Typhoid and Non-Typhoid Salmonellosis Related Mortality in Iran, National Data from the Ministry of Health

Background

Despite the declining trend, salmonellosis is still an important preventable cause of death in Iran and the world, especially in certain age and occupational subgroups, and the need for preventive measures, especially raising awareness of at-risk groups, is necessary.

Methods

Data were obtained from the Ministry of Health covering the years 2013 to 2019. The data were then stratified by year, season, month, and province of death as well as sex, age group, belonging to rural vs. urban communities and cause of death and were then analyzed using SPSS to report differences in age, sex, seasonal patterns, and spatial distribution.

Results

Non-typhoid salmonellosis (NTS) and typhoid were recorded as the cause of 800 and 32 deaths, respectively, with the highest number in 2015 and 2013. Septicemia was the cause of 87.3% of deaths due to NTS, whereas typhoid was the cause of 62.5% of its respective cases. The highest percentage of death related to both occurred in spring (P<0.001). NTS mortality rates were higher in the 70-80 and 80-90 age groups, while typhoid mortality was greatest in the under 10 yr age group. NTS mortality was higher in urban while typhoid mortality was higher in rural areas (P<0.001). Most deaths occurred in Ardabil, Sistan and Baluchistan and Khorasan Razavi provinces and Sistan and Baluchistan, West Azerbaijan and Khorasan Razavi related to NTS and typhoid, respectively.

Conclusion

Salmonella remains a preventable cause of death, especially among the elderly and children, the data gathered in this study provides important information for priority setting in specific subpopulations and food safety policy.

Effects of oral propranolol on the resistive and pulsatility indices of major abdominal vasculatures in domestic short-haired cats

BACKGROUND

No study has been performed regarding the effects of oral administration of propranolol on pulse-wave spectral Doppler indices of major abdominal vessels in healthy adult cats.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess the pulse-wave spectral Doppler indices of abdominal aorta, caudal vena cava, and portal vein in clinically normal adult domestic short-haired (DSH) cats, before and after propranolol ingestion.

METHODS

Twenty intact adult client-owned DSH cats were evaluated (10 males and 10 females). A duplex Doppler ultrasonography machine with a 10-MHz frequency linear transducer was used. Peak systolic velocity, end-diastolic velocity (EDV), resistive index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), and pressure gradient were measured. All the cats received 1 mg/kg of propranolol tablet, and after 2 h, ultrasonography measurements were repeated.

RESULTS

The mean RI of the aorta and caudal vena cava significantly decreased in male cats following oral administration of propranolol after 2 h (p = 0.03, p = 0.02). In the caudal vena cava, the PI decreased from 2.98 ± 0.62 to 1.15 ± 0.19 post-propranolol ingestion (p = 0.01). The mean EDV in the caudal vena cava of males and portal veins of females significantly decreased after propranolol ingestion (p = 0.04, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that propranolol decreased the PI of the aorta and PI and RI of the caudal vena cava in healthy normal cats 2 h post-propranolol ingestion at the dosage of 1 mg/kg.

STAT3 signaling in prostate cancer progression and therapy resistance: An oncogenic pathway with diverse functions

The categorization of cancers demonstrates that prostate cancer is the most common malignancy in men and it causes high death annually. Prostate cancer patients are diagnosed mainly via biomarkers such as PSA test and patients show poor prognosis. Prostate cancer cells rapidly diffuse into different parts of body and their metastasis is also a reason for death. Current therapies for prostate cancer patients include chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy as well as targeted therapy. The progression of prostate cancer cells is regulated by different factors that STAT3 signaling is among them. Growth factors and cytokines such as IL-6 can induce STAT3 signaling and it shows carcinogenic impact. Activation of STAT3 signaling occurs in prostate cancer and it promotes malignant behavior of tumor cells. Induction of STAT3 signaling increases glycolysis and proliferation of prostate cancer cells and prevents apoptosis. Furthermore, STAT3 signaling induces EMT mechanism in increasing cancer metastasis. Activation of STAT3 signaling stimulates drug resistance and the limitation of current works is lack of experiment related to role of STAT3 signaling in radio-resistance in prostate tumor. Calcitriol, capsazepine and β-elemonic are among the compounds capable of targeting STAT3 signaling and its inhibition in prostate cancer therapy. In addition to natural products, small molecules targeting STAT3 signaling have been developed in prostate cancer therapy.

The burden of lower respiratory infections and their underlying etiologies in the Middle East and North Africa region, 1990-2019: results from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019

BACKGROUND

Lower respiratory infections (LRIs) cause substantial mortality and morbidity. The present study reported and analysed the burden of LRIs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region between 1990 and 2019, by age, sex, etiology, and socio-demographic index (SDI).

METHODS

The data used in this study were sourced from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study 2019. The annual incidence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) due to LRIs were presented as counts and age-standardised rates per 100,000 population, along with their 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs). The average annual percent changes (AAPC) in the age-standardised incidence, death and DALYs rates were calculated using Joinpoint software and correlations (Pearson's correlation coefficient) between the AAPCs and SDIs were calculated using Stata software.

RESULTS

In 2019, there were 34.1 million (95% UI 31.7-36.8) incident cases of LRIs in MENA, with an age-standardised rate of 6510.2 (95% UI 6063.6-6997.8) per 100,000 population. The number of regional DALYs was 4.7 million (95% UI 3.9-5.4), with an age-standardised rate of 888.5 (95% UI 761.1-1019.9) per 100,000 population, which has decreased since 1990. Furthermore, Egypt [8150.8 (95% UI 7535.8-8783.5)] and Afghanistan [61.9 (95% UI 52.1-72.6)] had the highest age-standardised incidence and death rates, respectively. In 2019, the regional incidence and DALY rates were highest in the 1-4 age group, in both females and males. In terms of deaths, pneumococcus and H. influenza type B were the most and least common types of LRIs, respectively. From 1990 to 2019, the burden of LRIs generally decreased with increasing SDI. There were significant positive correlations between SDI and the AAPCs for the age-standardised incidence, death and DALY rates (p < 0.05). Over the 1990-2019 period, the regional incidence, deaths and DALYs attributable to LRIs decreased with AAPCs of - 1.19% (- 1.25 to - 1.13), - 2.47% (- 2.65 to - 2.28) and - 4.21% (- 4.43 to - 3.99), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The LRI-associated burden in the MENA region decreased between 1990 and 2019. SDI had a significant positive correlation with the AAPC and pneumococcus was the most common underlying cause of LRIs. Afghanistan, Yemen and Egypt had the largest burdens in 2019. Further studies are needed to investigate the effectiveness of healthcare interventions and programs to control LRIs and their risk factors.

Reconstruction of molecular evolution of human influenza A H1N1/2009 virus in Iran and neighboring countries

In this study, the time and path of transmission of H1N1 serotype influenza A viruses in Iran and neighboring countries have been investigated by using Bayesian phylogeography analysis on the sequences extracted from the gene bank. We obtained all hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) nucleotide sequences of influenza H1N1 available up to December 25, 2020, from Iran and its neighboring countries (i.e., Pakistan, Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkey, and Iraq). We also performed a Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo method to infer the evolutionary dynamic and the most recent common ancestor for the HA and NA sequences. Based on the extracted sequences, the age of emergence of H1N1 influenza virus serotype was older in Iran compared to neighboring countries, and with some degree of uncertainty, it seems Tehran had a key role and epicenter of transmission to other cities within Iran. The mean time of the most recent common ancestor of H1N1 viruses was 1989 (95% HPD: 1980-1994) for HA and NA as well. Along with ordinary measures like resource management, diagnostic approaches, and preparedness to fight against viruses that were in place, continuous monitoring, and screening of H1N1 serotype influenza virus in the country, especially by implementation of feasible, effective, and innovative measures at borderline should be initiated and identified gaps and shortage that should be a priority for virus control. It is also important for countries to have a regional monitoring program in addition to internal monitoring programs, as well as to start a virus molecular care program.

Chitosan-based nanoscale systems for doxorubicin delivery: Exploring biomedical application in cancer therapy

Green chemistry has been a growing multidisciplinary field in recent years showing great promise in biomedical applications, especially for cancer therapy. Chitosan (CS) is an abundant biopolymer derived from chitin and is present in insects and fungi. This polysaccharide has favorable characteristics, including biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ease of modification by enzymes and chemicals. CS-based nanoparticles (CS-NPs) have shown potential in the treatment of cancer and other diseases, affording targeted delivery and overcoming drug resistance. The current review emphasizes on the application of CS-NPs for the delivery of a chemotherapeutic agent, doxorubicin (DOX), in cancer therapy as they promote internalization of DOX in cancer cells and prevent the activity of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) to reverse drug resistance. These nanoarchitectures can provide co-delivery of DOX with antitumor agents such as curcumin and cisplatin to induce synergistic cancer therapy. Furthermore, co-loading of DOX with siRNA, shRNA, and miRNA can suppress tumor progression and provide chemosensitivity. Various nanostructures, including lipid-, carbon-, polymeric- and metal-based nanoparticles, are modifiable with CS for DOX delivery, while functionalization of CS-NPs with ligands such as hyaluronic acid promotes selectivity toward tumor cells and prevents DOX resistance. The CS-NPs demonstrate high encapsulation efficiency and due to protonation of amine groups of CS, pH-sensitive release of DOX can occur. Furthermore, redox- and light-responsive CS-NPs have been prepared for DOX delivery in cancer treatment. Leveraging these characteristics and in view of the biocompatibility of CS-NPs, we expect to soon see significant progress towards clinical translation.

The prospect of targeting T cell immunoglobulin and mucin-domain containing-3 in renal cell carcinoma immunotherapy

Despite the advances in the diagnosis and treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), it remains one of the most deadly urological cancers. At present, using immune checkpoint inhibition and their combination with antiangiogenic therapy is the standard of care in patients with advanced RCC. Unfortunately, a considerable part of tumour-bearing hosts does not benefit from this type of treatment. However, our knowledge about the detailed role of mucin-domain containing-3 (TIM-3) in the RCC cells is little, and further studies are required in this field, but its significant expression in the RCC microenvironment makes this receptor a promising target for designing new monoclonal antibodies alone or in combination with other checkpoint inhibitors for RCC immunotherapy.

Evaluation of maternal antibodies against rabies in puppies and kittens in Mazandaran Province, Iran

ABSTRACT Rabies is a critical zoonotic high-risk disease, which has emerged as an important public-health problem. There are limited investigations that explore maternally derived antibody (MDA) in puppies and kittens from around the world. Furthermore, there is no such research in any province of Iran. This study measured the serum level of MDA in 10 puppies and their vaccinated bitches (n=20), 10 puppies and their unvaccinated bitches (n=20), 10 kittens with vaccinated queens and 10 kittens with unvaccinated queens. Antibodies against rabies were measured using quantitative, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results showed that 90% (9 out of 10) of puppies from vaccinated bitches were positive for anti-rabies antibodies, while test results for all puppies from non-vaccinated bitches were negative (P=0.001). Moreover, puppies’ titers were significantly higher in the vaccinated group than the non-vaccinated group (P=0.003). There was a similar condition between vaccinated and non-vaccinated bitches (P=0.008). Although kittens’ titers were significantly higher in the vaccinated group than the non-vaccinated group (P=0.03), only 20 percent of the kittens with vaccinated queens showed positive results, while all kittens from non-vaccinated queens were negative for anti-rabies antibodies (P=0.137).

Effect of medetomidine on left ventricular outflow tract velocity in cats: A Doppler echocardiography study

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate effects of medetomidine on left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) velocity in domestic short-haired cats. Eighteen healthy adult male domestic short-haired cats were used for this study. All animals were client-owned. Echocardiography machine with 7.50 MHz transducer was used. Specific veterinary two-dimensional and pulse-waved echocardiogram images in apical five chamber right parasternal view were obtained and blood velocity in LVOT was calculated. After baseline echocardiographic recordings, 0.04 mg kg^-1 of medetomidine was intramuscularly administered to each animal and LVOT velocity was calculated after 15 (T15), 50 (T30) and 80 (T80) min following drug administration. The LVOT velocity values (mean SEM) of cats in baseline were 1.06 0.04 m sec^-1. There were significant differences between baseline and T15 and T30 regarding mean LVOT values. Age and weight had no significant effect on LVOT velocity values. The LVOT velocity values of T15, T50 and T80 were 0.77 0.04, 0.80 0.02 and 0.960.03 m sec^-1, respectively. Our findings revealed significant decrease in mean LVOT velocity up to 50 min following medetomidine administration. The present study determined normal LVOT velocity range for a small population of cats before and after intra-muscular medetomidine administration.

The role of nutritional interventions in prostate cancer: A review

The high prevalence rate in conjunction with the long latency period made prostate cancer (PCa) an attractive and reasonable candidate for preventive measures. So far, several dietary and nutritional interventions have been implemented and studied with the aim of preventing the development or delaying the progression of PCa. Calorie restriction accompanied by weight loss has been shown to be associated with decreased likelihood of aggressive PCa. Supplements have played a major role in nutritional interventions. While genistein and lycopene seemed promising as preventive agents, minerals such as zinc and selenium were shown to be devoid of protective effects. The role of vitamins has been widely studied, with special emphasis on vitamins with antioxidant properties. Data related to Vitamin A and Vitamin C were rather controversial and positive effects were of insignificant magnitude. Vitamin E was associated with a decreased risk of PCa in high-risk groups like smokers. However, when it comes to Vitamin D, the serum levels might affect the risk of PCa. While deficiency of this vitamin was associated with increased risk, high serum levels imposed the risk of aggressive disease. Despite the seemingly promising effects of dietary measures on PCa, no firm recommendation could be made due to the limitations of the studies and evidence. However, the majority of these advices could be followed by the patients with the intent of living a healthy lifestyle.

The Potential of T Cell Immunoglobulin and Mucin-Domain containing-3 (Tim-3) in Designing Novel Immunotherapy for Bladder Cancer

Targeting inhibitory receptors on T cells in the tumor sites can promote effective anti-tumor immunity in bladder cancer. Unfortunately, the main dilemma is that a large number of patients remain refractory to CTLA-4, PD-1, and PD-L1 blockade therapies. T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 3 (Tim-3) is an inhibitory receptor expressed on T cells and innate immune cells. Both in vivo and in vitro data from patients with advanced cancers support the role of Tim-3 inhibition in satisfactory anti-tumor immunity. In bladder cancer, the expression level of Tim-3 significantly increases with advanced pathological grade and T stage. Therefore, rationality implies that designing novel monoclonal antibodies reactive with Tim-3 alone or in combination with other checkpoint inhibitors may indicate a favorable response in bladder cancer. Here, we aimed to investigate the possibility of targeting Tim-3 as a novel anti-cancer treatment for bladder cancer.

Temporal analysis of visceral leishmaniasis between 2000 and 2019 in Ardabil Province, Iran: A time-series study using ARIMA model

Background:

Visceral leishmaniasis in human (VLH) also known as kala-azar is a neglected disease of humans that mainly occurs in more than 50 countries mostly located in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Northern America.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to determine the temporal patterns and predict of occurrence of VL in Ardabil Province, in northwestern Iran using autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models.

Methods:

This descriptive study employed yearly and monthly data of 602 cases of VLH in the province between January 2000 to December 2019, which was provided by the leishmaniasis national surveillance system. The monthly occurrences case constructed the ARIMA model of time-series model. The insignificance of the correlation in the lags of 12, 24 and 36 months, and Chi-square test showed the occurrence of VLH does not have a seasonal pattern. Eleven potential ARIMA models were examined for VLH cases. Finally, the best model was selected with the lower Akaike Information Criteria (AIC) and Bayesian information criterion (BIC) value. Then, the selected model was used to forecast frequency of monthly occurrences case. The forecasting precision was estimated by mean absolute percentage error (MAPE). Data analysis was performed using Stata14 and its package time series analysis.

Results:

ARIMA (5, 0, 1) model with AIC (25.7) and BIC (43.35) was selected. The MAPE value was 26.89% and the portmanteau test for white noise was (Q = 23.02, P = 0.98) for the residuals of the selected model showed that the data were fully modelled. The total cumulative VLH cases in the next 24 months’ in Ardabil province predicted 14 cases (95% CI: 4-54 case).

Conclusion:

The ARIMA (5, 0, 1) model can be a useful tool to predict VLH cases as early warning system and the results are helpful for policy makers and primary care physicians in the readiness of public health problems before the outbreak of the disease.

A review of medications used to control and improve the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 patients

In December 2019, an unprecedented outbreak of pneumonia associated with a novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emerged in Wuhan City, Hubei province, China. The virus that caused the disease was officially named by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). According to the high transmission rate of SARS-CoV-2, it became a global pandemic and public health emergency within few months. Since SARS-CoV-2 is genetically 80% homologous with the SARS-CoVs family, it is hypothesized that medications developed for the treatment of SARS-CoVs may be useful in the control and management of SARS-CoV-2. In this regard, some medication being tested in clinical trials and in vitro studies include anti-viral RNA polymerase inhibitors, HIV-protease inhibitors, anti-inflammatory agents, angiotensin converting enzyme type 2 (ACE 2) blockers, and some other novel medications. In this communication, we reviewed the general characteristics of medications, medical usage, mechanism of action, as well as SARS-CoV-2 related trials.

Survey of Salmonella infections in broiler farms in Iran during 2013-2014: a cross-sectional study

Background and Objectives:

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Salmonella at broiler breeder farms of Iran and investigate the factors underlying salmonellosis in these farms. This is a cross-sectional investigation conducted in 23 provinces of Iran.

Materials and Methods:

Fecal samples were collected from 139 broiler breeder farms in the country and standard bacteriological tests were carried out on the samples for the isolation of Salmonella. The serological tests were then applied for the samples that were positive in the bacteriological test. The information on the sampled farms extracted from the Iran GIS-VET Monitoring and Surveillance System was used for the analysis of the risk factors.

Results:

A total of 11 farms out of the 139 sampled farms were infected with Salmonella with the largest number of infected cases related to Tehran and Fars Provinces.

Conclusion:

The statistical analysis results showed that flocks with older ages and farms with larger number of houses are at greater risk of Salmonella infection.

Seroprevalence of toxoplasma gondii infection: An umbrella review of updated systematic reviews and meta-analyses

Objectives:

Toxoplasmosis is one of the neglected parasitic disease in humans and animals that produced via toxoplasma gondii. This study we implemented an umbrella review of all existing systematic reviews, meta-analyzing studies to apprise, and summarize seroprevalence of human toxoplasmosis in worldwide.

Methods:

The search was carried out in databases including: Pub Med, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, and global health from their start dates until December 2018 in Persian and English language. A total of 21 systematics review and meta-analysis met the inclusion criteria of umbrella review. The Q test and the I² statistic were used to evaluate heterogeneities. Quality assessment were performed and made use of the AMSTAR tool.

Results:

The estimated pooled seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in blood donors, Immunocompromised patients, childbearing age women, general population, newborns and children, pregnant women and overall was 33% (95% CI, 29.0–38.0%), 42.0% (95 CI, 34.0–49.0%), 32.0% (CI, 26.0–38.0%), 42.0% (CI, 38.0–45.0%), 4.0% (CI, 2.0–5.0%), 40.0% (CI,37.0–44.0%), and 36% (CI, 24.0–48.0%), respectively.

Conclusion:

The results of our umbrella review show a higher seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in immunocompromised patients, general population, pregnant women, blood donors, childbearing age women, and newborn groups, respectively. Routine serologic screening test and health education by primary care physicians for Toxoplasmosis is recommended to be conducted in high-risk groups in the endemic region.

Progress in Delivery of siRNA-Based Therapeutics Employing Nano-Vehicles for Treatment of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PCa) accounts for a high number of deaths in males with no available curative treatments. Patients with PCa are commonly diagnosed in advanced stages due to the lack of symptoms in the early stages. Recently, the research focus was directed toward gene editing in cancer therapy. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) intervention is considered as a powerful tool for gene silencing (knockdown), enabling the suppression of oncogene factors in cancer. This strategy is applied to the treatment of various cancers including PCa. The siRNA can inhibit proliferation and invasion of PCa cells and is able to promote the anti-tumor activity of chemotherapeutic agents. However, the off-target effects of siRNA therapy remarkably reduce its efficacy in PCa therapy. To date, various carriers were designed to improve the delivery of siRNA and, among them, nanoparticles are of importance. Nanoparticles enable the targeted delivery of siRNAs and enhance their potential in the downregulation of target genes of interest. Additionally, nanoparticles can provide a platform for the co-delivery of siRNAs and anti-tumor drugs, resulting in decreased growth and migration of PCa cells. The efficacy, specificity, and delivery of siRNAs are comprehensively discussed in this review to direct further studies toward using siRNAs and their nanoscale-delivery systems in PCa therapy and perhaps other cancer types.

Intestinal microsporidia infection among cat owners and non-pet owners in Iran: a case-control study

Microsporidia is a group of spore-forming microorganisms with zoonotic potential. This study aimed to compare intestinal microsporidia infections in cat owners and non-pet owners. In total, 210 fecal samples were collected from indoor cats, cat owners, and non-pet owners. DNA extraction was performed and the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene was amplified. To characterize the genotypes, the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) fragment was amplified and sequenced. The phylogenetic trees were drawn to evaluate the relationship among Enterocytozoon bieneusi isolates. Two (2.9%) and one (1.4%) fecal samples from cat owners and one (1.4%) and two (2.9%) fecal samples from non-pet owners were positive for E. bieneusi and Encephalitozoon intestinalis, respectively. E. bieneusi was detected in two cat samples (2.9%). Same infection was not seen between infected cats and their owners. There was no significant difference between the prevalence rate of microsporidia among the cat owners and non-pet owners. Indeed, the genotypes L and type IV were seen in cats, while the genotype D was only detected in human. In this study, E. bieneusi and E. intestinalis were more prevalent among the cat owners and non-pet owners, respectively. Indeed, the higher prevalence of E. bieneusi in cats and their owners might be resulted from the worldwide distribution of this species.

Trend of Changes in the Titer of Antibody against Avian Influenza Virus H9n2 during Raising Period in Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Broiler Farms in Qazvin Province, Iran: A Cohort Study

Avian influenza virus (AIV) H9N2 is endemic in Iran and its large-scale circulation in the poultry industry of the country is devastating. This virus was first reported in the industrial poultry populations of Iran in July 1998. Some of the published studies showed that inactivated avian influenza (AI) vaccines are capable of inducing an immune response and providing protection against morbidity and mortality in different countries (Vasfi et al., 2002; Tavakkoli et al., 2011). Low pathogenicity avian influenza subtype H9N2 virus has been reported to have a zoonotic potential and widespread distribution in Iran. Therefore, water-in-oil emulsion vaccines are employed to control the disease in chickens (Nili and Asasi, 2003). This cohort study was conducted during July 2016-November 2017 in broiler chicken farms of Qazvin province, Iran to investigate the serological change trends in broiler chickens in this region. Level of immunity against the H9N2 virus was evaluated by hemagglutination inhibition assay. Fifteen farms out of thirty enrolled units used AI H9N2 killed vaccines. The minimum of mean antibody titers (MATs) was 4.54-2.42 and the maximum of MATs was 4.54+2.42 on day 3. In addition, the minimum and maximum MATs on day 50 were 0.4-0.64 and 0.4+0.064, respectively. The transfer rate of H9N2 AIV antibodies from the serum of breeders to the serum of chickens was calculated as 60.35% in our study. A significant difference was revealed between the maternal mean antibody titers (MMATs) and the MATs on day 3 (P&amp;lt;0.001). In addition, the difference between the MATs on day 3 and the MATs on day 10 was found to be significant (P&amp;lt;0.01). Moreover, MATs were significantly different between the vaccinated and unvaccinated herds on day 40 (P&amp;lt;0.05), while no significant difference was observed on days 3, 10, 20, and 30 (P&amp;gt;0.05). According to the results of this study, antibody titers in the vaccinated farms did not reach the protective level until the end of the rearing period. Most of the unvaccinated herds experienced a spurt in antibody titers due to exposure to the virus. Consequently, biosecurity measures must be implemented more seriously and strictly in broiler farms.

Molecular detection of Campylobacter jejuni in patients with Crohn's disease in Iran

Background: Crohn's disease is one of the most significant intestinal disorders and is known as inflammatory bowel disease; Campylobacter spp. are one of the leading causes of bacterial gastroenteritis in humans.

Methods: In this study, 60 tissue samples, including 30 cases with Crohn’s disease and 30 cases with no inflammatory bowel disease, were collected. Patients were referred to Taleghani hospital and Behboud clinic between March 2015 and May 2016. Biopsies were used for DNA extraction and assessment of Campylobacter jejuni in patients with Crohn's disease and controls using polymerase chain reaction and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. All positive amplified fragments were sequenced. The gene encoding 16S rRNA, specific to Campylobacter genus, was amplified.

Results: The results were positive for Campylobacter genus in patients with Crohn's disease compared to healthy individuals. The quantitative real-time PCR showed a significantly higher prevalence of Campylobacter jejuni, particularly in hippurate hydrolase in tissue specimens of patients with Crohn's disease compared to control group. The correlation between Campylobacter jejuni and diarrhea symptoms in patients with Crohn's disease and controls was investigated. One positive case of Campylobacter jejuni found in patients without diarrhea was compared with 13 patients with diarrhea.

Conclusion: The present study demonstrated the alarmingly high rate of Campylobacter jejuni prevalence in Crohn's disease patients with diarrhea symptoms. However, further investigation is needed to determine the possible causing factors of this disease.

Antagonistic Property of G2013 (α-L-Guluronic Acid) on Gene Expression of MyD88, Tollip, and NF-κB in HEK293 TLR2 and HEK293 TLR4

INTRODUCTION

Inhibition of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) signaling plays a crucial role in suppressing the inflammation and available data presenting G2013 as an immunomodulatory agent, therefore, we designed this study to answer whether G2013 can affect the signaling pathway of TLR2 and TLR4.

METHODS

Cytotoxicity study of G2013 was performed by MTT assay. HEK293 TLR2 and HEK293 TLR4 cell lines were cultured and treated with low dose (5µg/ml) and high dose (25µg/ml) of G2013 for 24 hours. Gene expressions of MyD88, Tollip, and NF-κB were defined by quantitative real-time PCR.

RESULTS

The cytotoxicity assay showed that the concentrations lesser than 125μg/ml of G3012 had no apparent cytotoxicity, however, the concentrations of 5µg/ml and 25µg/ml could suppress the mRNA expression of MyD88, Tollip and NF-κB in HEK293 TLR2 and HEK293 TLR4 cell lines.

CONCLUSION

in our study, we verified the linkage between the immunosuppressive property of G2013 and TLR2, TLR4 signaling cascade; but so far, the specific target of G2013 and its molecular mechanism has not been detected yet. We recommend further studies on other Patten Recognition Receptors (PRRs)and other mechanisms of inflammation like oxidative stress to be conducted in the future.

Priorities in prevention and control of flood hazards in Iran 2019 massive flood

Global climate change leads to an increasing in the number and severity of weather events such as floods. Floods have been reported one-half of all weather-associated disasters with high impacts on countries. Global warming causes a different pat- tern of rainfall in Iran caused long-term drought since 30 years ago and recent heavy raining which lead to a massive flood in this country. It is predicted that health subsequences of Iran 2019 flood such as communicable diseases vary due to the geo- graphical extent and different climates of flooded areas. However, observing long term and short term preventive measures can be effective to reduce the high impact of flood in Iran.

Immunomodulatory Effect of G2013 (α-L-Guluronic Acid) on the TLR2 and TLR4 in Human Mononuclear Cells

BACKGROUND

Inhibition of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) signaling has been established as a new method for the development of anti-inflammatory drugs instead of NSAIDs (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs). Since the immunomodulatory role of G2013 (α-L-Guluronic acid) was reported in some recent experiments, we decided to assess the effects of G2013 on the protein expression of TLR2 and TLR4, their downstream signaling cascade, and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).

METHODS

After blood sampling from 16 healthy donors, PBMCs were isolated and treated with/without lipopolysaccharide (LPS), lipopolyteichoic acid (LTA), and G2013. Flow cytometry was done for detecting the protein expression of TLR2 and TLR4. MyD88, IκB, Tollip, and NF-κB mRNA expression were assessed by realtime PCR. ELISA was performed for assessing the concentration of IL-1β and IL-6.

RESULTS

G2013 at a concentration of 25 µg/mL (high dose) significantly downregulated NF-κB, IκB and MyD88 mRNA expression and suppressed the secretion of IL-1β by PBMCs. The findings indicate that G2013 may exert its regulatory effect under normal condition via Tollip in a dose dependence pathway. Our results demonstrated that G2013 had no profound impact on the protein expression of TLR2 and TLR4.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, our findings point to the immunomodulatory effect of G2013 on the TLR2 and TLR4 signaling cascade and cytokine production by PBMCs. These findings could lead to an establishment of new safe anti-inflammatory drugs in the future.

Priorities in prevention and control of flood hazards in Iran 2019 massive flood

Global climate change leads to an increasing in the number and severity of weather events such as floods. Floods have been reported one-half of all weather-associated disasters with high impacts on countries. Global warming causes a different pattern of rainfall in Iran caused long-term drought since 30 years ago and recent heavy raining which lead to a massive flood in this country. It is predicted that health subsequences of Iran 2019 flood such as communicable diseases vary due to the geographical extent and different climates of flooded areas. However, observing long term and short term preventive measures can be effective to reduce the high impact of flood in Iran.

The Immunomodulatory Role of G2013 (α-L-Guluronic Acid) on the Expression of TLR2 and TLR4 in HT29 cell line

BACKGROUND

The non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) play crucial role in the controlling of inflammatory diseases. Due to the vast side effects of NSAIDs, its use is limited. G2013 or α-L-Guluronic Acid is a new NSAID with immunomodulatory features.

OBJECTIVES

Considering the leading role of TLRs in inflammatory responses, in this study, we aimed to evaluate G2013 cytotoxicity and its effect on the expression of TLR2 and TLR4 molecules.

METHODS

HEK293-TLR2 and HEK293-TLR4 cells were cultured and seeded on 96-well cell plate, and MTT assay was performed for detecting the viability of the cells after treatment with different concentrations of G2013. HT29 cells were grown and treated with low and high doses of G2013. After total RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis, quantitative real-time PCR were performed to assess the TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA synthesis.

RESULTS

We found that concentrations of ≤125 µg/ml of G2013 had no apparent cytotoxicity effect on the HEK293-TLR2 and -TLR4 cells. Our results indicated that after G2013 treatment (5 µg/ml) in HT29 cells, TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA expression decreased significantly compared with the untreated control group (p=0.02 and p=0.001 respectively).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study revealed that G2013 can down regulate the TLR2 and TLR4 gene expression and exerts its inhibitory effect. Our findings are parallel to our previous finding which showed G2013 ability to down regulate the signaling pathway of TLRs. However, further studies are needed to identify the molecular mechanism of G2013.

Prevalence of Linguatula serrata nymphs in slaughtered sheep from Tehran province, Iran

Linguatulosis is a zoonotic disease caused by Linguatula serrata. Ruminants are the most important intermediate hosts of this parasite. This study was carried out to evaluate the prevalence rate of Linguatula serrata infection in slaughtered sheep in slaughterhouses of Tehran province, Iran. A total of 767 slaughtered sheep were selected in 2016 using systematic random sampling and their mesenteric lymph nodes were examined for Linguatula serrata nymph detection. Then, the infection rate and its intensity in different ages, sex and seasons were assessed. It was revealed that 66 sheep (8.6%) were infected with Linguatula serrata nymphs. Intensity of the infection was 4.88 nymphs. The highest rate of infection was observed in sheep aged over 19 months (P≤0.05). The highest infection rate and intensity of the infection were recorded in winter and summer, respectively (P≤0.05). Besides, intensity of the infection in females was significantly higher than that in males (P≤0.05). This study indicates the importance of Linguatula serrata infection in sheep in Tehran province, and the need to improve preventive measures for reducing the rate of infection and preventing transmission of the infection from sheep and other ruminant to other animals and humans in Iran.

The Inhibitory Role of M2000 (β-D-Mannuronic Acid) on Expression of Toll-like Receptor 2 and 4 in HT29 Cell Line

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Anti-inflammatory agents play a crucial role in controlling inflammatory diseases such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) but their use is restricted due to their vast side effects. M2000 (β-D-mannuronic acid) is a new immunomodulatory drug. According to the capacity of M2000 in suppressing some molecules involved in Toll Like Receptors (TLRs) signaling and reducing oxidative stress we hypothesize that, this molecule may have a potential role in decreasing inflammatory responses in IBD. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cytotoxicity of M2000 and its effect on the gene expression of TLR2 and TLR4.

METHODS

HEK293 cell line was grown and divided into 96-well cell plate and MTT assay was performed. HT29 cells were cultured and treated with low and high doses of M2000. Total RNA was extracted and cDNA synthesized and quantitative real-time PCR was done to quantify the TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA expression.

RESULTS

We found that M2000 at the concentration of ≤ 1000µg/ml had no obvious cytotoxicity effect on the HEK293 cells. Also, low and high doses of M2000 could significantly down-regulate both TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA expression. Moreover, a significant reduction in gene expression of TLR2 and TLR4 in an inflammatory condition resulted in high doses of M2000 in the presence of LPS.

CONCLUSION

Our study which was conducted in colonic epithelial cell model, shows that M2000 can be considered as a new anti-inflammatory agent in IBD. However, more comprehensive experimental and clinical studies are required to recognize the molecular mechanism of M2000 and also its safety and efficacy.

Distribution of Nosema Spp. in climatic regions of Iran

‎Nosemosis is one of the most prevalent bee diseases in the world causing significant ‎economic losses in the global bee-keeping industry. This cross-sectional study was conducted during April-September, 2016 to investigate the prevalence of nosemosis in different climatic regions of Iran. A total of 183 ‎apiaries were selected based on cluster sampling and the climate of apiaries under study was classified using Domarten method. In each apiary, five percent of the colonies were ‎ randomly sampled. A total of 183 adult bee samples were taken and examined by microscopic and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods for the presence of Nosema infections. According to the results, infection caused by Nosema ceranae was observed in all regions under study. The prevalence of N.ceranae was 46.40% (42.70–50.10). However, infection with Nosema apis was not observed in the samples in either pure form or as ‎associated infection. Based on the results of PCR, the prevalence of N. ceranae was ‎53.80% (46.60– 61.00) ‎ in ‎humid, ‎71.00% (53.70–77.50) ‎ in semi-humid‎, ‎68.10% (61.40–74.80) ‎ in very humid, ‎29.40% (22.70–36.10) in arid, ‎34.30% (27.40–41.20) in semi-‎arid and ‎24.00% (17.90–30.00)‎ in Mediterranean climates. The prevalence of ‎infection in different climatic zones of the country was found to have significant ‎differences (p < 0.001). ‎ According to the findings, N. ceranae ‎ was the only Nosema species in honeybees with a broad geographical dispersion in Iran. It seems that climate can influence the prevalence of mentioned parasite. ‎

Risk factors for recurrence of FMD outbreaks in Iran: a case-control study in a highly endemic area

BACKGROUND

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an acute viral disease of cloven-hoofed animals with high economic impact. FMD remains endemic in Iran particularly in the livestock-dense province of Khorasan Razavi in northeastern Iran where FMD outbreaks continuously occur. In this study, we aimed to quantify risk factors for the recurrence of FMD outbreaks in Iran by analyzing a time-series of FMD outbreak data from the province of Khorasan Razavi.

RESULTS

This study used FMD outbreak data collected from 2012 to 2014. Data were collected by local offices of the Iranian Animal Disease Department and the veterinarian of the veterinary council of the Khorasan Razavi province. An outbreak investigation questionnaire was delivered to 127 farms, including 46 case farms (FMD-infected) and 81 control farms (FMD-free). To quantify and compare the odds of exposure to a risk factor in FMD-infected farms versus FMD-free farms, logistic regression models were built using SPSS software version 16. Our results of multivariable logistic regression indicate that hygienic status of the farm (OR = 11.83; CI = 3.38-41.43), FMD vaccination status (OR = 0.06; CI = 0.01-0.68), transportation of livestock (OR = 0.40; CI = 0.163-0.981) and inhibition of livestock dealers' entry into the farm (OR = 0.36; CI = 0.12-1.09) were identified as important risk factors for farm-level FMD infection.

CONCLUSION

This study generated much needed evidence on a set of modifiable risk factors for the recurrence of FMD outbreaks in the high risk province of Khorasan Razavi. This information can be used to improve existing national FMD control program and suggest new guidelines to prevent FMD outbreaks in the country.

Effects of medetomidine on intra-renal arteries resistive and pulsatility indices in clinically normal adult domestic shorthair cats

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of intramuscular injection of medetomidine on intra-renal arteries resistive and pulsatility indices by duplex Doppler ultrasonography in clinically normal adult domestic shorthair cats. For this purpose, twenty-six neutered adult healthy domestic shorthair cats (13 females and 13 males) were evaluated. B-mode, color Doppler and pulsed wave Doppler ultrasonography of right and left kidneys were performed to record the resistive index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) of intra-renal arteries. To minimize statistical errors, the mean RI and PI were determined for each kidney by averaging three waveforms from the intra-renal arteries. Twenty-four hr later, the cats were sedated by 0.04 mg kg-1 intramuscular administration of medetomidine. All the Doppler measurements were repeated 15 min after drug administration. Mean ± standard deviation )SD( of PI and RI of the intra-renal arteries before administration of intramuscular medetomidine were 1.03 ± 0.08 and 0.61 ± 0.02, respectively. Fifteen min after medetomidine administration, the mean ± SD of PI and RI values were 1.04 ± 0.08 and 0.61 ± 0.02, respectively. Significant differences were not detected in mean PI and RI values before and 15 min after drug administration. Our findings showed that intramuscular administration of medetomidine does not cause significant hemodynamic changes in the intra-renal arteries after 15 min.

The Profile of Toll-like Receptor 2 (TLR2), TLR4 and Their Cytosolic Downstream Signaling Pathway in Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID) Patients

Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is the most common clinical primary antibody deficiency, characterized by increased susceptibility to recurrent bacterial infections. Since Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in the maturation and differentiation of B-cells, TLRs' defect can be involved in the pathogenesis of CVID. Therefore, we evaluated the expression of TLR2 and TLR4 and their signaling pathway; also their association with autoimmunity, B-cell subtypes and response to pneumovax-23 were assessed in CVID patients. Sixteen CVID patients were enrolled in the study. Flow cytometry was used for assessing the protein expression of TLR2 and TLR4, and real-time PCR was used for gene expression of myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88) and toll interacting protein (Tollip). We found a higher protein expression of TLR2 in CVID patients which was associated with lower number of end stage B-cells and hyporesponse to pneumovax-23 vaccination. We showed a lower mRNA expression of MyD88 and an almost equal Tollip mRNA expression in CVID patients compared with controls. There was a profound association between MyD88 gene expression and autoimmunity in CVID patients. According to the presence of the lower number of end stage B-cells and poor vaccine response in CVID patients and their correlation with the higher expression of TLR2, we hypothesized that there is a functional defect in this receptor and/or its downstream in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of CVID patients.

Detection of enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis in patients with ulcerative colitis

Purpose

Ulcerative colitis (UC) as a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), presumed to occur as a consequence of increased immune responses to intestinal microbiota in genetically susceptible individuals. Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF) strains are important intestinal bacteria that can be involved in IBD. The aim of this study was to design a quantitative assay for detection of B. fragilis and ETBF and also to find their association with UC.

Methods

Ninety-five biopsies were collected from patients with UC (n = 35) and with no IBD (nIBD, n = 60). All the specimens were cultured in Bacteroides bile esculin agar medium. Specific primers and probes were designed for quantitative real-time PCR (QRT-PCR) based on 16S rRNA and bft genes sequences of ETBF.

Results

The bft genes were detected in 51.4% of UC samples and 1.6% of nIBD samples, respectively. In UC patients, 37.1% of samples with diarrhea and 11.4% of samples without diarrhea, harbored the bft gene. Mean value of the number of ETBF with bft gene in UC and nIBD samples were 4.46 ן 10² and 1.96, respectively. Likewise these result for 16S rRNA gene in UC and nIBD samples were 2.0 × 10³ and 8.4 × 10³, respectively.

Conclusions

There was no significant association between presence and numbers of 16S rRNA gene of B. fragilis and UC. ETBF was detected more in UC specimens and biopsies of UC patients with diarrhea than in the control group. These data demonstrated that ETBF is associated with development of UC and as a causative agent for the development of diarrhea in these patients.

Incidence and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (Dalys) Attributable to Leishmaniasis In Iran, 2013

Background

Leishmaniasis covers a range of clinical manifestations. Estimation of the burden of leishmaniasis may help guide healthcare management personnel and policy-makers in applying effective interventions. The present study aimed to calculate the incidence and burden of cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis in Iran in 2013.

Methods

To evaluate the epidemiological aspects of the disease in Iran, published studies over the past 20 years were searched and the viewpoints of relevant specialists in Iran were obtained. Data were collected from the Ministry of Health and from the Tehran University of Medical Sciences. To calculate years of life lost due to premature death, standard expected years of life lost was used. Standard life table of Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2010 with the life expectancy of 86.02 years for both sexes was used to calculate the remaining potential years of life at any age from death.

Results

The overall incidence of cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis was calculated as 22 and 0.092 per 100000 population of Iran, respectively. The burden of leishmaniasis was 99.5 years: 95.34 and 4.16 years for cutaneous and visceral, respectively. Sensitivity was analyzed and deaths predicted by the Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation added, the burden of visceral leishmaniasis was 726 years.

Conclusion

The share of leishmaniasis burden in Iran is lower than the global burden of the disease. GBD 2010 standard method is recommended to calculate the burden of leishmaniasis in different countries and set local priorities on the basis of these measures.

Antioxidants and proinflamatory cytokines in the sera of patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis

BACKGROUND

Leishmania is a significant health problem in many parts of the world. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) plays an essential role in Leishmania major infections.

OBJECTIVE

To study the pro-inflammatory cytokines and antioxidants in four groups of cutaneous leishmaniasis patients.

METHODS

39 patients were divided into four groups of: 1) active (acute phase of treatment); 2) non-healing (received treatment for almost two years without recovery); 3) healing (recovered upon treatment); and 4) healed (previously received treatment and achieved complete remission) patients. Serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1B, TNF-α, IL-6) and serum antioxidant levels were measured by ELISA and FRAP assays, respectively.

RESULTS

While serum antioxidant levels were elevated in the non-healing group, there was no difference among other groups of patients and healthy controls in this regard. Interleukin-1β showed the highest level in the non-healing group followed by the other groups of patients. The mean serum IL-6 level was highest in the non-healing group, but showed no significant change in the other groups. TNF-α and IL-1β levels were non-significantly elevated in the sera of active and non-healing patients.

CONCLUSION

Pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 maybe related to the progression of leishmaniasis. Serum antioxidant levels maybe correlated with patient response to drug treatment.

Asthma knowledge, attitude, and self-efficacy in Iranian asthmatic patients

BACKGROUND

Worldwide, numerous people of all ages and ethnicities experience asthma. The achievements of current medical regimens for patients frequently depend on three factors: 1) knowledge of patients regarding this disease, 2) patient's attitude about asthma, including willingness to collaborate with the therapeutic group for disease control and 3) patient's self-efficacy for controlling asthma. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy with socio-economic factors in Iranian asthmatic patients during 2006-2008.

METHODS

Participants consisted of 120 adults referred to Milad Hospital, Tehran, Iran during 2006 to 2008 whose physicians diagnosed their asthma. Socio-demographic factors such as sex, age, education level, occupation, marital status, family history of asthma, disease costs, and period of sickness were reviewed. Assessments of knowledge, attitudes and self-efficacy were performed by the Persian version of an international standard questionnaire (KASE-AQ). Data were analyzed by SPSS version 14.

RESULTS

Among respondents, only 9 (7.5%) patients had good knowledge about asthma, 108 (90%) patients had a suitable attitude about their asthma and 103 (85.3%) patients had proper self-efficacy. We found a significant association between self-efficacy and attitude in asthmatic patients (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Although specific knowledge about asthma is low, however, favorable attitudes toward asthma create opportunities to intervene and improve asthma management among patients. However, the use of educational tools depends on patients' educational levels. Therefore, we recommend elevating asthma knowledge.

Evaluation of Benzimidazole Resistance in Haemonchus contortus Using Comparative PCR-RFLP Methods

BACKGROUND

In order to deworm the ruminants especially of sheep in Iran, consumption of benzimidazoles has more than 2 decades history and today farmers are using imidazothiazoles, macrocyclic lactones and mostly benzimidazole compounds (BZs) to treat infected farm animals. It has been demonstrated that the most common molecular mechanism leading to BZsresistance in Haemonchus contortus is a single mutation at amino acid 200 (phenylalanine to tyrosine) of the isotype 1 of beta tubulin gene. According to the report of such mutations in Iranian Teladorsagia circumcincta isolates with Restriction Site Created PCR-RFLP, we decided to evaluate the frequency of such mutations in H. contortus in three different geographical areas of Iran.

METHODS

A total of 102 collected adult male H. contortus were evaluated with PCR-RFLP (using PSP1406I as restriction enzyme). By means of a second step to compare function of different methods and to increase sensitivity of detection mechanism, a third of samples were examined by another PCR-RFLP method (using TaaI as restriction enzyme) and finally beta tubulin gene of two samples was sequenced.

RESULTS

All of samples were detected as BZss homozygote. Finally, beta tubulin gene sequencing of two samples showed no point mutation at codon 200.

CONCLUSION

It seems that BZresistance of H. contortus in Iran is not a serious problem as anticipated before.

Helminth infections of stray dogs from garmsar, semnan province, central iran

BACKGROUND

The aim was to study the gastro-intestinal helminths of stray dogs of Garmsar, Semnan Province, Central Iran, and its impacts on human health and animal production.

METHODS

During 2006, the alimentary tracts of 50 stray dogs at necropsy, selected from villages around Garmsar, were removed, and examined for helminth infections. Subsequently helminths were collected from the contents of each part and scraped sample of small intestines of washed materials in a 100-mesh sieve. To identify the species of helminths, the nematodes were cleared in lactophenol and cestodes were stained using carmine acid.

RESULTS

Mixed infection was the rule and 40 dogs (80%) harbored more than one species of helminth. Taenia hydatigena was the most prevalent species (80%) followed by Echinococcus granulosus (64%), Toxocara canis (22%), Mesocestoides lineatus (12%), Taenia multiceps (10%) and Dipylidium caninum (4%). The mean intensity of worm infection was low (1-3) except for that of E. granulosus (645). No significant difference was noticed between sex, age and most helminth infections except for that of sex and T. hydatigena (P=0.001) as well as age and T. canis (P=0.001).

CONCLUSION

Although human infection with T. hydatigena is unlikely, but other helminths reported in this study are of zoonotic importance, and may pose a threat to community health, and reduce the productions of ruminants harboring taeniid metacestodes.