Gastrointestinal Parasites Research Articles

‘A comparative study of traditional and molecular diagnostic methods for detection of gastrointestinal parasites in Nepalese migrants to the UK’

BackgroundWe evaluated the results of examining a single faecal sample for gastrointestinal parasites (GIP) using a combination of traditional methods with multiplex qPCR for helminths and protozoa, compared to a reference standard of examining three faecal samples from each person using traditional diagnostic methods alone. MethodsThree faecal samples were collected at weekly intervals from 596 healthy Nepalese men. Each sample underwent formalin-ethyl acetate (FEA) concentration and light microscopy, and charcoal culture. The combined results of these investigations for all three stool samples were designated the reference standard. The first sample was also analysed using a multiplex TaqManTM qPCR assay, screening for five helminths and three protozoa. We compared sensitivity and specificity of analysing the first faecal sample with qPCR alone, or a hybrid approach combining qPCR with traditional methods, to the reference standard. Additionally, a serum sample was taken from each participant for Strongyloides stercoralis IgG ELISA. ResultsThe reference standard identified 139 GIP infections in 133 (22.3%) participants. Use of qPCR alone in one stool identified 176 infections in 147 (24.8%) participants, rising to 187 infections in 156 (26.3%) when combined with FEA microscopy and charcoal culture. The sensitivity of this latter hybrid approach was 100% for Strongyloides spp., 90.9% for Trichuris trichiura, 86.8% for hookworm species and 75% for Giardia duodenalis compared to the reference standard. The hybrid approach increased the detected cases of G. duodenalis by 4.5% (46 cases) overall, T. trichiura by 2.9% (18 cases), Strongyloides spp. by 1% (6 cases), and hookworm by 0.5% (8 cases), compared to the reference standard. ConclusionExamination of a single faecal sample using qPCR alone showed superior or equivalent sensitivity to traditional methods for most GIP infections when both were compared to the reference standard. Combining molecular and traditional methods to analyse a single stool improved the detection rate for most studied parasites. This approach has value in settings where repeated sampling and/or faecal culture for helminths is impractical, but molecular diagnostics are available.

Chronic Strongyloides stercoralis infection in Fijian migrants to the UK.

Introduction. Strongyloides stercoralis, the human threadworm, is a parasitic nematode with global distribution, estimated to infect over 600 million people. Chronic infection is often asymptomatic, but hyperinfection and dissemination syndromes can occur in the immunosuppressed with high case fatality rates. Whilst strongyloidiasis is endemic in Fiji, its prevalence in Fijian migrant groups in the UK is unknown.Gap Statement. No previous studies have been conducted on the prevalence of Strongyloides and other gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) in Fijian migrants to the UK.Aim. We conducted a cross-sectional study of the prevalence of GIPs in a Fijian migrant population.Methodology. Participants completed a questionnaire on residence, travel and clinical symptoms and were asked to provide a serum sample for S. stercoralis IgG ELISA, venous blood samples for eosinophil count and a faecal sample for charcoal culture, multiplex real-time PCR (rtPCR) and microscopy after formalin-ethyl acetate concentration. Sequencing was performed on pooled Strongyloides larvae for nuclear 18S rRNA hyper-variable regions (HVRs) I and IV.Results. A total of 250 participants (94% male) with median (range) age 37 (20-51) years entered the study, 15 (1-24) years since leaving Fiji. S. stercoralis IgG ELISA was positive in 87/248 (35.1 %) and 14/74 (18.9 %) had a GIP detected in faeces. This included 7/74 (9.5 %) with Strongyloides and 5/74 (6.8 %) with hookworms. Dermatological symptoms were more common in those with Strongyloides, and eosinophilia (>0.5×109 cells per litre) was present in 55.6% of those with positive S. stercoralis IgG. rtPCR was the most sensitive faecal diagnostic test for Strongyloides and hookworms in faeces. Sequences of nuclear 18S rRNA for HVRs I and IV confirmed the presence of S. stercoralis.Conclusion. This first cross-sectional study in Fijian migrants found a high rate of chronic infection with GIPs, particularly S. stercoralis. Faecal microscopy was insensitive compared to charcoal culture, rtPCR or serology, demonstrating the importance of specialist parasitological tests when investigating people with a suspected chronic infection. Our study highlights an overlooked burden of strongyloidiasis in the UK and has implications for screening and treatment programmes in Fiji and for migrants from Fiji.

ESTUDIO EPIDEMIOLÓGICO DE PARÁSITOS EN HECES DE PERROS EN PARQUES DE COZUMEL, QUINTANA ROO, MÉXICO

<p><strong>Background: </strong>Contamination of public spaces with canine feces containing parasites increases the possibility of transmission of these parasites to people and other canines. <strong>Objective: </strong>To estimate the frequency and variables associated with parasite eggs/oocysts in canine feces collected in public parks from Cozumel Island, Mexico. <strong>Material and methods:</strong> One hundred and fifteen stool samples were collected in 23 public parks, which were selected by convenience and analyzed by direct smear microscopy. The variables evaluated were i) with/without tourism, ii) low/high economic level), iii) high/low number of inhabitants and iv) area collection site paved/unpaved. A statistical association analysis test (Χ<sup>2</sup>) was performed to determine significance of results and the odds ratio (OR) between the studied variables was evaluated. <strong>Results: </strong>A parasite prevalence of 27% was found, recording the following order of species <em>Ancylostoma</em> spp > <em>Trichuris</em> spp > <em>Toxocara </em>spp > <em>Isospora</em> spp = <em>Taenia </em>spp. Statistical significance was not found in the X<sup>2</sup> tests and ORs. The positive sample frequencies of the variables evaluated did not show any correlation, irrespective of the parasite reported. <strong>Implications:</strong> Stray dogs, pet dogs, people and pet owners visiting public parks of Cozumel Island, Mexico, could be infected by gastrointestinal parasites. <strong>Conclusion:</strong> In public parks from Cozumel Island, gastrointestinal parasite eggs/oocysts are present in canine feces. However, the variables evaluated did correlate with the presence of these parasites.</p>

Prevalence of Gastro-intestinal Parasites with Zoonotic Potential in Rodents Trapped from the Ngorongoro District, Arusha, Tanzania

Prevalence of Gastro-intestinal Parasites with Zoonotic Potential in Rodents Trapped from the Ngorongoro District, Arusha, Tanzania

Prevalence of gastrointestinal and blood parasites in horses of Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand

Background and Aim: The global prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) and blood parasite infections in horses is a significant concern due to their substantial impact on morbidity, mortality, and economic losses in the horse industry. In Thailand, limited research has been conducted on these parasites in horse populations, and data from southern Thailand are lacking. Consequently, this study aimed to estimate the prevalence of GI and blood parasites in horses in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand. Materials and Methods: In total, 79 fecal and blood samples were collected from horses across 11 farms in Nakhon Si Thammarat province. The fecal examination was conducted using simple flotation, formalin-ethyl acetate sedimentation, and a modified McMaster technique. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to identify blood and strongyle parasites. The influence of sex, age, and body condition score on the prevalence of GI parasites was also analyzed. Results: Six GI parasites were detected: four nematodes (Oxyuris equi, Parascaris equorum, strongyles, and Strongyloides westeri), one trematode (Gastrodiscus aegyptiacus), and one protozoan (Eimeria leuckarti). The overall prevalence of GI parasites was 74.7%, with single strongyle infections accounting for the highest proportion at 50.6%, followed by co-infections of strongyles and G. aegyptiacus at 10.1%. All 11 pooled strongyle samples were positive for cyathostomins and Strongylus vulgaris using conventional PCR with specific primers. Sex was significantly associated with the overall prevalence of GI parasites, whereas both sex and age were significant risk factors for infection by strongyle parasites. Theileria equi was the only blood parasite species detected in the surveyed horses, with a prevalence of 1.3% (n = 1/79). Conclusion: This study is the first to estimate the prevalence of GI and blood parasites in horses from Nakhon Si Thammarat province, Thailand. These findings highlight the importance of implementing control measures against GI parasites and are pivotal for developing effective infection prevention strategies. Keywords: blood parasites, gastrointestinal parasites, horses, southern Thailand.

Ramming the parasites: Evaluation of quarantine procedures against Haemonchus contortus at sheep markets in Sweden

In Sweden, it is recommended to treat rams at sheep markets with ivermectin and then keep them in quarantine to minimise the risk of transmission of Haemonchus contortus between farms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of this practise. Accordingly the gastrointestinal parasite status of 50 rams purchased at two sheep markets in central Sweden in autumn 2019 was investigated using faecal samples collected on the day of sale (test 1), 12 ± 3 days after ivermectin injection (test 2, in quarantine) and a few months later before inclusion in the new flocks (test 3). We used both traditional diagnostic methods (i.e. identification of nematode eggs in faeces or larvae in cultures when H. contortus eggs could not be identified) and a molecular test based on the digital droplet PCR platform to further identify positive samples. In test 1, conducted in autumn, 40 % of rams were FEC-positive, but only 12 % (six rams) were infected with H. contortus according to conventional routine diagnostics. In test 2, 8 % (four rams) were FEC-positive, including one with 1050 eggs, 90 % of which were identified as H. contortus. This ram was therefore returned to the supplier. However, ivermectin was found to be effective when this animal and a group of lambs from the same farm were treated and tested again. Test 3 was performed on 44 of the same rams (in addition to the returned ram, two rams died in quarantine and the samples from three rams were never provided by the owners). The proportion of FEC-positive animals was 42 %, with an even higher proportion (27 %) of animals being H. contortus-positive than in test 1. The corresponding results for tests 1, 2 and 3 with the ddPCR assay were 18 %, 4 % and 76 %, respectively. This study demonstrates the superiority of DNA detection over microscopy, which is the mainstay in most diagnostic laboratories. Although the combined results confirm that H. contortus survived quarantine in two rams, in the other cases it is not clear whether the spring infection rates are due to re-emergence of persistent larvae from quarantine or reinfection on the new farm. These results suggest not only that we should recommend that sheep farmers use a more sensitive molecular test when purchasing and introducing new animals to their flock, but also that the reliability of injectable ivermectin as a quarantine treatment for removal of adult and larval stages needs further investigation.

Gastrointestinal helminths of Cattle slaughtered at Gwagwalada abattoir, federal capital territory, Nigeria

Gastrointestinal parasites are widespread in cattle worldwide, causing both clinical and sub-clinical infections that can lead to significant financial losses. This study investigated the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths infection in cattle slaughtered in the abattoir at Gwagwalada area council, federal capital territory, Nigeria. A total of 120 faecal samples were collected and analysed by flotation and sedimentation methods. The results revealed an overall prevalence of 26.67%. The helminths identified were Toxocara sp (5.00%), Schistosoma sp (10.83%), and Fasciola sp (10.83%). These findings were compared to existing studies, with variations attributed to differences in climatic conditions, management practices, and seasonal factors. Age, breed, and sex-specific analyses revealed significant differences in infection rates. While no helminth infection was found in young adult cattle (1≤3 years), a 31.37% prevalence was recorded in older adult cattle (≥3 years). Among the breeds examined, Sokoto Gudali showed the highest prevalence (100%), followed by White Fulani (26.42%) and Red Fulani (16.67%). A significant breed-related difference (p = 0.0001) was recorded. Additionally, male cattle exhibited a higher prevalence (31.37%) compared to (0.00%) in females. The study highlighted the impact of geographical, ecological, and environmental factors on helminths infection, as well as the need for strategic anthelmintic treatment, improved livestock management, and educational programs to control these infections. Regular monitoring and selective breeding may further contribute to long-term infection control in cattle populations.

Gastrointestinal parasites in free grazing goats from Ayacucho, Peru: prevalence and risk factors associated with infection in herds

This study assessed the prevalence and risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasite infection in goats in Ayacucho, Peru. Fecal samples were collected from a total of 254 goats from four districts of Ayacucho: Ocaña (89), Colca (76), Pacaicasa (64), and Luricocha (25) during the dry season; recording the location, sex, and age of the animals. The fecal samples were analyzed using the flotation technique in salt and sugar solution, and modified McMaster egg counting techniques for eggs/oocysts (epg/opg) of gastrointestinal parasites. The associations between location, sex, and age with the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites were analyzed using the chi-square test. Fecal samples showed an overall parasite prevalence of 87.80%. The identified parasites were Eimeria spp. (86.22%), Strongyle type eggs (STE) (65.75%), Skrjabinema spp. (7.87%), Trichuris spp. (3.15%) and Moniezia spp. (3.15%). There was a significant association between the location and the presence of parasites (p < 0.05); where STE was more prevalent in the district of Colca (98.68%); Trichuris spp. in Pacaycasa (9.38%); Skrjabinema spp. (48.00%), Moniezia spp. (12.00%) and Eimeria spp. (100%) were more prevalent in Luricocha. Sex had a significant association with the prevalence of Eimeria spp., Skrjabinema spp. and Moniezia spp. (p < 0.05); while age had a significant association with parasitosis only for Trichuris spp. and Moniezia spp. (p < 0.05). The epg/opg values revealed a higher parasite burden in goats from Colca compared to the other locations (p < 0.05). There was also no statistical relationship between fecal egg/oocyst counts and sex or age, nevertheless, there were moderate and high parasitic burdens. The high prevalence of parasites such as nematodes, cestodes, and coccidia suggests the need to implement strategic control and prevention programs in free-grazing goats. Location and sex were the most relevant risk factors for parasitosis in Ayacucho, Peru.

Gastrointestinal parasite prevalence, diversity and association in free-ranging Chacma baboon troops in a semi-arid savanna ecosystem of Zimbabwe

Free-ranging Chacma baboon species are known to harbour a wide range of zoonotic parasites, and their frequent close interactions with humans pose a risk of transmission of zoonotic parasites between the two species. This research study focused on understanding parasite dynamics in free-ranging baboon populations that inhabit human-wildlife interface areas, a case of Gwanda State University's Epoch Mine campus in Filabusi at Insiza district. A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional design was used to investigate the prevalence, diversity and association of gastrointestinal parasites among three baboon troops found at the Epoch Mine campus. One hundred and twenty (120) fresh faecal samples were collected from the three troops between February and September 2023. The centrifugal floatation technique was used to process and analyse faecal samples, and parasite ova and cysts were identified using morphological features like shape and size. The prevalence of the parasite taxa and a chi-squared multiple comparison test was computed. Results showed significant differences among most parasite taxa except Coccidia spp and Entamoeba spp among the three troops. The Shannon–Wiener (H′) index was used to calculate diversity and graphs were utilized to present the association. The Kruskal-Wallis tests showed no significant difference in parasite diversity among the three troops. Although troop-parasite association showed different parasite species for each troop, helminths Strongylid spp. and Schistosoma spp. were highly common across all three troops. Troop 1 and 3 were associated with four parasite taxa, whereas Troop 2 had only three. The study reveals the presence of gastro-intestinal parasites of public health concern, as they are capable of causing diseases in humans and domestic animals. The study, therefore, underscores the importance of understanding parasite-host dynamics in mitigating zoonotic disease transmission and suggests the need to generate baseline data for mitigating zoonotic diseases and maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

Adding gastrointestinal parasite resistance to the breeding objective in hair sheep: initial steps.

The U.S. Maternal Hair index was designed by the National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) to increase total weight of lamb weaned per ewe lambing (TW). Producers are interested in adding gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) resistance to this breeding objective since parasitism causes substantial economic losses. The NSIP provides producers with estimated breeding values (EBV) for post-weaning fecal egg count (PFEC), an indicator of GIN resistance. Our objective was to gauge the effects of including PFEC as another selection criterion and goal trait. Selection index theory was used to construct 11 indexes. First was a benchmark index with TW as the goal. Weaning weight, and number of lambs born and weaned, were selection criteria. An index was then designed with PFEC added as a selection criterion. In 9 more indices, PFEC was also included as a goal trait, where the economic value of TW was scaled relative to that of PFEC. PFEC received a scaled economic value of -1 with that of TW increasing from +1 to +5 at +0.5 increments. Selection criteria were modelled as EBV or phenotypes. Annual genetic responses in goal traits were predicted. The top 3% of males and 26% of females were selected. Breeding values and phenotypes were simulated for 200 lambs by Cholesky decomposition and used to generate index scores, with 100 replicates run. Concordances with the animals selected in the benchmark scenario were determined. Using EBV as selection criteria, TW increased by 1.46kg/yr in the benchmark scenario. However, unfavorably, PFEC increased by 2.24%/yr. When using phenotypic criteria, TW increased by 0.52kg/yr and PFEC by 0.28%/yr. Once added as a goal trait, PFEC decreased regardless of the scaled economic value of TW. However, responses in TW were also reduced, although less so as its scaled economic value increased. A scaled economic value of +3 for TW appeared reasonable over other choices with 79% of the emphasis placed on TW in the breeding objective. With EBV as selection criteria, PFEC declined by 7.96%/yr with 98% of the response in TW retained. Also, on average, 64% of males and 80% of females were chosen in common with the benchmark. With phenotypic selection criteria, PFEC declined by 5.13%/yr and 94% of the response in TW was retained; 61% of males and 80% of females were chosen in common with the benchmark. Implementing an index with scaled economic values of +3 for TW and -1 for PFEC would balance gains in TW with reductions in PFEC.

Bacillus thuringiensis Cry14A family proteins as novel anthelmintics against gastrointestinal nematode parasites.

Bacillus thuringiensis crystal (Cry) proteins have been expressed in commercial transgenic crops for nearly 30 years, providing safe and effective control of insect pests and significantly reducing the application of hazardous chemical pesticides. B. thuringiensis crystal proteins have also been shown to target parasitic nematodes, including plant parasitic nematodes. Recently, transgenic soybean crops expressing Cry14Ab have been shown to provide control against the soybean cyst nematode Heterodera glycines, marking the first time a crystal protein is being commercialized in transgenic crops for control of a nematode pest. However, apart from H. glycines and the free-living nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans, the breadth of nematode activity of Cry14Ab, e.g., against gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes (GINs), has not been reported. Here we study the efficacy of Cry14Ab against a wide range of gastrointestinal nematode parasites (GINs) in vitro and in vivo. We find that Cry14Ab is effective in vitro against the barber's pole worm Haemonchus contortus larvae, small strongyles cyathostomin larvae, the hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum adults, the roundworm Ascaris suum L4 larvae, and the whipworm Trichuris muris adults. In rodents infected with GIN parasites, Cry14Ab is effective as an in vivo anthelmintic against the hookworms A. ceylanicum and N. americanus, against the mouse parasite Heligmosomoides polygyrus bakeri, and against the roundworm A. suum. Cry14Ab also variably reduces the reproduction of the whipworm T. muris in vivo. Using optimized profile Markov Models, we looked for other putative anthelmintic Cry proteins and, within this list, identified a Bt crystal protein, GenBank accession no. MF893203, that we produced and demonstrated intoxicated GINs. This protein, with 90% amino acid identity to Cry14Ab, is active against C. elegans, A. ceylanicum adults, and A. suum L4 larvae in vitro. MF893203 was given the official designation of Cry14Ac. Cry14Ac is also an effective in vivo anthelmintic against A. ceylanicum hookworms in hamsters and intestinal A. suum in mice. Taken together, our results demonstrate that Cry14Ab and Cry14Ac have wide therapeutic utility against GINs.

The impact of the herd health interventions in small ruminants in low input production systems in Ethiopia.

Diseases have a negative impact on production and profitability of small ruminants. A good herd health program can decrease the number of sick animals and improve herd performance. In a longitudinal study, small ruminant herd health interventions such as community-based strategic gastrointestinal (GI) parasite control, prevention and control of major respiratory diseases and capacity development activities were implemented. In four districts of Ethiopia, where the Community Based Breeding Program (CBBP) is implemented, morbidity and mortality data were collected from January 2018 to July 2021 in 1047 smallholder farms with the objective of evaluating the impact of herd health interventions. A total of 2,643 sick animals and 516 deaths of small ruminants were recorded during the study period. The disease cases were categorized into eight groups: gastrointestinal, neurological, reproductive, respiratory, skin, systemic, other diseases (eye disease, foot disease etc) and unknown diseases. Chi-square and proportions were used to analyze morbidity and mortality by district, agro-ecological zone and age of the animal. The data showed that the general trend in the occurrence of cases and morbidity rate were decreasing from 2018 to 2021 in intervention villages. Overall, the morbidity rate in young animals (7.36%) was highier than in adults (3.49%) and the mortality rate difference between young and adult animals was also statistically significant (p < 0.001). The morbidity and mortality rates varied significantly (p < 0.001) among districts and among agro-ecologies. According to the data, treating and following up of infected animals reduced the mortality rate significantly. The relative risk of death in treated animals after the case reported was 0.135. Generally, the intervention impact analysis revealed that morbidity rate was significantly decreased (p = 0.009) in intervention years (6.31% in 2018 to 3.02% in 2021) and that herd health interventions provide an added value. Generally, herd health intervention had significant impact in reducing the morbidity rates in years and treatment and follow up of sick animals due to early reporting reduced mortality rate significantly. It is recommended that the herd health management should be the core activity under small ruminant production programs.

Goondapyrones A-J: Polyketide α and γ Pyrone Anthelmintics from an Australian Soil-Derived Streptomyces sp.

An investigation of ×19 soil samples collected under the auspices of the Australian citizen science initiative, Soils for Science, returned ×559 chemically dereplicated microbial isolates, of which ×54 exhibited noteworthy anthelmintic activity against either the heartworm Dirofilaria immitis microfilaria and/or the gastrointestinal parasite Haemonchus contortus L1-L3 larvae. Chemical (GNPS and UPLC-DAD) and cultivation (MATRIX) profiling prompted a detailed chemical investigation of Streptomyces sp. S4S-00196A10, which yielded new anthelmintic polyketide goondapyrones A-J (1-10), together with the known actinopyrones A (11) and C (12). Structures for 1-12 were assigned on the basis of detailed spectroscopic and chemical analysis, with preliminary structure activity relationship analysis revealing selected γ-pyrones >50-fold and >13-fold more potent than isomeric α-pyrones against D. immitis mf motility (e.g., EC50 0.05 μM for 1; EC50 2.7 μM for 5) and H. contortus L1-L3 larvae development (e.g., EC50 0.58 μM for 1; EC50 8.2 μM for 5), respectively.

Prevalence of Passalurus ambiguus in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in Karbala province, Iraq

Commercial rabbit farming is primarily focused on the production of rabbit meat, although the presence of gastrointestinal disorders can impede their productivity. Endoparasites significantly contribute to the development of several diseases in rabbits, leading to higher rates of illness and death. Passalurus ambiguus is a widely distributed nematode that commonly infects the intestines of rabbits and hares. Parasitic disease can have a substantial economic impact on the industry by reducing the commercial value of rabbit meat and skins, impeding growth and development, and leading to mortality. This study aims to examine the frequency of gastrointestinal parasites in domestic rabbits that are bred in Karbala province, Iraq. Throughout the trial, fecal samples were collected from a randomly selected group of 48 live rabbits. The feces are collected directly from the anus of each living animal. The samples were tested and the presence of eggs and nematodes was detected in the infected samples. Analysis of samples was carried out at the Parasitology Laboratory, college of Veterinary Medicine, Kerbala university, using the flotation technique. Feces from 48 rabbits (ages 1-2) years. The feces are taken out of each animal directly from the anus. Upon testing, it was found that 16 out of 48 fecal samples, accounting for a prevalence of 33.33 %, were infected with at least one nematode. Chi-square (χ2) statistics. Age and genders are not statistically significant at P values ≥ 0.05. This study identified the presence of Passalurus ambiguus in rabbits of varying ages residing in Karbala region, Iraq, including both male and female domestic rabbits. Determining the age and gender of rabbits affected by passalurosis would enable the management of the infection level in these animals. Regular use of a consistent and dependable diagnostic method is essential in industrial rabbit farms to detect and monitor gastrointestinal parasite illnesses. Gastrointestinal parasites continue to be significant health issues that lead to the mortality of rabbit litters in production. Stress and a reduction in immune response may be crucial factors driving this phenomenon.

Effects of environmental factors on host-parasite interaction patterns in backyard-tethered goats of Kerala, India

The environment is the most important stratum in the epidemiological triad of a parasitic disease and any variations in the environmental factors may decide the dynamic occurrence and existence of different lifecycle stages of these parasites. The present study investigated the correlations between key biometeorological and demographical parameters with the incidence of different gastrointestinal parasites and hemoparasites among goats. Four hundred and thirty-two goats were screened for parasitic infection in a yearlong survey conducted from July 2022 to June 2023 in the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Mannuthy, Kerala, India. The weather parameters (Tmax, Tmin, RH, THI, and bright sunshine hours), air quality parameters [AQI, PM2.5, and PM10], and demographic parameters (gender and age) were recorded along with the test positivity of different categories of gastrointestinal parasites and hemoparasites in goats by routine fecal sample examination and blood smear examination, respectively. The infection level was ranked based on the severity of the infection. The mean and daily variations in biometeorological parameters were calculated and the data were statistically analyzed to figure out the pertinent correlations in host-parasite-environment interaction patterns. High levels of parasitic infections with significant month-wise variations and climate-correlated peak infection patterns were noticed. The incidence of parasites was negatively correlated to all parameters except humidity, indicating more severe parasitism during monsoon months. The significant variations in the host-parasite interaction dynamics point towards the need for detailed explorations concerning the lifecycle of each specific parasite with a focus on the possible environment-favourable and resistant lifecycle stages. Future studies may be designed from a biometeorological perspective to develop a crucial understanding of host-parasite-environment interactions in goats ensuring sustainable goat farming.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Helminth Infections in the Digestive Tract of Camels in Xinjiang, China.

Camels, vital to economies in Asia, Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula, have been domesticated for over 4000 years. They thrive in arid regions like Xinjiang, China, but face challenges from internal and external parasites, particularly gastrointestinal parasites, which impact health, meat and milk quality, and production efficiency. This study investigates the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth infections in camels from five major regions in Xinjiang. We collected 435 fresh fecal samples and used the saturated saline flotation method and McMaster's method for detection. Molecular examination followed. The overall prevalence was 18.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 14.7-22.2%), with Urumqi showing the highest prevalence (29%, 95% CI: 23.4-35.1%) compared to other regions (odds ratio [OR]: 4.62, 95% CI: 2.63-8.41%). Younger camels (≤3 years old) were more likely infected by the parasites after adjusting for the region differences (OR: 10.53, 5.12-24.65%). However, we found no evidence that the prevalence was different between male and female camels. PCR analysis identified Trichostrongylus spp., Chabertia ovina, and Haemonchus contortus as predominant parasites, with observed co-infections indicating a complex parasitic landscape. The findings provide essential epidemiological data for effective parasite control strategies.

Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Pigs in Bali

This study aimed to identify gastrointestinal parasites in pigs in Bali. A total of 117 pig feces samples were collected in Buleleng Regency (n = 67) and Jembrana (n = 50). Samples were examined microscopically using native, sedimentation, and floating methods. The results reported the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites infecting pigs in Bali was 94.8% (111/117) infected with protozoa, namely Eimeria sp. (90.5%), Entamoeba sp. (26.4%), Isospora suis (6.8%), and Balantidium sp. (5.1%), while 99.1% (116/117) were infected with helminths, namely Trichuris suis (71.7%), Strongyloides sp. (64.9%), Ascaris suum (49.5%), Oesophagostomum sp. (6.1%), Macracanthorhyncus sp. (2.5%), and Hyostrongylus sp. (0.8%). Based on the tree regression analysis reported that the rearing system was related to the degree of gastrointestinal parasite infection in pigs in Bali.

Two names, one species: redescription and phylogenetic position of Schrankiana formosula Freitas, 1959 provides new insights into the evolutionary history of the Cosmocercidae.

Schrankiana are gastrointestinal parasites of anurans, distributed throughout Central and South America. Schrankiana formosula and Schrankiana inconspicata are some of the most commonly reported species parasitising anurans from Brazil, and the morphological differences between them are unclear. In the present study, we redescribed S. formosula based on a re-examination of type series and newly collected material from the frog Leptodactylus pentadactylus in the state of Amapá, Brazil. Additionally, we re-examined the type series of S. inconspicata, and propose it as a junior synonym of S. formosula. We provide detailed morphological and morphometric data with intraspecific variation analyses and new molecular data for S. formosula. In the present phylogeny, S. formosula formed a well-supported clade with Raillietnema sp. and Labeonema synodontisi. Based on molecular phylogenetic analyses and some morphological similarities, our findings support the hypothesis that Schrankiana is a member of the family Cosmocercidae, not Atractidae. Additionally, we provide the first ultrastructural descriptions of S. formosula, and establish the species' phylogenetic position from the Cosmocercidae.

Parasite diversity among domestic goats of tropical monsoon climatic zone in India.

Among different climatic zones in India, the tropical monsoon region comprises a diverse ecosystem characterized by the endemic nature of several parasites including certain emerging and re-emerging vector-borne pathogens of humans, whereas a systematic investigation of the occurrence of different parasites among domestic goats in this area is not yet explored. The goal of the present study is to explore the parasite diversity focusing on molecular identification of vector-borne hemoparasites and its health impacts on domestic goats reared in the tropical monsoon climate zone of Kerala, India. Among 227 goats presented to the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex (TVCC) in the monsoon months of 2023, thirty animals were recruited for the study. The animals were screened for the presence of different hemoparasites (Anaplasma spp., Theileria spp., and Babesia spp.), ectoparasites (ticks, lice, and fleas), and gastrointestinal (GI) parasites (hookworms, threadworms, tapeworms, whipworms, and coccidia). The isolated hemoparasites were further characterized by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The correlation studies to elucidate the association between the occurrence of different parasites and clinical manifestations (hyperthermia, pallor of mucous membrane, circulatory failure, respiratory signs, neurological instability, and GI signs), blood picture (anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia), demographics (sex and age), and treatment history (hemoparasitic therapy, ectoparasiticidal application, and prophylactic deworming) were conducted. The co-infection status of these parasites was also evaluated. A substantial portion of the goats in the study group was found to be affected by vector-borne hemoparasitic diseases and their arthropod vectors or GI parasites or both. This can be attributed to the constantly warm and humid climate of the region, which is favorable for the survival and growth of different life cycle stages of these parasites and vectors. A strategic parasitic disease surveillance-cum-control program is the need of the hour for ensuring climate resilience and profitable goat farming in the region.

Gross pathology and liver mercury concentrations in harbour porpoises, harbour seals and grey seals in Denmark, Northern Europe

Here we report the first investigation of gross pathology and mercury (Hg) in liver tissue from harbour porpoises, harbour seals and grey seals from Denmark, Northern Europe. Mercury concentrations ranged between 0.2 and 248 μg/g wet weight (ww) with highest concentrations found in grey seals and subadult harbour seals from the Baltic Sea, with no relationship to body condition. Necropsy findings across all three species decreasing in the following order: pneumonia (n = 60) > respiratory parasitism (n = 56) > wounds (n = 18) > GI-parasites (stomach nematodes and/or parasitic colitis) (n = 16) > ectoparasites (skin lice) (n = 12) > hepatic parasites/lesions (n = 8) > focal alopecia (n = 5) > nephropathy (n = 4) > middle ear complex parasites (n = 3) > nasal parasites (n = 2). Heart and/or lung worms were significantly highest in subadult harbour porpoises, GI parasites and nephropathy significantly lowest in subadult harbour seals and focal alopecia significantly highest in subadult harbour seals. Most cases of pneumonia were associated with respiratory parasites (68 %), while nine cases of wounds led to signs of septicaemia. Significant positive relationships were observed between Hg and the presence of respiratory parasites in subadult harbour porpoises and between Hg and the presence of focal alopecia, nephropathy, and gastrointestinal parasites in subadult harbour seals. Levels of Hg were in the categories for low risk (16–64 μg/g ww) in 18 %, moderate risk (64–83 μg/g ww) in 3 %, high risk (83–123 μg/g ww) in 2 % and severe risk (>123 μg/g ww) in 3 % of all individuals for health effects in marine mammals. In conclusion, using marine mammals as integrative sentinel species for Danish North Sea, Inner Danish Waters and the Baltic Sea ecosystems provides monitoring of ocean health in terms of multiple stressors such as anthropogenic contaminants and infectious diseases all being important in the context of global change.