Pub Date : 2025-08-08DOI: 10.1007/s11686-025-01112-0
Suvam Acharya, Tapan Kumar Barik
Purpose
Mosquitoes, known as one of the deadliest creatures on the planet, pose significant risks to the health of humans and animals worldwide by transmitting diseases like malaria, dengue, lymphatic filariasis, West Nile fever, and Zika virus. As mosquito-borne diseases continue to pose a significant threat to global public health, the development and enhancement of effective vector control strategies have become increasingly critical. Among the promising approaches is the use of insecticides such as imidacloprid, a systemic neonicotinoid known for its potent insecticidal properties.
Methods
This study aims to observe the larvicidal and pupicidal activity of Imidacloprid against Culex quinquefasciatus as per the guidelines of World Health Organisation (WHO). The mortality data were analysed for the determination of LC50 and LC90.
Results
In this study, the LC50 and LC90 values for Cx. quinquefasciatus larvae were determined to be 0.049 mL/L and 0.137 mL/L, while for pupae, the values were 0.264 mL/L and 0.480 mL/L respectively.
Conclusion
The obtained results signifies the considerable efficacy of Imidacloprid that could be used as a potential mosquitocide.
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Pub Date : 2025-08-08DOI: 10.1007/s11686-025-01109-9
Amjad Ullah Khan, Shahzad Hussain, Majid Khan, Ali Said, Aqsa Bibi, Talha Khan, Sabika Firasat, Umer Chaudhry, Kiran Afshan
Background
Human ascariasis a soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) is still considered a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization continues to pose a serious public health concern, particularly in developing nations with poor sanitation, hygiene, and health awareness. Unlike prior prevalence studies relying solely on fecal analysis, this study utilized an innovative strategy to assess drug efficacy. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of anthelmintic therapy and identify risk factors associated with Ascaris lumbricoides infection among school-aged children in rural Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Methods
This was a prospective, community-based interventional study in which 1,675 school-aged children were randomly allocated to receive one of three anthelmintic drugs: pyrantel pamoate (n = 592), mebendazole (n = 553), or albendazole (n = 530). The primary outcome, deworming efficacy, was measured by the post-treatment expulsion and identification of Ascaris lumbricoides worms in stool samples collected within 1–2 days. A well-structured questionnaire was administrated to evaluate key environmental, behavioral, and socioeconomic risk factors contributing to ascariasis.
Results
The overall prevalence of A. lumbricoides infection was found to be 15.1%, univariate logistic regression analysis identified several statistically significant predictors of Ascaris lumbricoides infection. Age was a significant factor, individuals aged 8–14 years had lower odds (OR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.42–0.80, p < 0.001) and those ≥ 14 years had higher odds (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.04–2.06, p = 0.03) than children aged 0–7 years. Drug regimen was the most influential factor: children treated with Pyrantel pamoate exhibited markedly elevated odds (OR = 6.76; 95% CI: 4.49–10.18; p < 0.001), followed by those receiving Mebendazole (OR = 1.50; p = 0.03), relative to Albendazole. Significant district-level differences exist, with Mardan (OR = 0.06, p < 0.001) and Swabi (OR = 0.04, p < 0.001) having significantly lower risk of ascariasis than Abbottabad. Battagram had comparable odds to Abbottabad, indicating no significant difference (OR = 1.01 p = 0.98). Key protective factors included wearing footwear (OR = 0.32; p < 0.001), clean fingernails (OR = 0.54; p < 0.001), access to a washroom (OR = 0.47; p < 0.001), and drinking tap water (OR = 0.44; p = 0.01). Conversely, middle household income (OR = 2.26; p < 0.001) and participation in deworming programmes (OR = 5.75; p = 0.03) were associated with increased infection risk, possibly reflecting selection bias and high-risk areas. Similarly, Multivariable logistic regression model revealed independent effects of age ≥ 14 years (AOR = 6.64; p < 0.001), middle income (AOR = 1.79; p < 0.001),
背景：人类蛔虫病（一种土壤传播的蠕虫病）仍然被世界卫生组织视为一种被忽视的热带疾病，继续构成严重的公共卫生问题，特别是在环境卫生、个人卫生和健康意识较差的发展中国家。与以往仅依靠粪便分析的流行病学研究不同，本研究采用了一种创新的策略来评估药物疗效。该研究旨在评估驱虫药治疗的有效性，并确定与巴基斯坦开伯尔-普赫图赫瓦省农村学龄儿童中蛔虫感染相关的危险因素。方法：这是一项前瞻性、基于社区的干预性研究，1675名学龄儿童被随机分配接受三种驱虫药中的一种：吡喃吡酯（592）、甲苯达唑（553）或阿苯达唑（530）。主要结果（驱虫效果）是通过治疗后1-2天内收集的粪便样本中蛔虫的排出和鉴定来衡量的。采用一份结构良好的问卷来评估导致蛔虫病的主要环境、行为和社会经济风险因素。结果：我市蛔虫总感染率为15.1%，单因素logistic回归分析发现蛔虫感染的预测因素具有统计学意义。年龄是显著因素，8-14岁个体的发病率较低（OR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.42-0.80, p 0.05）。结论：本研究中蛔虫感染的低流行率是基于循证方法的，该方法可以准确评估感染负担和治疗效果。为了减少蛔虫病流行地区的发病率，该研究强调，迫切需要采取有效的公共卫生干预措施，如卫生教育、改善卫生基础设施、经常开展驱虫运动和社区宣传活动。
{"title":"Effectiveness of Anthelmintic Therapy and Determinants of Ascaris lumbricoides Infection among School-Aged Children: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Rural Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan","authors":"Amjad Ullah Khan, Shahzad Hussain, Majid Khan, Ali Said, Aqsa Bibi, Talha Khan, Sabika Firasat, Umer Chaudhry, Kiran Afshan","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01109-9","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01109-9","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>Human ascariasis a soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) is still considered a neglected tropical disease by the World Health Organization continues to pose a serious public health concern, particularly in developing nations with poor sanitation, hygiene, and health awareness. Unlike prior prevalence studies relying solely on fecal analysis, this study utilized an innovative strategy to assess drug efficacy. The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of anthelmintic therapy and identify risk factors associated with <i>Ascaris lumbricoides</i> infection among school-aged children in rural Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>This was a prospective, community-based interventional study in which 1,675 school-aged children were randomly allocated to receive one of three anthelmintic drugs: pyrantel pamoate (<i>n</i> = 592), mebendazole (<i>n</i> = 553), or albendazole (<i>n</i> = 530). The primary outcome, deworming efficacy, was measured by the post-treatment expulsion and identification of <i>Ascaris lumbricoides</i> worms in stool samples collected within 1–2 days. A well-structured questionnaire was administrated to evaluate key environmental, behavioral, and socioeconomic risk factors contributing to ascariasis.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>The overall prevalence of <i>A. lumbricoides</i> infection was found to be 15.1%, univariate logistic regression analysis identified several statistically significant predictors of <i>Ascaris lumbricoides</i> infection. Age was a significant factor, individuals aged 8–14 years had lower odds (OR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.42–0.80, <i>p</i> < 0.001) and those ≥ 14 years had higher odds (OR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.04–2.06, <i>p</i> = 0.03) than children aged 0–7 years. Drug regimen was the most influential factor: children treated with Pyrantel pamoate exhibited markedly elevated odds (OR = 6.76; 95% CI: 4.49–10.18; <i>p</i> < 0.001), followed by those receiving Mebendazole (OR = 1.50; <i>p</i> = 0.03), relative to Albendazole. Significant district-level differences exist, with Mardan (OR = 0.06, <i>p</i> < 0.001) and Swabi (OR = 0.04, <i>p</i> < 0.001) having significantly lower risk of ascariasis than Abbottabad. Battagram had comparable odds to Abbottabad, indicating no significant difference (OR = 1.01 <i>p</i> = 0.98). Key protective factors included wearing footwear (OR = 0.32; <i>p</i> < 0.001), clean fingernails (OR = 0.54; <i>p</i> < 0.001), access to a washroom (OR = 0.47; <i>p</i> < 0.001), and drinking tap water (OR = 0.44; <i>p</i> = 0.01). Conversely, middle household income (OR = 2.26; <i>p</i> < 0.001) and participation in deworming programmes (OR = 5.75; <i>p</i> = 0.03) were associated with increased infection risk, possibly reflecting selection bias and high-risk areas. Similarly, Multivariable logistic regression model revealed independent effects of age ≥ 14 years (AOR = 6.64; <i>p</i> < 0.001), middle income (AOR = 1.79; <i>p</i> < 0.001), ","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-08-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144797923","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-08DOI: 10.1007/s11686-025-01113-z
Denise C. Wawman, Abigail S. Bailey, Steven R. Fiddaman, Ben P. Jones, Nicholas Johnson, Adrian L. Smith
Background
The louse flies in the genus Ornithomya Latreille are avian ectoparasites. The patterns of alar microtrichia on the wings of the Ornithomyae are commonly used to help distinguish the various species, with the patterns in most species found to be constant between individuals. The Finch Louse Fly Ornithomya fringillina (Curtis) in the United Kingdom, Ireland and the Isle of Man, is unusual in that the several patterns have been described. Consequently it has a complicated taxonomic history and there is some confusion about species identification.
Methods
Louse flies were collected by licensed bird ringers and an analysis of the simple morphological features, phenology and geographical distribution of these traits was performed.
Results
No significant differences were found between the three main types, and it was concluded that the differences were not due to sexual dimorphism and did not provide evidence that the different forms were separate species. Analysis of COX1 DNA sequences confirmed this result and proved that these are indeed morphotypes and not distinct species. There was no geographical separation between COX1 sequences from the United Kingdom and those from flies sampled in other parts of the world. The molecular analysis also suggested that Ornithomya bequaerti (Maa) and Ornithomya candida (Maa) may not be valid species, but represent morphotypes of O. fringillina.
Conclusions
The three patterns of alar microtrichia are morphotypes of a single species, Ornithomya fringillina. Further research is necessary to determine the status of some other species in the genus Ornithomya.
{"title":"Clarifying the Taxonomy of the Finch Louse Fly Ornithomya Fringillina (Curtis) (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) – An Analysis of Morphotypes","authors":"Denise C. Wawman, Abigail S. Bailey, Steven R. Fiddaman, Ben P. Jones, Nicholas Johnson, Adrian L. Smith","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01113-z","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01113-z","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>The louse flies in the genus <i>Ornithomya</i> Latreille are avian ectoparasites. The patterns of alar microtrichia on the wings of the Ornithomyae are commonly used to help distinguish the various species, with the patterns in most species found to be constant between individuals. The Finch Louse Fly <i>Ornithomya fringillina</i> (Curtis) in the United Kingdom, Ireland and the Isle of Man, is unusual in that the several patterns have been described. Consequently it has a complicated taxonomic history and there is some confusion about species identification.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>Louse flies were collected by licensed bird ringers and an analysis of the simple morphological features, phenology and geographical distribution of these traits was performed.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>No significant differences were found between the three main types, and it was concluded that the differences were not due to sexual dimorphism and did not provide evidence that the different forms were separate species. Analysis of COX1 DNA sequences confirmed this result and proved that these are indeed morphotypes and not distinct species. There was no geographical separation between COX1 sequences from the United Kingdom and those from flies sampled in other parts of the world. The molecular analysis also suggested that <i>Ornithomya bequaerti</i> (Maa) and <i>Ornithomya candida</i> (Maa) may not be valid species, but represent morphotypes of <i>O. fringillina</i>.</p><h3>Conclusions</h3><p>The three patterns of alar microtrichia are morphotypes of a single species, Ornithomya fringillina. Further research is necessary to determine the status of some other species in the genus <i>Ornithomya</i>.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-08-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12334518/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144797922","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-07DOI: 10.1007/s11686-025-01114-y
Yuxin Sun, Jing Zhang, Yan Cui, Yan Zhao, Xin Yang, Huizhu Nan, Lei Ma
Purpose
Enterocytozoon bieneusi (E. bieneusi) is a microsporidium that causes intestinal disease in animals and humans, and transmits person to person and/or animals to people. A survey was conducted to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity E. bieneusi infection in cattle in Hebei Province, China.
Methods
A total of 2,746 cattle fecal samples were collected from 11 cities in Hebei Province. PCR amplification targeting the ITS gene of E. bieneusi was performed to detect infections. The subtypes, sequence signatures, pairwise genetic distances, and genetic diversity indices were analyzed using MEGA, PhyloSuite, and PopART.
Results
The overall prevalence of E. bieneusi in cattle was 4.70% (129/2746). The infection rate varied significantly by region, age, breeding mode, and cattle type: higher in southern Hebei, cattle under one year old, intensively raised cattle, and dairy cattle. Six genotypes were identified (CHG3, SX1, BEB4, BEB6, BEB8, and J), with BEB6 being the dominant genotype. Sequence analysis revealed 260 polymorphic and conserved sites, including 41 variable sites (15.77% of total nucleotides). The nucleotide diversity index (Pi) was 0.06472, and the haplotype diversity index (Hd) was 1.000.
Conclusion
This study provides the first comprehensive epidemiological data on E. bieneusi infection in cattle in Hebei Province and highlights its rich genetic diversity. These findings offer insights into the potential risk of zoonotic transmission and serve as a reference for further control and prevention strategies.
{"title":"Genetic Characteristics of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Cattle from Hebei Province, China","authors":"Yuxin Sun, Jing Zhang, Yan Cui, Yan Zhao, Xin Yang, Huizhu Nan, Lei Ma","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01114-y","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01114-y","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><p>Enterocytozoon bieneusi (E. bieneusi) is a microsporidium that causes intestinal disease in animals and humans, and transmits\u0000person to person and/or animals to people. A survey was conducted to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity E. bieneusi\u0000infection in cattle in Hebei Province, China.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>A total of 2,746 cattle fecal samples were collected from 11 cities in Hebei Province. PCR amplification targeting the ITS gene of E.\u0000bieneusi was performed to detect infections. The subtypes, sequence signatures, pairwise genetic distances, and genetic diversity\u0000indices were analyzed using MEGA, PhyloSuite, and PopART.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>The overall prevalence of E. bieneusi in cattle was 4.70% (129/2746). The infection rate varied significantly by region, age, breeding\u0000mode, and cattle type: higher in southern Hebei, cattle under one year old, intensively raised cattle, and dairy cattle. Six genotypes\u0000were identified (CHG3, SX1, BEB4, BEB6, BEB8, and J), with BEB6 being the dominant genotype. Sequence analysis revealed 260\u0000polymorphic and conserved sites, including 41 variable sites (15.77% of total nucleotides). The nucleotide diversity index (Pi) was\u00000.06472, and the haplotype diversity index (Hd) was 1.000.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>This study provides the first comprehensive epidemiological data on E. bieneusi infection in cattle in Hebei Province and highlights its\u0000rich genetic diversity. These findings offer insights into the potential risk of zoonotic transmission and serve as a reference for further\u0000control and prevention strategies.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-08-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144793198","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-07DOI: 10.1007/s11686-025-01108-w
Tong Ye, Xue-Min Li, Wen-Xu Tan, Chuan-Long Wang, Jing Jiang, Quan Zhao
Background
Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by T. gondii, a widely distributed obligate intracellular parasite. It has received widespread attention because it can infect a large number of domestic and wild animals, thereby posing a threat to public health and the economy on a global scale. Among them, equine animals are critical intermediate hosts. However, studies on T. gondii infection in equine animals are currently not systematic on a global scale. For this purpose, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis.
Methods
This study searched for relevant studies in six significant databases (PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Wanfang database, VIP database and CNKI database). From 1099 articles, we selected 30 articles from 17 countries published from the database creation to July 1, 2023, and used a random-effects model to estimate the T. gondii infection rate in equids.
Results
The global infection rate of T. gondii in equids was estimated at 15.0% (2539/15,882, 95% CI 14.0–15.0%). The infection rate was highest in Africa (25.5%) and lowest in North America (8.4%). The infection rate after 2016 (24.0%) was higher than that before 2016 (14.6%). The infection rate was highest in equids aged 5–10 years (20.3%). Among equids, donkeys had the highest overall infection rate at 23.4%, which was higher than that of horses (15.8%) and mules (16.8%). The infection rate among female equine animals (17.5%) is higher than that among males (13.9%). These data indicate that T. gondii is widespread among equine animals globally, posing a potential infection risk to humans. Therefore, continuous monitoring of toxoplasmosis infection rates and control of T. gondii transmission are of great significance for both economic and public health.
背景：弓形虫病是由弓形虫引起的人畜共患传染病，弓形虫是一种广泛分布的专性细胞内寄生虫。它受到广泛关注，因为它可以感染大量家畜和野生动物，从而在全球范围内对公共卫生和经济构成威胁。其中，马类动物是关键的中间宿主。然而，目前在全球范围内对马类动物弓形虫感染的研究尚不系统。为此，我们进行了系统回顾和荟萃分析。方法：本研究检索了6个重要数据库（PubMed、Web of Science、ScienceDirect、万方数据库、VIP数据库和CNKI数据库）的相关研究。从1099篇文章中，我们选择了从数据库创建到2023年7月1日发表的来自17个国家的30篇文章，并使用随机效应模型估计了马科动物的弓形虫感染率。结果：全球马科动物弓形虫感染率为15.0% （2539/ 15882,95% CI 14.0 ~ 15.0%）。感染率在非洲最高（25.5%），在北美最低（8.4%）。2016年后感染率（24.0%）高于2016年前（14.6%）。5 ~ 10岁马驹感染率最高（20.3%）。在马科动物中，毛驴的总感染率最高，为23.4%，高于马（15.8%）和骡子（16.8%）。母马感染率（17.5%）高于公马（13.9%）。这些数据表明，弓形虫在全球马类动物中广泛存在，对人类构成潜在感染风险。因此，持续监测弓形虫病感染率，控制弓形虫传播，对经济和公共卫生都具有重要意义。
{"title":"Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Equids: A Global Systematic Review and Meta-analysis","authors":"Tong Ye, Xue-Min Li, Wen-Xu Tan, Chuan-Long Wang, Jing Jiang, Quan Zhao","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01108-w","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01108-w","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p>Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by <i>T. gondii</i>, a widely distributed obligate intracellular parasite. It has received widespread attention because it can infect a large number of domestic and wild animals, thereby posing a threat to public health and the economy on a global scale. Among them, equine animals are critical intermediate hosts. However, studies on <i>T. gondii</i> infection in equine animals are currently not systematic on a global scale. For this purpose, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>This study searched for relevant studies in six significant databases (PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Wanfang database, VIP database and CNKI database). From 1099 articles, we selected 30 articles from 17 countries published from the database creation to July 1, 2023, and used a random-effects model to estimate the <i>T. gondii</i> infection rate in equids.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>The global infection rate of <i>T. gondii</i> in equids was estimated at 15.0% (2539/15,882, 95% CI 14.0–15.0%). The infection rate was highest in Africa (25.5%) and lowest in North America (8.4%). The infection rate after 2016 (24.0%) was higher than that before 2016 (14.6%). The infection rate was highest in equids aged 5–10 years (20.3%). Among equids, donkeys had the highest overall infection rate at 23.4%, which was higher than that of horses (15.8%) and mules (16.8%). The infection rate among female equine animals (17.5%) is higher than that among males (13.9%). These data indicate that <i>T. gondii</i> is widespread among equine animals globally, posing a potential infection risk to humans. Therefore, continuous monitoring of toxoplasmosis infection rates and control of <i>T. gondii</i> transmission are of great significance for both economic and public health.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-08-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144793199","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Lymphatic filariasis, caused by three major filarial species, is marked by immune evasion strategies involving antioxidant enzymes. The role of selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase (SeGPx) in this process remains underexplored. This study aimed to identify and characterise SeGPx in Setaria digitata, a genomic analogue of Wuchereria bancrofti, and evaluate its potential as a diagnostic antigen.
Methods
segpx sequences were identified through bioinformatics tools, including BLAST and UniProt databases. Due to limited nematode entries, a validated SeGPx sequence from Lymnaea stagnalis was used as a proxy in PSI-BLAST to identify homologues. Enzymatic activity was confirmed through spectrophotometric assay and activity staining on SDS–PAGE to confirm its enzymatic activity and molecular mass confirmation.
Results
The segpx gene was localised within the S. digitata genome data (Contig 127, nucleotides 56,000–58,000). The enzyme assay showed a time-dependent decline in absorbance at 340 nm due to NADPH oxidation, plateauing after 13 min. Enzyme activity was calculated as 0.139 U, with a specific activity of 0.198 U/mg protein. A clear band at ~ 20 kDa was visualised via activity staining, confirming SeGPx presence.
Conclusion
Combined sequence-based identification and enzymatic validation confirm the functional presence of SeGPx in S. digitata. These findings support its role in oxidative stress mitigation and potential as a diagnostic antigen. The precise gene localisation offers a foundation for recombinant cloning, providing a streamlined alternative to conventional purification approaches for diagnostic development in filariasis.
{"title":"Sequence Localization of SeGPx in S. digitata Genome Contigs and Determination of its Presence in the Whole Worm Extract","authors":"Jefrillah Jebaseelan, Sankar Natesan, Anand Setty Balakrishnan","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01104-0","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01104-0","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><p>Lymphatic filariasis, caused by three major filarial species, is marked by immune evasion strategies involving antioxidant enzymes. The role of selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase (SeGPx) in this process remains underexplored. This study aimed to identify and characterise SeGPx in <i>Setaria digitata</i>, a genomic analogue of <i>Wuchereria bancrofti</i>, and evaluate its potential as a diagnostic antigen.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p><i>segpx</i> sequences were identified through bioinformatics tools, including BLAST and UniProt databases. Due to limited nematode entries, a validated SeGPx sequence from <i>Lymnaea stagnalis</i> was used as a proxy in PSI-BLAST to identify homologues. Enzymatic activity was confirmed through spectrophotometric assay and activity staining on SDS–PAGE to confirm its enzymatic activity and molecular mass confirmation.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>The <i>segpx</i> gene was localised within the <i>S. digitata</i> genome data (Contig 127, nucleotides 56,000–58,000). The enzyme assay showed a time-dependent decline in absorbance at 340 nm due to NADPH oxidation, plateauing after 13 min. Enzyme activity was calculated as 0.139 U, with a specific activity of 0.198 U/mg protein. A clear band at ~ 20 kDa was visualised via activity staining, confirming SeGPx presence.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Combined sequence-based identification and enzymatic validation confirm the functional presence of SeGPx in <i>S. digitata</i>. These findings support its role in oxidative stress mitigation and potential as a diagnostic antigen. The precise gene localisation offers a foundation for recombinant cloning, providing a streamlined alternative to conventional purification approaches for diagnostic development in filariasis.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144688576","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Lymphatic filariasis is a debilitating disease where progression from acute to chronic stages is often exacerbated by secondary bacterial infections, facilitated by normal skin microbiota. The disease is transmitted by Culex quinquefasciatus, which also carries other diseases.
Methods
Nigella sativa seeds possess antibacterial properties effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and exhibit larvicidal activity against various mosquito larvae. In this study, aqueous extracts of N. sativa seeds and synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were evaluated for antibacterial efficacy against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Salmonella typhi. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH assay. Larvicidal activity against Culex (Cx.) quinquefasciatus was also evaluated.
Results
The aqueous seed extract (100 mg/mL) and extract-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) (100 µg/mL) exhibited significant antibacterial activity. Notably, both also showed considerable antioxidant activity at a concentration of 100 µg/mL. Larvicidal activity revealed LC50 values of 33.88 ppm for the seed extract and 0.52 ppm for extract-synthesized AgNPs.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that N. sativa seeds and their extract-synthesized AgNPs have strong potential for mosquito control and managing secondary bacterial infections in lymphedema, particularly if formulated as an ointment. Further research on ointment formulations could enhance their public health applications.
{"title":"Exploring the Antibacterial, Antioxidant and Larvicidal Effects against Culex quinquefasciatus of Nigella sativa Seeds and its Silver Nanoparticles","authors":"Jefrillah Jebaseelan, Umamaheswari Kopula Ganesh, Prince Leeban Johnwilmet, Rajalakshmi Anbalagan, Jayalakshmi Krishnan, Anand Setty Balakrishnan","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01096-x","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01096-x","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><p>Lymphatic filariasis is a debilitating disease where progression from acute to chronic stages is often exacerbated by secondary bacterial infections, facilitated by normal skin microbiota. The disease is transmitted by <i>Culex quinquefasciatus</i>, which also carries other diseases.</p><h3>Methods</h3><p><i>Nigella sativa</i> seeds possess antibacterial properties effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, and exhibit larvicidal activity against various mosquito larvae. In this study, aqueous extracts of <i>N. sativa</i> seeds and synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were evaluated for antibacterial efficacy against <i>Bacillus subtilis</i>, <i>Staphylococcus epidermidis</i>,<i> Staphylococcus aureus</i>,<i> Escherichia coli</i>, and <i>Salmonella typhi.</i> Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH assay. Larvicidal activity against <i>Culex</i> (Cx.) <i>quinquefasciatus</i> was also evaluated.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>The aqueous seed extract (100 mg/mL) and extract-synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) (100 µg/mL) exhibited significant antibacterial activity. Notably, both also showed considerable antioxidant activity at a concentration of 100 µg/mL. Larvicidal activity revealed LC<sub>50</sub> values of 33.88 ppm for the seed extract and 0.52 ppm for extract-synthesized AgNPs.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The findings suggest that <i>N. sativa</i> seeds and their extract-synthesized AgNPs have strong potential for mosquito control and managing secondary bacterial infections in lymphedema, particularly if formulated as an ointment. Further research on ointment formulations could enhance their public health applications.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144673686","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-21DOI: 10.1007/s11686-025-01099-8
Farzad Mahdavi, Ali Pouryousef, Mohammad Reza Mohammadi, Kambiz Karimi, Asma Mousivand, Farajolah Maleki, Ali Asghari, Mina Mamizadeh
Background
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a coccidian protozoan parasite belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of C. cayetanensis in patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/ Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
Methods
A literature search was performed in international databases for studies published until October 18, 2024, focusing on cross-sectional and case-control studies. Data from eligible studies were analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software, employing random-effects models for pooled estimates and weighted odds ratios (ORs), along with heterogeneity assessment via I² statistic.
Results
This systematic review analyzed 73 studies, including 48 cross-sectional and 25 case-control involving 13,986 HIV/AIDS patients and 3,559 non-HIV/AIDS controls across 22 countries, mainly in Asia and Africa. The global prevalence of C. cayetanensis infection was 4% in HIV/AIDS patients (95% CI: 2.9–5.4%) versus 1.8% in controls (95% CI: 1.1–3.2%), resulting in an OR of 3.5 (95% CI: 2.04–6.06), indicating HIV/AIDS patients were significantly more likely to be infected. Sensitivity analysis indicated that none of the studies significantly affected the pooled estimates and weighted ORs. The prevalence of infection showed no significant association with quantitative variables such as publication year, sample size, and Human Development Index (HDI). Moreover, the pooled prevalence of C. cayetanensis infection was estimated across various subgroups, including publication year, World Health Organization (WHO) region, country, continent, country income level, HDI value, and sample size.
Conclusion
The findings confirm the opportunistic nature of C. cayetanensis infection and highlight the need for increased awareness and diagnosis of this infection in HIV/AIDS patients. Monitoring this opportunistic infection is vital for patient management, particularly in resource-limited areas.
{"title":"Worldwide Epidemiology of Cyclospora cayetanensis in HIV/AIDS Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis","authors":"Farzad Mahdavi, Ali Pouryousef, Mohammad Reza Mohammadi, Kambiz Karimi, Asma Mousivand, Farajolah Maleki, Ali Asghari, Mina Mamizadeh","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01099-8","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01099-8","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p><i>Cyclospora cayetanensis</i> is a coccidian protozoan parasite belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of <i>C. cayetanensis</i> in patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/ Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).</p><h3>Methods</h3><p>A literature search was performed in international databases for studies published until October 18, 2024, focusing on cross-sectional and case-control studies. Data from eligible studies were analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software, employing random-effects models for pooled estimates and weighted odds ratios (ORs), along with heterogeneity assessment via I² statistic.</p><h3>Results</h3><p>This systematic review analyzed 73 studies, including 48 cross-sectional and 25 case-control involving 13,986 HIV/AIDS patients and 3,559 non-HIV/AIDS controls across 22 countries, mainly in Asia and Africa. The global prevalence of <i>C. cayetanensis</i> infection was 4% in HIV/AIDS patients (95% CI: 2.9–5.4%) versus 1.8% in controls (95% CI: 1.1–3.2%), resulting in an OR of 3.5 (95% CI: 2.04–6.06), indicating HIV/AIDS patients were significantly more likely to be infected. Sensitivity analysis indicated that none of the studies significantly affected the pooled estimates and weighted ORs. The prevalence of infection showed no significant association with quantitative variables such as publication year, sample size, and Human Development Index (HDI). Moreover, the pooled prevalence of <i>C. cayetanensis</i> infection was estimated across various subgroups, including publication year, World Health Organization (WHO) region, country, continent, country income level, HDI value, and sample size.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The findings confirm the opportunistic nature of <i>C. cayetanensis</i> infection and highlight the need for increased awareness and diagnosis of this infection in HIV/AIDS patients. Monitoring this opportunistic infection is vital for patient management, particularly in resource-limited areas.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144673687","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-21DOI: 10.1007/s11686-025-01092-1
Faride Khanabadi, Taher Elmi, Mojtaba Didehdar, Hossein Torkashvand, Leila Masoori, Mohammad Ali Daneshmand, Fatemeh Zahra Gharib
Background
Strongyloides stercoralis (S. stercoralis) is a soil-transmitted nematode endemic to tropical and subtropical regions. While infections often remain asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals, they can progress to hyperinfection or disseminated disease in immunocompromised hosts, particularly those receiving corticosteroid therapy. Disseminated strongyloidiasis is associated with a high mortality rate if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
Case Presentation
We present the case of a 45-year-old woman from northern Iran with a long-standing history of corticosteroid use for rheumatoid arthritis, who developed a non-healing ulcer on her back accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms including vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite and diarrhea. Laboratory investigations confirmed the presence of S. stercoralis larvae in both stool specimens and a skin biopsy. Stool examination was performed using the stool culture method, and the biopsy was obtained from the lesion site. The patient was treated successfully with a combination of thiabendazole and ivermectin, leading to complete resolution of both cutaneous and gastrointestinal manifestations.
Conclusion
This case underscores the importance of considering cutaneous strongyloidiasis in immunosuppressed patients, especially in endemic regions. Early recognition and prompt anti-parasitic therapy are critical for preventing severe complications and improving clinical outcomes.
{"title":"A Rare Case of Cutaneous Strongyloidiasis in an Immunocompromised Patient: Clinical Insights and Implications","authors":"Faride Khanabadi, Taher Elmi, Mojtaba Didehdar, Hossein Torkashvand, Leila Masoori, Mohammad Ali Daneshmand, Fatemeh Zahra Gharib","doi":"10.1007/s11686-025-01092-1","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s11686-025-01092-1","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><p><i>Strongyloides stercoralis</i> (<i>S. stercoralis</i>) is a soil-transmitted nematode endemic to tropical and subtropical regions. While infections often remain asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals, they can progress to hyperinfection or disseminated disease in immunocompromised hosts, particularly those receiving corticosteroid therapy. Disseminated strongyloidiasis is associated with a high mortality rate if not promptly diagnosed and treated.</p><h3>Case Presentation</h3><p>We present the case of a 45-year-old woman from northern Iran with a long-standing history of corticosteroid use for rheumatoid arthritis, who developed a non-healing ulcer on her back accompanied by gastrointestinal symptoms including vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite and diarrhea. Laboratory investigations confirmed the presence of <i>S. stercoralis</i> larvae in both stool specimens and a skin biopsy. Stool examination was performed using the stool culture method, and the biopsy was obtained from the lesion site. The patient was treated successfully with a combination of thiabendazole and ivermectin, leading to complete resolution of both cutaneous and gastrointestinal manifestations.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>This case underscores the importance of considering cutaneous strongyloidiasis in immunosuppressed patients, especially in endemic regions. Early recognition and prompt anti-parasitic therapy are critical for preventing severe complications and improving clinical outcomes.</p></div>","PeriodicalId":6932,"journal":{"name":"Acta Parasitologica","volume":"70 4","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.5,"publicationDate":"2025-07-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144681780","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"农林科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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