Sedimentation Technique Research Articles

Electric Field-Induced Ordered-Structural Aerogels Enable Superinsulation and Multifunctionality.

1D flexible fibers assembled 3D porous networked ceramic fiber aerogels (CFAs) are developed to overcome the brittleness of traditional ceramic particle aerogels. However, existing CFAs with disordered and quasi-ordered structures fail to balance the relationship between flexibility, robustness, and thermal insulation. Creating novel architectural CFAs with an excellent combination of performances has proven extremely challenging. In this paper, a novel strategy is adopted to fabricate porous mullite fibrous aerogels (MFAs) with ordered structures by combining fiber sedimentation and electric field-induced fiber alignment techniques. For the first time, electric field-induced alignment of ceramic fibers is utilized to prepare bulk aerogels on a large scale. The resulting MFAs exhibit ultra-low high-temperature thermal conductivity of 0.0830 W m-1 K-1 at 1000°C, anisotropic mechanical and sound absorption performances, and multifunctionality in terms of the combination of thermal insulation, sound absorption, and hydrophobicity. The successful synthesis of such fascinating materials may provide new insights into the design and development of multifunctional CFAs for various applications.

Intestinal parasites in children from native communities of Salta, Argentina.

Intestinal parasites particularly affect vulnerable populations, making their management crucial in endemic areas. To evaluate the relationship between intestinal parasites, socioeconomic characteristics, and anthropometric nutritional status. This is an observational, cross-sectional study conducted on children aged 1 to 15 years in Tartagal, Argentina, for a year. Intestinal parasitic infections were determined through fecal analysis using sedimentation techniques (Teleman), Kato-Katz, and the Baerman method. Demographic and socioeconomic data were collected using a standardized survey. Height, weight, and mid-upper arm and head circumference were measured in the participants. Of the 588 participants who provided fecal samples, 55.4% had intestinal parasites, with G. lamblia and H. nana being the most prevalent species. Additionally, 31.9% of participants were found to have malnutrition due to excess weight. Risk factors for intestinal parasite presence included age, overcrowding, and walking barefoot, while owning a refrigerator, having an animal corral, adequate water storage, and belonging to the Guaraní ethnic group were protective factors. High vulnerability areas were observed regarding housing conditions and access to public services. An association between socioeconomic conditions and the risk of intestinal parasite presence was observed. However, no association was found between anthropometric nutritional status and the presence of intestinal parasites.

Prevalence of schistosomiasis among school children at Esuekyir community in the Central Region of Ghana

Schistosomiasis, an endemic neglected tropical disease in areas with poor sanitation, causes physical and mental defects in both children and adults. Various strategies, especially drug administration for morbidity control, have been implemented to combat the disease in Ghana and globally. Despite these efforts, schistosomiasis remains prevalent in Ghana, negatively impacting children's academic performance, growth, and overall quality of life. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of schistosomiasis in school children at Esuekyir, a peri-urban community in Ghana. A cross-sectional study using simple random sampling technique to select participants and collect stool and urine samples from 246 school children in Esuekyir was adopted. Microscopy of urine and stool samples was performed involving urine sedimentation and stool formol-ether sedimentation techniques to analyse for parasite eggs. Questionnaires were developed to help detect risk factors that expose these children to the disease. The prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in children at Esuekyir was 15.45% while that of intestinal schistosomiasis was 6.957.0%. There was one case of co-infection of urogenital and intestinal schistosomiasis from a 13 year old primary student. Children in primary school had higher risks of infection due to their activities around the water body. There was a significant association between class groups and urogenital schistosomiasis (p-value = 0.042). The presence of schistosomiasis in school children highlights the importance of targeted interventions and public health initiatives in addressing this specific disease condition especially in primary school children. Findings from the research revealed a higher prevalence of urogenital schistosomiasis in the study population as compared to intestinal schistosomiasis.

Helminths and Coccidia of Markhor (Capra falconeri) in Kazinag National Park, Jammu and Kashmir, India

A coprological analysis was carried out from October 2016 to September 2019 to determine the prevalence and associated determinants of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) parasites in Markhor Capra falconeri of Kazinag National Park, India. Fecal floatation and sedimentation technique revealed 150 pellet samples out of 248 pellet samples were positive for one or more parasites. Out of 248 pellet samples 147 (9.27%) were found positive for helminth and three (1.20%) were positive for protozoan. In this study six helminth species were detected, including five nematodes, one cestode and a protozoan: Haemonchus spp. (27.30%), Ostertagia spp. (11.15%), Trichuris spp. (5%), Chabertia spp.(4.23%), Cooperia spp. (3.07%), Moniezia spp. (1.15%), and Eimeria spp. (1.15%). The egg per gram (epg) of pellets was recorded highest for Haemonchus spp. (1500-2000 ± 210) followed by Ostertagia spp. (820-930 ± 55), Trichuris spp. (660-850 ± 80) Chabertia spp. (600-750 ± 86), Cooperia spp. (800-1200 ± 158) and Moniezia spp. (320-450 ± 42). Mixed infections were recorded in15samples. The cyst per gram for Eimeria spp. was found to be (320-562 ± 97). Highest prevalence of parasite egg/cystin pellets was recorded during summer season (70.42%) followed by autumn (58.73%) and least prevalence was recorded in winter (51.47%), with significant variation in prevalence. It is the pioneering study on this wild goat in the study area and the findings can assist to devise the appropriate control measures and prophylactic strategies against the GIT parasites of Markhor (Capra falconeri).

Development of a lateral-flow assay for rapid detection of parasitic nematodes

ObjectivesWild animals kept in enclosures are exposed to an increased risk of infection with Soil-transmitted Helminth (STH) due to high animal densities and the resulting heavy contamination of the enclosures. As regular fecal examinations are necessary to monitor and maintain health, a rapid test was developed to detect STH in wildlife. MethodThe rapid test consists of two polyclonal antibodies directed against the nematode SUMO-Protein (C- & N-term). For this study, 102 fecal samples from wild boar, fallow deer, red deer and dogs were examined. The fecal samples were defined by using the sedimentation technique and then used to evaluate the developed rapid test. ResultsThe sensitivity of the rapid test was 95.38 % with a specificity of 81.08 % and a accuracy of 90.2 %. ConclusionsAt this time, there is no commercial rapid test for the detection of STH. This rapid test can enable fast disease monitoring to make a decision in the field to save animals health. In addition, this rapid tests for the detection of parasites in wildlife can be crucial in the context of One Health to prevent the spread of disease within a system through monitoring, to preserve biodiversity and to improve global health security.

Gastrointestinal parasitic load of sheep in selected abattoirs in Imo State

Gastrointestinal parasites constitute one of the major health challenges affecting the productivity of the animals. This study was aimed at determining the gastrointestinal parasitic load of sheep in selected abattoirs in Imo State. A total of 120 feacal samples of male and female sheep were collected. The samples were prepared using sedimentation and floatation techniques. 62.10% of gastrointestinal parasites were identified in sheep (Obinze 32.36%, Osina 15.74% and Orieagu 13.99%). The highest parasitic load was recorded for Fasciola spp. (26.7%) followed by Strongyle spp. (16.04%). Female sheep were at higher risk of infection with the gastrointestinal parasites. The study also revealed a high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasite in sheep in the study areas. Therefore, proper understanding of the epidemiology of the parasite is a prerequisite for the design of effective prevention and control programs to boost live stocks production, increase source of animal protein to humans and alleviate poverty.

EPIDEMIOLOGY OF BOVINE FASCIOLIASIS: PREVALENCE AND HAEMATO-BIOCHEMICAL ALTERATIONS IN KATSINA ABATTOIR NORTH WESTERN NIGERIA

Bovine fascioliasis, caused by liver flukes Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, significantly affects cattle health and production globally. This study evaluated the prevalence and haemato-biochemical changes associated with bovine fascioliasis in 134 cattle at Katsina Central Abattoir. Using the sedimentation technique, faecal samples revealed a 3.73% infection rate, with females showing a higher prevalence (4.55%) than males (2.17%), though not statistically significant (P > 0.05). The age group 2-3 years had the highest prevalence (25.00%), with significant differences among age groups (P < 0.05). Among breeds, Wadara had the highest prevalence (20.00%) compared to White Fulani (4.93%), with a significant difference (P < 0.05). Medium-conditioned cattle showed the highest prevalence (6.67%) versus good-conditioned ones (1.37%) with significant difference (P < 0.05). Infected cattle exhibited significant reductions (P < 0.05) in packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin (Hb), and total erythrocyte count (RBC), as well as decreases in white blood cell count (WBC), mean cellular volume (MCV), and mean cellular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC). Biochemical analysis indicated elevated alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin (TB) levels (P < 0.05), with reduced albumin (ALB), total protein (TP), and conjugated bilirubin (CB) levels (P < 0.05). These results highlight the significant impact of bovine fascioliasis on cattle health in Katsina State, emphasizing the need for effective control strategies.

Prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica/dispar and Giardia lamblia infections and their associated factors among schoolchildren in the Amhara region, Northwest Ethiopia

Globally, intestinal protozoa E. histolytica/dispar and Giardia lamblia are the cause of amoebiasis and giardiasis, respectively. Despite their important medical importance and common occurrence in Ethiopia, they are minimally addressed in terms of their prevalence, sensitive diagnostic methods, and associated risk factors. Infections with E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia are often misdiagnosed and underreported in impoverished countries. Thus, the purpose of this study was to ascertain the prevalence of Giardia lamblia and E. histolytica/dispar infections as well as related variables among schoolchildren in the Amhara region. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 844 schoolchildren in the Amhara region from April to December 2019. A stool sample was collected from each study participant and processed via the formol ether concentration technique (FECT) and spontaneous tube sedimentation techniques (STST). Data were entered in EpiData and analysed by SPSS statistical software. The prevalence of E. histolytica and G. lamblia infections using each diagnostic method and composite reference was determined by descriptive statistics. The association of risk factors with E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia infections was analysed by logistic regression and variables with p < 0.05 were considered to have statistical significance. From the total, 243 (28.8%) schoolchildren were found to be infected by at least one of E. histolytica/dispar or G. lamblia. The prevalence of E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia infections was 201 (23.8%) and 62 (7.3%), respectively. The co-infection prevalence with both E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia was 22 (2.6%). The sensitivity (78.6%) and negative predictive value of STST (19.6%) were higher than FECT sensitivity (65.4%) and negative predictive value (13.1%). Children in 10–14 years of age (AOR = 1.66;95%CI: 1.16–2.38), lived in the rural (AOR = 1.97;95%CI: 1.12–3.49), used latrine improperly (AOR = 1.49;95%CI: 1.04–2.13), did not wash hands before meal (AOR = 2.10; 95%CI:1.08–4.10), and after latrine (AOR = 1.51;95%CI: 1.05–2.19), ate unwashed raw vegetables (AOR = 1.85;95%CI:1.26–2.70), and played with soil (AOR = 1.48;95%CI:1.06–2.06) were associated with E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia infection. These findings revealed high prevalence of E. histolytica/dispar and G. lamblia infections was high in the Amhara region. Therefore, proper implementation of water, sanitation and hygiene should be advocated at the community and school levels to mitigate the disease burden.

Zoonotic Enteric Nematodes and Dermatophytes in Cat Cafés: An Investigation in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area, Thailand.

Cat cafés have gained significant popularity worldwide, offering a unique interface between humans and cats. The present study aims to assess the prevalence of potentially zoonotic endoparasites and dermatophytes from cats living in cat cafés situated in the Bangkok metropolitan area in 2017-2018. Cat fecal samples were subjected to microscopic examination employing centrifugal flotation and centrifugal sedimentation techniques. The hair samples from every cat were cultured on a dermatophyte test medium and Sabouraud dextrose agar and subsequently confirmed by visualization of the typical colony and macroconidia morphology. Findings from 11 cat cafés indicated an 18.2% (2/11) prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites, including Toxocara spp., Ancylostoma spp., Physaloptera spp., and Eucoleus aerophilus. Dermatophytes were prevalent in 16.2% (32/198) of the total number of cats tested, with Microsporum canis being the sole species identified. Notably, the presence of dermatophyte was significantly correlated with the presence of skin lesions and the cats' origin. In summary, the findings of this study have provided evidence of potentially zoonotic endoparasites and dermatophytes in cats residing in cat cafés. Therefore, it is imperative to heighten awareness and encourage preventive measures among cat café owners and customers to halt the dissemination of these pathogens.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in domestic pigs from family farms in northeastern Argentina

Domestic pigs serve as significant hosts and reservoirs for multiple parasite species, some specific to pigs and many others of zoonotic importance. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites in pigs within a rural area in northeastern Argentina. We also examined demographic information, breeding conditions, and exposure factors associated with parasite presence. Pig feces were subjected to coprological examination through flotation and sedimentation techniques. Modified Ziehl-Neelsen technique was employed to examine oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. In total, 29 family farms with pig pens were analyzed, and 42 stool samples were collected from pigs on these farms. At the farm level, the presence of at least one parasite species was recorded in 27 rural houses (93.1%). We found that 90.4% of pigs were parasitized, with a specific parasitoses of 10 species, with a maximum of six species in a single host. The most prevalent protozoa were Entamoeba spp. (57.1%) and Blastocystis sp. (45.2%), followed by Iodamoeba butschlii (33.3%), Neobalantidium coli (21.4%), coccidia (14.2%), Cryptosporidium spp. (9.5%) and Giardia spp. (2.3%). The most prevalent helminths were Strongylidae eggs (52.3%), Ascaris spp. (14.2%) and Trichuris spp. (2.3%). We advocate for an urgent need to implement a comprehensive prophylaxis program prioritizing general hygiene practices such as regular cleaning, removal of fecal material and renewal of drinking water. Additionally, vaccination and deworming protocols should be implemented. Furthermore, this study highlights the necessity for molecular-level evaluations to detect potential zoonotic genotypes of the identified protozoa.

Prevalence and Risk Factors of Giardia intestinalis Infestation and Assemblage of Isolates Among Monastery Primary School Children in Yangon, Myanmar.

Giardiasisis one of the major causes of diarrhea among children. To determine the prevalence, risk factors, and genotype of Giardia intestinalis, a cross-sectional descriptive study was done on stool samples of 462 children attending three monastery primary schools from North Okkalapa Township in Yangon, Myanmar from January 2016 to February 2019. Socioeconomic data were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire after obtaining informed consent. Direct wet mount, formalin-ether sedimentation, and trichrome staining techniques were used for the primary identification and then molecular identification was carried out by conventional polymerase chain reaction(PCR)-sequencing assay. G. intestinalis was identified in 11.7% (54/462) of students. There was no significant association with water source (p=0.948) and drinking untreated water (p=0.595). The infection was more common in children with low-educated parents, unsanitary garbage disposal practices, and no restrooms. All isolates were G. intestinalis assemblage B. This is the first study characterizing human isolates in a lower region of Myanmar, at the molecular level [MOU1]. These findings pointed out the high prevalence of G. intestinalis among primary school children from densely populated and low-resource settings.

First reports of urogenital schistosomiasis in the Ndikiniméki health district, Center Cameroon

ObjectivesSchistosomiasis is still a public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Cameroon. In this context, a cross-sectional study was carried out from June 2023 to July 2023 in the Ndikiniméki subdivision, with the aim of knowing the status of this locality in relation to Schistosoma haematobium infection. MethodsA parasitologic analysis of S. haematobium eggs was carried out on urine samples using the sedimentation technique. ResultsA total of 402 urine samples were collected from households. The age range of participants was 1-96 years, with the most signified age group being 1-9 years. Women were the most represented, with a proportion of 56.47%. Of the 402 people examined, 18 (4.45%) were affected, with an average intensity of 54.43 ± 85.30 eggs/10 mL urine. Women were the most affected, with a prevalence and average parasite intensity of 3.73% and 53.10 ± 131.27 eggs/10 mL of urine. The most affected age group was 10-19 years, with a prevalence and intensity of 4.60% and 49.49 ± 67.00 eggs per 10 mL of urine, respectively. Of those infected, 72.22% were lightly infected and 27.28% were heavily infected. ConclusionsThis study indicates that this locality is a risk area for urinary schistosomiasis despite its low prevalence.

Prevalence of Blastocystis in Patients Referred to Bushehr Medical Centers and Its Relationship with Urticaria.

Recent studies determined that the amoeboid form of Blastocystis acts as a factor in stimulating the host's immune responses and ultimately results in urticaria and other skin disorders. The present study was conducted in order to determine the prevalence of Blastocystis in people referred to Bushehr city health centers and the relationship of this parasite with urticaria. Fecal samples were collected from 180 males and females referred to Bushehr health centers and a questionnaire containing demographic information was completed for each person. Samples were examined by preparing direct smear (wet mount) and then formalin-detergent sedimentation techniques. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22.0 software and chi-square test. The results showed that 11.1% of cases infected with Blastocystis and 55% of patients with Blastocystis had various gastrointestinal symptoms. Statistical analysis showed that there was no significant relationship between infection with some demographic factors such as sex, age, literacy level and residence, but this was significant with some clinical symptoms such as itching and urticaria. Despite the existence of conflicting information and many ambiguities about the Blastocystis, this emerging pathogen is very important in terms of causing allergic and skin disorders in sufferers, therefore, it is necessary that patients with urticaria be evaluated for Blastocystis along with other diagnostic procedures and physicians should request a test before any medical intervention. Thus, diagnosis and treatment of these people can play an important role in improving the health of society.

Survey of Strongyloides infection in Maiduguri cattle abattoir, Nigeria

Gastro-intestinal infection constitutes major constraint to viable livestock industries. The study revealed information on the prevalence of Strongyloides infection in cattle in Maiduguri and environs with reference to sex, age and breeds of cattle in the study area. The result revealed the prevalence of 51 (25.5%) cases after examining 400 faecal samples using faecal sedimentation technique. The result of Strongyloides species infection recorded according to sex of cattle was higher in females with a prevalence of 40 (20.0%) compared to males with a prevalence of 11 (5.5%). The prevalence of infection based on age of cattle revealed higher percentage of 14 (7.0%) after examining 48 cattle in the age bracket of seven (7) years. A lower prevalence of 5 (2.5%) was recorded in cattle within the age bracket of 4 years after examining 36 samples. Breed-wise distribution of infected cattle indicated that Abore was more susceptible, followed by Ambala and Bakoloji breeds with prevalence of 20.5%, 4.5% and 0.5% respectively after examining 150, 36 and 11 faeces from respective breeds. Wadara appeared non-susceptible and therefore had no records of infection after examining low number of three samples from the breed. Bovine Strongyloides infection in Maiduguri and environs was established as a common finding and farmers should therefore be educated on proper use of antihelmintics and with emphasis on strategic antihelmintic medication. Good management practices including improved general hygiene and supplementary feeding of animals during periods of low grazing will have immunity boosting role in control of the parasite.

Ovine dicrocoeliosis in Castellón province, eastern Spain: Prevalence, dynamics, and comparative study of different diagnostic techniques

Dicrocoeliosis is a parasitic disease that mainly affects ruminants during grazing, caused by trematodes of the genus Dicrocoelium, with D. dendriticum being the most common species worldwide. This parasitosis is a chronic and generally subclinical process, with nonspecific signs, which makes its diagnosis challenging. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and seasonal dynamics of D. dendriticum infection in adult sheep from the Valencian Community, eastern Spain, as well as to evaluate the efficacy of flotation and sedimentation techniques when compared with the macroscopic exam of the liver. From February to May 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022, a total of 290 adult sheep were examined. The animals were sourced from Castellón province, where a semi-intensive production system predominates. Each animal was euthanized and underwent a macroscopic examination of the liver, as well as a fecal analysis. Among the sampled animals, 117 (40.6%) tested positive for adult trematodes in their liver, while 87 (30%) showed evidence of trematode eggs in the coprological exam, reaching a total of 126 sheep parasitized, with a prevalence of 43.4%. The parasitic burden was established in 90.3 adults per animal when the liver was examined and in 54.5 eggs per gram when the sedimentation coprological exam was performed. No eggs were observed when the flotation technique was employed. A positive correlation was found between the number of adults in the liver and the fecal egg count. No significant differences were detected in the prevalence or parasitic burden throughout the study. Considering the difficulty in controlling the intermediate hosts and the complexity of the life cycle, effective diagnostic methods, combined with the adoption of other preventive measures, is crucial to achieving proper management of this parasitic disease.

Comparison of the diagnostic significance of cerebrospinal fluid metagenomic next-generation sequencing copy number variation analysis and cytology in leptomeningeal malignancy

BackgroundDiagnosis and monitoring of leptomeningeal malignancy remain challenging, and are usually based on neurological, radiological, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and pathological findings. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic performance of CSF metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and chromosome copy number variations (CNVs) analysis in the detection of leptomeningeal malignancy.MethodsOf the 51 patients included in the study, 34 patients were diagnosed with leptomeningeal malignancies, and 17 patients were diagnosed with central nervous system (CNS) inflammatory diseases. The Sayk’s spontaneous cell sedimentation technique was employed for CSF cytology. And a well-designed approach utilizing the CSF mNGS-CNVs technique was explored for early diagnosis of leptomeningeal malignancy.ResultsIn the tumor group, 28 patients were positive for CSF cytology, and 24 patients were positive for CSF mNGS-CNVs. Sensitivity and specificity of CSF cytology were 82.35% (95% CI: 66.83-92.61%) and 94.12% (95% CI: 69.24-99.69%). In comparison, sensitivity and specificity of CSF mNGS-CNV were 70.59% (95% CI: 52.33-84.29%) and 100% (95% CI: 77.08-100%). There was no significant difference in diagnostic consistency between CSF cytology and mNGS-CNVs (p = 0.18, kappa = 0.650).ConclusionsCSF mNGS-CNVs tend to have higher specificity compared with traditional cytology and can be used as a complementary diagnostic method for patients with leptomeningeal malignancies.

A Cross-sectional Study of Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Captive Wild Animals in Pakistan Zoological Gardens

The animals held captive in zoos often face health and well-being issues. Parasitic infections can lead to health problems in wildlife animals by affecting their gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify and evaluate the population of the various Gastrointestinal (GIT) parasites of wild animals enclosed in different zoological gardens in Pakistan. The fresh fecal samples (n = 960) of 20 captive wildlife animals were collected from Marghzar Zoo, Islamabad (n = 340), Ayub National Park, Rawalpindi (n = 221), Lohi Bher Wildlife Park, Rawalpindi (n = 296), and Bansra Galli Wildlife Park, Rawalpindi (n = 103). The samples were obtained from wildlife mammals, including urial (n = 95), blue bull (n = 106), chinkara gazelle (n = 77), zebra (n = 77), hog deer (n = 75), spotted deer (n = 43), blackbuck (n = 58), barking deer (n = 52), red deer (n = 104), yak (n = 44), grey goral (n = 40), lion (n = 37), mouflon sheep (n = 46), red fox (n = 12), bear (n = 37), grey wolf (n = 12), jackal (n = 12), vervet monkey (n = 12), rhesus monkey (n = 12), and langoor (n = 12). Various methods, such as direct smear examination, standard sedimentation, and floatation techniques were applied to detect and identify the endoparasites in the fecal sample. The detailed routine parasitological analysis identified approximately 52 endoparasites in the fecal samples, including Haemonchus contortus, Eimeria bovis, Ostertagia curcumcincta, Strongyloides papillosus, Strogylus equinus, Oxyuris equi, Chabertia ovina, Protostrongylus, and Trichostrongylus vitrines. The obtained results indicated that Lohi Bher Wildlife Park (46.35%) had a higher prevalence of GIT parasites, compared to Marghzar Zoo (33.23%), Bansra Galli Wildlife Park (33.02%), and Ayub National Park (19.45%). The study reports mild to moderate parasitic infection in captive wild animals and that could affect the survivability of the animals in captivity. The findings of the study can be used to formulate a proper health protocol and sanitation management in captive wild animals to control parasitic infections.

Epiphytic Algae on Dominant Macrophytes in Lotic Ecosystems in the Eastern Flanks of Mount Cameroon

Aims: This study was designed to assess quantitative estimates of epiphyte biomass and diversity on the dominant macrophytes in two rivers in the Eastern flanks of Mount Cameroon. Place and Duration of Study: Two sets of water samples were collected at the top 10cm of the rivers for nutrient and chlorophyll a determination. A single preliminary collection of algal epiphytes from partially submerged aquatic macrophytes was carried out from the littoral zone of Ndongo and Limbe rivers, between May and June 2023. Methodology: The sedimentation technique was employed in the study. Three slides were prepared for each aquatic macrophyte sample for microscopic analysis. Identification was done by comparative morphology using relevant journals and textbooks. Results: All variables related to water clarity (TSS, Phytoplankton Chl a, HC) assessed during the study were similar in both rivers. Water clarity based on HC values was below 6 mg/l implying both rivers were clear during the study period. Epiphytic algae identified were recorded from 4 main divisions, namely Bacillariophyta, Chlorophyta, Cyanophyta and Euglenophyta. The highest algal diversity in Ndongo was recorded from Commelina benghalensis (H=3.45) with 41 algal species identified. Justicia in Ndongo river had the lowest algal species richness (24) with an algal diversity of 2.91. Nymphaea had the highest algal diversity (H=3.36) and algal species richness (36) in Limbe river. Algal species richness was the same in the two other plant hosts Commelina benghalensis and Colocasia esculentus (29 species per host). The highest algal chlorophyll a was recorded on Nymphaea (621mg/g dry weight) and Commelina benghalensis (644mg/g) in Limbe and Ndongo respectively. Lowest epiphyte Chlorophyll a was recorded in Justicia secunda in Ndongo (607 mg/g). Conclusion: All macrophytes studied harbored a large algal flora demonstrating their diverse ecological roles carried out in these rivers. Nymphaea lotus and Commelina benghalensis in Limbe and Ndongo rivers had the highest epiphytic algal biomass.

Coprological prevalences and hepatic infestation rates of fasciolosis in cattle in 3 slaughterhouses in Mali

Fasciolosis is a helminthosis of the liver caused by trematodes of the genus Fasciola. It is an enzootic disease in several West African countries, it causes milk losses and significant seizures of livers in slaughterhouses. The objective of this study is to determine the parasitic status of cattle slaughtered in slaughterhouses in relation to fasciolosis. It was carried out in 3 slaughterhouses in Mali, namely the Frigorifique Abattoir of Bamako (AFB), the Ségou Regional Abattoir (ARS) and the Mopti Regional Abattoir (ARM). A total of 900 faecal samples were analyzed by the successive wash sedimentation technique and 900 slaughtered cattle livers were inspected for Fasciola gigantica. When analyzing the data,the highest prevalences (feces and livers) were observed at the regional slaughterhouse of Mopti (13% and 30%), followed by the regional slaughterhouse of Ségou (11.5% and 18.5%). The lowest, at the Bamako refrigerated slaughterhouse (6.4% and 13.6%). It also emerges from the results obtained that overall the prevalences both for coprology and liver inspection, of the rainy season (11.3% and 20.3%) were higher than those of the dry season (6, 8% and 15.7%). In relation to the sexes, the study showed that females were more parasitized than males with coprological prevalences and infestation rates of 11.7% and 20.2% respectively in females compared to 7.2% and 17 % in males.

Pattern and predictor of hookworm re-infection among schoolchildren in three districts of Amhara Region, northwest Ethiopia.

Despite integrated prevention and control measures, the prevalence of hookworm is still high in Ethiopia. The re-infection rates and predictors are poorly addressed. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the patterns of hookworm re-infection rates and predictors among schoolchildren in northwest Ethiopia. A prospective follow-up study was conducted among 86 schoolchildren from May to December 2022. Data on predictors was collected using a questionnaire. Stool samples were collected and processed via Kato-Katz, McMaster, and spontaneous tube sedimentation techniques. All hookworm-infected children were treated with albendazole and followed for six months. The re-infection rates of hookworm were checked in the 4th and 6th months. Data was entered into Epi-data version 3.1 and analysed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics were used to compute the re-infection rate. The associations of predictors with hookworm re-infection rates were calculated by logistic regression. Variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Of the 86, 81 schoolchildren completed the study. The prevalence of hookworm re-infection in the 4th and 6th months was 23.5% and 33.3%, respectively. Living with family members greater than five (p = .017), poor utilization of latrine (p = .008), infrequent shoe wear (p = .039), and participating in irrigation (p = .020) were the predictors significantly associated with hookworm re-infections. The re-infection rate was high during the fourth and sixth months. Participating in irrigation, infrequent shoe wear, and poor latrine utilization were predictors of hookworm re-infection. Therefore, mass drug administration, regular shoe wearing, and health education should be advocated.