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

Objective: 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. Methods: 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. Results: 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. Conclusion: 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.

Cross-species transmission of Cryptosporidium in wild rodents from the southern region of Zhejiang Province of China and its possible impact on public health.

Wild rodents serve as reservoirs for Cryptosporidium and are overpopulated globally. However, genetic data regarding Cryptosporidium in these animals from China are limited. Here, we have determined the prevalence and genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium among 370 wild rodents captured from three distinct locations in the southern region of Zhejiang Province, China. Fresh feces were collected from the rectum of each rodent, and DNA was extracted from them. The rodent species was identified by PCR amplifying the vertebrate cytochrome b gene. Cryptosporidium was detected by PCR amplification and amplicon sequencing the small subunit of ribosomal RNA gene. Positive samples of C. viatorum and C. parvum were further subtyped by analyzing the 60-kDa glycoprotein gene. A positive Cryptosporidium result was found in 7% (26/370) of samples, involving five rodent species: Apodemus agrarius (36), Niviventer niviventer (75), Rattus losea (18), R. norvegicus (155), and R. tanezumi (86). Their respective Cryptosporidium positive rates were 8.3%, 5.3%, 11.1%, 7.1%, and 7.0%. Sequence analysis confirmed the presence of three Cryptosporidium species: C. parvum (4), C. viatorum (1), and C. muris (1), and two genotypes: Cryptosporidium rat genotype IV (16) and C. mortiferum-like (4). Additionally, two subtypes of C. parvum (IIdA15G1 and IIpA19) and one subtype of C. viatorum (XVdA3) were detected. These results demonstrate that various wild rodent species in Zhejiang were concurrently infected with rodent-adapted and zoonotic species/genotypes of Cryptosporidium, indicating that these rodents can play a role in maintaining and dispersing this parasite into the environment and other hosts, including humans.

Title: Transmission interspécifique de Cryptosporidium chez les rongeurs sauvages de la région sud de la province chinoise du Zhejiang et son impact possible sur la santé publique. Abstract: Les rongeurs sauvages servent de réservoirs à Cryptosporidium et ont des grandes populations à l'échelle mondiale. Cependant, les données génétiques concernant Cryptosporidium chez ces animaux en Chine sont limitées. Ici, nous avons déterminé la prévalence et les caractéristiques génétiques de Cryptosporidium parmi 370 rongeurs sauvages capturés dans trois endroits distincts de la région sud de la province du Zhejiang, en Chine. Des excréments frais ont été collectés dans le rectum de chaque rongeur et l'ADN en a été extrait. L'espèce de rongeur a été identifiée par amplification par PCR du gène du cytochrome b des vertébrés. Cryptosporidium a été détecté par amplification PCR et séquençage d'amplicons de la petite sous-unité du gène de l'ARN ribosomal. Les échantillons positifs de C. viatorum et C. parvum ont ensuite été sous-typés en analysant le gène de la glycoprotéine de 60 kDa. Un résultat positif pour Cryptosporidium a été trouvé dans 7 % (26/370) des échantillons, impliquant cinq espèces de rongeurs : Apodemus agrarius (36), Niviventer niviventer (75), Rattus losea (18), R. norvegicus (155) et R. tanezumi (86). Leurs taux respectifs de positivité pour Cryptosporidium étaient de 8,3 %, 5,3 %, 11,1 %, 7,1 % et 7,0 %. L'analyse des séquences a confirmé la présence de trois espèces de Cryptosporidium : C. parvum (4), C. viatorum (1) et C. muris (1), et de deux génotypes : Cryptosporidium génotype IV de rat (16) et C. mortiferum-like (4). De plus, deux sous-types de C. parvum (IIdA15G1 et IIpA19) et un sous-type de C. viatorum (XVdA3) ont été détectés. Ces résultats démontrent que diverses espèces de rongeurs sauvages du Zhejiang sont simultanément infectées par des espèces/génotypes de Cryptosporidium zoonotiques et adaptés aux rongeurs, ce qui indique que ces rongeurs peuvent jouer un rôle dans le maintien et la dispersion de ce parasite dans l'environnement et d'autres hôtes, y compris les humains.

Occurrence and genotyping of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in flying squirrels (Trogopterus xanthipes) from China.

Enterocytozoon bieneusi is an obligate intracellular microsporidian parasite with a worldwide distribution. As a zoonotic pathogen, E. bieneusi can infect a wide range of wildlife hosts through the fecal-oral route. Although the feces of flying squirrels (Trogopterus xanthipes) are considered a traditional Chinese medicine (as "faeces trogopterori"), no literature is available on E. bieneusi infection in flying squirrels to date. In this study, a total of 340 fresh flying squirrel fecal specimens from two captive populations were collected in Pingdingshan city, China, to detect the prevalence of E. bieneusi and assess their zoonotic potential. By nested PCR amplification of the ITS gene, six specimens tested positive, with positive samples from each farm, with an overall low infection rate of 1.8%. The ITS sequences revealed three genotypes, including known genotype D and two novel genotypes, HNFS01 and HNFS02. Genotype HNFS01 was the most prevalent (4/6, 66.7%). Phylogenetic analysis showed that all genotypes clustered into zoonotic Group 1, with the novel genotypes clustering into different subgroups. To our knowledge, this is the first report of E. bieneusi infection in flying squirrels, suggesting that flying squirrels could act as a potential reservoir and zoonotic threat for E. bieneusi transmission to humans in China.

Title: Occurrence et génotypage d'Enterocytozoon bieneusi chez les écureuils volants (Trogopterus xanthipes) de Chine. Abstract: Enterocytozoon bieneusi est un parasite microsporidien intracellulaire obligatoire présent dans le monde entier. En tant qu'agent pathogène zoonotique, E. bieneusi peut infecter un large éventail d'hôtes sauvages par la voie fécale-orale. Bien que les excréments d'écureuils volants (Trogopterus xanthipes) soient considérés comme un ingrédient de médecine traditionnelle chinoise (comme « faeces trogopterori ¼), aucune littérature n'est disponible à ce jour sur l'infection par E. bieneusi chez les écureuils volants. Dans cette étude, un total de 340 spécimens fécaux frais d'écureuils volants provenant de deux populations captives ont été collectés dans la ville de Pingdingshan, en Chine, pour détecter la prévalence d'E. bieneusi et évaluer leur potentiel zoonotique. Par amplification PCR nichée du gène ITS, six échantillons se sont révélés positifs, avec des échantillons positifs dans chaque ferme, et un taux d'infection global faible, à 1,8 %. Les séquences ITS ont révélé trois génotypes, dont le génotype D connu et deux nouveaux génotypes, HNFS01 et HNFS02. Le génotype HNFS01 était le plus répandu (4/6, 66,7 %). L'analyse phylogénétique a montré que tous les génotypes se regroupaient dans le groupe zoonotique 1, les nouveaux génotypes se regroupant en différents sous-groupes. À notre connaissance, il s'agit du premier rapport d'infection par E. bieneusi chez des écureuils volants, ce qui suggère que les écureuils volants pourraient agir comme un réservoir potentiel et une menace zoonotique pour la transmission d'E. bieneusi aux humains en Chine.

Marked increase in cryptosporidiosis cases, Spain, 2023.

BackgroundBy mid-September 2023, several event notifications related to cryptosporidiosis had been identified from different regions in Spain. Therefore, a request for urgent notification of cryptosporidiosis cases to the National Surveillance Network was launched.AimWe aimed at assessing the extent of the increase in cases, the epidemiological characteristics and the transmission modes and compared to previous years.MethodsWe analysed data on case notifications, outbreak reports and genotypes focusing on June-October 2023 and compared the results to 2016-2022.ResultsIn 2023, 4,061 cryptosporidiosis cases were notified in Spain, which is an increase compared to 2016-2022. The cumulative incidence was 8.3 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2023, sixfold higher than the median of 1.4 cases per 100,000 inhabitants 2016-2022. Almost 80% of the cases were notified between June and October. The largest outbreaks were related to contaminated drinking water or swimming pools. Cryptosporidium hominis was the most common species in the characterised samples (115/122), and the C. hominis IfA12G1R5 subtype, previously unusual in Spain, was detected from 76 (62.3%) of the 122 characterised samples.ConclusionsA substantial increase in cryptosporidiosis cases was observed in 2023. Strengthening surveillance of Cryptosporidium is essential for prevention of cases, to better understand trends and subtypes circulating and the impact of adverse meteorological events.

Using zero-inflated and hurdle regression models to analyze schistosomiasis data of school children in the southern areas of Ghana.

BACKGROUND: Schistosomiasis is a neglected disease prevalent in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world, especially in Africa. Detecting the presence of the disease is based on the detection of the parasites in the stool or urine of children and adults. In such studies, typically, data collected on schistosomiasis infection includes information on many negative individuals leading to a high zero inflation. Thus, in practice, counts data with excessive zeros are common. However, the purpose of this analysis is to apply statistical models to the count data and evaluate their performance and results. METHODS: This is a secondary analysis of previously collected data. As part of a modelling process, a comparison of the Poisson regression, negative binomial regression and their associated zero inflated and hurdle models were used to determine which offered the best fit to the count data. RESULTS: Overall, 94.1% of the study participants did not have any schistosomiasis eggs out of 1345 people tested, resulting in a high zero inflation. The performance of the negative binomial regression models (hurdle negative binomial (HNB), zero inflated negative binomial (ZINB) and the standard negative binomial) were better than the Poisson-based regression models (Poisson, zero inflated Poisson, hurdle Poisson). The best models were the ZINB and HNB and their performances were indistinguishable according to information-based criteria test values. CONCLUSION: The zero-inflated negative binomial and hurdle negative binomial models were found to be the most satisfactory fit for modelling the over-dispersed zero inflated count data and are recommended for use in future statistical modelling analyses.

Gastrointestinal parasites of Wolffsohn's viscacha (Chinchillidae: Lagidium wolffsohni), an endemic rodent species from the wild Patagonia.

Parasites are ubiquitous in wildlife populations and have a profound impact on population dynamics. Interest in parasites of wildlife has increased significantly in recent years, particularly in those with relevant conservation status. Patagonia is one of the wildest and remote areas of the world. The Wolffsohn's viscacha lives in a small mountainous area of Patagonia. Until now, little is known about the biology and ecology of this species. The aim of this research was to study the gastrointestinal parasite diversity in this rodent from a coprological survey. A total of 125 fecal samples from 25 colonies were examined. Each sample was rehydrated, homogenized, and analyzed using three parasitological techniques: spontaneous sedimentation, Mini-FLOTAC, and centrifugation-flotation in sucrose-saturated solution, followed by examination under optical microscopy. The samples, eggs, and oocysts of parasites were described, measured, and photographed. All colonies were positive for at least one parasite species. A total of 10 parasitic species were identified: Viscachataenia sp., possibly V. quadrata, Monoecocestus sp., an unidentified anoplocephalid, Heteroxynema sp., possibly H. (Cavioxyura) viscaciae, Helminthoxys sp., possibly H. effilatus, an unidentified strongylid-type egg, Trichuris sp., two morphologies of unidentified coccidians and Eimeria sp. This is the first exhaustive study of gastrointestinal parasites in L. wolffsohni and a large number of eggs and oocysts of parasites were found. Our results highlight the use of noninvasive techniques for the study of parasites of wildlife hosts; as in the case of this rodent with a remote habitat, which makes sampling difficult. The results of our study provide baseline information on gastrointestinal parasite infections in this species.

[A case of giardiasis diagnosed from a high output stoma after surgery for obstructive colorectal cancer].

This report describes a case of giardiasis detected through stool smear analysis of postoperative stool fluid collected from a high output stoma for obstructive colorectal cancer. The patient, a 67-year-old male, underwent right hemicolectomy with ileostomy for obstructive colorectal cancer. The persistent excessive excretion of postoperative stool fluid from the stoma prompted a stool smear test. The findings revealed the presence of Giardia intestinalis. Fecal output decreased when metronidazole was administered orally. The study strongly recommends that patients with prolonged gastrointestinal symptoms need to undergo stool smear tests.

Sickle Cell Disease and Gut Health: The Influence of Intestinal Parasites and the Microbiome on Angolan Children.

Parasitic infections are a common problem in developing countries and can intensify morbidity in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), increasing the severity of anemia and the need for transfusions. It has been demonstrated that both helminths and protozoa can affect gut microbiome composition. On the other hand, the presence of specific bacterial communities can also influence parasite establishment. Considering this, our aim was to associate the presence of intestinal parasites with the results of hematological analyses and microbiome composition evaluations in a population of Angolan children with and without SCD. A total of 113 stool samples were collected, and gut microbiome analysis was performed using 16S sequencing and real-time PCR to detect eight different intestinal parasites. In our population, more than half of children (55%) had at least one parasitic infection, and of these, 43% were co-infected. Giardia intestinalis and Ascaris lumbricoides were more frequently found in children from the rural area of Bengo. Moreover, SCD children with ascariasis exhibited higher values of leukocytes and neutrophils, whereas the total hemoglobin levels were lower. In regards to the gut microbiome, the presence of intestinal parasites lowered the prevalence of some beneficial bacteria, namely: Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Cuneatibacter, Bacteroides uniformis, Roseburia, and Shuttleworthia. This study presents the prevalence of several intestinal parasites in a high-risk transmission area with scarce information and opens new perspectives for understanding the interaction between parasites, the microbiome, and SCD.

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.

Prevalence of opisthorchiid and other endoparasitic infections among cats and dogs in Novosibirsk oblast (Western Siberia, Russia).

To determine the current reservoir status and prevalence of Opisthorchis felineus infection in opisthorchiosis-endemic areas, feces samples were collected from 103 cats and 101 dogs admitted to shelters or discount sterilization centers from various districts of Novosibirsk city and from villages and towns along the Ob River (Novosibirsk Oblast). The feces samples were evaluated using two methods simultaneously: the formalin-ether sedimentation assay and a modified flotation assay. The prevalence of opisthorchiid infection was higher among cats (12.6%; 95% confidence interval 6.9-20.6%) than among dogs (4.0%; 95% confidence interval 1.1-9.8%). Overall prevalence of endoparasites among cats was 42.7% (five helminthic and four protozoan species) and among dogs 51.5% (eight helminthic and five protozoan species). Among the parasites found in the dogs, the prevalence of Sarcocystis sp. was the highest (16.8%), and in cats, the highest prevalence was shown by Giardia sp. and Toxocara cati (14.6% for each species). These results confirm the considerable contribution of stray cats and dogs to the maintenance of opisthorchiid eggs in the environment; these data should be taken into account for the development of effective control and education programs.

Prevalence and risk factors for gastrointestinal parasitosis in small ruminant farms in the Sahelian zone of Niger.

The general aim of this study is to analyse the risk factors for gastrointestinal parasitosis in small ruminants in order to contribute to the emergence of targeted treatment methods, at herd and agro-climatic zone levels, for the integrated and sustainable management of parasitic diseases in Sahelian livestock systems. The methodology was based on a questionnaire survey conducted in 37 villages and coprological analysis using the McMaster method on faecal samples from 968 small ruminants, including 555 goats and 413 sheep. Multiple logistic regression was used to highlight the risk factors associated with each type of parasitosis encountered. The results showed that the most widespread farming system remained 100% traditional, with feeding based essentially on natural grazing. Coprological results showed the prevalence of nematodosis (70.2%), Cestodosis (4.1%) and Coccidiosis (79.9%), with an average prevalence of coinfection of 56.9%. These parasite loads were significantly higher during the rainy season and in the more arid northern Sahelian zone, with a marked reduction at the end of the season. Average parasitic egg excretions were 1089 EPG of nematodes and 6864 EPG of coccidia. Parasite loads were higher in the wetter southern strip and varied significantly by breed. Of the five breeds of small ruminants studied, the ara-ara sheep had the highest parasitic loads and prevalences for nematodosis (78.6%), coccidiosis (89,3%) and coinfection (70.9%), appears to be the most susceptible to parasitosis. As for risk factors for severe parasite pressure, animals at the end of the rainy season, older animals and those with poor body condition were at risk of nematodiasis or coinfection. On the other hand, animals at the beginning of the rainy season, farms located in less arid southern Sahelian zones and male subjects were the groups at significant risk of coccidiosis. In these extensive Sahelian farming conditions, the control of these parasitoses by selective treatment of animals could be developed, targeting in particular the risk groups highlighted in this study.

Blastocystis colonization and associations with population parameters in Thai adults.

BACKGROUND: Blastocystis is a unicellular eukaryote commonly found in the intestinal tract of humans and other animals. The prevalence of Blastocystis has been investigated in both developed and developing countries, yet its occurrence and distribution in rural locations has been less studied. Herein, we aimed to examine the distribution of Blastocystis colonization in Thai adults representing background populations along a rural/peri-urban gradient, as well as associations between colonization and personal characteristics. METHODOLOGY: A total of 238 participants were recruited from rural and peri-urban areas situated in three provinces. The presence of Blastocystis in feces was evaluated using PCR and qPCR. Information on gender, age, region (province), rural/peri-urban location, and body mass index (BMI) was collected. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: The overall rate of Blastocystis carriage was 67.2%. Univariate analysis revealed significant associations between Blastocystis carriage and region (p<0.05), location (p<0.001) and age group (p<0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that rural/peri-urban location and BMI were significantly associated with Blastocystis carriage. Nine subtypes (ST1-ST7, ST10 and ST23) were identified with ST3, ST7 and ST1 as the most abundant ones, in this order. The greatest diversity of subtypes, in terms of numbers, was found in the middle aged group (nine subtypes), while the least diversity was found in the young adult and obese (three subtypes each) groups. CONCLUSIONS: This study increases the understanding of the epidemiology of Blastocystis colonization and its association with population parameters and characteristics in middle-income countries.

Unveiling the presence and genotypic diversity of Giardia duodenalis on large-scale sheep farms: insights from the Henan and Ningxia Regions, China.

BACKGROUND: The parasitic protozoan Giardia duodenalis is an important cause of diarrheal disease in humans and animals that can be spread by fecal-oral transmission through water and the environment, posing a challenge to public health and animal husbandry. Little is known about its impact on large-scale sheep farms in China. In this study we investigated G. duodenalis infection of sheep and contamination of the environment in large-scale sheep farms in two regions of China, Henan and Ningxia. METHODS: A total of 528 fecal samples, 402 environmental samples and 30 water samples were collected from seven large-scale sheep farms, and 88 fecal samples and 13 environmental samples were collected from 12 backyard farms. The presence of G. duodenalis was detected by targeting the ß-giardin (bg) gene, and the assemblage and multilocus genotype of G. duodenalis were investigated by analyzing three genes: bg, glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) and triphosphate isomerase (tpi). RESULTS: The overall G. duodenalis detection rate was 7.8%, 1.4% and 23.3% in fecal, environmental and water samples, respectively. On the large-scale sheep farms tested, the infection rate of sheep in Henan (13.8%) was found to be significantly higher than that of sheep in Ningxia (4.2%) (P < 0.05). However, the difference between the rates of environmental pollution in Henan (1.9%) and Ningxia (1.0%) was not significant (P > 0.05). Investigations of sheep at different physiological stages revealed that late pregnancy ewes showed the lowest infection rate (1.7%) and that young lambs exhibited the highest (18.8%). Genetic analysis identified G. duodenalis belonging to two assemblages, A and E, with assemblage E being dominant. A total of 27 multilocus genotypes were identified for members of assemblage E. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that G. duodenalis is prevalent on large-scale sheep farms in Henan and Ningxia, China, and that there is a risk of environmental contamination. This study is the first comprehensive examination of the presence of G. duodenalis on large-scale sheep farms in China. Challenges posed by G. duodenalis to sheep farms need to be addressed proactively to ensure public health safety.

Molecular characterization and zoonotic potential of Entamoeba spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Blastocystis from captive wild animals in northwest China.

BACKGROUND: Parasites Entamoeba spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi and Blastocystis are prevalent pathogens causing gastrointestinal illnesses in animals and humans. Consequently, researches on their occurrence, distribution and hosts are crucial for the well-being of both animals and humans. Due to the confined spaces and frequent interaction between animals and humans, animal sanctuaries have emerged as potential reservoirs for these parasites. In this study, the wildlife sanctuary near the Huang Gorge of the Qinling Mountains in northwest China is chosen as an ideal site for parasite distribution research, considering its expansive stocking area and high biodiversity. RESULTS: We collected 191 fecal specimens from 37 distinct wildlife species and extracted genomic DNA. We identified these three parasites by amplifying specific gene regions and analyzed their characteristics and evolutionary relationships. All the parasites exhibited a high overall infection rate, reaching 90.05%. Among them, seven Entamoeba species were identified, accounting for a prevalence of 54.97%, with the highest infection observed in Entamoeba bovis. In total, 11 Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes were discovered, representing a prevalence of 35.08%, including three genotypes of human-pathogenic Group 1 and two novel genotypes (SXWZ and SXLG). Additionally, 13 Blastocystis subtypes were detected, showing a prevalence of 74.87% and encompassing eight zoonotic subtypes. All of the above suggests significant possibilities of parasite transmission between animals and humans. CONCLUSIONS: This study investigated the occurrence and prevalence of three intestinal parasites, enhancing our understanding of their genetic diversity and host ranges in northwest China. Furthermore, the distribution of these parasites implies significant potential of zoonotic transmission, underscoring the imperative for ongoing surveillance and implementation of control measures. These efforts are essential to mitigate the risk of zoonotic disease outbreaks originating from wildlife sanctuary.

Prevalence and associated factors of schistosomiasis among pregnant women in northern Senegal.

BACKGROUND: Schistosomiasis remains a public health concern worldwide. It is responsible for more than 240 million cases in 78 countries, 40 million of whom are women of childbearing age. In the Senegal River basin, both Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mansoni are very prevalent in school-age children. However, there is a lack of information on the burden of schistosomiasis in pregnant women, which can cause complications in the pregnancy outcome. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of schistosomiasis in pregnant women. METHODS: We conducted a prospective cross-sectional study of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics at the health center of the Senegalese Sugar Company and at the hospital of Richard Toll between August and December 2021. The urine and stool samples collected were examined using microscopy techniques and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to detect the presence of S. haematobium and S. mansoni. The urines were previously tested using urine reagent strips to detect hematuria and proteinuria. Socio-demographical, clinical, and diagnostically data were recorded by the midwife and the gynaecologist. The data were analyzed using a logistic regression model. RESULTS: Among the 298 women examined for the infection by microscopic, 65 (21.81%) were infected with urogenital schistosomiasis, 10 (3.36%) with intestinal schistosomiasis, and 4 (1.34%) were co-infected with both types of schistosomiasis. Out of the 288 samples tested by qPCR, 146 (48.99%) were positive for S. haematobium, 49 (35.51%) for S. mansoni and 22 (15.94%) for both species (co-infection). Pregnant women having microscopic haematuria and proteinuria were significantly more infected (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: This study has revealed a high prevalence of schistosomiasis in pregnant women in Senegal. The qPCR allowed us to detect more cases compared to the microscopy. There is a need to conduct more studies to understand the real burden of the disease and to set up a surveillance system to prevent pregnancy-related complications.

Impacts of a highly pathogenic ovine Eimeria ovinoidalis on the growth of Hu lambs.

The apicomplexan Eimeria ovinoidalis is distributed worldwide. It can cause clinical coccidiosis, which is one of the most pathogenic species in sheep, reducing growth rates and resulting in significant economic losses in the industry. Its principal clinical sign is profuse diarrhoea in young animals. In this study, we established a model of E. ovinoidalis infection in lambs to understand its pathogenicity and evaluate the gut microbiota and fecal metabolite profiles. Specifically, we observed a significant shift in the abundance of bacteria and disrupted metabolism in lambs. Especially during the peak period of excrete oocysts, it promoted the reproduction of some harmful bacteria in Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota, and reduced the abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Lachnospiraceae and Rikenellaceae. In the later stage of the patent period, the abundance of harmful bacteria in the intestine decreased, the abundance of beneficial bacteria which could produce anti-inflammatory substances began to increase, and the abundance and diversity of intestinal flora also tended to parallel with the control group. Coccidia infection could lead to the increase of differential metabolites and metabolic pathways between infected and control group, but the difference decreased with time. During the peak period of excrete oocysts, although the antimicrobial metabolites such as Lividamine were up-regulated, the excess of these metabolites could still induce the production of endotoxin, while Butanoic acid and other anti-inflammatory metabolites decreased significantly. A metabolomics analysis showed that E. ovinoidalis infection altered metabolites and metabolic pathways, with biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, Teichoic acid biosynthesis and Butanoate metabolism as the major disrupted metabolic pathways. Details of the gut microbiota and the metabolome after infection with E. ovinoidalis may aid in the discovery of specific diagnostic markers and help us understand the changes in parasite metabolic pathways.

Comparison of different molecular protocols for the detection of Uncinaria stenocephala infection in dogs.

The present study aims to assess the performance of different molecular targets using various matrices of samples for the detection of Uncinaria stenocephala (US) in hookworm infected dogs. To this end, the DNA extraction was performed on the following matrices of samples: (i) larvae of US obtained from experimentally infected dogs with US with different larvae counts per microliter (µl); (ii) pure US eggs suspension in distilled water with different egg counts per µl; (iii) spiked dog fecal samples with different US eggs per gram (EPG) of feces; (iv) feces from dogs naturally infected with hookworm eggs; (v) fecal suspension with hookworm eggs recovered from the FLOTAC apparatus. All the samples were tested with four different PCR protocols targeting specific regions for the detection of both hookworms US and AC as follows: Protocol A (ITS1, 5.8 S, ITS2) and Protocol B (18 S) for the detection of both species, Protocol C (ITS1) for the detection of AC and Protocol D (ITS1) for the detection of US. The best results were obtained with DNA extracted from US larvae matrix obtained from experimentally infected dogs, showing a detection limit of 3.5 larvae/ml for the protocols A, B and D. A moderate correlation was found between the FLOTAC technique and PCR protocols B and D with respect to fecal samples from dogs naturally infected with hookworms. Indeed, PCR protocols B (18 S) and D (ITS1) gave the best results for feces and fecal suspension from naturally infected dogs. However, all the PCR protocols used showed lower sensitivity than FLOTAC technique. Perhaps, isolating US eggs in advance could help to obtain better quality and quantity of DNA, avoiding some notable factors such as inhibitors present in faecal samples. However, a further study is needed to evaluate and standardise a protocol for the recovery of parasitic elements, that could be applied prior to DNA extraction. Therefore, this could lead to a better amplification of US eggs DNA. In conclusion, our results showed that the type of sample (sample-matrix) used for the DNA extraction samples is crucial, as this affects the diagnostic sensitivity of the technique.

The effect of anthelmintic treatment and efficacy on the faecal microbiota of healthy adult horses.

Changes to the faecal microbiota of horses associated with administration of anthelmintic drugs is poorly defined. This study included horses with cyathostomin infection where susceptibility and resistance to oxfendazole and abamectin was known. This study assessed the changes to the faecal microbiota associated with administration of two different anthelmintics in this population. Twenty-four adult horses were included. Faecal egg counts were performed on all horses prior to random allocation into abamectin (n=8), oxfendazole (n=8) or Control groups (n=8) and at Day 14 post treatment. Faecal samples were collected for microbiota analysis prior to anthelmintic administration and on Day 3 and Day 14. From each faecal sample, DNA was extracted prior to PCR amplification, next generation sequencing and analysis using QIIME2. Anthelmintic treatment was associated with changes in alpha diversity (p <0.05), with increased evenness and diversity at Day 14 and increased richness at Day 3 within the abamectin group. Differences in relative abundance of bacteria at the phyla, family and genus taxonomic levels occurred after treatment; indicating that the microbiota was altered with anthelmintic administration. The results support that anthelmintic administration and removal of cyathostomins from the large intestine of horses is associated with changes in the faecal microbiota. The results suggest that removal of cyathostomins is associated with greater differences in microbiota, compared to anthelmintic drug administration that is ineffective in reducing cyathostomin infection. Cyathostomin removal was supported by adequate reduction of faecal egg counts, determined by faecal egg count reduction testing.

POPULATION DYNAMICS OF ENTERIC PARASITES IN THE ENDANGERED VANCOUVER ISLAND MARMOT (MARMOTA VANCOUVERENSIS).

Enteric parasites can have wide-ranging effects throughout an ecosystem, often driving coevolutionary and ecological processes. Parasites have long been overlooked in conservation efforts because of the negative impact inflicted on their hosts; however, parasites make up a significant component of Earth's biodiversity and host conservation efforts need to be parasite inclusive. The Vancouver Island marmot (VIM), Marmota vancouverensis, is an endangered alpine rodent endemic to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Captive-bred VIMs are released to augment the wild population, but their susceptibility to parasites is unknown. The objectives of this study were to describe the diversity, prevalence, severity, and temporal variation of VIM enteric parasites. Noninvasive fecal samples were collected from wild and captive marmots and analyzed using a modified McMaster fecal egg floatation technique to indicate parasite prevalence and relative mean abundance. We identified oocysts and ova from 3 parasite taxa including a protozoan coccidium not previously described in the VIM (prevalence 68%), an ascarid nematode Baylisascaris laevis (prevalence 82%), and an anoplocephalid cestode Diandrya vancouverensis (prevalence 8%). Depending on the species, comparisons revealed variation in parasite infection by sex, by colony, and between wild and captive VIMs, but not among age classes or by female reproductive status. Finally, captive VIMs displayed significant monthly variation in parasite prevalence and mean egg abundance, suggesting a seasonal influence on parasite egg shedding. This information is critically important for future research investigating the influences of these trends on the health, ecology, and conservation of VIMs and their parasites.

Genetic characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in the North African hedgehog (Atelerix algirus) in the Canary Islands, Spain.

The North African hedgehog (Atelerix algirus) is an introduced species from Northwest Africa and is currently distributed in the Canary Islands. This species of hedgehog has been studied as a reservoir of enteropathogens, including Cryptosporidium spp. However, there are no data at species level. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to identify the Cryptosporidium species present in a population of hedgehogs (n = 36) in the Canary Islands. Molecular screening was performed using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the small subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) gene of Cryptosporidium spp. Seven of the 36 fecal samples (19.45%) were positive and confirmed by nested PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene and Sanger sequencing. Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium muris were identified in 11.1% (4/36) and 5.6% (2/36) of the samples, respectively, while one sample could only be identified at the genus level. The zoonotic subtypes IIdA15G1 (n = 1), IIdA16G1b (n = 1), and IIdA22G1 (n = 1) of C. parvum were identified by nested PCR followed by analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene sequence. This study is the first genetic characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in A. algirus, identifying zoonotic species and subtypes of the parasite.