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Background: The current in silico study was done to determine the primary biochemical features and immunogenic epitopes of Echinococcus granulosus glutathione S-transferase protein as a potential vaccine candidate. Methods: Several web tools were employed to predict physico-chemical properties, antigenicity, allergenicity, solubility, post-translational modification (PTM) sites, subcellular localization, signal peptide, transmembrane domain, secondary and tertiary structure followed by refinement and validations. In addition, B-cell epitopes were predicted and were screened using various web servers, while MHC-binding and CTL epitopes were predicted using IEDB and NetCTL servers, respectively. Results: The protein had 219 residues with a molecular weight of 25.55 kDa and alkaline isoelectric pH (7.5). This protein was stable, thermotolerant (aliphatic index: 78.04) and hydrophilic (GRAVY: -0.440). The predicted antigenicity scores were low and the protein was non-allergenic in nature. There were no transmembrane domain and signal peptide in the sequence. Moreover, several B-cell, MHC-binding and CTL epitopes were found in the EgGST protein, which could be further used in multi-epitope vaccines. Conclusion: Further studies are needed on the development of vaccines in vivo using EgGST alone or in combination with other antigens in the future.

This study provides a comprehensive simulation for understanding the influence of EV growth and its external factors on grid stability and offers insights into effective management strategies. To manage the growth of battery-based electric vehicles (BEVs) in Indonesia and mitigate their impact on the power grid’s supply–demand equilibrium, regulatory adjustments and subsidies can be implemented by the government. The Jawa-Madura-Bali (Jamali) electrical system, as the largest in Indonesia, is challenged with accommodating the rising number of vehicles. Following an analysis of Jamali’s electricity supply using data from the National Electricity Company (RUPTL), simulations are constructed to model the grid’s demand side. Input variables such as Jamali’s population, the numbers of internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles, initial charging times (ICT), slow and fast charging ratios, and BEV charge load curves are simulated. Scenario variables, including supply capacity growth rate, vehicle population growth rate, subsidy impact on EV attractiveness, ICT, and fast charging ratio, are subsequently simulated for the 2024–2029 period. Four key simulation outcomes are identified. The best-case scenario (scenario 1776) achieves the highest EV growth with minimal grid disruption, resulting in a 45.38% EV percentage in 2029 and requiring an annual allocation of 492 billion rupiah to match supply with demand. The worst-case scenario leads to a 23.12% EV percentage, necessitating 47,566 billion rupiah for EV subsidies in 2029. Additionally, the most and least probable scenarios based on the literature research are evaluated. This novel simulation and its results provide insights into EV growth’s impact on the grid’s balance in one presidential term from 2024 to 2029, aiding the government in planning regulations and subsidies effectively.

Abstract Background Memory impairment caused by Toxoplasma gondii infection has been documented. Berberine (BRB) is well known for its enhancing effects on memory and has shown promising results. However, the impact of BRB on T. gondii infection and schizophrenia-induced consolidation and reconsolidation memory impairment is still unclear. Here; we examined the effect of BRB on the inhibitory avoidance (IA) memory consolidation and reconsolidation impairment induced by T. gondii infection, and ketamine (Ket) as a pharmacological model of schizophrenia. Also; the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and hippocampus were analyzed. Methods Rats were infected with T. gondii RH strain or received Ket (30 mg/kg/day) intraperitoneally (i.p) for at least five consecutive days (as the model of schizophrenia). Then followed by oral administration with BRB (25 mg/kg/day) for five days. Finally, the IA memory retention test was examined 48 post-conditioning, and BDNF was measured. Results Results indicated IA memory impairment in T. gondii-infected animals since lower step-through latency (STL) was observed than in control animals. We found significant (P = 0.01, P = 0.001) elevations in STL and a significant decrease (P = 0.001) in total time spent in the dark area following BRB administration in infected and Ket-treated rats, indicating improvement (increased STL) in consolidation and reconsolidation memory. Moreover, BDNF levels were reduced (P = 0.01) in the hippocampus and mPFC regions of both T. gondii- infected and Ket-induced groups, which remarkably enhanced after BRB treatment. Furthermore; we found that BRB administration notably increased the mPFC BDNF levels in mPFC (P

The progression of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) invasion is aided by rhoptry proteins (ROPs), which are also crucial for the parasite’s survival in host cells. In this study, in silico analysis was performed to examine the various aspects of the ROP29 protein, such as physicochemical properties, potential T- and B-cell epitopes, and other significant features. The research revealed that there were 55 possible sites for posttranslational modification in the ROP29 protein. The secondary structure of the ROP29 protein consists of a random coil, an alpha-helix, and an extended strand, which account for 49.69%, 36.81%, and 13.50%, respectively. Moreover, a number of putative T- and B-cell epitopes for ROP29 were found. The Ramachandran plot showed that 88.91% (crude model) and 97.54% (refine model) of the amino acid residues were located in the favored regions. Also, the testing of this protein’s antigenicity and allergenicity showed that it was nonallergenic and immunogenic. Our results suggested that employing in silico tools to apply structural and functional predictions to the ROP29 protein can lower the likelihood that laboratory investigations will fail. This research served as a crucial foundation for further research. More research is required in the future in suitable animal model employing ROP29 alone or in combination with other antigens.

Kawaluso Island is one of the outermost islands in Indonesia with a distance of 68 KM from the city of Tahuna or 5-10 hours by boat from the capital of the Sangihe Islands Regency, Tahuna. Currently, electricity on Kawaluso Island is supplied by a diesel power plant (PLTD) with a capacity of 200 kW. This condition causes Kawaluso Island to be electrified 12 hours per day. So that additional sources of power plant are needed so that the electricity on Kawaluso Island is on 24 hours a day. Therefore, a solar power plant (PLTS) is one of alternative as additional power for Kawaluso Island and reduces the cost of production. A diesel power plant where the price of industrial fuel reaches up to Rp. 24.500 and it make Cost of Energy Rp. 10.360/kWh. The method used in this study uses the Levelized Cost of Energy (LcoE) method. The results of the analysis show that the hybrid between diesel power plant and solar power plant 64 kWp and 72 kWp has a Life Cycle Cost (LCC) value of Rp24.389.601.114,40 and Rp. 20.589.498.278,40 With a Cost of Energy (COE) of Rp. 7.432 and Rp. 5.601/kWh. Net Present Value (NPV) obtained is positive. And the payback period is 3 and 9 years of investment and is categorized as feasible to continue.

Background: We aimed to determine species of liver fluke that predominately cause fascioliasis in sheep, goats, and cattle in the Sulaymaniyah Province, Iraq using the molecular technique of DNA sequencing and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Methods: The samples were collected from November 2021 to May 2022. The flukes were collected from infected livers of livestock at the slaughterhouse of Sulaymaniyah Governorate, Iraq. A total of 205 flukes were collected from 56 hosts, cattle (n=22), sheep (n=28), and goats (n=6). The specific primers for FCOX1 and 28S rDNA gene amplification were used. The PCR products were subjected to restriction fragment polymorphism (RFLP) assay using Hpy188III and Dra II restriction enzymes, besides DNA sequencing. Results: The results showed the genetic polymorphisms among the flukes. Three patterns of RFLP were observed Fasciola hepatica, F. gigantica, and F. intermediate, where 28 of them displayed F. hepatica (sheep, n=14, goat, n=3 and cattle, n= 11), whereas 24 samples displayed the F. gigantica (sheep, n=12, goat, n=3 and cattle, n= 9), and only four samples belonged to F. intermediate (sheep n=3 and cattle, n=1). In addition, the result of the ribosomal DNA (28S rDNA) sequencing confirmed that the isolated flukes belonged to F. hepatica, F. gigantica and F. intermediate. Conclusion: All three main species are present in the study area and F. hepatica predominated among the animal species in this area also, our results concluded that PCR-RFLP is a rapid and reliable method for liver fluke species identification.

Large photovoltaic (PV) generations are vulnerable to thermal faults where the location is difficult to determine. The pre-existing thermal fault detection method (mostly manual visual inspection) is time-consuming and non-continuously monitoring. It may lead to more defects, such as degrading the faulted PV cell or putting the PV farm on fire. We propose a novel PV thermal fault monitoring and detection method using a catadioptric device (CD), which promises quick and continuous detection. In this paper, as an early stage in CD development, we focus on constructing a model involving some parameters to identify the object image formation. Then, through the model, a simulation case study of the PV farm monitoring proses was performed where the CD is ostensibly placed in front of the PV arrays. We variated the model parameters and selected the combination that resulted in a symmetrical and non-overlapped PV array image, which was then analyzed to see the sensor requirements of the CD. The results showed that the developed model could simulate PV image formation on CD with good validity. Also, the case result found that nine parameter combinations produce symmetrical and non-overlapped PV images where the image ratio is more affected by the camera position than the focal length. Finally, the minimum sensor requirement is determined by the center length of the farthest PV image to monitor all of the PV arrays.

Photovoltaic (PV) farms are subject to thermal faults that can degrade and reduce module efficiency. The currently used method of detecting thermal fault is time-consuming and hard to locate the fault position, especially in large PV areas. It can result in additional flaws, such as igniting the PV farm. We provide a new approach for monitoring and detecting PV thermal faults through a catadioptric device (CD) that offers fast and continual detection. As an early development stage, in this study, we concentrate on building a mathematical model that can determine the thermal fault coordinate based on two object images from different CD positions. The experiment then verifies the model, and the parameter variation is performed to find the coordinate prediction characteristic. Also, a case study simulation on large PV system monitoring was performed to figure out the thermal fault localization process. The result shows that the mathematical model can be used to determine the coordinate position of the thermal fault with acceptable measurement error. The parameter $x_{k}$ tends to affect the average measurement error of the coordinate prediction and the error gradient of each axes couple. Greater the $x_{k}$ , smaller measurement and gradient error can be achieved. In addition, the case study simulation result shows that the thermal fault position can be predicted with the worst percentage error (PE) of less than 10%, with a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean square error (RMSE) in a reasonable value. Also, the sensitivity pattern can be used for CD condition monitoring.

Background: Due to the opportunism character of Acanthamoeba, the presence of this parasite in the thermal water of recreational baths and hospital environments can be a risk to the health of staff, patients and others. The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba genotypes isolated from the hospital environment and the thermal water of recreational baths in Markazi Province, central Iran. Methods: Overall, 180 samples including thermal water from recreational baths in Mahallat City and dust, soil and water from different hospitals of Arak, Farahan and Komijan cities, central Iran were collected. The presence of Acanthamoeba was investigated using microscopic examination and molecular methods. The PCR and sequencing was performed based on a specific 18S fragment of ribosomal DNA. Results: Based on the microscopic survey, totally 134 positive samples were detected including 35% in thermal water samples and 44.7% in hospital samples. In molecular analysis, 53.5% of the samples were identified as Acanthamoeba and 46.7% as Protacanthamoeba bohemica. The genotypes were detected as T4 (33.3%), T2 (10%), T11 (6.7%), and T5 (3.3%). Conclusion: The T4 was the most common genotype found in hospitals sampling sites while the T2 genotype and P. bohemica were detected in thermal water sampling sites.

This study aims to evaluate the potential implementation of the ISO 50001 Energy Management System (EnMS) at PT XYZ to achieve the decarbonization target. The focus is on strategic and technical planning, involving the analysis of internal and external issues to develop energy policies as well as the formation of energy teams. Technical planning includes energy performance reviews, energy consumption analysis, Significant Energy Users (SEUs), Energy Performance Indicators (EnPI), and operation control plans. The results of the 2022 review show that energy consumption is 947.8 thousand GJ with the main SEU in the Hauling and Mining systems, as well as Hauler and Excavator tools that consume more than 80% of Biosolar B30. EnPI level 1 shows an average energy intensity of 0.08 GJ per WMT, while EnPI level 2 results in a regression of Y=2.113X + 264924 with a determination of 0.892, making 2022 a baseline. The implementation of ISO 50001 has the potential to improve energy efficiency and reduce GHG emissions by up to 30% by 2030, with a target of saving 9.7 million liters of Biodiesel B30. The PDCA approach helps companies achieve targets by focusing on SEU systems and tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the clinical and molecular features of human cystic echinococcosis in Tehran, Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, all human cystic echinococcosis patients admitted to Tehran’s hospitals from 2011 to 2019 were enrolled, and demographic characteristics, clinical findings, and laboratory data were collected. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded and fresh tissue samples of 175 cystic echinococcosis patients were evaluated for molecular characterization. The samples’ isolated DNA was used to amplify cytochrome c oxidase I and NADH dehydrogenase subunit I genes. Also, the morphological features of fresh samples were examined. Results: In total, 175 patients with a mean age of 45 (9-98) years were admitted to Tehran’s hospitals diagnosed with cystic echinococcosis. Moreover, the highest (26.9%) and the lowest (2.9%) prevalence of cystic echinococcosis cases were in the 16-30 and 1-15 years range, respectively. Male/female ratio was 0.96 (49.1% vs. 50.9%). The liver was affected in 92 patients (52.6%), and two or more organs were infected in 7 patients (4.0%). The cysts’ diameter varied from 1 to 25 cm, and 96.0% of the patients had a single hydatid cyst. All patients underwent radical surgery and the PAIR technique was applied for all cases. No significant difference was observed between the protoscolex hooks of pulmonary and hepatic cysts. G1-G3 had the highest percentage (99.4%) over other identified G6 genotypes (0.6%). Conclusions: The sheep-dog cycle plays an important role in transmitting the human cystic echinococcosis infection in Tehran.

Background and Aim: Acanthamoeba is an opportunistic pathogen that may cause fatal granulomatous encephalitis and ocular keratitis in humans and animals. Increasing number of contact lens wearers can lead to increased frequency of amoebic keratitis and due to lack of effective drugs treatment of this disease is difficult. This study aimed to investigate the effect of ethanolic extract of Chaerophyllum macropodum on Acanthamoeba genotype T4. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, samples taken from the patients with keratitis were cultured on 1.5% non-nutrient agar medium. Different concentrations of the ethanolic extract (1.25, 2.5, 5, 10 mg/ml) were tested three times (24, 48, and 72 h) on trophozoites and cysts of Acanthamoeba in vitro. The number of live and dead parasites were counted by using trypan blue staining and neobar lam. Also, the percentage of cysts apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry. Results: In the presence of 10 mg/ml ethanolic extract in the culture medium, the percentages of live trophozoites after 24, 48, and 72 h were 53.6, 15.11, and 0 percent, respectively. In the case of cysts, after 24, 48, and 72 h, 65.31, 43.31, and 0 percent of the cysts were alive, respectively. The results of flow cytometry showed that the apoptosis rate was 0.09% in the sample treated with extract after 72 h. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of Chirophyllum macropodium can be a promising candidate for the development of anti-Acanthamoeba drugs due to its high toxic effects on the cysts. However, since the crude extract of Chaerophyllum macropodum was used in this study, further investigations are needed to find the effective fractions of the plant and determine their mechanisms of action. It can also be tested in vivo or even against other parasites

Abstract Background The species complex of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.) causes cystic echinococcosis distributed worldwide. There is no genotype information from hydatid cysts in the intermediate hosts in Central Iran. Therefore, in this study, we analyzed the hydatid cysts in livestock slaughtered in an abattoir in this region. Six hundred fifty-seven hydatid cysts were isolated from 97 animals, including sheep, cattle, camels, and goats slaughtered in Yazd abattoir from September 2018 to January 2020. The demographic data was collected as well as cyst location, fertility, and viability. Out of 657 samples, 164 samples were genotyped. Then, phylogenetic analysis was performed using MEGAX. Statistical analyses were done using SPSS version 16.0 by chi-square with a significant difference of less than 0.05. Results Out of 164 samples, the G1-G3 complex genotype had the most frequency in samples, with 135 cases recognized. The G6/G7 was observed in 19 isolates and G5 was reported in nine samples. One sample was detected as Taenia hydatigena. Conclusions This study showed that G1-G3 and G6/G7 genotypes were presented in all animals, but G5 was reported only in cattle, goats, and camels. It is the first molecular identification of cystic echinococcosis in Central Iran. Hence, reporting G5 in livestock in this area should be considered due to transmission to humans.

Background: The painful bite of Pulex irritans; causes wound on the host body and is a vector for Bartonella bacteria species, which can cause trench fever, Rickettsia species, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Mediterranean spotted fe­ver. We conducted a study to find out the hosts, abundance, as well as the molecular characteristics of this flea species in Meshkin-Shahr county, Ardabil province, northwest of Iran. Methods: After collecting fleas from different reservoir hosts and transferring them to the laboratory, identification was done using different morphological characters as well as the internal transcribed spacer1 (ITS1) molecular marker. Results: This morphological study indicated that from the 1053 fleas, which were collected from 162 different animals, including cats and dogs, 74 specimens belonged to human flea, Pulex irritans. In addition, in molecular analysis showed a high sequence similarity (99.5%) with the P. irritans counterparts from Spain country and Zanjan of Iran available in GenBank. Conclusion: Pulex irritans species is an obligatory hematophagous ectoparasite of human and animals. Therefore, con­sidering the relatively high frequency of this species on the body of cats and dogs, it is suggested to conduct more stud­ies on its distribution and the possibility of being a vector of pathogens among these animals and human. The results of these studies will be used to compile and review the control programs of this vector.

Background: Fleas (Insecta: Siphonaptera) are considered as highly specialized bloodsucking on mammals such as dogs. The existence of three factors, namely a vast distribution area, different hosts, and digestive system with a specific mecha­nism for digesting blood has led to species of fleas who nourish from mammals be introduced as the potential vectors of diseases. The aim of this study was to assess Leishmania infantum natural infection of dog fleas in northwest Iran in 2018. Methods: A total of 20 infested domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) were randomly selected from 5 villages. Fleas were collected using brushing against dog hairs and fine forceps. Then, they were morphologically identified and pre­served in ethanol for molecular assay. The kinetoplast DNA of the parasite was used for detection of Leishmania infan­tum using a semi-nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Results: The human flea, Pulex irritans, and the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis were identified on 40% and 35% of dogs, respectively. The results of PCR indicated that L. infantum was found in the Ctenocephalides canis (75%) and C. felis (66.7%) col­lected from infected dogs. No leishmanial infection was observed in P. irritans. Conclusion: It is concluded that fleas could be infected by Leishmania infantum, but maintenance of the parasite and their vectorial competence needs to be determined.

BackgroundToxoplasmosis is one of the most common infections in humans and animals, which is caused by an obligate intracellular opportunistic parasite known as Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). Some data have shown that both Rhesus (Rh)-positive and Rh-negative individuals differ in response to biological factors, including Toxoplasma infection. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the scientific evidence regarding the possible association between the Rh blood group and Toxoplasma infection and to determine the seroprevalence of T. gondii in the Rh blood group system.MethodsThe research was conducted on PubMed, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and Google Scholar databases until January 2023. Twenty-one cross-sectional studies were included with a total of 10910 people. The data were synthesized using a random effect model with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).ResultsThe overall prevalence of T. gondii was calculated at 32.34% (CI 95%: 28.23-36.45%) and 33.35% (CI 95%: 19.73-46.96%) in Rh-positive and Rh-negative blood groups. In addition, the pooled OR for the relationship between the Rh blood group and the seroprevalence of T. gondii was 0.96 (95% CI: 0.72-1.28).ConclusionsThis meta-analysis showed a high prevalence of Toxoplasma infection in both Rh-negative and positive blood groups. This systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that no significant association was found between toxoplasmosis and Rh factor. Because of the limited number of studies in this field, more research is recommended to determine the exact relationship between toxoplasmosis and the Rh factor.

Background: Sarcocystis is a genus of coccidian protozoa that at least seven species of it can parasitize cattle. The global prevalence of Sarcocystis is close to 100% in adult cattle. The main aim of this study was to identify the infection rate of Sarcocystis spp. in heart of cattle in Tehran, Iran by microscopy and PCR-RFLP methods. Methods: Totally, 100 bovine heart samples were collected from the main slaughterhouse of Shahriar, Meysam slaughterhouse, west of Tehran in 2016. At first, heart samples were completely examined for the presence of sarcocystic macrocysts. Then, for microscopic examination, 50 g of each heart was digested in sterile condition using pepsin acid digestion method. Then, the species of the parasite were detected by PCR-RFLP technique and sequencing. Results: Overall, 97 of 100 of the heart muscle samples were infected with Sarcocystis. All the samples were detected as S. cruzi through similar patterns in PCR-RFLP. Conclusion: S. cruzi is the most common species in the heart of cattle slaughtered in Shahriar.

Background: The extract of myrtle plant contains polyphenolic compounds that show antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-parasitic properties. We aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of aqueous and ethanolic myrtle extract against leishmaniasis caused by L. major in vivo and in vitro conditions. Methods: This study was carried out in Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran in 2018. Aqueous and ethanolic extract of myrtle plant at 6.25 to 400 mg/ml concentrations were tested on Leishmania major promastigotes, non-infected macrophages, and macrophages infected with amastigotes in vitro using counting, MTT and flow cytometry techniques. Then, BALB/c mice were treated with ethanolic, aqueous and a mixture of both extracts of myrtle plant. The treatment was carried out for four weeks. Then, the effectiveness of the herbal medicine was assessed by measuring wounds diameters, mice weights and their mortality rate on weekly basis. Results: The IC50 values of aqueous and ethanolic extracts for promastigotes were 7.86 and 11.66 μg/mL respectively. The IC50 values of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts for amastigotes were 12.5 and 47.2 μg/mL respectively. Flow cytometry indicates 62.88% and 60.16% apoptosis induced by ethanolic and aqueous extract of myrtle plant respectively. The lowest parasitic load was seen in the group treated with ethanolic extract. Conclusion: The lesion sizes for treated groups with extracts were similar to those treated with glucantime. Oral administration instead of injection is another advantage of myrtle plant over glucantime, which makes the herb easy and more practical.

Background: The genus Abbreviata (Spirurida: Physalopteridea) currently contains 47 species. Physalopteridae nematodes infect a large number of vertebrates, including mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. The current study is a report of the first morphological and molecular identification of A. kazakhstanica (Spirurida: Physalopteridea) in Pseudopus apodus in Iran. Methods: Eleven road-killed P. apodus, were collected from, Iran during 2016-2018. The nematodes were isolated from stomach. After morphological study, the genomic DNA of the parasites was extracted using CTAB method. The DNA was used for PCR amplification of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1). The PCR products were sequenced, the sequence data were analyzed and multiple alignments were conducted using the Clustal Omega. Results: After detailed microscopic examination, the A. kazakhstanica was identified. The cox1 sequences confirmed the species of helminth. The new sequences of A. kazakhstanica were submitted to GenBank under the accession number MK578751-2. Conclusion: Regarding the limited data on parasitological status of Iranian reptiles, more specific and comprehensive investigations are needed to identify the parasitic fauna.

Abstract Background Cystic echinococcosis (CE), is a parasitic zoonosis caused by Echinococcus granulosus (E. granulosus) larvae in liver and lungs of both humans and animals. Surgical intervention is the mainstay for CE treatment, using scolicidal agents that inactivate live protoscolices. This study evaluated the scolicidal effects of Silybum marianum ethanolic extract and its combination with albendazole in vitro for the first time. Moreover, in a literature review, we investigated the effects of a wide range of Iranian medicinal plants on protoscolices of E. granulosus. Methods S. marianum ethanolic extract was prepared and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis was used to establish the proportions of its component compounds in the extract. Cytotoxicity was evaluated in mouse macrophage cells (J774A.1 cell line) using MTT method. Next, the scolicidal activity of the extract alone and combined with albendazole was tested as triplicate at various concentrations incubated for 5, 10, 20, 30, and 60 min. Finally, protoscolex viability was determined using 0.1% eosin as a vital stain. PCR–RFLP and DNA sequencing techniques were used to characterize the genotype of E. granulosus. Results HPLC analysis showed that S. marianum ethanolic extract contained mostly silydianin (14.41%), isosilybin A (10.50%), and silychristin (10.46%). The greatest scolicidal effects were obtained with the combination of S. marianum with albendazole (79%), S. marianum ethanolic extract alone (77%) and albendazole (69%), at a concentration of 500 μg/ml for 60 min, respectively (P

Background: Recently, a hypothesis about the negative relationship between cancers and parasites has been proposed and investigated; some parasitic worms and their products can affect the cancer cell proliferation. Due to the potential anti-cancer effect of helminthic parasites, in the present study, the excretory–secretory protein of Toxocara canis (T. canis) parasite was used to evaluate the possible anti-cancer properties and their effect on gastrointestinal and liver cancer cell proliferation-related genes in laboratory conditions.Methods and materials: The selected synthesized peptide fraction from the T. canis excretory–secretory Troponin protein peptide (ES TPP) was exposed at 32, 64, 128, and 256 μg/ml concentrations to three gastrointestinal cancer cell lines AGS, HT-29, and Caco 2, as well as HDF cells as normal cell lines. We used the MTT assay to evaluate cellular changes and cell viability (CV). Variations in gene (Bcl-2, APAF1, ZEB1, VEGF, cyclin-D1, and caspase-3) expression were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR.Results: After 24 h of exposure to pept1ides and cell lines, a decrease in CV was observed at a concentration of 64 μg/ml and compared to the control group. Then, after 48 h, a significant decrease in the CV of Caco 2 cells was observed at a concentration of 32 μg/ml; in the other cancer cell lines, concentrations above 32 μg/ml were effective. The peptide was able to significantly alter the expression of the studied genes at a concentration of 100 μg/ml.Conclusion: Although the studied peptide at high concentrations could have a statistically significant effect on cancer cells, it is still far from the standard drug and can be optimized and promising in future studies.

BackgroundBlastocystis sp. is a common intestinal parasite, possibly responsible for diarrhea, vomiting and nausea, abdominal pain, and irritable bowel syndrome. However, many studies focused on this issue due to the uncertainty of its pathogenic potential. The extracellular vesicles (EVs) are significant mediators for cellular communication, carrying biological molecules such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Compared with other parasites, little is known about the Blastocystis EVs. Hence the present investigation was done.MethodsThe Blastocystis parasites were cultured in the DMEM medium, and a 550–585 bp fragment was amplified using PCR, and sequencing was done. A commercial kit was used for exosome extraction and dynamic light scattering (DLS), flow cytometry (CD63, CD81 markers), and electron microscopy tests to determine their morphology. The human leukemia monocytic cell line (THP-1) was exposed to Blastocystis EVs. Next, the expression of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), were measured using quantitative PCR.ResultsExosomes were extracted from ST1-3 Blastocystis sp. According to the DLS assay, the size of the exosomes was in the range of 30–100 nm. Electron microscopy images and CD63 and CD81 markers also confirmed the exosome's size, structure, and morphology. According to real-time PCR results, ST1-derived exosomes caused IL-6 and TNF-α upregulation and IL-10 and IL-4 downregulation, ST2- and ST3-derived exosomes downregulated IL-10, and ST3-derived exosomes caused IL-6 upregulation. There is a statistically significant difference (P ≤ 0.05).ConclusionTo our knowledge, this is the first report of the release of exosome-like vesicles by the human parasite, Blastocystis, and the provided information demonstrates the role of this parasite, particularly ST1 on proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and navigating the host response.

Background: Toxoplasmosis is a global public health concern with severe complications, particularly in pregnant women and immunosuppressed patients. Herein, we revealed the first genotypic evidence of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) in diabetic and non-diabetic individuals referred to Imam Sajjad Hospital, Tehran, Iran, using nested-Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and sequencing. Materials and Methods: We collected 98, 95, and 94 blood samples from Type-1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM), Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), and control subjects from February to August 2018, and their DNA was extracted. After amplification and visualization of dense granule antigen 6 gene (344 bp) using external and internal primer pairs, the positive samples were sent for sequencing. Results: Among 287 individuals, three T1DM patients (two IgG, one IgM) and one T2DM patient (IgG) were found positive by molecular method, which proved to be type III strain by sequencing. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first genotyping investigation on T. gondii in diabetic individuals. Further research should be done to better realize the association between Toxoplasma genotypes and the outcome of diabetes mellitus.

This study provides a comprehensive simulation for understanding the influence of EV growth and its external factors on grid stability and offers insights into effective management strategies. To manage the growth of battery-based electric vehicles (BEVs) in Indonesia and mitigate their impact on the power grid's supply–demand equilibrium, regulatory adjustments and subsidies can be implemented by the government. The Jawa-Madura-Bali (Jamali) electrical system, as the largest in Indonesia, is challenged with accommodating the rising number of vehicles. Following an analysis of Jamali's electricity supply using data from the National Electricity Company (RUPTL), simulations are constructed to model the grid's demand side. Input variables such as Jamali's population, the numbers of internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles, initial charging times (ICT), slow and fast charging ratios, and BEV charge load curves are simulated. Scenario variables, including supply capacity growth rate, vehicle population growth rate, subsidy impact on EV attractiveness, ICT, and fast charging ratio, are subsequently simulated for the 2024–2029 period. Four key simulation outcomes are identified. The best-case scenario (scenario 1776) achieves the highest EV growth with minimal grid disruption, resulting in a 45.38% EV percentage in 2029 and requiring an annual allocation of 492 billion rupiah to match supply with demand. The worst-case scenario leads to a 23.12% EV percentage, necessitating 47,566 billion rupiah for EV subsidies in 2029. Additionally, the most and least probable scenarios based on the literature research are evaluated. This novel simulation and its results provide insights into EV growth's impact on the grid's balance in one presidential term from 2024 to 2029, aiding the government in planning regulations and subsidies effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The progression of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) invasion is aided by rhoptry proteins (ROPs), which are also crucial for the parasite's survival in host cells. In this study, in silico analysis was performed to examine the various aspects of the ROP29 protein, such as physicochemical properties, potential T‐ and B‐cell epitopes, and other significant features. The research revealed that there were 55 possible sites for posttranslational modification in the ROP29 protein. The secondary structure of the ROP29 protein consists of a random coil, an alpha‐helix, and an extended strand, which account for 49.69%, 36.81%, and 13.50%, respectively. Moreover, a number of putative T‐ and B‐cell epitopes for ROP29 were found. The Ramachandran plot showed that 88.91% (crude model) and 97.54% (refine model) of the amino acid residues were located in the favored regions. Also, the testing of this protein's antigenicity and allergenicity showed that it was nonallergenic and immunogenic. Our results suggested that employing in silico tools to apply structural and functional predictions to the ROP29 protein can lower the likelihood that laboratory investigations will fail. This research served as a crucial foundation for further research. More research is required in the future in suitable animal model employing ROP29 alone or in combination with other antigens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Iran is one of the endemic areas of Mediterranean Visceral Leishmaniasis, a disease caused by Leishmania infantum. In this work, we examined whether Proteína quimérica 10 (PQ10) recombinant protein is suitable for immunological diagnosis of human visceral leishmaniasis. Methods: The study was carried out in Tarbiat Modares University during 2016-2018. The coding sequence of PQ10 recombinant protein was sub-cloned in pET28 expression vector and was commercially synthesized by GENERAY Biotechnology, China. Sequencing with proper primers was done, the expression, optimization of expression and protein purification were performed, and the purified recombinant protein was confirmed by western blot. The efficacy of PQ10 for serodiagnosis was evaluated with 50 positive and 50 negative serum samples, which confirmed by the direct agglutination test and collected from individuals living in the visceral leishmaniasis endemic areas of Iran. ELISA was performed with the PQ10 recombinant protein. Results: The 95% CI sensitivity of ELISA that was evaluated with sera from naturally infected individuals was 84%. The 95% CI specificity value of the ELISA determined with sera from healthy individuals (50 serum samples) and from individuals with other infectious diseases was 82%. The 95% CI positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were exterminated 82.35% and 83.67%, respectively. Conclusion: We have used a recombinant synthetic protein to improve serodiagnosis of human visceral leishmaniasis. PQ10 could be useful for diagnosis of asymptomatic cases, as well as in the early phase of infections.

The stability and economic level of the power system operation during the penetration of Wind Power Plants (WPPs) are much determined by the variability and uncertainty of the wind power output. The characteristics of seasonal wind power output can be used to define the optimal operating reserves of a stable and cost-effective power system operation. This paper proposes a comprehensive algorithm of hybrid Artificial Intelligence (AI) approach that combines the Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) and selected Neural Network Variants (NNVs) in Seasonal Daily Variability and Uncertainty (SDVU) scheme. Among all NNVs, Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) shows the most consistent and accurate results. With the hybrid AI approach, this algorithm calculates the Dynamic Confidence Level (DCL) to determine hourly operating reserves on a daily basis. The proposed algorithm has been successfully tested using historical data of real-world WPPs that operated in Indonesia. Furthermore, the comparison toward non-seasonal with a Static Confidence Level (SCL) in several percentile scenarios is made to prove the cost-effectiveness advantages of this new algorithm that may save up to 4.2% of total daily energy consumption. An interface application is added so that the results of this research can be directly utilized by users both on the observed power system and generally in Indonesia.

Background: Fleas (Insecta: Siphonaptera) are considered as highly specialized bloodsucking on mammals such as humans, livestock, dog, cat, rabbit, squirrels, rats, and mice. The desire for blood feeding from warm-blooded animals has led to becoming an intermediate host for some tapeworms like Dipylidium. The aim of this study was to detect D. caninum larval infection in fleas of dogs living in Meshkinshahr County, northwest of Iran. Methods: Fleas were collected from 42 dogs using brushing the hair in Meshkinshahr for one year (2014-2015). After the morphological study, fleas were preserved in 90% ethanol for molecular identification. After DNA extraction, the 28S ribosomal RNA gene (~670 bp) of D. caninum was amplified using specific primers. Finally, the PCR products were sequenced. Results: Overs, 974 fleas were collected from the dogs. In the morphological study, three species Ctenocephalides canis, Ct. felis, and Pulex irritans were identified. PCR and sequence analysis results showed that 4 isolates Ct. Canis were infected with D. caninum. Also, no positive specimens were isolated from the other two species. Conclusion: Ct. canis is reported as the most important species of fleas in transferring D. caninum in that region.

Background: Studies on experimental model of cancer showed that hydatid cyst fluid (HCF) has antitumor activity. We aimed to investigate the effect of HCF and Antigen B (AgB) on 4T1 breast tumor cells in BALB/c mice. Methods: This study was carried out in the Department of Parasitology, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran from 2019 to 2020. There were two control groups of BALB/c mice (one group were injected with aluminum sulfate and another group with PBS), and six groups, injected via the intraperitoneal route with 100, 300 and 500 μg/ml concentrations of HCF, AgB diluted in 100 μl PBS, and alum. Seven days after the last treatment, 7×105 4T1 cells were subcutaneously injected into the right flank of BALB/c mice. Results: The difference between the mean size of the tumor in the case and control groups was statistically significant (P

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that can infect humans and animals. As the choice drug have shown side effects, development a new drug with low toxicity will be necessary. Methods: BALB/c mice were infected with tachyzoiets of T. gondii. After treatment by oral and parenteral artemether (250 µg/mice) and sulfadiazine (50 µg/mice), we evaluated the rates of survival in treated and control mice. The fold change of B1 gene (target gene) expression in liver and brain of mice treated with parenteral artemether (i.p.), oral artemether (via gavage) and sulfadiazine, were detected by using the Real-Time quantitative PCR. Results: Both treatment with sulfadiazine and artemether showed significant prolongation in time to death of the infected mice compared to the control group. Median survival days for parenteral artemether, oral artemether, sulfadiazine and control group were 8, 11, 12 and 6 d respectively. Expression of B1 gene in liver and brain of mice after treatment with artemether and sulfadiazine were reduced in comparison to housekeeping gene (β-tubulin gene). The fold change (comparing to control group) for parenteral artemether, oral artemether, sulfadiazine is 0.034, 0.027 and 0.111 for liver and 0.220, 0.425 and 0.366 for brain respectively. Conclusion: Artemether is effective to control the tachyzoites of T. godii in vivo conditions and oral treatment is more effective than parenteral treatment. Due to its low cytotoxicity and its high effective action against the tachyzoietes of T. godii in susceptible animals.

Background: Malaria is one of the major health problems in endemic countries like Afghanistan. Evidence has been reported about reducing the effects of chloroquine against Plasmodium falciparum in many endemic countries. The aim of this study was to investigate the resistance mutations in pfmdr1 and pfdhfr genes of P. falciparum samples detected in blood samples of malaria patients in Laghman Province, Afghanistan. Methods: Samples were taken on DNA retention cards and 3 glass slides (thin and thick spread) from Laghman Province, Afghanistan in 2018. The pfmdr and pfdhfr mutations in 30 P. falciparum positive samples were examined using PCR-RFLP techniques. The PCR product was then sequenced to determine the mutation at the N86Y and D1246Y mutations of the pfmdr1 and N51, C59, I164, S108 and A16 points of pfdhfr genes. Results: In the pfmdr1 gene, all samples were wild-type and no mutation was detected at point 86 and D1246Y. In the pfdhfr gene sequences using CLC main workbench software no mutations were detected at codons 16, 51. However, some mutation was observed at codons 59, 108 and 164. These mutations were L164I, S108N and C59R. Conclusion: Our findings provide evidence of the possible emergence of fansidar-resistant specimens in Laghman. The data of this study provide the basis for future prospective studies in other endemic areas of Afghanistan. The absence of significant mutations in P. falciparum samples of Laghman Province may indicate that this parasite may have switched to chloroquine re-sensitization in this area.