Sedimentation Method Research Articles

Particle size and settling velocity of bed and suspended sediments for mud-sand beds

The particle size and the settling velocity of sediments are key parameters in sediment transport studies. However, it remains surprisingly difficult to determine particle size and settling velocity distribution of fine-grained sediments (mud-sand). A large range of methodologies exist to measure either the particle size distribution or to measure the settling velocity. An important influential parameter is the shape of fine-grained sediments, with clay minerals being shaped as plates rather than as spheres. Furthermore, the settling velocity of fine particles is influenced by turbulent shear and flocculation processes. Sometimes, the sediment samples are pre-treated (destroying inter-particle bonds) to measure the primary particle sizes involved while in other cases samples are not pre-treated in order to represent the effect of flocs. As a result, a large uncertainty exists in the way particle size and settling velocity should be measured. A range of methodologies (sedimentation, video camera, and laser-diffraction) to measure the settling velocity and particle size distribution in the field and in the laboratory is used and compared. The labour-intensive sedimentation methods measure a particle size distribution which can be used for sedimentation studies. The particle size distribution measured by the most commonly applied laser diffraction method is representative of the plate diameter of the clay particles, but the corresponding settling velocity is not correct. This difference can be explained by the shape of the clay particles through a derivation of the settling velocity of non-spherical particles resulting in a simple relationship to convert the particle size measured by laser diffraction to a representative particle size to be used in sedimentation studies. A comparison of the settling velocity measured by an in situ settling method and by a video camera method shows good agreement for high concentrations (> 2000 mg/L) but deviating results for low concentrations (< 500 mg/L).

Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections in Non-Human Primates at Gabon’s Primatology Center: Implications for Zoonotic Diseases

Parasites and infectious diseases pose significant threats to primate populations, especially in captive non-human primates (NHPs). This study aimed to assess the diversity and prevalence of intestinal parasites in NHPs at the CIRMF Primatology Center. A total of 97 fecal samples were analyzed using parasitological techniques, including sodium chloride flotation and modified Baermann sedimentation methods. An overall parasite prevalence of 93.81% (91/97) was observed. Sixteen groups of parasites with zoonotic potential were identified, comprising ten genera of nematodes (Trichuris, Enterobius, Hookworm, Trichostrongylus, Mammomonogamus, Spirure, Oesophagostomum, Schistosoma, Ascaris, and Strongyloides), three genera of protists (Eimeria, Balantioides coli/Buxtonella, and Entamoeba), one genus of cestodes (Hymenolepis), and two genera of trematodes (Dicrocoelium and Paramphistomum). High prevalences were noted for Oesophagostomum spp. (83.5%), Strongyloides spp. (52.58%), and Trichostrongylus spp. (50.52%). These findings underscore the potential role of the CIRMF Primatology Center in maintaining and facilitating the transmission of intestinal parasites with high zoonotic potential. The co-existence of human and NHP parasites in shared environments, such as zoos and research facilities, emphasizes the need for a holistic, One Health approach that addresses the interconnected health of humans, animals, and the environment. This study highlights the urgent need for collaborative strategies to mitigate the risks of zoonotic parasite transmission between NHPs and humans in captive settings.

Antibacterial activity of the biogenic volatile organic compounds from three species of bamboo.

Plant biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs) possess ecological functions in antimicrobial benefits and air purification. The objectives of the study were to determine the differences in antimicrobial capacity of bamboo forests at different sampling sites. Three common bamboo species-Phyllostachys edulis, Bambusa emeiensis, and Phyllostachys violascens-were selected to determinate the antimicrobial activity of bamboo forests as well as under ex vivo conditions. Natural sedimentation method was used to determine the microbe counts in bamboo forests, and the microbe counts in grassland in the same area was measured as control treatment. The results showed that except for the P. violascens in Ya'an, the airborne microbial content of the sampling sites in bamboo forests was significantly lower relative to that of grassland in the same area, and inhibition rate reached 74.14% in the P. violascens forest in Dujiangyan. P. edulis forest and P. violascens forest in Ya'an had significantly lower inhibition rates than the other sampling sites, and there was no significant difference in the inhibition rates among the rest of the bamboo forest. The bacterial inhibition rate of bamboo leaves under ex vivo conditions varied with bamboo species and bacterial strains, with higher antibacterial activity against Gram-negative bacteria overall. Escherichia coli was sensitive to B. emeiensis leaves, while Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis were sensitive to P. violascens leaves. Moreover, Candida albicans, S. cremoris, and Shigella Castellani were sensitive to P. edulis leaves. An analysis of the BVOCs composition from P. edulis collected in Changning by SPME-GC/MS revealed that the relative content of ocimene was obviously higher than other components. This study showed that P. edulis BVOCs have strong inhibitory ability to the tested microorganisms, and its main constituent, ocimene, has health benefit. P. edulis has the potential to become a forest recreation bamboo species.

Quality Test of Soil Transmitted Helminth Eggs using Natural Dye Extracted from Teak Leaves (Tectona grandis) at Concentrations of 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% as an Alternative Dye in the Sedimentation Method

Quality Test of Soil Transmitted Helminth Eggs using Natural Dye Extracted from Teak Leaves (Tectona grandis) at Concentrations of 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100% as an Alternative Dye in the Sedimentation Method

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.

Prevalence of Fasciolosis Among Cattle in The Ambon’s Slaughterhouse

Background: Fasciola spp. are well-known parasites with outstanding adaptation, contributing to infection among various ruminants, and causing zoonotic infections worldwide over the last three decades, especially in developing countries. However, their presence has been underestimated as a public health concern. The slaughterhouse is an authorized facility that provides safe and healthy meat; therefore, routine inspection for any zoonotic disease should be performed. Purpose: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of fasciolasis in cattle at an Ambon slaughterhouse. Methods: Fresh feces were collected from 42 cattle and the presence of Fasciola spp. using the sedimentation method. Data were descriptively analyzed, and Fisher’s exact test and odds ratio analysis were used to identify the association between risk factors. Results: The overall prevalence of fasciolasis was found to be 7.14%. Cattles &gt; 2 years old were 5.33 times more at risk than younger ones, while cattle from Seram Island were 13 times more susceptible to fasciolasis. No noticeable discrepancies were observed in the prevalence rates of bulls and cows. This study revealed that infection occurred before cattle departure, which started at their origin and was associated with age as an intrinsic factor. The physiological status, geographic conditions, and management systems are predicted to provide a suitable niche for the parasite life cycle. Conclusion: Although the rate of infection was low, it should be considered a risk and appropriately handled before sale. As this study was the first to investigate Fasciola infection in Ambon slaughterhouses, further studies are recommended to reveal other possible risk factors.

Exploring animal enclosures and parasite interactions in Germany

In order to gain an initial impression of the current parasite situation in wildlife enclosures across Germany, 17 enclosures of six animal species were examined for parasites in soil and fecal samples in seven facilities. Of particular interest in this context are helminths and protists. Despite the potential risks, however, there are only a few studies on parasites in animal enclosures due to the taboo subject. The study examined 661 fecal samples from fallow deer (Dama dama, N = 247), wild boar (Sus scrofa, N = 207), red deer (Cervus elaphus, N = 111), mouflon (Ovis orientalis musimon N = 76), roe deer (Capreolus capreolus, N = 12) and bison (Bison bonasus, N = 8) as well as 136 soil samples from 12 single-species enclosures and 5 mixed-species enclosures. Three hundred and sixty fecal samples (54.46 %) tested positive for parasites using flotation and sedimentation methods. In addition, parasites were detected in 62.5 % (N = 85) of the soil samples. Examination of the faecal samples revealed that the most common parasite species were Strongyloides sp., Trichostrongylus sp. and Trichuris sp. With the help of a Geographic Information System (GIS), the findings could be displayed on an enclosure map and initial hypotheses on environmental relationships could be made. Particularly high parasite samples were mostly located near feeding and resting areas. The results underline the need for more regular monitoring and targeted parasite management to protect the health of the animals. GIS can be used as an additional tool to help identify hotspots and to specifically incorporate the environment into management in order to take animal-friendly measures. This will play a greater role in the future in the context of anthelmintic resistance.

THE SENSITIVITY AND SPECIFICITY OF FLOTATION AND SEDIMENTATION METHODS FOR SOIL-TRANSMITTED HELMINTHS (STH) IN THE FECES OF VEGETABLE FARMERS IN NGAGLIK DISTRICT, YOGYAKARTA

Worm infection is a public health problem due to poor sanitation and behavior, and it can affect various age groups and professions, including vegetable farmers. Ngaglik Subdistrict is an area with water absorption, making it susceptible to becoming a center for the development of Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH). STH detection can be done through laboratory examinations using flotation and sedimentation methods. The research aimed to determine the differences in sensitivity and specificity between the flotation and sedimentation methods for STH detection in vegetable farmers in Ngaglik District, Yogyakarta. The research method used was analytical observational with a cross-sectional approach, utilizing interview data and laboratory examinations. Random sampling was used, resulting in 18 samples. The research findings of 18 fecal samples using two testing methods showed that 8 samples were positive for STH infection. Positive samples for the flotation and sedimentation methods were 4 (22.2%) and 5 samples (27.8%), respectively. The sensitivity of the flotation method was higher than that of sedimentation, namely 25% and 20%. The specificity of the flotation and sedimentation methods was 71.4% and 77%, respectively. The McNemar test results showed no significant difference in the sensitivity and specificity between the flotation and sedimentation methods (0.109 &gt; 0.05%), indicating that both methods can be used for STH detection in a laboratory setting.

Simultaneous and High-Throughput Analytical Strategy of 30 Fluorinated Emerging Pollutants Using UHPLC-MS/MS in the Shrimp Aquaculture System.

This study established novel and high-throughput strategies for the simultaneous analysis of 30 fluorinated emerging pollutants in different matrices from the shrimp aquaculture system in eastern China using UHPLC-MS/MS. The parameters of SPE for analysis of water samples and of QuEChERS methods for sediment and shrimp samples were optimized to allow the simultaneous detection and quantitation of 17 per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and 13 fluoroquinolones (FQs). Under the optimal conditions, the limits of detection of 30 pollutants for water, sediment, and shrimp samples were 0.01-0.30 ng/L, 0.01-0.22 μg/kg, and 0.01-0.23 μg/kg, respectively, while the limits of quantification were 0.04-1.00 ng/L, 0.03-0.73 μg/kg, and 0.03-0.76 μg/kg, with satisfactory recoveries and intra-day precision. The developed methods were successfully applied to the analysis of multiple samples collected from aquaculture ponds in eastern China. PFASs were detected in all samples with concentration ranges of 0.18-0.77 μg/L in water, 0.13-1.41 μg/kg (dry weight) in sediment, and 0.09-0.96 μg/kg (wet weight) in shrimp, respectively. Only two FQs, ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin, were found in the sediment and shrimp. In general, this study provides valuable insights into the prevalence of fluorinated emerging contaminants, assisting in the monitoring and control of emerging contaminants in aquatic foods.

UTILITY OF AUTOMATED HEMATOLOGY ANALYZER IN THE DETECTION OF MALIGNANT CELLS IN SEROUS EFFUSIONS

Abstract Introduction/Objective Although microscopic examination is the gold standard for body fluid malignant cytology, it has a higher turnaround time and inter observed variability. Screening of serous effusions for malignant cells using haematology methods of automated analysis provides a rapid and objective result to the clinicians for initiating necessary treatment. Automated haematology analysers are equipped with body fluid (BF) mode that can detect high fluorescence cells body fluid (HF-BF) cells, mononuclear and polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells using flowcytometry laser scatter principles. The high fluorescence parameters useful for identifying malignant cells in the effusions Methods/Case Report The study was performed between February 2023to Februart 2024 at AIG Hospitals, Hyderabad after obtaining approval from the medical ethics committee of thehospital. Body fluidswere collected in K2 EDTA vaccutainer. Simultaneous preparation of smears for microscopic examination and morphometry wasdone and the smears were stained using Romanowsky stain (Leishmann &amp; Giemsa). Cytospin smears were prepared by cyto- centrifugation (Sakura cyto- tix). The slides were stained by Hematoxylin and eosin, May Grunwald Giemsa (MGG) and Papanicolaou (PAP) stains for morphological differentiation and detection of malignant cells. Cell blocks were prepared after through mixing of the fluid using direct sedimentation method and the slides were stained by haematoxylin and eosin stain. IHC was performed where ever necessary. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) A total of 258 fluid samples comprising of 223 ascitic and 35 pleural fluids. Medical statistical software version 20.2 was used for statistical analysisof the results. Considering fluid cell block analysis as the gold standard the patient population was divided into 2 groups, malignant (8 samples) and non- malignant cell group(250 samples). Cytological examination of cytospins smears has shown to have the highest specificity, PPV and NPV in the detection of malignant effusions. Conclusion Our study shows that cytology and histopathological examination of body fluids remains the gold standard for the detection of malignant cells. The HF-BF parameter acts as a rapid, useful tool to predict the presence of malignant cells in serous effusions and select samples for microscopic reviewing that would have otherwise gone undiagnosed. We believe that with defining cut off values for the HF-BF parameter may be used as an adjunct diagnostic tool.

Retrospective Evaluation of Intestinal Protozoa Parasites in Patients Presenting to Kafkas University Health Research and Application Hospital Between 2019-2022.

This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate the prevalence of protozoan parasites in stool samples collected from patients presenting with various gastrointestinal complaints to the Medical Parasitology Laboratory of Kafkas University Research and Application Hospital between 2019 and 2022. Stool samples were initially examined using the native-Lugol method for the detection of protozoan parasites, followed by the formol-ethyl acetate sedimentation method, Giemsa, and carbol fuchsin staining methods. Specific immunochromatographic card tests were used for the diagnosis of Entamoeba histolytica, Cryptosporidium spp., and Giardia intestinalis. Of the 2.267 stool samples examined over the four-year period from January 2019 to December 2022, 7.63% were found to contain one or more protozoan parasites. Among these parasites, Entamoeba histolytica was detected at the highest rate of 4.06%. The other parasite species were identified as follows: Blastocystis spp. 1.15%, Entamoeba spp. and Entamoeba coli each 0.52%, Giardia intestinalis 0.48%, Endolimax nana 0.17%, and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 0.08%. This study indicates that despite a decrease in the prevalence of intestinal protozoan infections in the Kars region, these infections remain a significant public health issue. Therefore, improvements in hygiene and sanitation conditions, increased public health education, and the widespread implementation of early diagnosis and treatment methods are necessary. Special measures should be taken to protect vulnerable groups, particularly children and the elderly.

Influence of different cleaning methods on the concentration of airborne endotoxins and microbial aerosols in the oral clinical environment

AimThis study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of various cleaning methods in reducing airborne endotoxin and microbial aerosols during oral cleaning procedures.MethodForty patients undergoing oral cleaning procedures were randomly assigned to one of four groups (n = 10 per group). Group A received strong suction alone; Group B received strong suction combined with an air disinfection machine; Group C received strong suction combined with a dental electric suction machine; Group D received strong suction in conjunction with both an air disinfection machine and a dental electric suction machine. Airborne aerosol concentrations were assessed at four-time points: before treatment, 30 min into treatment, immediately after treatment, and 60 min after treatment ended. Samples were collected at distances of 20 cm, 60 cm, and 1 m from the patient’s oral cavity using the natural sedimentation method. T-test was used to evaluate the difference among tested groups.ResultsAirborne endotoxins and microbial aerosols levels increased significantly during treatment, with the highest levels observed at 20 cm from the patient’s mouth. During treatment, groups with additional cleaning methods (Groups B, C, and D) exhibited higher levels of airborne endotoxins and microbial aerosols compared to Group A (strong suction alone). However, post-treatment analysis revealed that Group D demonstrated the lowest level of airborne endotoxins and microbial aerosols, while Group A exhibited the highest.ConclusionsImplementing effective aerosol management strategies can significantly reduce aerosol dispersion in the oral clinical environment. Continuous monitoring aerosol concentrations and the application of appropriate control measures are essential for minimizing infection risks for both patients and healthcare providers during oral cleaning procedures.

A step‐by‐step progressive strategy exploring whole metabolic profiles in vivo for Polygalae Radix with/without licorice

AbstractIntroductionPolygalae Radix (PR) is known to relieve toxicity and increase efficiency in various diseases after processing. However, there were few studies for aromatic carboxylic acids (ACAs) due to the limited detection, especially for the metabolites within m/z 100–2000.ObjectivesThis study aims to elucidate the whole metabolism of PR with/without licorice (LP), focusing on metabolites within m/z 100–2000 and pharmacodynamics in vivo.Material and methodsThis study was established by the combination of multidimensional ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with a mass spectrometer (UPLC–MS) technology with protein sedimentation method to analyze metabolites in plasma, brain, colon, and stomach contents. Quantitative monitoring ACAs was enhanced with our novel stable isotope derivatization (SILD) technique. And then the pharmacokinetics (PK) study of relatively large metabolites was carried out. A targeted network pharmacology approach was established to avoid false positive results, mapping interactions relevant to Alzheimer's disease (AD), and other conditions.ResultsThe 85 polygala metabolites were qualitatively analyzed in plasma, brain, colon, and stomach contents. The 11 types of relatively large metabolites and 8 types of ACAs were quantitatively monitored. Among them, nine types of relatively large metabolites were assessed through PK studies. In targeted network pharmacology, it highlighted the significance of small molecular metabolites, including ACAs et al, which were frequently overlooked. LP may play a more key role mainly through neural active ligand‐receptor interaction, AD, and pertussis pathways. These findings have outlined a step‐by‐step strategy for in‐depth research in vivo, laying a foundation for further verification of biological function.

Serum Procalcitonin, Hematology Parameters, and Cell Morphology in Multiple Clinical Conditions and Sepsis.

The clinical value of procalcitonin (PCT) in infection diagnosis and antibiotic stewardship is still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between serum PCT and different clinical conditions as well as other infectious/inflammatory parameters in different septic patients in order to elucidate the value of PCT detection in infection management. Chemiluminescence immunoassay was used for serum PCT analysis. Hematology analysis was used for complete blood cell count. Digital automated cell morphology analysis was used for blood cell morphology examination. Blood, urine, and stool cultures were performed according to routine clinical laboratory standard operating procedures. C-reactive protein (CRP) was analyzed by immunoturbidimetry. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate test was performed using natural sedimentation methods. Outpatients, ICU patients, and patients under 2 years of age with respiratory infections had higher serum PCT levels. Septic patients had the highest-serum PCT levels and other infection indexes. PCT levels in the blood, urine, and stool culture-positive patients were significantly higher than in culture-negative patients. The neutrophil granulation and reactive lymphocytes were observed together with the PCT-level increments in different septic patients, and these alterations were lessened after treatment. There was no significant change in monocyte morphology between pre- and posttreatment septic patients. Serum PCT is associated with neutrophil cytotoxicity and lymphocyte morphology changes in sepsis; thus, the combination of neutrophil and lymphocyte digital cell morphology evaluations with PCT detection may be a useful examination for guiding the clinical management of sepsis.

Prevalence and Degree Trematoda Infection in Dairy Cattle Friesian Holstein at Koperasi Usaha Tani Ternak Suka Makmur Pasuruan

Trematode worm infections in dairy cattle have not been widely reported in various regions in Indonesia. This study aims to determine the prevalence and degree of trematode worm infection in Friesian Holstein dairy cattle at KUTT Suka Makmur, Pasuruan. The research design used survey study and cross-sectional study. The study was conducted in July-September 2023. The number of samples taken was 100, which were selected from proportional random sampling of four sub-districts, namely Grati, Nguling, Lekok, and Lumbang, with the age ranges under a year, 1-2 years, and above 2 years. The sample were examined using the sedimentation method and Flukenfinder® method. Positive samples were further examined using the McMaster method to determine the number of worm eggs per gram of feces. The results of this study obtained a prevalence of 54% with low and moderate degrees of infection. The trematode worm species found through fecal examination were Fasciola gigantica and Paramphistomum cervi. The results of chi square statistical analysis showed that sample examination method and age were related to the prevalence of trematode worms, yet location was not related to the prevalence of trematode worms. The results of kruskal wallis statistical analysis showed that age and location influence the degree of trematode worm infection.

The Use of a Laser Diffractometer to Analyze the Particle Size Distribution of Selected Organic Soils

This study was conducted to verify the usefulness of the laser diffractometer method for determining the particle size distribution of selected organic soils from the Podkarpacie region in Poland. The soil selected for this research represented three main classification groups, namely, low-organic, medium-organic and high-organic soil, in accordance with the standard criterion. Particle size distribution was determined using two types of laser diffractometers: the Helos laser diffractometer manufactured by Sympatec GmbH (Clausthal-Zellerfeld, Germany) and the laser particle size analyzer Analysette 22 MicroTech plus manufactured by Fritsch GmbH (Idar-Oberstein, Germany). The standard mechanical and sedimentation methods, which are perfect for testing mineral soils, are not applicable to organic soils; therefore, a serious problem was found and examined. A reference method that could verify the test results obtained using the laser diffractometer methods was required. After analyzing the literature, the hydrometric (sedimentation) method was adopted as the reference method. Currently, there are no reliable and fully verified methods for testing soils with such a complex skeleton structure, and the resources, standards and guidelines concerning the issues discussed are extremely limited; therefore, new research methods are being sought to fill this gap, and this work is a step in this direction. The results of the conducted studies and analyses have shown that laser diffractometry methods can be useful for determining the particle size distribution of organic soils, but to a limited extent, depending mainly on the quantity of organic substances. The highest agreement was obtained by comparing the results of the sedimentation method with those obtained using the diffractometer analyzer Analysette 22 in the group of highly organic soils.

Papaya Seed Extract Combined Lauryl Glucoside Against Human Parasites Contaminated in Fresh Vegetables

Background: The prevalence of parasites in Thailand, primarily transmitted through contaminated vegetables, poses a significant public health concern. Ensuring the safety of natural produce from both parasites and chemical residues necessitates robust sanitation measures. Objective: This study aims to develop effective vegetable-washing solutions using papaya seed extract with potent anti-parasitic properties contamination in fresh vegetables. Methods: Fresh vegetables contaminated with Strongyloides stercoralis larvae, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Taenia spp. eggs were subjected to various treatments: distilled water, tap water, vinegar (5%), papaya seeds extract (200 mg/L), lauryl glucoside (1%) from coconut oil, papaya seeds extract combined with lauryl glucoside, and Albendazole as a standard drug. Immersion for 5 minutes was followed by parasite observation using the sedimentation method over 60 minutes, examining inhibitory effects on parasite larvae movement. Results: Papaya seed extract achieved the most rapid cessation within 10 minutes for larvae movement, followed by vinegar and papaya seed extract combined with lauryl glucoside. Furthermore, papaya seed extract combined with lauryl glucoside exhibited the highest efficacy in the sedimentation larval and parasite eggs, followed by lauryl glucoside solution and papaya seed extract, surpassing the control group. Conclusion: Papaya seeds extract immobilized larvae, while lauryl glucoside effectively eliminated parasite eggs from vegetables. Natural and organic compounds derived from papaya and coconut oil exhibit inherent diversification in their properties. These compounds originate from natural sources, showcasing distinct characteristics attributed to their organic nature. These results indicate the potential for developing natural extract-based products as future vegetable-washing solutions, emphasizing their significance against parasitic efficacy.

Fosfatriclaben: Effective dose determination and comparative efficacy assessment with closantel, triclabendazole+ivermectin, triclabendazole+albendazole in artificially infected cattle

Two controlled efficacy studies were conducted to determine the effective dose of fosfatriclaben (FTCB) and compare its fasciolicidal efficacy with that of three commercial products against eggs and adult stages of Fasciola hepatica in artificially infected cattle. In study 1, 20 trematode-free Holstein Friesian steers were infected on day 0 with 500 F. hepatica metacercariae. Ten weeks after infection and the steers were confirmed to be positive for trematode eggs through a modified sedimentation method. On day 75, they were divided into five groups of four animals each for treatment. Group 1 (G1) served as the untreated control; G2, G3, and G4 received FTCB at 4, 6, and 8 mg/kg/intramuscularly (IM), respectively. G5 received a combined treatment of triclabendazole (TCBZ) (12 mg/kg IM + ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg IM). Individual faecal analyses were performed on days −8, 0, 70, 75, and 105 to evaluate the reduction in trematode eggs. Four weeks after treatment, the steers were humanely slaughtered to harvest the livers and remove the parasites present in the bile ducts. Efficacy was evaluated by the reduction in fecal egg counts or in number of adult parasites, compared to the untreated control. The effective FTCB dose was 6 mg/kg. Once the effective dose was determined, study 2 was conducted on another 20 steers infected with 500 F. hepatica metacercariae, to compare the effectiveness of FTCB with three commercials fasciolicides. All procedures were performed as described in study 1, and treatments were as follows: Group 1 (G1), closantel (5 mg/kg subcutaneously (SC)); G2, TCBZ (12 mg/kg IM) + ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg IM); G3, FTCB (6 mg/kg IM); G4, triclabendazole (12 mg/kg) + albendazole (5 mg/kg/PO (orally); and G5 served as an untreated control. The results indicated that all tested compounds were highly effective in the reduction of faecal egg excretion (99.7–100%) and adult parasites (98.9–100%), except closantel, which exhibited low efficacy (74.4%) when tested against adult trematodes. We concluded that the effective dose of FTCB for cattle was 6 mg/kg IM, which is half the recommended clinical dose of the commercial combination of TCBZ and ivermectin. The fasciolicidal efficacy of FTCB was like the other three flukicides in reducing adult F. hepatica and Fasciola eggs; however, closantel was not sufficiently efficient against adult flukes.

Detection of Parasites in Locally Sourced Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Using Various Diagnostic Techniques

A prospective study was conducted from September 2022 to March 2023 to examine the occurrence and contamination rates of different parasitic stages on fresh edible fruits and vegetables in local markets of Erbil city. Eight different types of fruits and vegetables were selected from eight markets, and 144 samples were analyzed for parasites using direct sedimentation, indirect floatation (ZnSO4), Kinyoun, and trichrome staining methods. The highest total frequencies of parasites were detected using the direct sedimentation method (18.75%), followed by the indirect floatation method (6.25%), Kinyoun technique (5.55%), and modified trichrome staining (4.16%). A. lumbricoides (Ova) was detected with 4.16% using direct sedimentation, while no positive detections were observed with other techniques. Kinyoun technique identified Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts. For E. histolytica 1.3% were positive using the direct sedimentation method, while the other three methods showed no positive detections. Similar results were observed for G. lamblia where only the modified trichrome staining technique detected 0.69% with trophozoites and 1.3% with cysts. Additionally, the direct sedimentation method revealed the presence of nematodes at 2.77%, but no positive detections were made with other methods. Concerning Taeniid eggs, the indirect floatation identified 0.69% with ova, while other methods showed no positive detections. Lastly, the direct sedimentation method yielded 6.25% with unidentified flagellate protozoa, but no positive detections were found using the indirect floatation method, Kinyoun technique, or modified trichrome staining technique. The study concluded that Kinyoun and trichrome techniques are the gold standard for detecting different parasite stages.

Prevalence of Fasciolosis in Commercial Cattle of Tulsipur Sub-Metropolitan, Dang, Nepal

Fasciolosis is a frequently occurring and economically significant parasitic disease of ruminants that is widely distributed. A cross-sectional study was conducted to find out the prevalence of fasciolosis in commercial cattle farms during the period from April 2023 to June 2023 in Tulsipur sub-metropolitan, Dang, Nepal. A total of 202 fresh fecal samples were collected purposively from the study area from cattle of different ages, breeds, sexes, and stages and examined using the direct method and the sedimentation method. The obtained data were coded and analyzed using the SPSS version 23 software. The overall prevalence of fasciolosis was 32.20%. Age-wise prevalence was found to be 52.83%, 23.46%, and 27.45% in groups less than two years, two to five years, and above five years, respectively. The prevalence of Fasciola was found to be 34.62% in cross-breed cattle and 10% in indigenous cattle, and 31.11% in females and 40.90% in male cattle. The stage-wise prevalence of Fasciola in calves, heifers and productive cattle were 50%, 39.21% and 22.52% respectively. Breed, age and stage-wise prevalence were found to be statistically significant (p&lt;0.05) while sex-wise prevalence was found insignificant (p&gt;0.05). Since fasciolosis is significantly prevalent among cattle in the Tulsipur sub-metropolitan area, periodic deworming is required to prevent the infections and maximize cattle production. Further study is required for the identification of the epidemiological risk factors and the preventive measures of the disease in Nepal.