasis in HIVﰂ patients, a total of 781 patients were examined by agar plate culture, formalin ether concentration, and direct smear preparation of stool samples. According to the results, 2 out of 781 HIV /AIDS patients were found infected with S. stercoralis, but both patients were at the progressive stage of AIDS and showing severe hyper-infection syndrome. In both cases, numerous rhabditiform and filariform larvae were found in fresh stool direct smears, and rapid and intensive development of parasite in agar plate cultures. In conclusion, in the progressive stages of AIDS, as a result of immunosuppression conditions or in the context of chemotherapy, S. stercoralis is capable of inducing overwhelming infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sera from ninety one patients clinically suspected to extra intestinal amoebiasis (ex-am) were collected and examined for presence of anti Entamoeba histolytica (E.h) antibody. The tests were Indirect Immunofluorescence antibody, (IFA or IIF), Gel Diffusion (GD) and counter Immuno Electrophoresis (CIEP). Thirty one patients (34%) had anti E.h. antibody titres of >1:80. Among them eight patients (9%) had acute infection. IFA titres of > 1:640 were found to be significant for differentiation of present infection from past. The sensitivity, specificity, negative and positive predictive value of this test was 100%, 98%, 100% and 89%, respectively. In GD or CIEP tests 13 positive cases (12%) were detected.

This Survey was carried out from June to October 1990, in order to evaluate the prevalence of intestinal parasites in the residents. A total of 2227 persons were selected from 44 Villages by using linear Systematic Sampling Method. The Samples of stool from these people were examined by formalin - ether concentration procedure. The collected data were analyzed by spss package. The result showed that 69.2% of the specimens were infected with intestinal parasites, which 58.4% of them were pathogenic (33.8% 16.9%, and 7.7% were infected with 1,2 and 3 species intestinal pathogen parasites respectively). Infection rates with intestinal pathogen parasites was higher in mountains (71.4%) than plain areas (49.6%). and also higher in age groups 5-14 years (68.0%) than other age groups. The difference of the infection rates was nonsignificant between males and females. Prevalence of different intestinal parasites was as follows: Protozoa; E.Coli 27.9% G. lamblia 17.2% I.butschlii 7/0% E.histolytica 5.9% E. hartmann 2.9% E. nana 2. 1% D. fragilis). 6% and C.. mesnili 0.4% Helminths; T. trichiura 26. 8% A. lumbricoides 17.8% Hook worm 8.9% S. stercoralis 8.5% E. vermicularis 3. 6% T.saginata 1. 4%, H.nana %1.0 and Trichostrongylus sp. 0.7%

This is a report of the first proved case of congenital toxoplasmosis in Iran in an infant who died with hypothermia and lethargia 29 days after birth. Both parents showed serological evidence of toxoplasmosis and, the finding in the mother indicated recent infection. The baby, during her short life, showed prominent neurological disorders and hepatosplenomegaly. Toxoplasms were demonstrated in ventricular fluid and brain tissue. The parasite was also isolated by mice inoculation School of Public Health and Institute of Public Health Research, University of Teheran, Iran H.R.H. Princess Shams Pahlavi’s Welfare Organization, Shahrazad Children's Hospital Medical Center, Teheran, Iran.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an enormous impact on the healthcare systems. Along with its common complications, novel complications such as Rectus Sheath Hematoma (RSH) have been reported. We present 2 cases of RSH. (A) A 63-year-old woman with a known case of COVID-19 with severe cough presented sudden tachycardia and hypogastric pain; on physical examination, a huge lower abdominal tender mass was noticed. All the differential diagnoses were ruled out. (B) A 57-year-old woman with COVID-19 started complaining of tachycardia, pain, and a mass in the lower abdomen. On the physical examination, a lower abdominal tender mass was noticed. Both of the patients underwent an abdomen CT scan which confirmed a huge RSH. Conservative treatment and cessation of anticoagulant medications were continued. Both of them recovered and no evidence of further expansion was seen after 4 weeks of follow-up., Competing Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2024.)

Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is an eye disease often occurring in contact lens wearers. AK treatment is prolonged and requires multiple drugs, which can lead to adverse effects. Our study aimed to compare the in vitro activities and safety of Miltefosine with that of conventional antimicrobial agents used to treat AK. Acanthamoeba castellanii genotype T4 was obtained from a patient with keratitis and subjected to in vitro susceptibility testing with various antimicrobial agents, including Chlorhexidine (CHX), Pentamidine isethionate (PI)Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB), and Miltefosine to assess their efficacy against Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cyst. The cytotoxicity of the agents was evaluated in Vero cells, and their selectivity indexes (SI) were calculated. Chlorhexidine exhibited the highest amoebicidal activity with the highest selectivity index against the trophozoite and cyst, ranging from 1.17 to 8.35. The selectivity index of PHMB is slightly comparable to Chlorhexidine, exhibiting significant anti-Acanthamoeba activity. On the other hand, Pentamidine isethionate and Miltefosine displayed low SI among the compounds. Pentamidine isethionate was effective at high concentrations, which was toxic. Miltefosine exhibited the lowest cytotoxicity; nevertheless, due to the lowest anti-Acanthamoeba activity presented a low selectivity against the parasite. Further studies on more clinical samples and prolonged incubation time should be done to investigate the effectiveness and toxicity of drugs in both in vitro and in vivo conditions., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

The Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic placed significant pressure on healthcare systems across the globe, with many clinicians redeployed in unfamiliar specialties or disciplines. In England, a just-in-time interprofessional training and education programme was rapidly established to upskill nearly 2,500 people who volunteered to work at the NHS Nightingale London Hospital. Of the 488 respondents in our evaluation, representing a 20% response rate, most felt confident and safe to start work in NHS Nightingale London. Key findings were: streaming of learners should be driven by predicted shared roles in the workplace and previous experience; in situ training to experience how teams work together in the real clinical setting was well received; and online learning should be focused on essential learning. A just-in-time interprofessional training programme can be effective in upskilling and redeploying healthcare staff in emergency situations, and can be useful for supporting staff redeployment or upskilling across the NHS more widely., Competing Interests: The research team (GE, MP, MR and SN) were all independent of the NHS Nightingale London faculty. Two of the researchers (SN and GE) had attended several days at the O2 arena and ExCeL to observe the training and participate in some of the hospital/faculty liaison groups and faculty feedback huddles. LT was a member of the core team for the programme and advised on the design of the survey and provided context, but was not involved in the analysis of the survey data. JC was lead of the Education and Training work stream at NHS Nightingale London, but was not involved in the analysis or interpretation of survey data., (© Royal College of Physicians 2023. All rights reserved.)

Background: Evidence has shown that cysteine protease enzymes, such as cathepsin D, cathepsin A, cathepsin K, and alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) are involved in the chronic degenerative joint process. This study aimed to determine the potential involvement of cathepsin K, cathepsin D, and AAT in patients with osteoarthritis (OA)., Methods: This study was performed on 31 patients with knee OA and 29 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects (both with Fars ethnicity from Iran). American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria were used to diagnose OA patients. The clinical status of the patients was scored by Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC), and pain intensity was measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The serum level of AAT was measured using high-resolution cellulose acetate electrophoresis. Additionally, serum levels of cathepsin D and cathepsin K were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)., Results: The findings showed that the serum level of cathepsin K was significantly increased in OA patients compared to healthy subjects (P = 0.01), while there was no significant difference between serum level of cathepsin D in study groups (P = 0.2). In addition, the serum concentration of AAT was significantly decreased in OA patients compared to healthy subjects (P = 0.003). There was a significant correlation between WOMAC score and age (r = 0.644, P = 0.0001) and VAS (r = 0.866, P < 0.0001) in OA patients., Conclusions: The decreased level of AAT in OA patients and a rise in serum level of cathepsin K are involved in the pathogenesis of OA via stimulation of bone resorption and cartilage degradation., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Royal Academy of Medicine in Ireland.)

Backgrounds: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) has broadly been used as an anti-oxidant agent in various types of diseases. This study aimed to assess the effect of NAC on the systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) disease activity and outcome., Methods: In this randomized, double-blind clinical trial study, 80 SLE patients were recruited that were classified into two groups: 40 patients received NAC (1800 mg/day; 3 times per day with 8-h intervals) for 3 months and 40 patients as the control group received normal therapies. Laboratory measurements and disease activity based on the British Isles Lupus Assessment Group (BILAG) and SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) were determined before the initiation of treatment and after the study time period., Results: A statistically significant decrease in BILAG (P= 0.023) and SLEDAI (P= 0.034) scores after receiving NAC for a 3-month period was observed. BILAG (P= 0.021) and SLEDAI (P= 0.030) scores were significantly lower in NAC-receiving patients compared to the control group after 3 months. The disease activity in each organ based on BILAG score after treatment indicated a significant decrease in the NAC group compared to the baseline level in general (P=0.018), mucocutaneous (P=0.003), neurological (P=0.015), musculoskeletal (P=0.048), cardiorespiratory (P=0.047), renal (P=0.025), and vascular (P=0.048) complications. Analysis indicated a significant increase in CH50 level in the NAC group after treatment compared to the baseline level (P=0.049). No adverse event was reported by the study subjects., Conclusions: It appears that the administration of 1800 mg/day NAC to SLE patients can decrease the SLE disease activity and its complications., (© 2023. The Author(s).)

Background: Acanthamoebae are a causative agent of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) in immunocompetent individuals. Since access to propamidine isethionate (Brolene®) as a first-line treatment has been limited in recent years, in the current study, we examined the effects of pentamidine isethionate against trophozoite and cyst forms of Acanthamoeba ., Methods: This experimental study was conducted in the Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, during 2019-2020. Pentamidine isethionate at concentrations of 50, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800, and 1000 μM were tested against trophozoites and cyst stages of T4 genotype, at 24- and 48-hour incubation period, and the viability was determined by trypan blue staining. In addition, the cytotoxic effect of the drug was examined in Vero cells using the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay., Results: The 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of pentamidine isethionate on trophozoite after 24 and 48h were 97.4 μM and 60.99 μM. These results on cyst after 24 and 48h were 470 μM and 175.5 μM, respectively. In MTT assay, the drug showed an inhibitory effect on Vero cell growth with IC50 values of 115.4 μM and 87.42 μM after 24h and 48h, respectively., Conclusion: Pentamidine isethionate exhibited an inhibitory effect on trophozoite and cyst. Given that the trophozoicidal activity of the drug is in the safe dose, it could be suggested as an alternative in patients with AK; however, further investigation is needed in an animal model to confirm the data., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2021 Behnia et al. Published by Tehran University of Medical Sciences.)

Background: One of the underlying mechanisms of Parkinson's disease is the aggregation of α-synuclein proteins, including amyloids and Lewy bodies in the brain. Aim: To study the inhibitory effect of doped carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on amyloid aggregation. Materials & methods: Molecular dynamics tools were utilized to simulate the influence of CNTs doped with phosphorus, nitrogen and bromine and nitrogen on the formation of α-synuclein amyloid. Results: The CNTs exhibited strong interactions with α-synuclein, with phosphorus-doped CNTs having the most substantial interactions. Conclusion: Doped-CNTs, especially phosphorus-doped carbon nanotube could effectively prevent α-synuclein amyloid formation, thus, it could be considered as a potential treatment for Parkinson's disease. However, further in vitro and clinical investigations are required.

Introduction: The study of abnormal aggregation of proteins in different tissues of the body has recently earned great attention from researchers in various fields of science. Concerning neurological diseases, for instance, the accumulation of amyloid fibrils can contribute to Parkinson's disease, a progressively severe neurodegenerative disorder. The most prominent features of this disease are the degeneration of neurons in the substantia nigra and accumulation of α-synuclein aggregates, especially in the brainstem, spinal cord, and cortical areas. Dopamine replacement therapies and other medications have reduced motor impairment and had positive consequences on patients' quality of life. However, if these medications are stopped, symptoms of the disease will recur even more severely. Therefore, the improvement of therapies targeting more basic mechanisms like prevention of amyloid formation seems to be critical. It has been shown that the interactions between monolayers like graphene and amyloids could prevent their fibrillation., Methods: For the first time, the impact of four types of last-generation graphene-based nanostructures on the prevention of α-synuclein amyloid fibrillation was investigated in this study by using molecular dynamics simulation tools., Results: Although all monolayers were shown to prevent amyloid fibrillation, nitrogen-doped graphene (N-Graphene) caused the most instability in the secondary structure of α-synuclein amyloids. Moreover, among the four monolayers, N-Graphene was shown to present the highest absolute value of interaction energy, the lowest contact level of amyloid particles, the highest number of hydrogen bonds between water and amyloid molecules, the highest instability caused in α-synuclein particles, and the most significant decrease in the compactness of α-synuclein protein., Discussion: Ultimately, it was concluded that N-Graphene could be the most effective monolayer to disrupt amyloid fibrillation, and consequently, prevent the progression of Parkinson's disease., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest for this work., (© 2020 Alimohammadi et al.)

The histopathologic subtypes of breast cancer, including invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC), differ in terms of risk factors, progression, and response to treatment. The PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Scopus databases were searched up to February 2020 for published studies on the association between dietary patterns (Western diet [WD] or Mediterranean diet [WD]) and the risk of IDC/ILC of breast. Multivariable adjusted relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) comparing the highest and lowest categories of WD and MD patterns were combined by using the random-effects meta-analyses. After searching the databases, 10 eligible studies on the association of diet and IDC (7 articles) and ILC (3 articles) were included in the analysis. A statistically significant adverse association was observed between MD and IDC in case-control studies (RR = 0.47; 95% CI, 0.39-0.55; I 2  = 85.1%; P < .001). However, the association was nonsignificant in cohort studies (RR = 0.98; 95% CI, 0.92-1.05; I 2  = 88.8%; P = .003). The pooled analysis also suggested a significant and direct association between the WD and the risk of IDC (RR = 1.36; 95% CI, 1.18-1.53; I 2  = 63.7%; P = .017). The risk of ILC for the highest compared to the lowest category of MD was highly protective (RR = 0.76; 95% CI, 0.64-0.87; I 2  = 89.2%; P < .001), and a marginally significant association was found between the WD and risk of ILC (RR = 1.45; 95% CI, 1.04-1.86), with no heterogeneity (I 2  = 0; P = .52). This meta-analysis provides supporting evidence for the association between MD decreased risk of IDC and ILC of the breast and the association between WD and increased risk of IDC and ILC. Further investigations are needed to better understand the reasons behind the etiologic mechanisms of how dietary patterns affect patients differently by common breast cancer subtypes, including IDC and ILC., (Copyright © 2020 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Sarcocystis is a genus of eucoccidian parasites, which globally infects humans and various animals. In addition to economic losses in livestock industries, the parasite is a zoonosis that infects humans through contaminated beef and pork with the parasite sarcocysts. Therefore, this study was carried out to assess Sarcocystis contamination in beef and industrial raw beef burger samples from butcheries and retail stores in Tehran, Iran. Overall, 180 samples of 90 beefs and 90 raw industrial beef burgers with at least 80% meat were randomly collected in Tehran, Iran. Samples were studied microscopically after peptic digestion. Furthermore, sample genomic DNAs were used in conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify approximately 900-bp fragments from 18S ribosomal DNA. Of 180 samples, 170 samples (94.4%) were microscopically and 161 samples (89.44%) were molecularly positive for Sarcocystis spp. Eucoccidial DNA fragments were detected in 161 samples (89.4%), including 78 (86.6%) beef and 83 (92.2%) beef burger samples. No significant differences were found between the beef and beef burger infestations by Sarcocystis bradyzoites using statistical analysis ( P > 0.05). Statistically significant differences were seen between the sample type and the intensity of parasites in samples ( P = 0.003). Furthermore, differences between the conventional PCR results (positive/negative) and the intensity of parasites in samples were statistically significant ( P < 0.001). The considerable prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. in beef and beef burger samples reflects high transmission of the parasite in meat producing cattle, which is important due to food hygiene. Although the most prevalent bovine species, S. cruzi , is not a zoonosis, it is highly recommended to follow guidelines on the parasite transmission prevention due to the existence of S. hominis as a zoonotic bovine species., (© 2020 Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

Background: The aim of the present study was to develop a simple, portable, and rapid assay for serodiagnosis of toxoplasmosis based on recombinant Toxoplasma gondii ( T. gondii ) SAG1 (rSAG1) and GRA7 (rGRA7) proteins., Methods: The rSAG1 and rGRA7 proteins were expressed in Escherichia coli ( E. coli ) and purified in a single step by immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography. The immunoreactivity of the recombinant antigens was tested in an in-house IgG and IgM Dot enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Dot-ELISA) for potential use in serodiagnosis of T. gondii infection., Results: Results from the comparison of in-house rSAG1-Dot-ELISA with ELISA for the detection of anti- Toxoplasma IgG and IgM include sensitivity of 83.7% and 81.2%, specificity of 90.2% and 89.3%, positive predictive values of 85.9% and 68.4%, and negative predictive values of 88.6% and 94.3%, respectively. Sensitivity of 66.2%, specificity of 81.2%, positive predictive values of 71.6%, and negative predictive values of 77.1% were concluded from in-house IgG rGRA7-Dot-ELISA. The sensitivity and specificity of IgM rGRA7-Dot-ELISA included 87.5% and 83.9%, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of in-house Dot-ELISA for a combination of rSAG1 and rGRA7 included 87.5% and 91.1% for IgG and IgM, respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of a combination of rSAG1 and rGRA7 for the detection of IgM in suspected sera to acute toxoplasmosis were higher than those for the detection of IgG in sera with chronic infections (90.6% and 92% instead of 86.2% and 91.6%, respectively)., Conclusion: The highlighted parameters of combined recombinant proteins were more significant than those of single recombinant proteins in in-house Dot-ELISA. These data suggest that the in-house Dot-ELISA based on rSAG1 and rGRA7 combination is a promising diagnostic tool with a similar sensitivity to the native antigens of T. gondii , which can be used for the serodiagnosis of toxoplasmosis in fields as well as less equipped laboratories., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest in this work., (© 2019 Teimouri et al.)

Nanotechnology based drug delivery systems for cancer therapy have been the topic of interest for many researchers and scientists. In this research, we have studied the pH sensitive co-adsorption and release of doxorubicin (DOX) and paclitaxel (PAX) by carbon nanotube (CNT), fullerene, and graphene oxide (GO) in combination with N -isopropylacrylamide (PIN). This simulation study has been performed by use of molecular dynamics. Interaction energies, hydrogen bond, and gyration radius were investigated. Results reveal that, compared with fullerene and GO, CNT is a better carrier for the co-adsorption and co-release of DOX and PAX. It can adsorb the drugs in plasma pH and release it in vicinity of cancerous tissues which have acidic pH. Investigating the number of hydrogen bonds revealed that PIN created many hydrogen bonds with water resulting in high hydrophilicity of PIN, hence making it more stable in the bloodstream while preventing from its accumulation. It is also concluded from this study that CNT and PIN would make a suitable combination for the delivery of DOX and PAX, because PIN makes abundant hydrogen bonds and CNT makes stable interactions with these drugs.

In the current study, performance of electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA) in detection of anti-toxoplasma IgG in human sera was compared with that of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Furthermore, performance of an in house Dot-ELISA in detection of anti-toxoplasma IgG was compared with that of ECLIA and ELISA. In total, 219 human sera were tested to detect anti-toxoplasma IgG using Dynex DS2® and Roche Cobas® e411 Automated Analyzers. Discordant results rechecked using immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Then, sera were used in an in house Dot-ELISA to assess toxoplasma-specific IgG. Of the 219 samples, two samples were found undetermined using ECLIA but reactive using ELISA. Using IFA, the two sera were reported unreactive. Furthermore, two samples were found reactive using ECLIA and unreactive using ELISA. These samples were reported reactive using IFA. The overall agreement for the two former methods was 98% (rZ0.98.1; P < 0.001). The intrinsic parameters calculated for in house Dot-ELISA included sensitivity of 79.5, specificity of 78.2, and accuracy of 78.9%, compared to ECLIA and ELISA. Positive and negative predictive values included 82.9 and 74.2%, respectively. A 100% sensitivity was found in in house Dot-ELISA for highly reactive sera in ECLIA and ELISA. ECLIA is appropriate for the first-line serological screening tests and can replace ELISA due to high speed, sensitivity, and specificity, particularly in large laboratories. Dot-ELISA is a rapid, sensitive, specific, cost-effective, user-friendly, and field-portable technique and hence can be used for screening toxoplasmosis, especially in rural fields or less equipped laboratories.

Background: Osteoporosis is a disease, which causes bone loss and fractures. Although glucocorticoids effectively suppress inflammation, their chronic use is accompanied by bone loss with a tendency toward secondary osteoporosis., Objectives: This study took into consideration the importance of cortical bone in the entire bone's mechanical competence. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess the effects of different protocols of glucocorticoid administration on the biomechanical properties of tibial bone diaphysis in rats compared to control and low-level laser-treated rats., Materials and Methods: This experimental study was conducted at Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. We used systematic random sampling to divide 40 adult male rats into 8 groups with 5 rats in each group. Groups were as follows: 1) control, 2) dexamethasone (7 mg/week), 3) dexamethasone (0.7 mg/week), 4) methylprednisolone (7 mg/kg/week), 5) methylprednisolone (5 mg/kg twice weekly), 6) dexamethasone (7 mg/kg three times per week), 7) dexamethasone (0.7 mg/kg thrice per week), and 8) low-level laser-treated rats. The study periods were 4-7 weeks. At the end of the treatment periods, we examined the mechanical properties of tibial bone diaphysis. Data were analyzed by statistical analyses., Results: Glucocorticoid-treated rats showed weight loss and considerable mortality (21%). The biomechanical properties (maximum force) of glucocorticoid-treated rats in groups 4 (62 ± 2.9), 6 (63 ± 5.1), and 7 (60 ± 5.3) were comparable with the control (46 ± 1.5) and low-level laser-treated (57 ± 3.2) rats., Conclusions: In contrast to the findings in humans and certain other species, glucocorticoid administration caused anabolic effect on the cortical bone of tibia diaphysis bone in rats.

Aim:   Metabolic bone disorders and reduced bone mass are common complications in patients with biliary cirrhosis. As a result of there being no clear etiology, no specific therapy has been established yet. Previous studies have reported that quercetin, a plant-derived flavonoid, might improve bone quality. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of quercetin on bone strength of biliary cirrhotic rats., Methods:   Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats aged 6-7 months were randomized into three groups of eight. One group served as control (sham operated), while the other two groups underwent a complete bile duct ligation (BDL). Four weeks after the operation, serum bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase were measured in animal blood samples to confirm the occurrence of cirrhosis in the BDL rats. Then, one of the BDL groups received placebo and the other one was injected once a day with 150 µmol/kg of quercetin for 4 weeks. At the end of the study, femora were removed and tested for bone strength and histomorphometric parameters. The serum levels of osteocalcin, C-terminal cross-linked telopeptide of type I collagen, calcium and phosphorus were determined as bone turnover markers., Results:   Femur breaking strength was dramatically lower in the BDL group compared with control. However, receiving quercetin could reverse the deteriorating effect of cirrhosis on bone strength of BDL rats. Quercetin could noticeably elevate osteocalcin as a bone formation marker., Conclusion:   These data suggest that quercetin can significantly improve bone strength particularly due to increasing bone formation in biliary cirrhosis., (© 2012 The Japan Society of Hepatology.)

The effects of inclusion of cellulose or inulin as a source of dietary fiber and CP content of the diet on hepatic fat deposition were investigated in hens fed restricted or close to ad libitum consumption. There were 12 dietary treatments forming a 2 × 3 × 2 factorial with 2 feeding regimens [restricted and liberal (close to ad libitum consumption; LIB)], 3 fiber sources (control, 3% inulin, and 3% cellulose), and 2 levels of CP (14.5 and 17.4%). Hens were assigned in groups of 6 to 60 floor pens. From 43 to 55 wk of age, hens fed LIB showed increased activity of the hepatic malic enzyme (MalE; P < 0.01), which led to an increase (P < 0.001) in liver weight and hepatic lipid deposition and was associated with enhancements (P < 0.05) in plasma levels of glucose, triglyceride, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Abdominal fat deposition and BW of the hens increased (P < 0.001) with liberal feeding. Inclusion of inulin in the diet reduced (P < 0.05) liver and abdominal fat weight, whereas cellulose inclusion decreased (P < 0.05) feed intake, abdominal fat, and BW. An increase in CP content of the diet from 14.5 to 17.4% reduced MalE activity (P < 0.001), liver weight (P < 0.001), and the accumulation of lipids and cholesterol in the liver, as well as plasma triglyceride concentration and abdominal fat pad weight (P < 0.05). It is concluded that fiber inclusion reduced abdominal fat and liver weight, with effects being more pronounced with cellulose than with inulin. An increase in dietary CP reduced MalE activity and alleviated hepatic and plasma lipid concentration; therefore, it might be a practical approach to reduce the incidence of obesity-linked problems in broiler breeder hens. The combination of high-CP diets and the inclusion of a fiber source did not suppress liver lipid content over that observed with the high-CP diet, exclusively.

A 12-wk experiment was conducted to study the effects of feeding regimen, inclusion of a fiber source, and CP content of the diet on performance of broiler breeder hens. In total, 360 hens and 60 males, 43 wk of age, were assigned to 60 floor pens (6 hens and 1 male each). There were 12 treatments arranged factorially with 2 feeding regimens [restricted (R) and liberal feeding (close to ad libitum consumption; LIB)], 3 sources of fiber (0, 3% inulin, and 3% cellulose), and 2 levels of CP (14.5 and 17.4%). No interactions among main effects were observed for any of the traits studied, and therefore, only main effects are presented. Body weight, liver weight, and abdominal fat weight were higher (P < 0.001) for the LIB than for the R-fed hens. However, egg production (P < 0.001), fertility index (P < 0.05), and percentage of hatch (P < 0.01) were lower for LIB than for R hens. The weights of ovaries (P < 0.05) and the size of the first preovulatory follicle (P < 0.05) were higher for the LIB than for the R hens. Also, egg yolk, egg weight, and BW of the hatching chicks were higher (P < 0.001) for the LIB hens. The inclusion of a fiber source in the diet decreased (P < 0.05) feed intake, BW gain, absolute liver and abdominal fat weight, and egg yolk weight, with effects being more pronounced (P < 0.05) with cellulose than with inulin. Hens fed additional fiber produced more (P < 0.05) eggs that were more fertile (P < 0.05) than control hens. Crude protein content of the diet did not affect hen performance but reduced (P < 0.01) the relative weight of the liver, ovary, and abdominal fat. It is concluded that the inclusion of inulin or cellulose in the diet improved hen performance and that an increase in dietary CP reduced obesity in broiler breeder hens.

Many microscopic-based epidemiological surveys on the prevalence of human intestinal pathogenic and non-pathogenic protozoa including intestinal amoeba performed in Iran show a high prevalence of human intestinal amoeba in different parts of Iran. Such epidemiological studies on amoebiasis are confusing, mainly due to recently appreciated distinction between the Entamoeba histolytica, E. dispar and E. moshkovskii. Differential diagnosis can be done by some methods such as PCR-based methods, monoclonal antibodies and the analysis of isoenzyme typing, however the molecular study of these protozoa in Iran is low. Based on molecular studies, it seems that E. dispar is predominant species especially in the central and northern areas of Iran and amoebiasis due to E. histolytica is a rare infection in the country. It is suggested that infection with E. moshkovskii may be common among Iranians. Considering the importance of molecular epidemiology of amoeba in Iran and also the current data, the present study reviews the data currently available on the molecular distribution of intestinal human amoeba in Iran.

1. The objective of this experiment was to study the influences of xylanase and citric acid on the performance, nutrient digestibility, digesta viscosity, duodenal histology, and gut microflora of broilers fed on a wheat based diet. 2. The experiment was carried out as a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement with two concentrations of xylanase (0 and 200 mg/kg) and three concentrations of citric acid (0, 20 and 40 g/kg). A total of 408 one-day-old chickens with similar body weight were distributed into 24 pens with 17 birds/pen. Each dietary treatment was given to 4 replicate pens from 0 to 24 d of age. To determine the apparent nutrient digestibility, chromic oxide (3 g/kg) was added to the diets as an indigestible marker. 3. Xylanase significantly increased body weight gain at 24 d of age by 1·4% and improved gain-to-feed (G:F) by 3·6%. The inclusion of 40 g/kg citric acid decreased feed intake and body weight gain by 15·4% and 11·8%, respectively. The inclusion of 20 g/kg of citric acid decreased feed intake, but it did not affect body weight gain of broilers at 24 d of age. The inclusion of 20 and 40 g/kg citric acid improved G:F by 3·8 and 4·3% respectively. Xylanase significantly decreased the viscosity of digesta and improved retention of DM, CP, and energy. 4. Xylanase and citric acid did not have any effect on the histo-morphology of the duodenum and intestinal microbial population. 5. In conclusion, citric acid at 20 g/kg decreased feed intake, did not have a negative effect on body weight gain, and improved G:F. Xylanase decreased digesta viscosity, increased nutrient retention and consequently improved performance of broilers fed on a wheat based diet.

An experiment was conducted to study the effects of xylanase and citric acid on the performance, nutrient retention, jejunal viscosity, and size and pH of the gastrointestinal tract of broilers fed a low-P wheat-based diet. The experiment was conducted as a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement with 2 levels of xylanase (0 and 200 mg/kg) and 3 levels of citric acid (0, 20, and 40 g/kg). Each of the 6 dietary treatments was fed to 4 replicate pens (17 birds/pen) from 0 to 24 d of age. Chromium oxide (3 g/kg) was added to the diets as an indigestible marker to determine the apparent nutrient retention. No interaction effect was observed between xylanase and citric acid in any measured response. Xylanase did not affect feed intake but significantly increased BW gain by 3.6% (P < 0.05) from 1 to 24 d of age and improved G:F by 3.9% (P < 0.01). The inclusion of 40 g/kg of citric acid decreased (P < 0.01) BW gain and feed intake by 8.6 and 12.5%, respectively. The inclusion of 20 and 40 g/kg of citric acid improved G:F by 2.3 and 4.5% (P < 0.05), respectively. Xylanase significantly decreased the viscosity of digesta and improved the retention of DM, CP, and energy, but did not have a significant effect on the retention of fat and P. Inclusion of 20 and 40 g/kg of citric acid in the diets increased P retention by 15.8 and 16.3% (P < 0.01), respectively. Citric acid significantly decreased the pH of crop contents (P < 0.05). In conclusion, citric acid, at the 40 g/kg inclusion level, reduced feed intake and BW gain but improved G:F and P retention. Xylanase decreased digesta viscosity, increased nutrient retention, and consequently improved the performance of broilers fed the low-P wheat-based diet. Thus, adding 20 g/kg of citric acid, especially in the starter period, and 200 mg/kg of xylanase to low-P wheat-based diets can be helpful.

Background: Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide endemic disease. In congenitally infected infants and AIDS patients, toxoplasmosis causes high rates of morbidity and mortality. In these cases antibody detection is difficult; so detection of parasite or its components could be useful tool for early detection and following treatment of the infection., Methods: Sixty-three BALB/c mice were injected intra-peritoneal with 5×10(3) tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii RH strain, nine mice were sacrificed daily for 7 days. Fourteen mice were injected with phosphate buffer saline as control group. Dot-ELISA was performed for detection of T.gondii antigen in mice sera and capture - ELISA was done as golden standard assay too., Results: Toxoplasma gondii antigen was detected from day 2 in mice sera; 22% of mice sera on day 2, 33% on day 3,77% on day 4 and 100% on day 5 till their death on day 7 had shown antigenemia by dot - ELISA, no positive result was detected in control mice by dot- ELISA., Conclusion: Dot-ELISA is a sensitive method for diagnosis of T. gondii infection in the animal model; also, this technique is more rapid and easy to perform method in comparison with capture-ELISA.

Opportunistic isosporidial infection of the gastrointestinal tract is frequently encountered in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and is considered to be an AIDS-defining illness. Chronic severe watery diarrhea due to Isospora belli has also been reported in other immunodeficiency states. This report describes severe chronic debilitating diarrhea due to isosporiasis in a patient with mediastinal thymoma, a common tumor of the anterior mediastinum, originating from the epithelial cells of the thymus. Numerous oocysts of I. belli were detected in direct smear preparation of the diarrheic stool sample of the patient, who had an 8-month history of recurrent diarrhea. Duodenal and colonic mucosal biopsies revealed slight degrees of atrophic changes associated with infiltration of the lamina propria by an appreciable number of eosinophiles and the presence of unizoit tissue cysts of I. belli in the surface epithelium of the duodenal mucosa. The patient was first treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and subsequently underwent complete thymectomy. Later, due to recurrence of the diarrhea, he was treated with ciprofloxacin.

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of eicosapentaenoic acid on glucocorticoid-induced bone changes in rats, and to compare them with those of alendronate. Thirty six male Wistar rats, 2.5 months of age, were divided into six groups (n = 6 each) and treated with 0.9% NaCl (control), methylprednisolone 7 mg/kg, once a week subcutaneously, methylprednisolone + alendronate 20 microg/kg, twice a week subcutaneously and methylprednisolone + 80 or 160 or 320 mg/kg eicosapentaenoic acid, per day orally, for 6 weeks. At the end of the experiment, serum and urinary parameters of bone metabolism determined and bone histomorphometric analyses performed on cancellous bone of femoral epiphysis and metaphysis and cortical bone of tibial diaphysis. There were no significant differences in serum and urinary parameters among groups. Decrease of epiphyseal and metaphyseal trabecular width, epiphyseal bone area/tissue area and increase of epiphyseal trabecular separation observed in the methylprednisolone group compared to control. Alendronate restored all of these parameters except metaphyseal trabecular width, which increased significantly by eicosapentaenoic acid at the doses of 80 and 160 mg/kg. Effects of alendronate and 160 mg/kg eicosapentaenoic acid on bone area/tissue area, alendronate and eicosapentaenoic acid at the doses of 80 and 160 mg/kg on trabecular separation and alendronate and eicosapentaenoic acid at doses of 160 and 320 mg/kg on epiphyseal trabecular width were statistically similar. Methylprednisolone did not significantly change cortical bone parameters including cortical width and marrow area/cortical area. Eicosapentaenoic acid, especially, at the dose of 160 mg/kg exerts beneficial effects on methylprednisolone-induced bone changes in rats; these effects are similar or sometimes even better than alendronate.

The nucleotide sequences of Serine-Rich Entamoeba histolytica Protein (SREHP) gene have already exhibited stable and significant polymorphism in the gene studies. Serine-rich protein is also present and polymorphic in Entamoeba dispar which called SREDP. The polymorphism of the Serine-Rich Entamoeba dispar Protein (SREDP) gene among 8 isolates obtained from Iranian cyst carriers were analyzed by a nested PCR-RFLP followed by sequencing of the PCR products. From those isolates, six distinct DNA patterns were observed after PCR-RFLP of the nested PCR, whereas sequencing showed 8 different patterns among the isolates. The results demonstrate an extensive genetic variability among Iranian E. dispar isolates. The repeat-containing region of the SREDP was found extensively polymorphic in size, number and order of repeat units. Genetic diversity of Iranian E. dispar isolates based on the SREDP was more polymorphic in comparison of Serine-Rich Entamoeba histolytica Protein (SREHP) of the E. histolytica isolates as well as were different from a few known SREDP genes.

Strongyloides stercoralis is an intestinal nematode in humans, distributed through tropical and subtropical regions of the world. In most individuals, the infection has a chronic nature due to auto-infection at the low level. Accelerated auto-infection, mainly after an alteration in immune status, can cause a syndrome of severe hyper-infection or potentially fatal disseminated strongyloidiasis. Due to the increasing numbers of immunocompromised patients in Iran, strongyloidiasis is an emerging public health concern in the country. In the current study, which was carried out between 2003 and 2005, for the investigation on strongyloidiasis in HIV(+)/AIDS patients, a total of 781 patients were examined by agar plate culture, formalin ether concentration, and direct smear preparation of stool samples. According to the results, 2 out of 781 HIV( + )/AIDS patients were found infected with S. stercoralis, but both patients were at the progressive stage of AIDS and showing severe hyper-infection syndrome. In both cases, numerous rhabditiform and filariform larvae were found in fresh stool direct smears, and rapid and intensive development of parasite in agar plate cultures. In conclusion, in the progressive stages of AIDS, as a result of immunosuppression conditions or in the context of chemotherapy, S. stercoralis is capable of inducing overwhelming infection.