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The aim of the present study is to evaluate the potent molluscicidal activity of aqueous stem bark extracts of plant Euphorbia tirucalli (Family: Euphorbiaceae). Lymnaea acuminata were exposed for 24 hours to sublethal doses of crude aqueous stem bark extracts of Euphorbia tirucalli, i.e. 95.67 µM and 191.35 µM (40% and 80% of 24h LC50 of L. acuminata) respectively, and then were switched to extract-free water to determine the effects of withdrawal from treatment. For the following seven days, this water was replaced every 24 hours. Following that, biochemical parameters were assessed in various snail tissues which showed significant (P < 0.05) alteration in the carbohydrates and nitrogenous metabolisms in time and dose dependent manner. The snail tissues recovered in part after 7days completely after withdrawl of toxic aqueous extracts. The aqueous extracts of stem bark of Euphorbia tirucalli may be used as a potent source of molluscicides; being less expensive, easily available, easily soluble in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this review article, we aim to provide an overview of fasciolosis in ruminants. Diagnosis through new coprological methods (such as Flukefinder®, FLOTAC®, and Mini-FLOTAC®) remains the most suitable approach for farms. Regarding treatment, there is a scarcity of available drugs, and resistance to them has prompted new approaches (including drug combinations, enhanced metabolism, or the use of natural compounds) to address this issue. Additionally, several researchers have developed vaccines to control the disease, but their efficacy varies, and none are currently sufficient for commercial use. Further studies are needed to better understand all aspects discussed in this manuscript, with the goal of improving diagnosis, treatment, and disease control. It is important to note that this manuscript does not delve into in-depth knowledge of the discussed aspects; rather, it provides an overview of the different methodologies related to these three aspects of parasitic disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production-limiting diseases, such as helminth infections, are a major concern in temperate regions. They can lead to decreased meat and milk production and quality in livestock. This investigation aimed to assess the prevalence of Fasciola spp., Dicrocoelium spp., and Cystic echinococcosis in different livestock species (cattle, sheep, and goats) at the Khorramabad slaughterhouse between March 21, 2012, and March 20, 2022.ANOVA was employed to assess how disease prevalence varies across different periods and among various livestock species, aiming to comprehend the interplay of these independent variables on disease prevalence. The highest prevalence of Fasciola spp. was related to cattle, with a seasonal pattern showing a higher prevalence in autumn and winter. Hydatid cysts have increased over the past decade, with D. dendriticum being prevalent from 2017 to 2020. The investigation conducted has provided evidence that diseases caused by parasitic infestations in ruminants continue to persist even after treatment. This highlights the need for more effective and targeted sanitary and preventive measures that consider the type of parasite and its prevalence during different seasons. It is hence important to design and implement measures tailored to the specific needs of each parasite species, and aligned with the seasonal fluctuations in its population. This will help minimize the risk of disease transmission, thus reducing the impact on animal health and productivity, ultimately benefitting the livestock industry as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasciolosis is an economically important disease in sheep, caused by the trematode, Fasciola, also known as liver fluke, belonging to the Class Trematoda (Phylum Platyhelminthes). In order to determine the prevalence of this fluke parasite, based on different risk factor(s) associated with sheep raised in pasture land of Kargil, Ladakh, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 410 faecal samples consisting of 148, 127 and 135 samples of local breeds Purgi, Cross breed (CB) Karakul and CB-Kashmiri Merino sheep respectively. Fresh faecal samples were taken directly from the rectum and brought in airtight polythene bags for parasitological examination to the Department of Sheep Husbandry Parasitology Laboratory, Kargil, Ladakh. The samples were examined through standard floatation and sedimentation techniques. The overall prevalence was found to be low (0.97%). Generally, the risk factors such as type of breed, was found to have a significant (p£0.05) influence on the risk of fasciolosis in the sheep whereas other factors viz., age, sex and season were found to have statistically non-significant (p>0.05) effect. According to breed, the infection was seen only in CB-Kashmiri Merino while with respect to age and sex, the higher infection was recorded in >2 year and in the female counterparts as compared to age 1-2 years and in the males. However, no infection was recorded in <1 year kids. Based on the influence of season, the higher infection (2.19%) was recorded in autumn, while lower infection (1.98%) was recorded in summer season. No infection was recorded in spring and winter seasons. The very low infection rates and absence of infection in native breeds like local Purgi and CB-Karakul sheep could be attributed to the absence of intermediate hosts in other regions of district Kargil because the infection was recorded only from Drass Valley, where the native flocks shared a pasture land with the exotic breeds of other states. The present study will be useful in comprehending the epidemiology of gastrointestinal helminths in small ruminants, particularly in resource-poor communities of cold dessert Ladakh and the findings of this study serve as a message to small-scale rearers/stakeholders to formulate a proper sustainable management system and avoid sharing grazing/breeding lands with exotic breeds in order to prevent the cross infection with GIT helminth parasites in their native sheep flocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Baghdad Science Journal is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: The potential molluscicidal extracts, obtained from indigenous plants Cannabis sativa, Acacia nilotica, and Tinospora cordifolia, were tested for toxicity against freshwater pulmonate snail Lymnaea acuminata, an intermediate host of Fasciola hepatica. The organic extracts had a significant effect on young snails. Materials and Methods: All organic extracts and column-purified fractions gave median lethal concentrations (19–100.05 mg/L; 24 h) that fell well within the threshold level of 100 mg/L, set for a potential molluscicide by the World Health Organization. Results: The toxicity of T. cordifolia stem acetone extract (96 h LC50: 16.08 mg/L) was more pronounced compared with C. sativa leaf ethanol extract (96 h LC50: 16.32 mg/L) and A. nilotica leaf ethanol extract (96 h LC50: 24.78 mg/L). β-caryophyllene, gallic acid, and berberine were characterized and identified as active molluscicidal components. Co-migration of β-caryophyllene (retardation factor [Rf] 0.95), gallic acid (Rf 0.30), and berberine (Rf 0.23) with column-purified parts of Cannabis sativa, Acacia nilotica, and Tinospora cordifolia on thin-layer chromatography demonstrates same Rf value, that is, 0.95, 0.30, and 0.23, respectively. Conclusion: This study indicates that these extracts thus represent potential plant-derived molluscicides that are worthy of further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fascioliasis is one of the most common foodborne zoonotic infection of ruminants in Bangladesh. To estimate the prevalence and associated risk factors of fascioliasis and extent of liver damage, 825 livers of sheep and goats were randomly inspected during onsite slaughterhouse visiting in Naogaon, Natore, Rajshahi and Joypurhat districts. The overall prevalence of fascioliasis was 25.09% and significantly (P = 0.008) higher in goats (26.11%) than sheep (24.00%). During gross inspection, Fasciola infected livers were increased in size, fibrosed, fatty, multiple white or reddish necrotic foci on the parietal surface, hard to cut, calcified, and numerous mature and immature flukes were also observed. In histoarchitecture, inflammatory cell infiltration in the hepatic parenchyma and periportal area, fibrous connective tissue proliferation around necrotic area, hyperplastic bile duct, congestion, and primary biliary cirrhosis were seen in acute and chronic fascioliasis. Epidemiological investigations revealed that fascioliasis was higher in goats than sheep. Age, sex, BCS and season were found to have statistically significant associations with fascioliasis in goats. In case of sheep, age (OR = 5.8671; 95% CI: 2.9482–11.6757, P < 0.0001), sex (OR = 3.7317; 95% CI: 1.9052–7.3094, p < 0.0001), BCS (OR = 6.0346; 95% CI: 1.7986–20.2472, p <.0001), and season (OR = 8.2308; 95% CI: 3.9922–16.9693, p = <.0001) were also found to have statistically significant associations with fascioliasis. Results of the study can help for molecular epidemiology of fascioliasis in small ruminants to plan fluke control programs for safe food production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Snails of the Lymnaeidae family are the intermediate hosts of Fasciola species, the causative agents of fascioliasis. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of Fasciola species in lymnaeid snails and to investigate the association of geoclimatic factors and Fasciola species distribution in northwestern provinces of Iran using geographical information system (GIS) data. Methods: A total of 2000 lymnaeid snails were collected from 33 permanent and seasonal habitats in northwestern Iran during the period from June to November 2021. After identification by standard morphological keys, they were subjected to shedding and crushing methods. Different stages of Fasciola obtained from these snails were subjected to the ITS1 polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) method for species identification. The associations of weather temperature, rainfall, humidity, evaporation, air pressure, wind speed, elevation, and land cover with the distribution of Fasciola species were investigated. Geographical and statistical analysis was performed using ArcMap and SPSS software, respectively, to determine factors related to Fasciola species distribution. Results: Of the 2000 snails collected, 19 were infected with Fasciola hepatica (0.09%), six with F. gigantica (0.03%), and 13 with other trematodes. Among geoclimatic and environmental factors, mean humidity, maximum humidity, and wind speed were significantly higher in areas where F. hepatica was more common than F. gigantica. The altitude of F. hepatica-prevalent areas was generally lower than F. gigantica areas. No significant relationship was observed between other investigated geoclimatic factors and the distribution of infected snails. Conclusions: The present study showed the relationship of humidity and wind speed with the distribution of snails infected with F. hepatica or F. gigantica in the northwestern regions of Iran. In contrast to F. gigantica, F. hepatica was more prevalent in low-altitude areas. Further research is recommended to elucidate the relationship between geoclimatic factors and the presence of intermediate hosts of the two Fasciola species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fascioliasis and toxoplasmosis are the two important zoonotic diseases that are endemic in Iran and share some common transmission routes. The present study is aimed at determining the seroprevalence of human fascioliasis and toxoplasmosis in rural and urban areas of Jolfa County, Northwest Iran. In a cross-sectional study, 600 human sera were collected randomly from humans living in Jolfa County including three cities and 13 villages from 2017 to 2018. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG and anti-Fasciola sp. IgG tests have been performed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Four (0.7%) out of 600 human sera showed positive levels of anti-Fasciola IgG. Three out of four seropositive humans were from an urban area, and one (25%) was from rural inhabitants. Considering T. gondii infection, 45% of studied human sera were seropositive for anti-T. gondii IgG. In conclusion, this is the first study reporting Fasciola seropositivity in the area. Based on the findings, human fascioliasis is present in the studied area, Northwest Iran, granted in low prevalence. Considering T. gondii seropositivity, the prevalence is high, yet close to the reports from other regions in the province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fascioliasis, a zoonotic helminthiasis, occurs sporadically in Japan. In this report, we describe a case of fascioliasis that was initially difficult to diagnose because the fecal examination method was negative for the Fasciola sp. eggs. A 64-year-old man living in Shimonoseki City, Japan, presented with fatigue and anorexia. Laboratory tests showed hepatic dysfunction and eosinophilia. Abdominal dynamic contrast-enhanced computed tomography and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography suggested intrahepatic biliary cysts. Thereafter, fever and night sweats persisted, and positron emission tomography and biopsy of the porta hepatis lymph node were performed on suspicion of malignancy. However, histopathological diagnosis found non-specific inflammation. As fascioliasis was suspected due to eosinophilia and the multiple hepatic masses, fecal egg examination was performed by an external private laboratory, which adopted the flotation method and reported the absence of parasite eggs. However, fecal examination was retried in our laboratory using the formalin-ether concentration method, and we detected Fasciola sp. eggs. This case suggests that misdiagnosis may occur depending on the fecal examination method; thus, it is necessary to choose a suitable method for certain parasite species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and rationale: Fascioliasis is a neglected parasitic infection that affects both humans and animals. It is caused by the trematode parasites known as Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica, which primarily infect the bile duct. Fascioliasis has a significant negative social and economic impact, with estimated infected rate in livestock (18%) and 2.6 million persons worldwide. The highly prevalence was recorded in least developed countries. The actual challenge is to obtain a cheap and efficient diagnosis technique to diagnose the early mild stage of fascioliasis, parasitological examination techniques are usually effective in the final stage of infection when a large number of fascioliasis eggs are execrated in stool. Aim: The aim of this study was conducted to develop and compare a novel diagnostic lateral flow assay and sandwich ELISA for detection of active fascioliasis infection. The conjugation of fascioliasis tegumental antibodies to AuNPs through covalent conjugation using EDC/Sulfo-NHS, to application in the setup of immuno-chromatography lateral flow assay (LFA) and sandwich ELISA. The novel LFA succeeded to diagnose (37 out of 38 true positive infected fascioliasis group), (2 out of 81 true negative other parasites infected group) and (0 out of 27 negative control group), the sensitivity, specificity, NPV and PPV of were 97.4%, 98.2%, 99.1%, and 94.8%, respectively. while the sensitivity, specificity, NPV and PPV of sandwich ELISA were 94.7%, 96.3%, 98.1%, and 90%, respectively. Conclusion: The higher sensitivity and specificity were recorded in LFA. Lateral flow assays (LFA) technique could be used as Ideal diagnostic techniques in monitoring and control of fasciolosis infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bovine fasciolosis causes significant economic losses to farmers and herders in Africa. The study aimed at determining how often bovine fasciolosis occurs in Jalingo abattoirs. Methods: This study was conducted in Jalingo abattoir using retrospective records from the year 2012 to 2021 and a prospective abattoir meat inspection survey to evaluate the prevalence and seasonal variation of bovine fasciolosis in Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria. Results: An overall bovine fasciolosis prevalence of 8.29% was observed in 149,611 cattle slaughtered at the abattoir. There was statistical significance (p < 0.05) between seasons and bovine fasciolosis occurrence, with the rainy season having a slightly higher prevalence. Additionally, the prospective study analyzed 2424 cattle during the months of March and April 2022 at the Jalingo abattoir. Cows had a higher infection rate (6.15%) than bulls (2.43%), although the prospective study had a bovine fasciolosis prevalence of 8.58 percent. Bovine fasciolosis occurrence was shown to have a significant association with age, with a higher prevalence in older cattle (5.82%) compared to younger cattle (2.76%). However, there was no association that could be considered statistically significant between infection rates and the breed or sex of the slaughtered cattle. Conclusion: Both investigations, retrospective and prospective, shed light on the frequency and seasonal fluctuations of bovine fasciolosis in the research area. These insights can be utilised as a basis for further design considerations in future studies aimed at eradicating the disease or reducing its prevalence in the cattle herd and boosting livestock health and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In December 2018, an outbreak of an unknown disease was reported to affect sheep from Tumbio village in Korem town of southern Tigray. This study investigated the clinical characteristics, frequency, and primary causal agent(s) of the outbreak. Outbreak investigation was conducted using cross-sectional and longitudinal observation. Data on the animal infected, the exposure, predominant symptoms, risk group, and others were collected using structured questionnaire. Furthermore, from 50 randomly selective active cases sheep postmortem, parasitological, microbiological, and pathological examination were done. A total of 1966 cases occurred between November 28 and December 21, 2018, of which 1880 died, making a case fatality rate of 95.6%. The cases presented with inappetance, thirst, pale mucous membrane, bottle jaw, swollen tail, ascites, sudden death, and diarrhea. The responsible source of exposure was Menche Bahri (pasture land). Excluding young suckling sheep all sheep were at risk. Even if mixed parasitic infections were observed, all samples processed parasitologically were positive for immature liver flukes. Based on microbiological finding, Clostridium was isolated from 41 (82%) samples. Necropsy and histopathology findings showed that the liver is the most injured organ. The immediate interventions were not effective in controlling the outbreak. Clinical presentation, immature liver flukes in all processed samples, high level of isolated Clostridium, and necropsy and histopathology findings adducts among the cases support the causal role of acute fascioliasis complicated with Clostridium species. Community-level awareness, integrated control measures, and building diagnostic capacity of district level animal health experts and clinicians are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The liver fluke disease caused by Clonorchis sinensis is one of the most serious food-borne parasitic diseases in China. Many freshwater fish and shrimps can be infected with C. sinensis metacercariae as the second intermediate hosts in endemic regions. Owing to the lack of infected humans and the good administration of pet dogs and cats in cities of non-endemic regions, few fish are expected to be infected with C. sinensis metacercariae in urban lakes. To determine the infection of C. sinensis metacercariae in freshwater fish and shrimps in urban lakes, a total of 18 fish species and one shrimp species were investigated in the East Lake of Wuhan City. Metacercariae were isolated by artificial digestive juice and identified using morphology and rDNA-ITS2 sequences. Five species of fish, Pseudorasbora parva, Ctenogobius giurinus, Squalidus argentatus, Hemiculter leuciclus, and Rhodeus spp., were infected with C. sinensis metacercariae. The overall prevalence of C. sinensis was 32.5%. The highest prevalence was found in P. parva with 57.9%, while S. argentatus exhibited the highest mean abundance (13.9). Apart from the C. sinensis metacercariae, four species of other trematode metacercariae were also identified across twelve fish species in total. Owing to the consumption of undercooked fish and feeding cats with small fish caught by anglers, there is a potential risk that the small fish infected with C. sinensis metacercariae may act as an infection source to spread liver fluke. Given the complete life cycle of C. sinensis, stray cats and rats were inferred to act as the important final hosts of C. sinensis in urban lakes in non-endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starting in October 2021, quarterly malacological surveys have been undertaken in Malawi, with the sampling of 12 specified freshwater habitats throughout a calendar year. Each survey monitors the presence of aquatic intermediate snail hosts of medical and veterinary importance. In March 2023, the alien lymnaeid species Pseudosuccinea columella was encountered for the first time in the surveys, in Nsanje District. This species identity was later confirmed upon DNA analysis of mitochondrial ribosomal 16S sequences. In July 2023, P. columella was also noted at single sites within Mangochi and Chikwawa Districts, and again in Nsanje District, with an additional location observed. Of particular importance, our sampled location in Mangochi District was directly connected to Lake Malawi, which expands the species list of invasive molluscs in this lake. While P. columella is a well-known intermediate snail host for human and animal fascioliasis, screening collected snails for trematode cercariae, alongside molecular xenomonitoring, did not yield equivocal evidence of active fluke infection. However, the newly recognized presence of this alien intermediate snail host within Lake Malawi, and along the Shire River Valley, flags a new concern in altered local transmission potential for human and animal fascioliasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Control of the zoonotic food-borne parasite Fasciola hepatica remains a major challenge in humans and livestock. It is estimated that annual economic losses due to fasciolosis can reach US$3.2 billion in agriculture and livestock. Moreover, the wide distribution of drug-resistant parasite populations and the absence of a vaccine threaten sustainable control, reinforcing the need for novel flukicides. Methods: The present work analyses the flukicidal activity of a total of 70 benzimidazole derivatives on different stages of F. hepatica. With the aim to select the most potent ones, and screenings were first performed on eggs at decreasing concentrations ranging from 50 to 5 µM and then on adult worms at 10 µM. Only the most effective compounds were also evaluated using a resistant isolate of the parasite. Results: After the first screenings at 50 and 10 µM, four hit compounds (BZD31, BZD46, BZD56, and BZD59) were selected and progressed to the next assays. At 5 µM, all hit compounds showed ovicidal activities higher than 71% on the susceptible isolate, but only BZD31 remained considerably active (53%) when they were tested on an albendazol-resistant isolate, even with values superior to the reference drug, albendazole sulfoxide. On the other hand, BZD59 displayed a high motility inhibition when tested on adult worms from an albendazole-resistant isolate after 72 h of incubation. Conclusions: BZD31 and BZD59 compounds could be promising candidates for the development of fasciolicidal compounds or as starting point for the new synthesis of structure-related compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Decreasing antiparasitic efficacy of triclabendazole for controlling Fasciola hepatica in dairy cows in the Cajamarca Valley (Peru) has been reported. Objective: To determine the efficacy of four anthelmintic agents across a broader area of Cajamarca province. Methods: Four livestock farms were selected from three provinces in the Cajamarca region. Within each farm, 60 female cattle naturally infected with F. hepatica were chosen. Each farm was divided into four homogeneous groups based on individual animals and parasite burden. The groups were: triclabendazole (12 mg/kg of BW, VO), clorsulon/ivermectin (2 mg/kg and 0.2 mg/kg of BW, SC, respectively), closantel (10 mg/kg of BW, VO), and nitroxynil (10 mg/kg of BW, SC). Efficacy was determined following WAAVP guidelines by measuring the reduction in trematode egg shedding on day 30 post-dosing. Results: Triclabendazole demonstrated insufficient activity through FERCT and CPCR assessments across all four farms. The clorsulon/ivermectin and closantel groups exhibited high efficacy in all farms, while nitroxynil showed varying efficacy results in both types of analysis. Conclusions: Triclabendazole exhibited insufficient activity against F. hepatica. Clorsulon/ivermectin, closantel, and nitroxynil are viable alternatives with promising outcomes for controlling this trematode in the evaluated provinces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bleeding is a very rare complication of Fasciola species (F. hepatica or F. gigantica) infection. We present here three cases of subcapsular liver bleeding caused by the hepatic phase of Fasciola spp. infection in patients, two of whom were women, aged 22, 66, and 84 years in Diyarbakir Province, southeastern Turkey. They had symptoms of right upper quadrant pain (n = 3), nausea (n = 1), and vomiting (n = 2) for periods ranging from 6 hours to 15 days. All patients with clinical presentations ranging from moderate abdominal pain to hypovolemic shock and ischemic hepatitis were improved with supportive treatment without the need for surgery. They showed complete clinical and laboratory recovery after triclabendazole administration in their follow-up. In conclusion, Fasciola spp. infection should be considered in the etiology of bleeding from liver disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Innere Medizin (2731-7080) is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Fasciolosis, a hepatobiliary distomatosis affecting domestic ruminants and incidentally humans, poses a threat to both animal and public health, leading to substantial economic losses. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of fasciolosis in cattle slaughtered in Tizi Ouzou, Algeria, and to describe the morphological and histological changes in the liver. A total of 376 bovine carcasses slaughtered between July 2018 and April 2019 underwent postmortem inspection, and corresponding livers were investigated for fasciolosis according to conventional meat inspection procedures. Twenty-six livers, found to be affected with fasciolosis, were sampled at five different sites for histopathological analysis using both hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome stain methods. The overall prevalence was 6.9% (CI 4.4-9.5%). Gross changes related to bovine fasciolosis, including size, color, and consistency abnormalities as well as the worms' migratory path and distomian cholangitis, were not observed in the majority of the affected livers. Additionally, the infestation degree was low in 56.5% of the fasciolosis-affected livers. In contrast, numerous histopathological damages, including infiltrations, degeneration, necrosis, and fibrosis, were revealed in hepatic parenchyma, connective septa, portal region, and bile ducts throughout all the sampled liver tissues (P> 0.05). Hepatic involvement observed in both the acinus and portal lobule throughout their respective zones was quantified with a degree ranging from 25% to 100% (P> 0.05). Fasciolosis, a common disease in cattle slaughtered in Tizi Ouzou, induces irreversible hepatic tissue damage, thereby compromising the organoleptic and nutritional value of the liver, making it unfit for human consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective management and control of parasitic infections on farms depends on their early detection. Traditional serological diagnostic methods for Fasciola hepatica infection in livestock are specific and sensitive, but currently the earliest detection of the parasite only occurs at approximately three weeks post-infection. At this timepoint, parasites have already entered the liver and caused the tissue damage and immunopathology that results in reduced body weight and loss in productivity. Here, we investigated whether the differential abundance of micro(mi)miRNAs in sera of F. hepatica-infected sheep has potential as a tool for the early diagnosis of infection. Using miRNA sequencing analysis, we discovered specific profiles of sheep miRNAs at both the pre-hepatic and hepatic infection phases in comparison to non-infected sheep. In addition, six F. hepatica-derived miRNAs were specifically identified in sera from infected sheep. Thus, a panel of differentially expressed miRNAs comprising four sheep (miR-3231-3p; miR133-5p; 3957-5p; 1197-3p) and two parasite miRNAs (miR-124-3p; miR-Novel-11-5p) were selected as potential biomarkers. The expression of these candidates in sera samples from longitudinal sheep infection studies collected between 7 days and 23 weeks was quantified using RT-qPCR and compared to samples from age-matched non-infected sheep. We identified oar-miR-133-5p and oar-miR-3957-5p as promising biomarkers of fasciolosis, detecting infection as early as 7 days. The differential expression of the other selected miRNAs was not sufficient to diagnose infection; however, our analysis found that the most abundant forms of fhe-miR-124-3p in sera were sequence variants (IsomiRs) of the canonical miRNA, highlighting the critical importance of primer design for accurate diagnostic RT-qPCR. Accordingly, this investigative study suggests that certain miRNAs are biomarkers of F. hepatica infection and validates miRNA-based diagnostics for the detection of fasciolosis in sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Fascioliasis is a common parasitic disease in humans and herbivores which is caused by Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica and has a worldwide distribution. Serological tests such as the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique play a prominent role in the fast diagnosis of the disease. However, there are diagnostic limitations, including cross-reactivity with other worms, which decline the specificity of the results. This study aimed to evaluate the structure of a recombinant multi-epitope antigen produced from linear and conformational B-cell epitopes of three parasitic proteins with sera of individuals with fasciolosis, healthy controls, and those with other diseases to gain accurate sensitivity and specificity. Methods: After designing the multi-epitope structure of cathepsin L1, FhTP16.5, and SAP-2 antigens and then synthesizing, cloning, and expressing, the extracted purified protein was evaluated by indirect ELISA to detect IgG antibodies against Fasciola hepatica parasite among the sera of 39 serum samples of Fasciola hepatica, 35 healthy individual samples, and 20 samples of other types of parasitic diseases. The synthesized multi-epitope produced from cathepsin L1, FhTP16.5, and SAP-2 antigens was evaluated using the indirect ELISA. Results: The analysis of the samples mentioned for IgG antibody diagnosis against Fasciola hepatica showed 97.43% (95% confidence interval, 94.23–100%) sensitivity and 100% (95% confidence interval, 97–100%) specificity. Conclusion: The recombinant B-cell multi-epitope with high antigenic potency may increase the specificity of epitopic peptides and ultimately help improve and develop indirect ELISA commercial kits for the diagnosis of fascioliasis in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of this study is to study the secondary structure analysis of Fasciola flukes from a rare mithun host from Manipur. Fascioliasis, a neglected tropical trematodiasis, is poorly studied in India and is widely believed to be predominantly caused by F. gigantica. Through this study, we want to assess the flukes from the rare semi-wild ruminants of Northeast India. This study is important as the mithun population is semi-wild and its population is declining in Manipur. Methods: Sample collected from the difficult and challenging terrain of Northeast India. The sample was collected from mithun and observed under the microscope. DNA was isolated, sequenced, and analyzed using various bioinformatics tools. The secondary structure analysis of the Internal Transcribed Spacer 2 (ITS2) region was also performed. Results: The secondary structure species tree corroborated the Bayesian inference and, hence, strengthened the phylogeny reconstructed. The annotated ITS2 sequence and RNA secondary of the Manipur isolate displayed the typical four-helix or four-domain model. Helix III reveals the presence of the UGGU motif with other deviations like UGG and GGU. Conclusion: This is an in-depth analysis of the secondary structure of Fasciola species. The present study has demonstrated the usefulness of ITS2 and its secondary structures for characterizing parasites. The information on fascioliasis in the mithun's population presents itself useful with regards to their conservation strategy as their populations in both Manipur and Nagaland are dwindling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fascioliasis, a prevalent disease in livestock globally, is primarily caused by the trematode parasites Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica. This parasitic infection leads to significant economic repercussions. In this study, our objective was to gain insight into the pathophysiological consequences of Fascioliasis in cattle through the evaluation of metabolic, oxidative stress, and histological parameters. A thorough investigation was carried out on the liver of 197 bovines after their slaughter, which unveiled the occurrence of Fascioliasis, with a prevalence rate of 13.2% observed. The bovine that were infected exhibited notable increase in serum transaminases (ALT, AST, and ALP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase (CAT) while the decrease in glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. The lipid profile analysis of infected cattle revealed alterations in the cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Moreover, the histopathological examination revealed a range of hepatic lesions associated with Fascioliasis, including necrosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and proliferative alterations. The bile ducts also displayed distinct pathological changes, including hyperplasia, thickening, and edema, and harbored various developmental stages of Fasciola spp. highlighting the parasitic infestation’s effects on the biliary system. These results highlight the serious effects of Fascioliasis on lipid metabolism and the oxidative damage that is induced in the livers of cattle. Thus, Fasciola infestation in bovine causes alteration in biochemical and antioxidant activities, which are considered as important factors in the diagnosis of Fascioliasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fascioliasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection caused by Fasciola species in humans and animals. Despite significant advances in vaccination and new therapeutic agents, little attention has been paid to validating methods for the diagnosis of fascioliasis in humans. Serological techniques are convenient assays that significantly improves the diagnosis of Fasciola infection. However, a more sensitive method is required. The aim of this study was to compare the Real-Time PCR technique with the indirect-ELISA for the detection of Fasciola hepatica in human. Using a panel of sera from patients infected with Fasciola hepatica (n = 51), other parasitic infections (n = 7), and uninfected controls (n = 12), we optimized an ELISA which employs an excretory–secretory antigens from F. hepatica for the detection of human fascioliasis. After DNA extraction from the samples, molecular analysis was done using Real-Time PCR technique based on the Fasciola ribosomal ITS1 sequence. Of 70 patient serum samples, 44 (62.86%) samples were identified as positive F. hepatica infection using ELISA and Real-Time PCR assays. There was no cross-reaction with other parasitic diseases such as toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis, taeniasis, hydatidosis, trichinosis, toxocariasis, and strongyloidiasis. The significant difference between the agreement and similarity of the results of patients with indirect ELISA and Real-Time PCR was 94.4% and 99.2%, respectively (Cohen's kappa ≥ 0.7; P = 0.02). Based on the Kappa agreement findings, the significant agreement between the results of ELISA and Real-Time PCR indicates the accuracy and reliability of these tests in the diagnosis of F. hepatica in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A single and rapid method to obtain an antigenic fraction of excretory-secretory antigens (ESAs) from Fasciola hepatica suitable for serodiagnosis of fascioliasis is reported. The procedure consists in the negative selection of F. hepatica ESAs by hydroxyapatite (HA) chromatography (HAC; fraction HAC-NR) followed by antigen precipitation with 50% ammonium sulphate (AS) and subsequent recovery by means of a Millex-GV or equivalent filter (Fi-SOLE fraction). Tested in indirect ELISA, the Fi-SOLE antigens detected natural infections by F. hepatica with 100% sensitivity and 98.9% specificity in sheep, and 97.7% sensitivity and 97.7% specificity in cattle, as determined by ROC analysis. The SDS-PAGE and proteomic nano-UHPLC-Tims-QTOF MS/MS analysis of fractions showed that the relative abundance of L-cathepsins and fragments thereof was 57% in fraction HAC-NR and 93.8% in fraction Fi-SOLE. The second most abundant proteins in fraction HAC-NR were fatty-acid binding proteins (11.9%). In contrast, free heme, and heme:MF6p/FhHDM-1 complexes remained strongly bond to the HA particles during HAC. Interestingly, phosphorylcholine (PC)-bearing antigens, which are a frequent source of cross-reactivity, were detected with an anti-PC mAb (BH8) in ESAs and fraction HAC-NR but were almost absent in fraction Fi-SOLE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fascioliasis is a neglected tropical zoonotic disease caused by liver flukes belonging to the genus Fasciola. The emergence of resistance to triclabendazole, the only World Health Organization-recommended drug for this disease, highlights the need for the development of new drugs. Helminths possess an anaerobic mitochondrial respiratory chain (fumarate respiration) which is considered a potential drug target. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of fumarate respiration in Fasciola flukes. We analyzed the properties of the respiratory chain of Fasciola flukes in both adults and newly excysted juveniles (NEJs). Fasciola flukes travel and mature through the stomach, bowel, and abdominal cavity to the liver, where oxygen levels gradually decline. High fumarate reductase activity was observed in the mitochondrial fraction of adult Fasciola flukes. Furthermore, rhodoquinone-10 (RQ10 Em’= −63 mV), a low-potential electron mediator used in fumarate respiration was found to be predominant in adults. In contrast, the activity of oxygen respiration was low in adults. Rotenone, atpenin A5, and ascochlorin, typical inhibitors of mitochondrial enzymes in complexes I, II, and III, respectively, inhibit the activity of each enzyme in the adult mitochondrial fraction. These inhibitors were then used for in vitro viability tests of NEJs. Under aerobic conditions, NEJs were killed by rotenone or ascochlorin, which inhibit aerobic respiration (complex I–III), whereas atpenin A5, which inhibits complex II involved in fumarate respiration, did not affect NEJs. Moreover, ubiquinone-10 (UQ10 Em’= +110 mV), which is used in oxidative respiration, was detected in NEJs, in addition to RQ10. In contrast, under anaerobic conditions, rotenone and atpenin A5, which inhibit fumarate respiration (complex I–II), were crucial for NEJs. These findings demonstrate that NEJs have active hybrid respiration, in which they can properly use both oxygen and fumarate respiration, depending on oxygen availability. Thus, fumarate respiration is a promising drug target for Fasciola flukes, because it plays an essential role in both adults and NEJs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Fasciolosis is one of the most important parasitic disease common among both humans and livestock. That causes several health problems and economical losses in different parts of Iran. In order to control this disease, chemicals are used, which in some cases lead to resistance to the used substances and cause environmental problems. In this study, the effectiveness of the ethanolic extract of Lippia citriodora on the eggs of Fasciola hepatica is investigated. Methods: Fasciola hepatica eggs were obtained from the liver and gall bladders of naturally infected sheep and kept at 4˚C until use. Ethanol extract of Lippia citriodora kunth was provided from dried leaves. The eggs were exposed to Different concentration of extract. Concentrations of Lippia citriodora extract (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 75 and 100%). Control group eggs were placed in chlorine-free water. Egg and embryo development stages to complete and release miracidia were examined every day. Ethical considerations: This study was conducted after receiving the code of ethics (93-175-13) from the University Research Council. Results: In concentration of 10 percent Lippia citriodora, miracidia was formed after 16 days in the egg. With increasing of concentration percentage of the extract, time of miracidia formation in eggs also rose. The time of miracidia formation between cases and control group is significantly different (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Our study shows that extract of Lippia citriodora is an effective inhibiting factor against development of Fasciola eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasciola hepatica is a trematode parasite distributed worldwide. It is known to cause disease in mammals, producing significant economic loses to livestock industry and burden to human health. After ingestion, the parasites migrate through the liver and mature in the bile ducts. A better understanding of the parasite's immunopathogenesis would help to develop efficacious therapeutics and vaccines. Currently, much of our knowledge comes from in vitro and in vivo studies in animal models. Relatively little is known about the host-parasite interactions in humans. Here, we provide a narrative review of what is currently know about the pathogenesis and host immune responses to F. hepatica summarizing the evidence available from the multiple hosts that this parasite infects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Human fascioliasis is considered an endemic and hyper-endemic disease in the Peruvian Andean valleys. Our objective was to determine variations in the composition of the gut microbiota among children with Fasciola hepatica and children who do not have this parasitosis. (2) Method: A secondary analysis was performed using fecal samples stored in our biobank. The samples were collected as part of an epidemiological Fasciola hepatica cross-sectional study in children from 4 through 14 years old from a community in Cajamarca, Peru. (3) Results: In a comparison of the bacterial genera that make up the intestinal microbiota between the F. hepatica positive and negative groups, it was found that there are significant differences in the determination of Lactobacillus (p = 0.010, CI: 8.5–61.4), Bacteroides (p = 0.020, CI: 18.5–61.4), Clostridium (p < 0.001, CI: 3.5–36.0), and Bifidobacterium (p = 0.018, CI: 1.1–28.3), with each of these genera being less frequent in children parasitized with F. hepatica. (4) Conclusions: These results show that F. hepatica may be associated with direct or indirect changes in the bacterial population of the intestinal microbiota, particularly affecting three bacterial genera. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The freshwater amphibious snail Orientogalba viridis commonly occurs in eastern Asia, on certain Pacific islands and more importantly has recently dispersed into Europe. Since this snail is now considered an invasive species, its distribution is of growing parasitological interest as an alien intermediate host for various trematodes, particularly liver flukes. As part of ongoing surveillance for snail-borne diseases in Malawi, a population of O. viridis was first observed in May 2023, alongside an alarming presence of a human schistosome cercaria. This snail population later underwent detailed morphological characterisation with both snail and parasite identities confirmed upon DNA barcoding. This seminal observation triggered more extensive local snail surveys, finding 3 further populations in separated rice paddies, with further field-caught snails (n = 465) screened for infection and a selection used for repeated experimental challenges with miracidia from Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mattheei. Although no field-caught (and experimentally exposed) snail was seen to shed schistosome cercariae, molecular xenomonitoring for schistosomiasis provided tangible evidence of putative transmission potential. Our first report of O. viridis here in Malawi, and more broadly in Africa, flags a need for increased vigilance for this invasive species alongside local clarification(s) of its transmission potential for trematodiases of either medical and/or veterinary importance.

Margaret Tumusiime,&ast; Jean Christian Manishimwe, Pie Ntampaka&ast; Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Rwanda, Nyagatare city, Eastern Province, Rwanda&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Pie Ntampaka, Email piusynt@gmail.comIntroduction: Trematodiases cause significant financial losses to livestock worldwide and some of which are zoonotic, raising public health concerns. In Rwanda, information on the prevalence of bovine trematodiases is scanty, and this hampers efforts to control and prevent them in the country.Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the prevalence of bovine trematodiases in Nyagatare district and associated risk factors. One hundred cattle were randomly selected for this study and faecal samples were collected directly from the rectum to identify trematode eggs using a simple sedimentation technique. To analyze the data, frequencies, chi-square test, and binary logistic regression were computed.Results: Overall, the prevalence of bovine trematodiases was 69%, and Paramphistomum spp. predominated (69%), followed by Dicrocoelium spp. (23%), Fasciola spp. (20%), and Echinostoma spp. (1.0%). The study also recorded mixed paramphistomiasis, fascioliasis and dicrocoeliasis (11.6%), paramphistomiasis and fascioliasis (15.9%) as well as paramphistomiasis and dicrocoeliasis (20.3%). The odds of having trematodiasis (mono or mixed fascioliasis and dicrocoeliasis) for the cow located in Barija cell (AOR = 0.143; 95% C.I. 0.026– 0.793) were 14% lower compared to those of developing such parasitosis for the cow located in Bushoga cell.Conclusion: Taken together, the study shows that trematodes are a significant contributor to lowering livestock production and productivity and pose a threat to human health. Different approaches should be applied to prevent and control the trematodiases in cows and other livestock (sheep and goats) and reduce the risk of contracting fascioliasis and echinostomiasis in humans in Nyagatare district, Rwanda.Keywords: prevalence, cattle, paramphistomiasis, fascioliasis, echinostomiasis, dicrocoeliasis, Nyagatare district, Rwanda

Background: The impact of climate change has led to variations in various biological processes, leading to altered transmission dynamics of infectious diseases, including snail-borne diseases (SBDs). Fascioliasis is one of the neglected zoonotic tropical snail-borne diseases caused by the trematode of the genus Fasciola. This review focused on laboratory experimental and model studies that evaluate the potential effect of temperature change on the ecology and biology of the intermediate host snails (IHS) of Fasciola. Methods: A literature search was conducted on Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, and PubMed databases using predefined medical subject heading terms, Boolean operators, and truncation symbols in combination with direct keywords: Fasciolosis AND Temperature, Lymnaea OR Austropeplea OR Radix OR Galba OR Fossaria OR Pseudosuccinea AND growth, fecundity, AND survival at the global scale. Other search terms used were (Fascioliasis AND Temperature), (Lymnaea AND Temperature), (Austropeplea AND Temperature), (Fossaria AND Temperature), (Galba AND Temperature), (Pseudosuccinea AND Temperature), and (Radix AND Temperature). Results: The final synthesis included thirty-five published articles. The studies reviewed indicated that temperature rise may alter the distribution, and optimal conditions for breeding, growth, and survival of IHS, ultimately resulting in changing the transmission dynamics of fascioliasis. The literature also confirmed that the life history traits of IHS and their interaction with the liver fluke parasites are driven by temperature, and hence climate change may have profound outcomes on the population size of snails, parasite density, and disease epidemiology. Conclusion: We concluded that understanding the impact of temperature on the growth, fecundity, and survival of IHS may broaden our knowledge of the possible effects of climate change and hence inform fascioliasis control programs. Author summary: Fascioliasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by flatworms or liver flukes of the genus Fasciola. The review paper focuses on the effect of temperature on the life history traits of intermediate hosts of fascioliasis. The authors aim to explore the impact of temperature on the growth, survival, and reproduction of the host snails and the development of parasites inside intermediate hosts. Fascioliasis is considered a major public health problem in many countries, affecting both humans and livestock. The disease is transmitted through the consumption of contaminated water or vegetation containing the infective stage of metacercaria. The review paper highlights that temperature plays a crucial role in the life history traits of these intermediate hosts. The authors gathered and analyzed various studies conducted on different intermediate host snails of Fasciola species to investigate the relationship between temperature and the development, survival, reproduction, and infectivity of the parasites within them. Their findings reveal that the temperature can significantly influence the life history traits of these intermediate hosts. Higher temperatures generally promote faster development, increased reproduction, and higher infectivity rates. However, there is a limit to the beneficial effects of temperature, beyond which the survival and fitness of the intermediate hosts start to decline. The authors also emphasize the relevance of understanding the impact of temperature on fascioliasis in the context of climate change. As global temperatures continue to rise, the distribution and prevalence of fascioliasis may change, affecting the transmission dynamics of the disease. This knowledge is crucial for the design and implementation of effective control strategies to mitigate the impact of fascioliasis on human and animal health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional diagnostic method of fascioliasis was based on the identification of the eggs in the stool, but this is not a reliable way as it has many restrictions. The present work was evaluated to immunodetect the Excretory/ Secretory antigens of Fasciola gigantica by sandwich Elisa in naturally infected cattle's sera and by dot blot in naturally infected human sera and compare these methods and the traditional methods. In this study, fresh adult Fasciola gigantica worms were collected to extract crude excretory/secretory (E/S) antigens. E/S was used to immunize rabbits and mice to raise polyclonal antibodies. The IgG fraction of rabbit and mouse anti-Fasciola antibodies was purified. The protein content of anti-Fasciola IgG antibody, was 8.8 and 5.2mg/ml, respectively. Sandwich ELISA was performed to detect Fasciola antigens in serum samples collected from 248 cattle. Also, a Dot blot was performed to detect Fasciola antigens in 38 human sera. Results showed that after parasitological stool examination, 26 human samples were positive and 12 human sera were healthy. The redbrown color appeared with all infected samples only. This technique is cheap, and saves time; multiple samples can make at the same time and not require expensive laboratory equipment. In conclusion, the sandwich ELISA and Dot blot assays were more reliable tools for early serodiagnosis of fasciolosis than traditional methods. Significance Statement: Different antigenic fractions of Fasciola have been used for serological diagnosis of human fasciolosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Helminth parasites of ruminants are a major factor limiting animal production in many parts of the world. Dicrocoelium dendriticum, causes liver fluke disease in ruminants and is of zoonotic and economic importance. D. dendriticum lives in the adult stage, in the bile ducts and gallbladders of cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. Dicrocoeliasis causes severe pathological changes in the liver and bile system such as abscesses, granulomas and fibrosis. The objective of this study was to identify the anthelmintic activity of Vitis vinifera leaf extract against D. dendriticum and comparison with some drugs used against internal parasites. Methods: A study was performed to evaluate the anthelmintic activity of the methanolic extract of V. vinifera leaf against D. dendriticum using an adult worm motility test. Six graduated concentrations of extract (25, 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 mg/ml), were tested at different periods and changes over time in the viability of worms were registered for 2, 4 and 6 hr. Normal RPMI-1640 medium and Albendazole were used as negative and positive control, respectively. Result: A significant elevation in mean inhibition of adult worm motility beginning 2 h post-exposure with 150 mg/ml of V. vinifera leaf extract and Albendazole. After 4 h of the exposure time, Albendazole and concentrations of 125 and 150 mg/ml of the extract resulted in significantly higher inhibited motility compared to the remaining concentrations below 125 mg/ml. The lower concentration (25 mg/ml) was significantly more lethal than the negative control (RPMI-1640 medium) at 6 h of exposure. Within 6 h after exposure, concentrations of 100, 125 and 150 mg/ml of V. vinifera leaf extract were more effective against adult worms than the remaining concentrations below 100 mg/ml. As the concentration and duration of exposure increased, the mortality of adult worms and also increased death for all parasites (P<0.05). Each concentration damages the tegument and muscles of D. dendriticum. The increase in concentration is proportional to the increase in damage to the integument. The results of this investigation demonstrated the anthelmintic action of V. vinifera leaf extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Fascioliasis is caused by Fasciola hepatica of almost worldwide distribution and F. gigantica in wide regions of Asia and Africa. Their adult stage develops in the biliary canals and gallbladder. Infection follows an initial, 3–4 month long invasive, migratory or acute phase, and a several year-long biliary, chronic or obstructive phase. Methods: The unexpected finding of a fasciolid inside the gallbladder during a cholecystectomy for obstructive lithiasis suspicion in a patient is reported from an area of Iran where human infection had been never reported before and studies on fascioliasis in livestock are absent. Results: The fluke obtained was phenotypically classified as F. hepatica by morphometry and genotypically as F. gigantica by mtDNA cox1 fragment sequencing, although with F. hepatica scattered mutations in species-differing nucleotide positions. The clinical, radiological, and biological signs observed at the acute and chronic phases often lead to some misdiagnosis. Serological methods may be useful in cases of negative coprology. Diagnostic techniques with insufficient resolution leading to unnecessary invasive interventions are analyzed. The way to avoid unnecessary surgery is described, including analyses to be made, diagnostic tools to be used, and aspects to be considered. Conclusion: Reaching a correct diagnosis in the confusing presentations avoids procedure delays and unnecessary surgery. A correct drug treatment may be sufficient. Except in extreme pathological presentations, lesions decrease in number and size and finally disappear or calcify after a successful treatment. Finally, the need to increase awareness of physicians about fascioliasis is highlighted, mainly in non-human endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The association of fever, focal hepatic lesions and peripheral hyper-eosinophilia (FHLH) can be observed in both infectious and non-infectious conditions. Fascioliasis, capillariasis, toxocariasis, all causes of visceral larva migrans (VLM), represent most of the former, whilst lymphomas, eosinophilic leukemias and mastocytosis belong in the non-infectious conditions. Methods: We prospectively followed a young patient presenting with FHLH in the Tuscany region of Italy. Results: The patient was subject to serological and parasitological examination in an attempt to clarify the origin of the lesions. Serologies for both Fasciola hepatica and Toxocara spp. were positive, with the latter presenting a higher index. We opted for treatment with a prolonged course of albendazole due to the serological results and being toxocariasis more frequent in our setting. The patient was then subject to radiological follow-up. The patient responded to treatment with albendazole as shown by a decrease in eosinophils, seronegativization for Toxocara spp., clinical and radiological improvement. Toxocariasis was hence considered the most likely diagnosis. Conclusions: Parasitic infections cannot be disregarded in the presence of FHLH. Differential diagnosis between these parasitic infections can be challenging due to the presence of similar clinical presentations and serological cross-reactions, and follow-up of the patient is needed to ensure optimal treatment outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasciola gigantica is one of the worldwide parasites that cause livestock and human illnesses. Chemotherapy is now the primary therapeutic option for its treatment. Drug abuse has led to the emergence of drug-resistant strains. As a result, there is an urgent need to discover natural and efficient anthelmintics against Fasciola spp. The study aims to evaluate the ovicidal activities of camel milk and its fractions on F. gigantica eggs. In the in vitro assay of F. gigantica eggs were submitted to different concentrations (0.5% and 1%) of camel milk fractions; Camel Milk Whey (CMW), Camel Milk Casein (CMC), and Skimmed Camel Milk (SCM) as well as a positive control (PC) of Nitroxynil (100 mg/ml) and a negative control (NC) with physiological saline. The Egg Hatching Assay (EHA) results showed that camel milk fractions exhibited ovicidal activity, especially CMW, and CMC, which showed 97.58 ± 0.58 and 96.9 ± 1.99 ovicidal activity, respectively, at a concentration of 1% after 15 days of treatment compared to PC, which exhibited 91.75 ± 4.95 ovicidal activity. The egg hatching ratios were 1.67% and 2.33% for CMW and CMC, respectively, compared to 70.17% for the NC and 6% for the PC. The LC50 values for CMW and CMC on the 15th day of treatment were 0.20 and 9.13, respectively. From the results above, we can infer that camel milk and its fractions are promising as a new alternative for fascioliasis control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some snail species pose a serious threat for human health, economy, and the environment due to their widespread distribution and the transmission of dangerous parasites causing, among others, schistosomiasis and fascioliasis. Scientists from around the world have been studying the effects of plant extracts on snails for many years in order to find an alternative to molluscicides of synthetic origin. The main purpose of this study was to collect the results obtained so far on the effect of plant alkaloids on snails in the context of their molluscicidal properties. This work presents the results of publications on the effect of plant alkaloids on snails, which were published in the years 1974–2021. The Solanaceae, Papaveraceae, and Asteraceae are the plant families most frequently cited for containing alkaloids with molluscicidal activity. The alkaloids identified as molluscicidal belonged to various groups, of which the most numerous were pseudoalkaloids and tyrosine‐derived alkaloids. Most of the tested alkaloids were characterized by a high mortality rate among the studied groups of snails. Based on the collected research results, it was found that plant alkaloids can be extremely useful in the fight against problematic species of snails and cause much lower harm to the environment than synthetic molluscicides. The main purpose of this study was to collect results obtained so far on the effect of plant alkaloids on snails in the context of their molluscicidal properties. The alkaloids identified as molluscicidal belonged to various groups, of which the most numerous were pseudoalkaloids and tyrosine‐derived alkaloids. Based on collected research results, it was found that plant alkaloids can be extremely useful in fight against problematic species of snails and cause much lower harm to the environment than synthetic molluscicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of epidemiological data on fascioliasis in Egypt regarding disease characteristics and treatment outcomes across different governorates. We aimed to identify the demographic, epidemiologic, clinical, laboratory, and radiological characteristics and treatment outcomes of patients diagnosed with fascioliasis in Egypt. Data on human fascioliasis were collected retrospectively from patients' medical records in the period between January 2018 and January 2020. The study included 261 patients. More than 40% of enrolled patients were in the age group of 21–40 years old. Geographically, 247 (94.6%) were from Assiut Governorate with 69.3% were from rural areas. The most frequent symptoms were right upper quadrant pain (96.9%), and fever (80.1%). Eosinophilia was found in 250 cases (95.8%). Hepatic focal lesions were detected in 131 (50.2%); out of them 64/131 (48.9%) had a single lesion. All patients received a single dose of 10 mg/kg of triclabendazole, 79.7% responded well to a single dose, while in 20.3% a second ± a third dose of treatment was requested. After therapy, there was a reduction in leucocytes, Fasciola antibodies titer, eosinophilic count, bilirubin, and liver enzymes with an increase in hemoglobin level. According to our findings, a high index of suspicion should be raised in cases with fever, right upper abdominal pain, and peripheral eosinophilia, and further imaging workup is mandated to detect hepatic focal lesions. Prompt treatment by triclabendazole can serve as a standard-of-care regimen even for suspected cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica are liver trematodes that cause fascioliasis in humans and animals. In Turkey, the medical importance of fascioliasis has been increasing in humans, and it continues to cause great economic loss in the field of animal husbandry. Therefore, it is important to diagnose fascioliasis quickly and reliably. The aim of this study is to show that the ELISA test is a reliable and specific method for diagnosing fascioliasis both in the early stage and in the acute stage. PATIENTS AND METHODS: In this study, 640 individuals aged 7-75 years who showed one or more symptoms of fascioliasis, such as abdominal pain, fever, weight loss, weakness, fatigue, headache, sweating, nausea, vomiting, allergic urticaria, liver mass, hypereosinophilia, or liver enzyme elevation, were recruited from the Dicle University Research and Application Hospital in southeastern Turkey. Serum and fecal samples were taken from them to investigate if the Fasciola hepatica IgG antibody was present in the serum and if eggs were present in the feces. To detect the IgG antibodies, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit was used. The stool samples were analyzed for three consecutive days in mini Parasep fecal parasite concentrator tubes using the native-lugol and sedimentation methods. Abdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography were performed in all the patients. RESULTS: Among the subjects of this study, 90 (14%) were positive for fascioliasis, of whom 85 (94.4%) were adults and 5 (5.5%), children; 73 (81.1%) were women and 17 (18.8%), men; 57 (63.3%) lived in the rural areas and 33 (36.6%), in the city center; 90 (14%) were positive for Fasciola hepatica IgG antibodies; (20%) had helminth eggs in their stools; and 85 (94.4%) had a history of eating watercress. CONCLUSIONS: According to the epidemiological classification for fascioliasis by Mas-Coma, the Dicle Basin, which is the setting of this study, is indeed a hyperendemic region. Thus, ELISA is a reliable and specific method of diagnosing fascioliasis, both in the early phase and in the acute phase, when the eggs are no longer seen in the stool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasciola hepatica causes liver fluke disease, a worldwide neglected and re-emerging zoonotic disease, leading to hepatitis in humans and livestock. In the pathogenesis, flukes actively migrate through liver parenchyma provoking tissue damage. Here, parasites must confront leukocytes of the innate immune system in vivo. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) are the most abundant granulocytes and first ones arriving at infection sites. PMN may display neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), consisting of nuclear DNA, decorated with histones, enzymes, and antimicrobial peptides. We investigated for the first time whether F. hepatica soluble antigens (FhAg) can also trigger NETosis and innate immune reactions in exposed ovine PMN. Thus, isolated PMN were co-cultured with FhAg and NET formation was visualized by immunofluorescence and scanning electron microscopy analyses resulting in various phenotypes with spread NETs being the most detected in vitro. In line, NETs quantification via Picogreen®-fluorometric measurements revealed induction of anchored- and cell free NETs phenotypes. Live cell 3D-holotomographic microscopy revealed degranulation of stimulated PMN at 30 min exposure to FhAg. Functional PMN chemotaxis assays showed a significant increase of PMN migration (p = 0.010) and intracellular ROS production significantly increased throughout time (p = 0.028). Contrary, metabolic activities profiles of FhAg-exposed PMN did not significantly increase. Finally, in vivo histopathological analysis on F. hepatica-parasitized liver tissue sections of sheep showed multifocal infiltration of inflammatory cells within liver parenchyma, and further fluorescence microscopy analyses confirmed NETs formation in vivo. Overall, we hypothesized that NET-formation is a relevant host defence mechanism that might have a role in the pathogenesis of fasciolosis in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]