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Abstract Dogs are the primary reservoirs of Leishmania infantum (L. infantum), but Leishmania tropica (L. tropica) infection is also possible in dogs and can transmitted to humans. The southeast of Iran experiences a high prevalence of canine leishmaniasis (CanL), and veterinarians frequently encounter symptomatic cases. Therefore, from December 2017 to November 2022, the present case series was designed to assess the prevalence of CanL in owned dogs with cutaneous manifestations resembling CanL. A total of 500 owned dogs with dermal lesions from two endemic cities, Zabol and Kerman, were enrolled. Impression smears from skin lesions and popliteal lymph nodes were prepared from all cases, whereas blood samples were gathered from amastigote-positive dogs for serological and molecular surveys. Commercial ELISA was done on sera samples, and two-step nested PCR was used on extracted DNA to amplify variable fragments of the Leishmania species’ kinetoplast DNA (kDNA). Leishman bodies were microscopically detected in 7.2% (36/500) of dermal smears. Of the 360 owned dogs from Zabol, 2 have been diagnosed with L. tropica, and 10 have been diagnosed with L. infantum. Out of 140 owned dogs from Kerman, 8 were identified with L. tropica infection, and 16 were infected with L. infantum. Molecular results revealed the presence of 750 full dual-band bases related to the L. tropica species in 10/36 (27.7%) cases, which showed a considerable increase in canine cutaneous leishmaniosis compared with previous studies in southeastern Iran. The noticeable prevalence of L. tropica in owned dogs indicated that the dog’s role in cutaneous leishmaniosis should be re-evaluated as a possible animal reservoir in endemic areas.

Helminths have developed intricate mechanisms to survive and evade the host’s immune responses. Hence, understanding the excretory-secretory products (ESPs) by helminths is crucial for developing control tools, including drug targets, vaccines, and potential therapies for inflammatory and metabolic disorders caused by them. Proteomics, the large-scale analysis of proteins, offers a powerful approach to unravel the complex proteomes of helminths and gain insights into their biology. Proteomics, as a science that delves into the functions of proteins, has the potential to revolutionize clinical therapies against parasitic infections that have developed anthelminthic resistance. Proteomic technologies lay a framework for accompanying genomic, reverse genetics, and pharmacokinetic approaches to provide more profound or broader coverage of the cellular mechanisms that underlie the response to anthelmintics. With the development of vaccines against helminth infections, proteomics has brought a major change to parasitology. The proteome of helminths can be analyzed comprehensively, revealing the complex network of proteins that enable parasite survival and pathogenicity. Furthermore, it reveals how parasites interact with hosts’ immune systems. The current article reviews the latest advancements in helminth proteomics and highlights their valuable contributions to the search for anthelminthic vaccines.

Abstract Background/Objective Abortions in livestock herds are a major contributor to economic losses. The incidence of fungal aetiology has been reported thus far. The purpose of this study is to investigate the prevalence of abortions due to fungi in referred cases to the Center of Excellence in Ruminant Abortion and Neonatal Mortality, Veterinary Hospital of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran, from different provinces of Iran. Methods A total of 200 calves were referred between 2018 and 2022. Samples were taken from the lungs, liver, spleen and abomasum. The fungi present in the cultures were analysed microscopically and morphologically. Results There were varying contamination levels in the liver, spleen and lungs, with prevalence ranging from 15% to 17%. Abdomasum had a 1% prevalence rate. Different fungal species, including Cryptococcus neoformans (C. neoformans), Aspergillus spp., Rhodotorula spp., Trichosporon spp., Candida spp., Geotrichum spp., Penicillium spp. and Mucor spp., were identified, indicating a diverse range of pathogens affecting calves. The specificity of fungal contaminants in certain organs, such as C. neoformans, Rhodotorula spp. and Trichosporon spp., highlighted the organ's microenvironment as a potential factor influencing fungal growth. Conclusion As fungi are emerging as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in animals, the growing role of fungi in livestock abortions should be investigated. As clinical signs are not pathognomonic, laboratory help is imperative to confirm fungal abortion diagnosis.

Osteoporosis is characterized by a reduction of bone mass and destruction of bone structures, followed by high bone fragility and susceptibility. This study aims to evaluate the protective effects of pomegranate seed oil (PSO) on experimental osteoporosis in rats. Twenty-four female Wistar rats were divided into four groups: sham-operated (Sham = 6), Sham with PSO treatment (Sham+PSO = 6), ovariectomized (OVX = 6), and ovariectomized with PSO treatment (OVX+PSO = 6). OVX+PSO and Sham+PSO groups received 0.1 ml of pomegranate juice daily, and OVX and Sham groups received the same amount of paraffin oil. After eight weeks, the femur and tibia bones were removed, and the structure and metabolism of samples were assessed by histological examination. The average thickness of femoral neck trabeculae in group OVX was significantly lower than in groups Sham+PSO and Sham (p < 0.05). Regarding the number of trabeculae in the neck of the femur, a significant difference was observed between groups OVX and Sham+PSO (p < 0.05). Furthermore, trabecular separation in group OVX was significantly more than in the other three groups (p < 0.05). The trabecular separation in group OVX+PSO compared to groups Sham+PSO and Sham was significantly higher (p < 0.05). A histopathologic examination of the upper metaphysis of the tibia indicated that the number of bone trabeculae in Sham+PSO was only statistically significant in the OVX group (p = 0.018). It was also found that the average thickness of bone trabeculae in the OVX+PSO and Sham groups was significantly lower than in the Sham+SO group. The results of the present study suggest that pomegranate seed oil, having estrogenic compounds, can prevent osteoporosis in rats caused by ovariectomy.

Abstract Background The hygiene hypothesis suggests that early life exposure to helminth infections can reduce hypersensitivity in the immune system. Objective The present study aims to evaluate the effects of Toxocara cati (T. cati) somatic products on allergic airway inflammation. Methods Between 2018 and 2020, T. cati adult worms were collected from stray cats in Mashhad, Iran (31 out of 186 cats), and their somatic extract was collected. Thirty BALB/c mice were equally divided into three groups, including the OVA group (sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin), the somatic administered group (received somatic extract along with ovalbumin sensitization), and the PBS group (sensitized and challenged with phosphate buffer saline). Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid was collected to assess the number of cells, and lung homogenates were prepared for cytokine analysis. Histopathological analysis of the lungs was performed, and inflammatory cells and mucus were detected. Cytokine levels (IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10) were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and ovalbumin‐specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels were determined using a capture ELISA. Results The somatic group significantly decreased regarding the lung pathological changes, including peribronchiolitis, perivasculitis, and eosinophil influx, compared to the group treated with ovalbumin alone. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in proinflammatory cytokines IL‐4 and IL‐5 and an increase in the anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10, indicating a shift toward a more balanced immune response. The number of inflammatory cells in the BAL fluid was also significantly reduced in the somatic group, indicating a decrease in inflammation. Conclusion These preclinical findings suggest that in experimental models, T. cati somatic extract exhibits promising potential as a therapeutic agent for mitigating allergic airway inflammation. Its observed effects on immune response modulation and reduction of inflammatory cell infiltration warrant further investigation in clinical studies to assess its efficacy and safety in human patients.

Cystic echinococcosis still remains a serious health and economic problem worldwide. The etiologic agent is Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato, giving origin to a fluid-filled cystic lesion. Therapy faces several challenges. Nanodrugs have shown promise as chemotherapeutics against hydatid cysts. The present study evaluated a highly safe lipid nano-polymeric capsule for its superior efficacy and ability to overcome drug resistance. Nanocapsule drugs were formulated into six groups: Albendazole, mebendazole, praziquantel, albendazole + mebendazole, albendazole + praziquantel, and praziquantel + mebendazole. The protoscolicidal effects of these six groups were assessed at 10, 60, and 120 min in three concentrations (1, 0.5, and 0.25 mg/mL). Drug formulations were evaluated via zeta potential, droplet size, solubility, particle size analyzer (PSA), and scanning electron microscopy. According to the PSA results, the mean size of the albendazole nanocapsules was 193.01 nm, mebendazole was 170.40 nm, and praziquantel was 180.44 nm. Albendazole + mebendazole showed the greatest protoscolicidal activity at a concentration of 1 mg/mL after 120 min. In contrast, each drug’s 0.25 mg/mL single-dose times showed the least protoscolicidal activity after 120 min. With the right application of nanotechnology, it is possible to produce safe and effective drugs, such as the polymeric combination of albendazole and mebendazole, which has promising implications.

Abstract Background Cats in Iran are definitive hosts for several zoonotic intestinal helminths, such as Toxocara cati, Dipylidium caninum, Toxascaris leonina, Physaloptera praeputialis and Diplopylidium nolleri. Objective This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal helminth infection in free‐roaming cats in southeast Iran, a region with a high free‐roaming cat population. Methods From January 2018 to December 2021, 153 cadavers of free‐roaming cats from Southeast Iran were necropsied for intestinal helminth infections. The carcasses were dissected, and the digestive systems were removed. The esophagus, stomach, small intestine, caecum and colon were tightly ligated. All adult helminths were collected, preserved and identified. Results The prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth infections was 80.39% (123/153). Of the cats from Kerman, 73% (73/100) were infected with at least one helminth, including D. caninum 70% (70/100), T. leonina 8% (8/100) and P. praeputialis 17% (17/100). Concurrent infection with two helminth species was found in 16% (16/100) and of three species infections was found in 3% (3/100) of the cats. Of the cats from Zabol, 94.33% (50/53) were infected with at least one of the helminths, including D. caninum 69.81% (37/53), T. leonina 11.32% (6/53), P. praeputialis 37.73% (20/53) and T. cati 5.66% (3/53). Concurrent infection with two helminth species was found in 28.3% (15/53), and three species were found in 1.88% (1/53) of the cats. Helminth infections were more prevalent in older cats. There was no association between sex and infection rate. Conclusion Based on the very high prevalence of zoonotic intestinal helminth infections in free‐roaming cats in southeast Iran, the potential public health risk emphasizes the need for intersectoral collaboration, particularly the provision of health and hygiene education to high‐risk populations, such as pre‐school and school‐age children.

Abstract Congenital goitre is a deadly thyroid metabolic disorder characterised by low thyroid hormone levels, subsequent secretion of excess Thyroid‐Stimulating Hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland, and compensatory thyroid gland hyperplasia. This study aimed to summarise the clinical and pathological features of congenital goitre in a goat kid. In April 2019, a dead female goat kid with a history of dystocia was referred to Ferdowsi University of Mashhad Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Mashhad, Iran, to examine the carcass and find the reason for death. The necropsy were performed, along with histopathology examination, and clinical signs were recorded. Examination of the foetus revealed the presence of an enlarged thyroid gland, and the skin was thick with myxedema, pale, and without hair. After cutting the skin, the swelling showed a significantly enlarged thyroid gland with two asymmetrical lobes, with the right lobe 3.9×7.1 cm and the left 3.7×7.5 cm in size. In the histopathological examination, a severe proliferation of follicular cells was observed, which caused the thyroid gland to be microscopically dense. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of recognising and addressing congenital goitre in goat kids. To prevent such tragic outcomes, it is crucial to focus on early detection and intervention. Furthermore, the agents of goitre need to find out and be clear.

Abstract Background Eimeria is a genus of protozoan parasites that infect many animal species, including horses. We conducted a cross‐sectional study of indigenous breeds of horses from the North and Northeast of Iran to establish the prevalence and distribution of Eimeria species. Material and methods Using standard coprological techniques, 340 faecal samples from randomly selected horses (141 from North Iran and 199 from Northeast Iran) were examined for Eimeria oocyst. Results Out of 340 samples, only three from north Iran were positive for coccidiosis. Infections occurred by Eimeria leuckarti. The mean intensity of oocyst output (3–38 o.p.g.) was very low. No clinical signs of gastrointestinal disorders were noticed in horses during this study. Conclusion In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that the prevalence of Eimeria species causing coccidiosis in indigenous breeds of horses from the North and Northeast of Iran is relatively low. These findings provide valuable insights into the health status of indigenous horses in Iran and may help guide future efforts to promote their welfare and productivity.

Abstract Nanotechnology is an innovative, promising technology with a great scope of applications and socioeconomic potential in the poultry industry sector. Nanoparticles (NPs) show the advantages of high absorption and bioavailability with more effective delivery to the target tissue than their bulk particles. Various nanomaterials are available in different forms, sizes, shapes, applications, surface modifications, charges and natures. Nanoparticles can be utilised in the delivery of medicines, targeting them to their right effective site in the body and, at the same time, decreasing their toxicity and side effects. Furthermore, nanotechnology can be beneficial in the diagnosis of diseases and prevention of them and in enhancing the quality of animal products. There are different mechanisms through which NPs could exert their action. Despite the vast benefits of NPs in poultry production, some concerns about their safety and hazardous effects should be considered. Therefore, this review article focuses on NPs’ types, manufacture, mechanism of action and applications regarding safety and hazard impact.

Abstract Vaccination programmes provide a safe, effective and cost‐efficient strategy for maintaining population health. In veterinary medicine, vaccination not only reduces disease within animal populations but also serves to enhance public health by targeting zoonoses. Nevertheless, for many pathogens, an effective vaccine remains elusive. Recently, nanovaccines have proved to be successful for various infectious and non‐infectious diseases of animals. These novel technologies, such as virus‐like particles, self‐assembling proteins, polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes and virosomes, offer great potential for solving many of the vaccine production challenges. Their benefits include low immunotoxicity, antigen stability, enhanced immunogenicity, flexibility sustained release and the ability to evoke both humoral and cellular immune responses. Nanovaccines are more efficient than traditional vaccines due to ease of control and plasticity in their physio‐chemical properties. They use a highly targeted immunological approach which can provide strong and long‐lasting immunity. This article reviews the currently available nanovaccine technology and considers its utility for both infectious diseases and non‐infectious diseases such as auto‐immunity and cancer. Future research opportunities and application challenges from bench to clinical usage are also discussed.

Abstract Background Recently, immunotherapy has become very hopeful for cancer therapy. Cancer treatment through immunotherapy has excellent specificity and less toxicity than conventional chemoradiotherapy. Pathogens have been used in cancer immunotherapy for a long time. The current study aims to evaluate the possibility of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) as a probable treatment for cancers such as melanoma, breast, ovarian, lung, and pancreatic cancer. Recent findings Nonreplicating type I uracil auxotrophic mutants of T. gondii can stimulate immune responses against tumors by reverse immunosuppression at the cellular level. T. gondii can be utilized to research T helper 1 (Th1) cell immunity in intracellular infections. Avirulent T. gondii uracil auxotroph vaccine can change the tumor's immunosuppression and improve the production of type 1 helper cell cytokines, i.e., Interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) and Interleukin‐12 (IL‐12) and activate tumor‐related Cluster of Differentiation 8 (CD8+) T cells to identify and destroy cancer cells. The T. gondii profilin protein, along with T. gondii secreted proteins, have been found to exhibit promising properties in the treatment of various cancers. These proteins are being studied for their potential to inhibit tumor growth and enhance the effectiveness of cancer therapies. Their unique mechanisms of action make them valuable candidates for targeted interventions in ovarian cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, melanoma, and lung cancer treatments. Conclusion In summary, the study underscores the significant potential of harnessing T. gondii, including its diverse array of proteins and antigens, particularly in its avirulent form, as a groundbreaking approach in cancer immunotherapy.

Abstract Background Avian coccidiosis is thought to be one of the most expensive infectious diseases in the poultry industry. Objectives Safe and alternative anti‐coccidial drugs are herbal extracts because they do not result in tissue residue and drug resistance. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the anti‐coccidial effect of the herbal mixture, a complex of two plants (Echinacea purpurea, Glycyrrhiza glabra) in broiler chickens in comparison with toltrazuril. Methods One hundred twenty broiler chickens were used in this experiment and divided into 4 equally numbered groups. All the groups, except Group D, were experimentally infected with mixed Eimeria spp. (E. Tenella, E. maxima, E. necatrix and E. brunetti) on day 14. Group A treated with an herbal mixture [Glycyrrhiza glabra Extract 5% (standardised to 5.4% glycyrrhizic acid) and Echinacea purpurea Extract 2% (standardised to 4% total phenolic content based on chlorogenic acid); Coxinin‐EC®; Shamim Teb Sepid Giti]. Group B treated with toltrazuril. Group C was experimentally infected with mixed Eimeria spp. but they did not have any treatment, this group was our positive control. Performance indices, faecal oocyst excretion, and intestinal lesion score were determined during the experiment. Results Positive control group had the poorest results and more mortality than other groups. Group D was not infected and was healthy all the experiment period. Treatment with herbal complex significantly reduced the negative performance and pathogenic effects associated with Eimeria spp. at a level that was comparable with toltrazuril. Conclusions In summary, the anti‐coccidial activity of the studied herbal complex suggests its use as an alternative anti‐coccidial agent to chemotherapeutic drugs for controlling coccidiosis in poultry. Highlights ‐Coccidiosis is an important infectious disease that causes serious financial loss to the poultry industry. ‐Chemical anti‐coccidial drugs and vaccines are the main control strategies to combat the disease. However, these tools have some constraints. ‐Herbal remedies are suitable alternatives to chemical compounds for control of losses associated with coccidiosis in poultry. ‐An herbal mixture (Echinacea purpurea, Glycyrrhiza glabra) has promising effects for controlling of coccidiosis in broiler chickens.

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a zoonotic disease affecting humans and animals. Despite a lack of clarity about many details of parasite–intermediate host interactions, the nature of the immune responses triggered by hydatid infection has revealed new perspectives. This study discusses the latest advances in elucidating the immunologic mechanism of echinococcosis and its detection and potential approaches to enhance serodiagnosis accuracy. Moreover, nanobiosensors have been evaluated according to their potential to improve treatment efficiency and aid in an early diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis. The serum of an intermediate host can diagnose CE by analyzing antibodies induced by Echinococcus granulosus. Among the most notable features of this method are its noninvasive ability and high sensitivity, both of which make it an excellent tool for clinical diagnosis. Several serological tests, including ELISAs and immunoblotting, can detect these antibodies to assess the disease’s state and determine the treatment outcome. A thorough understanding of what cross-reactivity means and the stage of the disease are crucial to interpreting serological results. Nanobiosensors have also proven better than conventional biosensors in detecting hydatid cysts. Additionally, they are highly sensitive and versatile when detecting specific biomarkers, improving diagnostic accuracy. These immunomodulatory molecules, induced by E. granulosus, are a good candidate for diagnosing cystic echinococcosis because they alter intermediate host immune responses. Hydatid cyst detection is also enhanced through nanobiosensors, which provide better accuracy.

Hydatid cysts have been widely recognized for decades as a common medical problem that affects millions of people. A revolution in medical treatment may be on the prospect of nanotechnology enhancing chemotherapy against hydatid cysts. An overview of nanotechnology’s impact on chemotherapeutics is presented in the current review. It discusses some of the challenges as well as some of the opportunities. The application of nanotechnology to enhance chemotherapy against hydatid cysts is what this review will explore. Nanotechnology is a critical component of delivering therapeutic agents with greater precision and efficiency and targeting hydatid cysts with better efficacy, and minimizing interference with surrounding tissue. However, there are biodistribution challenges, toxicity, and resistance problems associated with nanotherapeutics. Additionally, nanobiosensors are being investigated to enable the early diagnosis of hydatid cysts. A nanobiosensor can detect hydatid cysts by catching them early, non-invasively, rapidly, and accurately. The sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic tests can be enhanced with nanobiosensors because they take advantage of the unique properties of nanomaterials. By providing more precise and customized treatment options for hydatid cysts, nanotechnology may improve therapeutic options and strategies for diagnosing the disease. In conclusion, treatment with nanotechnology to treat hydatid cysts is potentially effective but presents many obstacles. Furthermore, nanobiosensors are being integrated into diagnostic techniques, as well as helping to diagnose patients earlier and more accurately.

Cooling of electronic components is one of the most important concerns of manufacturers. Using heatsinks with different models is one of the recommended methods for cooling. To compare 12 types of heatsinks, including 3 types of fin-pin heatsinks with rectangular pins, 3 types of fin-pin heatsinks with circular pins, 3 types of fin-pin heatsinks with conical pins, and 3 types of simple fin heatsinks in 5, 7, and 9 fin types regarding forced displacement heat transfer, an experiment was conducted. A special setup designed and built for these types of heatsinks was used to conduct the test. The setup had dimensions of 100 cm × 12 cm x 3 cm with an opening of 120 cm × 120 cm for placing a fan to create airflow with variable speeds and a place for placing the heatsink at the end of the wind tunnel under variable temperatures. The test results showed that the maximum error in the two experimental tests was 6 %. Also, the results showed that in all 4 types of heatsinks, 7-fin pin types had 4 to 20% lower thermal resistance and 20 to 100% higher convection heat transfer coefficient compared to the 5- and 9-fin pin types respectively. When comparing the heatsinks with the same number of fins, it was observed that the 7 and 9-fin types of heatsinks with conical fins have lower thermal resistance and higher convection heat transfer coefficient than other types of heatsinks with the same number of fins, The conical fins having more than 81 % convection heat transfer coefficient compared to the plate fin heatsink. It was also observed that in the 5-pin fin heatsink design, the plate-fin heat sink had the lowest amount of heat resistance due to its higher surface area with the flowing air current.

In his research article, several models of heatsink were optimally designed in fin length, width and height along with pin placement which consists of 4 pin fin heatsink models heatsink (including square with different pin angles, circular, truncated cone, and cone pin heatsinks and one model of the plate-fin heatsink (PFHS)) in order to achieve better thermal performance as well as less energy consumption and were numerically investigated under high air velocity and heat fluxes. Different parameters such as peak temperature, Nusselt number, heat resistance, pressure drop, and energy consumption were compared. The results show that the square PPFHS with the pin angle of 45 degrees has the highest thermal performance compared to the rest of the models while also having the highest pressure drop and energy consumption between the models consuming more than 255 and 358 percent more energy in order to have the same air velocity in the pathway, while the truncated and the fully formed cone model despite having 25% and 30% less thermal performance, have the least pressure drop between the pin models of the heatsinks and therefore consume the least energy out of the PPFHS.