Parasitic Infestation Research Articles

Molecular Detection and Characterization of Haemonchus spp. in Cattle in Nigeria

Background: Haemonchosis is a major parasitic infestation in ruminant livestock, causing significant economic losses annually. The causative organisms are helminths of the genus Haemonchus spp. Detection of the causative agent is important for effective management and control of the disease. Molecular detection and characterization of parasites is a very dependable approach for parasite identification, especially where morphological characterization is unreliable. Methods: To detect and characterize Haemonchus species in cases of haemonchosis at a Municipal abattoir in Ibadan, Nigeria; abomasal samples were collected from cattle at the abattoir. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect and amplify 320 bp internal transcribed spacer-2 (ITS-2) and 400 bp external transcribed spacer (ETS) genes of the adult worms in the samples. Multiple sequence alignment and phylogenetic tree reconstruction were carried out to further confirm the presence of the worms. Results: PCR, multiple sequence alignment, and phylogenetic reconstruction confirmed the presence of H. placei in the abomasal samples and further confirmed the species as a distinct species of bovine worms at the abattoir. Multiple sequence alignment also revealed genetic sites that can be employed to distinguish H. placei from H. contortus and H. similis. Conclusion: Molecular techniques; PCR and sequence analysis are very important and reliable in the diagnosis of parasitic diseases. This will help to formulate effective control measures for eradication of the parasite.

Dairy Herd Parameters and Productivity Comparisons in Karnal District Across Beneficiary and Non-Beneficiary Farmers of Farmers Farm School

The present study was conducted in Karnal district of Haryana, to compare the dairy herd parameters and the productivity of cattle possessed by the beneficiary farmers of farmers farm school and non- beneficiaries. Crossbred cows and buffaloes were more in number both with beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries. Average daily milk yield was significantly (<0.01) higher in the animals possessed by beneficiary farmers than non-beneficiary farmers. Almost all the beneficiaries found to provide mineral mixture to their dairy animals on an average of 48.80 gm/animal/day whereas only five members of non-beneficiaries were giving mineral mixture of the quantity 45.50 gm/animal/day. The percentage of animals affected were significantly (<0.01) higher in non-beneficiary group while comparing with beneficiaries. The overall morbidity status of the locale was that, 18 per cent had the ecto- parasite infestation followed by repeat breeding (9%).

Causes of Death and Screening for Toxicants and Hemopathogens of European Hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) from a Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Northern France.

The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus), common in rural and suburban environments, is perceived as declining within its native range, prompting conservation concerns. This study of hedgehogs admitted to a French rehabilitation center aimed to identify causes of death, detect potential emerging diseases, and systematically screen dead hedgehogs for toxicants and hemopathogens. Using clinical information, necropsy examination, and ancillary testing in 159 dead hedgehogs, we identified the primary cause of death of 92% of them. The leading causes of death were impaired general condition (30%); bacterial infections (26%), frequently caused by Salmonella Enteritidis; and trauma (20%). Additional factors contributing to death were identified in 78%, including a high proportion with significant parasite infestations. Toxicologic screening revealed that 42% of hedgehogs had been exposed to anticoagulant rodenticides, including 6.4% hedgehogs with levels compatible with acute intoxication. These hedgehogs were also exposed to trace metals, especially lead, but no pesticides residues were detected. Hemopathogen screening revealed a low diversity and prevalence of blood pathogens with 3.6, 2.9, and 2.9% individuals infected with Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Mycoplasma turicensis, and Mycoplasma wenyonii, respectively. The variety of diagnoses suggests that there is no unique prominent or emerging disease responsible for the mortality of these hedgehogs. This study also highlighted the high exposure of hedgehogs to various toxicants. To further investigate the extent and causes of population declines, health information issued from several centers should be combined with demographic data as well as ecologic assessments on the availability and quality of natural resources.

Examination of Prevalence and Sex-Related Variation in Gill and Gastrointestinal Tract Parasite Infestation of Clarias Species in ‘Tella’ Area of River Taraba, Nigeria

The presence of certain parasites in Clarias species consumed in Nigeria has continued to pose some challenges to fish production in many parts of Nigeria. The present study was aimed at assessing the sex-related distribution of parasites in gills and gastrointestinal tracks of Clarias species consumed in Nigeria. Two hundred and sixty (260) Clarias species obtained from River Taraba, Taraba state was examined for the presence of gill and digestive tract parasites. One hundred and forty (140) of them were Clarias gariepinus and one hundred and twenty (120) were Clarias anguillaris. Analysis was carried out using standard parasitological techniques. The gills of the fish were removed and observed under a stereo microscope for parasites. The intestines were cut opened and viewed under the stereo microscope section-by-section. Parasites seen were recovered, fixed, and preserved in 5% formalin before they were later processed. Two gill parasites, Macrogyrodactylus sp. (a monogenean) and Ergasilus sarsi (a copepod) were recovered. The relationship between sex and gill parasite infestation was significant (p<0.05). Three parasite species namely Tetracampos ciliotheca and Monobothroides woodland (cestodes) and Procamallanus laeviconchus (nematode) were recovered from the digestive tract of both Clarias species in the river. Relationships between the sex of fish and digestive tract infestation were also significant (p<0.05).

Recent Apprises on Predominant Disease and Disorders Detected in BAU Vet Clinic, Mymensingh, Bangladesh

The present study was accompanied at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, BAU Mymensingh, since November 2023 to January 2024, to acknowledge the three months clinical study on animals. A total of 1765 clinical cases of which 427 goats, 211 cats, and 1127 cattle were examined. The clinical cases were divided into three groups: surgical, gynecological, obstetrical, and medicinal cases. In contrast with gynecological and obstetrical (cattle 3.82%, goats 7.26%, and cats 7.11%) and surgical (cattle 15.17%, goats 22.48%, and cats 19.91%) cases, the most significant percentage of cases were medicinal (cattle 81.01%, goats 69.79%, and cats 72.99%). Among the medicinal cases in cattle, parasite infestation most significant was (65.72%), than other infectious diseases (17.09%), general systemic (6.57%), and digestive disorders (3.83%). Additional cases counted like skin conditions (1.75%), respiratory disorders (1.64%), metabolic diseases (1.53%), eye disease (0.33%), urogenital disorders (0.55%), and musculoskeletal disorders (0.99%). In case of goats, general systemic diseases were maximum significant (24.16%), then parasitic diseases (21.14%), infectious diseases (20.13%), and digestive disorders (19.46%). Moreover, eye disease (5.37%), respiratory disorder (5.37%), skin conditions (2.68%), and musculoskeletal disorders (1.68%) were observed. In pet animals like cats infectious diseases were utmost significant (25.97%), compared to parasitic diseases (20.13%) and digestive disorders (19.48%). Additionally, skin diseases (11.69%), respiratory disorders (8.44%), eye disease (2.60%) and musculoskeletal disorders were (1.30%). The most prevalent gynecological and obstetric problems among the gynecological and obstetric cases were identified as repeat breeding (30.23%) in cattle, retained placenta (35.48%) in goats, and dystocia (60.00%) in cats. Hernia (26.32%) in cattle, Bone fracture (28.13%) in goats, and Bone fracture (23.81%) in cats were documented. In conclusion, the represented percentage of diseases was observed in BAU Vet Clinics and we hope that these data will support in the development strategies to regulate the most important diseases in the study area.

Ichthyobodo necator infection as a first record in cultured Dicentrarchus labrax: morphomolecular characterization and infestation patterns in correlation to water quality parameters

Ichthyobodo necator is a damaging and economically important protozoan parasite; however, its clinical patterns and incidence, correlated to environmental factors, are still poorly understood. This study provides the first report of Ichthyobodo necator infestation among Dicentrarchus labrax. We recorded significant mortalities in the cultured D. labrax of average size (5.92 g weight, and 11.55 cm length) in El-Max Station, National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries, NIOF, Egypt, during the period extending from early summer to early fall (June to October) 2023. Behavioral and gross lesions of the infested fish were recorded; besides, dead and moribund fish were collected. Wet smears of the skin and gill of the affected fish were examined by compound light microscopy. Moreover, water samples from the affected ponds were collected and examined for their physicochemical parameters. The bodonid biflagellated Ichthyobodo necator (Henneguy) C. Pinto, 1928 was isolated from the skin and gills and identified based on specific morphological characteristics. DNA sequencing of PCR products and phylogenetic analysis confirmed identification, with clustering of the current isolates with I. necator isolates from different fish species. The multivariate analysis revealed a positive correlation between the prevalence and infestation intensity of Ichthyobodo, increased temperature levels, decreased dissolved oxygen DO, and also correlated with higher ammonia, and pH values. Additionally, the elevated concentrations of iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper in pond water were positively correlated with infestation and mortalities. These water parameter levels promote respiratory distress, accelerated prevalence, and infestation intensities of I. necator, particularly during the infestation peak in August and September. This study bridges the knowledge gap regarding I. necator parasite infestations and their correlation with water quality parameters.

A comprehensive analysis of morphological and biochemical parameters of <i>Medicago sativa</i> during biotic stress

Background: Parasitism is an abiotic stress that significantly threatens plant growth and severely impacts crop productivity. Plants have developed complicated regulatory mechanisms to cope with stressful conditions, undergoing morphological and biochemical changes. Objective: The article presents the first comprehensive analysis of the Medicago sativa response to the penetration of flowering parasites Orobanche lutea and Cuscuta alba. The outcome of this study aim to enhance crop quality comprehend their bioactive properties and pinpoint optimal strategies for their utilization in preventing and treating human and animal health issues. Methods: Medicago sativa, Orobanche lutea and Cuscuta alba were collected in the Ararat province, located in southeastern Armenia. The plants’ morphological structures and leaf parameters were observed. The prooxidant activity was determined by the potentiometric method. The content of total phenols, flavonoids and catechins were determined by a spectrophotometric method. Pigments were separated and identified using thin layer chromatography and a spectrophotometric method. Results: The in-situ observations of M. sativa plant and ex-situ measurements of its leaves infected by O. lutea and C. alba reveal a significant negative impact on both the reproductive success and the vegetative aspects. Infected plants exhibited minimal inflorescence development, also, substantial reductions in leaf dimensions were observed. The analysis of prooxidant activity revealed that M. sativa exhibits inherent prooxidant properties, which are amplified in the presence of parasites. The influence of dodder on prooxidant activity is much more significant (14-38%) than that of broomrape (8-42%). The percentage changes in total phenolic content were more pronounced in the presence of C. alba, but flavonoid decline was more pronounced in the presence of O. lutea, suggesting a differential impact of the two parasites. Although catechin content was not affected, photosynthetic pigments of the host plant were significantly (28-57%) reduced by the parasites. Conclusion: Findings indicate a clear morphological alteration induced by parasitic infestation. The parasites, particularly O. lutea can cause temporal isolation and allochronic speciation in M. sativa populations. Biochemical analysis highlighted a complex interplay between the host and the parasite. The biochemical impact of the parasite is reflected on the host’s primary and secondary metabolism. The observed morphological and biochemical changes highlight the need for further research to explore potential mitigation strategies, selective herbicide development, and biocontrol measures against parasitic plant infestations in agricultural ecosystems. Keywords: alfalfa; Orobanche lutea; Cuscuta alba; parasites plants; morphophysiological observations; bioactivity.

Epidemiology and management of parasitic infestations in Indian major carps in extensive culture systems of Andhra Pradesh, India

Epidemiology and management of parasitic infestations in Indian major carps in extensive culture systems of Andhra Pradesh, India

Inhibition of the Notch signal transducer CSL by Pkc53E-mediated phosphorylation to fend off parasitic immune challenge in Drosophila

Notch signalling activity regulates hematopoiesis in Drosophila and vertebrates alike. Parasitoid wasp infestation of Drosophila larvae, however, requires a timely downregulation of Notch activity to allow the formation of encapsulation-active blood cells. Here, we show that the Drosophila CSL transcription factor Suppressor of Hairless [Su(H)] is phosphorylated at Serine 269 in response to parasitoid wasp infestation. As this phosphorylation interferes with the DNA binding of Su(H), it reversibly precludes its activity. Accordingly, phospho-deficient Su(H)S269A mutants are immune-compromised. A screen for kinases involved in Su(H) phosphorylation identified Pkc53E, required for normal hematopoiesis as well as for parasitoid immune response. Genetic and molecular interactions support the specificity of the Su(H)-Pkc53E relationship. Moreover, phorbol ester treatment inhibits Su(H) activity in vivo and in human cell culture. We conclude that Pkc53E targets Su(H) during parasitic wasp infestation, thereby remodelling the blood cell population required for wasp egg encapsulation.

Inhibition of the Notch signal transducer CSL by Pkc53E-mediated phosphorylation to fend off parasitic immune challenge in Drosophila.

Notch signalling activity regulates hematopoiesis in Drosophila and vertebrates alike. Parasitoid wasp infestation of Drosophila larvae, however, requires a timely downregulation of Notch activity to allow the formation of encapsulation-active blood cells. Here, we show that the Drosophila CSL transcription factor Suppressor of Hairless [Su(H)] is phosphorylated at Serine 269 in response to parasitoid wasp infestation. As this phosphorylation interferes with the DNA binding of Su(H), it reversibly precludes its activity. Accordingly, phospho-deficient Su(H)S269A mutants are immune-compromised. A screen for kinases involved in Su(H) phosphorylation identified Pkc53E, required for normal hematopoiesis as well as for parasitoid immune response. Genetic and molecular interactions support the specificity of the Su(H)-Pkc53E relationship. Moreover, phorbol ester treatment inhibits Su(H) activity in vivo and in human cell culture. We conclude that Pkc53E targets Su(H) during parasitic wasp infestation, thereby remodelling the blood cell population required for wasp egg encapsulation.

Transcriptomic Analysis of Non-Specific Immune Responses in the Rice Field Eel (Monopterus albus) Infected with Pallisentis (Neosentis) celatus

Parasitic infestations present significant threats to the physiological health and ecological stability of aquatic species, frequently compromising immune defenses and elevating mortality rates. This study was conducted to elucidate the non-specific immune responses induced by Pallisentis (Neosentis) celatus infection in Monopterus albus, with a focus on intestinal histopathology and transcriptome gene expression. A histopathological examination revealed minor alterations in intestinal villi under low-level infection. A transcriptome analysis, performed using Illumina sequencing technology, identified 347 upregulated and 298 downregulated genes involved in critical biological pathways, such as lipid metabolism, immune responses, and the regulation of inflammatory processes. GO and KEGG analyses indicated the upregulation of immune-related pathways, including the RIG-I-like and IL-17 signaling pathways, highlighting a robust intestinal immune response. Conversely, the complement pathway was found to be downregulated, with significant suppression of C9, suggesting that the parasite may engage in immune evasion. Fluorescein-labeled C9 antibody assays confirmed reduced complement C9 levels in the infected tissues. A real-time PCR analysis identified the differential expression of eight genes, including C5, maats1, CFI, and gmnc, which were consistent with the sequencing results. These findings suggest that Pallisentis (Neosentis) celatus infection compromises intestinal health, induces inflammation, and activates non-specific immune responses in Monopterus albus. However, Pallisentis (Neosentis) celatus appears to evade the host immune response by suppressing the activation of complement components, thereby facilitating its reproductive parasitism.

Unveiling the potential of parasites as proxy bioindicators for water quality assessment in river Jhelum Kashmir, India.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of deteriorated physicochemical conditions in the river Jhelum on parasitic infestations and to investigate the potential of fish parasites as bioindicators of water quality. All the physicochemical parameters exhibited statistically significant differences based on both site and season (p < 0.01).The interaction term (Site × Season) was also kept in the model since it was statistically significant (p < 0.01). A parasitological survey of 360 schizothoracine fish revealed a 30.3% prevalence (109/360) of endohelminth infection. The study identified four predominant parasitic taxa across two distinct classes: Cestoda, including Adenoscolex oreini and Schyzocotyle acheilognathi, and Acanthocephala, comprising Pomphorhynchus kashmirensis and Neoechinorhynchus manasbalensis. For the assessment of parasitic load, we calculated the prevalence, mean intensity, mean abundance, and index ofinfection for each sampling period. Correspondence analysis identified associations between parasite occurrence and specific water quality parameters. Regression analysis, including R2 and p values, demonstrated a positive correlation between the number of parasites and both the proportion of infected fish and the ratio of infected to examined fish. Given that parasitic load is significantly influenced by a range of water quality parameters, fish parasites can serve as a robust indicator of declining water quality. Fish parasites are highly sensitive to water quality changes such as pollutants, toxins, and fluctuations in pH, temperature, and oxygen levels. Deteriorating water quality can stress fish, compromising their immune systems and increasing their susceptibility to parasitic infections. Additionally, complex life cycles of parasites can be disrupted by poor water conditions, making them indicators of water quality issues.

Association of the parasitic and hyperparasitic epicaridean species (Crustacea: Isopoda) with the king crab Lithodes aequispinus Benedict, 1895 in the Bering Sea with description of Eremitione rybakovi sp. nov.

The parasitic isopod suborder Epicaridea contains ∼800 species, all of which infest crustaceans. Until now only one species, Eremitione tuberculata (Richardson, 1904), occurring near the southern tip of South America, has been known from king crab hosts (Lithodidae). During two cruises of the Federal Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (VNIRO) in 2020 and 2021, commercial king crab stocks in the western part of the Bering Sea were surveyed, including 37 juvenile specimens of the golden king crab, Lithodes aequispinus Benedict, 1895, sampled at depths of 236–450 m. Two thirds of them were infested with a species of Eremitione, new to science. Eremitione rybakovi sp. nov. morphologically closely resembles E. tuberculata, but differs in having a relatively shorter pleon in females (0.3–0.4 of total body length), a slightly distorted body (0–20°), and more developed subrectangular dorsal extensions on the pereopodal bases; males of the new species have a more slender antennule with six articles (five articles in E. tuberculata). Half of the brooding females of E. rybakovi sp. nov. were infested with the cabiropid hyperparasite Bourdonia cf. tridentata Rybakov, 1990, previously known from Bopyroides hippolytes (Kröyer, 1838). Aspects of the biology of L. aequispinus, that may be responsible for the high rates of parasite infestation, and relations within the “host–parasite–hyperparasite” system are discussed. DNA sequences are obtained from E. rybakovi sp. nov. and B. cf. tridentata for the COI and 18S rRNA genes, and the resulting phylogenetic placement of the new bopyrid species is shown.

Secretory Proteins Are Involved in the Parasitism of Melon by Phelipanche aegyptiaca During the Attachment Stage.

Parasitic plants represent a significant challenge in global agriculture, with Broomrape (Orobanche/Phelipanche spp.) being a notable example of a holoparasitic species that targets the roots of host plants. This study employed comparative transcriptomics to investigate the mechanisms underlying the parasitism of P. aegyptiaca on melon, focusing on both resistant and susceptible interactions. The findings indicate that the critical phase of P. aegyptiaca parasitism occurs during the post-attachment stage. It is suggested that peptidases may play a role in the development of invasive cells, while cell wall-degrading enzymes (CWDEs) are likely involved in cell wall modification and degradation, and transferases, elicitors, and effectors may play a role in immune regulation. In this study, 25 tobacco rattle virus (TRV) recombinant vectors were successfully constructed and functionally validated using a host-induced gene silencing assay to explore the functions of candidate-secreted effector proteins. The results revealed that silencing Cluster-107894.0, Cluster-11592.0, and Cluster-12482.0 significantly decreased the parasitism rate of P. aegyptiaca on Nicotiana benthamiana. Notably, Cluster-107849.0 encodes a cellulase with hydrolase activity, Cluster-11592.0 encodes a periodic-dependent kinase inhibitor with phosphoprotein activity, and Cluster-12482.0 encodes a glucan 1,3-β-glucosidase with hydrolase activity. These findings potentially offer a novel theoretical framework and justification for understanding host-parasite plant interactions, and suggest new avenues for developing crop varieties resistant to parasitic infestation.

ACUTE EOSINOPHILIC APPENDICITIS IN A CHILD WITH NORMAL TOTAL LEUKOCYTE COUNT AND ABSOLUTE EOSINOPHILIC COUNT

Abstract Introduction/Objective Eosinophilic appendicitis is a rare condition with a reported incidence of 0.03% to 1.2%, and often presents with clinical manifestations indistinguishable from acute appendicitis. Eosinophilic appendicitis may be associated with a localized allergic phenomenon. Methods/Case Report We present a 13-year-old male with ~24-hour history of constipation who was brought to the emergency department because of right lower quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. He was afebrile and had no antecedent of atopy or parasitic infestation. Laboratory investigation revealed an elevated C-reactive protein: 0.7 mg/dL [0.0-0.3]; mildly decreased hemoglobin: 12.2 g/dL [12.6 -16.8]; normal white blood cell count: 9.7 x10 3/mcL [3.2-10.6]; eosinophil count:1.7% [&amp;lt;5] and mildly elevated monocyte count: 0.9 x103/mcL [0.2-0.7]. Ultrasound examination revealed a non-compressible 7mm in diameter hyperemic appendix. The laparoscopic appendectomy specimen measured 9.5 cm long by 0.8 cm in diameter. The serosa was focally congested and there was mild mural thickening but no obvious sign of active appendicitis. Microscopic examination showed focally abundant mucosal eosinophils and a considerable sprinkling of eosinophils throughout the muscularis propria. No intraluminal parasite or neutrophilic associated mucosal damage was seen. The final diagnosis was: Acute Eosinophilic Appendicitis. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) N/A Conclusion Among the many and still intriguing causes of appendicitis is acute eosinophilic appendicitis. Eosinophils exert homeostatic roles in the normal host and pathological eosinophil-mediated processes over different tissues and their varied milieu. While this patient did not have any evidence of allergy, parasitic infestation, or elevated eosinophilic count in his work up, the presentation of acute appendicitis without an increase in total leukocytic count may alert for the possibility of an eosinophilic appendicitis. Conceivably, eosinophil mediators, such as IL-5, IL-33, granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor, thymic stromal lymphopoietin, and eotaxin-1 determine eosinophil behavior in a rarified appendix microenvironment.

Parasitic contamination of environmental objects with nematode eggs of Trichuris genus in the city of Poltava

The spreading of dog digestive tract helminthoses, including trichurosis, still remains a topical problem, where one of the factors of significant infestations’ spreading is the contamination of the environment with parasites’ eggs, which can be preserved in the environment for a long time and cause infestation of susceptible animals. Therefore, one of the important factors in maintaining veterinary well-being in relation to dog trichurosis is establishing the contamination level of environmental objects by propagative stages of nematode development. The purpose of the research was to determine contamination indicators of sand and soil in the city of Poltava with nematode eggs of Trichuris genus. The studies were conducted on the basis of the laboratory of parasitology of Poltava State Agrarian University. Sand samples from sandboxes located on the territory of the city of Poltava, as well as soil from the territories adjacent to them were studied. The main contamination indicators were the extensive contamination index and intensive contamination index. It was revealed by the conducted research that 61 out of 90 sandboxes in the city of Poltava were contaminated with nematode eggs of Trichuris genus, where the extensive contamination index made 67.78 %, and the intensive contamination index made 195.79±18.41 eggs/kg. The territory of Kyiv district was the most contaminated with nematode eggs, where 25 out of 30 sandboxes were contaminated with propagative stages of trichurises development, and the level of parasites’ contamination was 83.33 % and 218.91±17.27 eggs/kg. It was found that the most infected sand was taken from the surface at the edges of the sandbox, near its walls, where the extensive and intensive contamination indices made 41.11 % and 320.27±35.43 eggs/kg, respectively. Also, high rates of parasitic infestation were found during studying the soil, taken from the surface at a distance of 1 m from the sandbox, where, on the average, the extensive contamination index was 46.67 %, and the intensive contamination index was 263.90±28.87 eggs/kg. With an increase in the sampling depth, the indicators of contamination with trichurises’ eggs decreased and amounted to: on the surface – 36.67–46.67 % and 120.37–320.7 eggs/kg, at a depth of 5 cm – 14.44–30.00 % and 80.77–274.07 eggs/kg, and at a depth of 10 cm – 8.89–20.00 % and 62.50–125.00 eggs/kg. The obtained results of parasitological studies prove that the territory of sandboxes is a real factor in the transmission of invasive agents, which must be taken into account in assessing the risks of infecting dogs with trichurosis causative agent.

Infestation of isopod Norileca indica in big-eye scad Selar crumenopthalmus off Panay Gulf, Philippines

The big-eye scad Selar crumenopthalmus is a commercially important fish species in the Philippines and is not exempted from parasite infestation. Thus, study aims to determine the prevalence and intensity of isopod infestation in fish, percentage reduction of respiratory surface area of gill filaments and condition factor of the fish. A total of 274 fish samples (mean FL 142 ± 5.88 mm) were collected and examined from Panay Gulf, Philippines. The prevalence and mean intensity of isopod, Norileca indica is 9.49 % and two isopods per fish (mean FL 142 ± 5.88mm), respectively. In fish samples with infestation in both pair of gills, the percentage reduction in gill area decreases in line with increasing fish length. However, there is no significant difference between the reductions of gill area of uninfested and infested fish (p &gt; 0.05). Moreover, there was also no clear trend and no significant difference in the condition factors of infested and uninfested fish (p &gt; 0.05). Presence of the parasite may hinder in the food intake of fish and may prevent supply of blood to other parts of fish body which may led to stunted growth of host fish. However, fishes infested with parasite were not significantly considered as less healthy as cause of the infestation of isopod without considering other factors that would affect the fish overall state. Highlights In fishes infested with male isopod on one side and female isopod counterpart on the opposite side showed that the percentage reduction in gill area decreases in line with increasing fish length Isopod infestation in fish is not highly correlated with poor health condition of the host fish. There is no significant difference in the percent gill surface area reduction and condition factor of Norelica indica infested and uninfested fish.

Neurocysticercosis Encephalitis in a Child with Disseminated Cysticercosis

Abstract Background: Cysticercosis, a common parasitic infestation in endemic regions, may rarely cause widespread dissemination throughout the body resulting in disseminated cysticercosis (DCC), scarcely reported in children. Clinical Description: An 8-year-old boy from rural India presented with a 2-week history of headache, abnormal movements, intermittent fever, vomiting, and altered sensorium. Clinical examination revealed generalized hypertonia and signs of raised intracranial pressure. Brain imaging displayed a “starry sky” pattern indicative of neurocysticercosis (NCC) encephalitis. Further imaging revealed cystic lesions throughout the thoracic, abdominal, and paraspinal muscles, confirming DCC. Management and Outcome: The patient was managed with intravenous methylprednisolone, antiepileptics, and acetazolamide, avoiding albendazole due to the risk of exacerbating cerebral edema. The patient regained consciousness after the fifth pulse of steroids and progressively improved thereafter being asymptomatic and seizure-free at the last follow-up, 3 months after discharge. Conclusion: This case creates awareness regarding a rare entity of NCC encephalitis seen in DCC. The condition may be considered in children presenting with encephalopathy in endemic regions. Supportive treatment with steroids without antiparasitic treatment may be successful.

Delusional parasitosis (Ekbom Syndrome): A case report

Background: Ekbom syndrome or Delusional Parasitosis (DP) is an infrequent psychotic illness, where the patient has a false but firm and strong belief that his body is infested with parasites, worms, insects, or other organisms. This is a monothematic delusion of hallucinatory origin that typically affects older women. The aim: To report two cases of DP. Case report: The first patient presented a generalized sensation of parasite infestation following ischemic stroke. In the second case, the delusions of parasitosis were concentrated in the head only. Conclusion: Delusional parasitosis (DP) or Ekbom syndrome is an infrequent psychotic illness. Collaboration between dermatologists and psychiatrists is important in managing this rare disease. Neurologists must be aware of DP in patients with stroke.

Investigation of the effect of human intestinal microbiota bacteria on the bioremediation of commonly used pesticides by liquid chromatography

Pesticides are defined as chemical substances used to protect a variety of plants from parasite infestation. Due to their chemical structure, they have a long half-life and the capacity to form residues, and therefore many fruits can contain pesticide residues. Pesticide exposure may occur via inhalation, ingestion, or direct contact. The European Commission's directive restricts the use of pesticides and sets a residue limit of 0.1 μg/L. The aim of this study is to determine the impact of bacteria in the human gut microbiota on the biodegradation of commonly used pesticides. This study investigated the effects of five bacterial strains, namely Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae (K. pneumoniae), and Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), isolated from neonatal rectal swab samples and, blood samples on the degradation of pesticides using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. (LC-MS). All bacteria resulted in significant pesticide degradation (p < 0.05). E. faecalis caused significantly more degradation than K. pneumoniae (p = 0.043). No significant difference was observed between the degradation rates of pesticides and other bacteria (p > 0.05). The results demonstrate that bacteria can be used to clean water and soil contaminated with pesticides. Therefore, we do not have information about possible mutations in DNA. This is the biggest limitation of this study. Therefore, our study data needs to be supported with study data including more strains and examining bacterial DNA with new generation sequencing methods.