bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isozyme patterns ofSchistosoma japonicumandS. mansoni
Authors: Agatsuma Takeshi , Suzuki Noriji
Published: June 2009

Isozyme patterns of six enzymes, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, glucosephosphate isomerase, hexokinase, malate dehydrogenase, 6-phosphate dehydrogenase and phosphoglucomutase were examined in electrophoresed homogenates of adult male worms ofSchistosoma japonicumandS. mansoni. In general, enzyme patterns obtained from the parasite homogenates differed from that of host (mouse) blood and muscle, indicating that electrophoretic patterns from parasite extracts are most probably of parasite origin. Adult male and femaleS. mansoniworms yielded identical patterns. However, all six enzyme patterns showed distinct differences betweenS. japonicumandS. mansoni. These results suggest thatS. japonicumis clearly distinguishable fromS. mansoniat the molecular level.
In vitrotapeworm extract-induced proliferative responses of gut-associated lymphoid cells fromHymenolepis diminutainfected mice
Authors: Isaak Dale D.
Published: June 2009

The development of lymphoid cells reactive to tapeworm-associated antigens during the course ofHymenolepis diminutarejection from mice was studied using anin vitrotapeworm extract (TWE)-induced cell proliferation culture system. Mice infected with three cysticercoids on day 0 developed three adult worms by day 7 but worms were rejected by day 21 post-infection. Concomitant with worm rejection was the development of TWE-sensitized lymphoid cells which responded by proliferation when stimulatedin vitrowith TWE. Sensitized cells were detected in gut-associated mesenteric lymph nodes but were not detected in spleen, axillary lymph nodes, or peyer's patches of infected mice, or in lymphoid organs of non-infected mice. These studies suggest that rejection ofH. diminutafrom mice is associated with the activities of gut-associated, tapeworm antigen-sensitized immune cells localized in the mesenteric lymph nodes.
The cercarial emergence of Schistosoma japonicum from Oncomelania quadrasi under outdoor conditions in the Philippines
Authors: Kawashima Kenjiro , Blas Bayani L. , Santos Alfredo T.
Published: June 2009

The cercarial emergence of Schistosoma japonicum from Oncomelania quadrasi was observed under outdoor conditions in Leyte, Philippines. Nocturnal periodicity of the emergence within 24 hours was recognized. Peak emergence usually occurs between 18:00 and 20:00 and occasionally between 8:00 and 10:00. The peaks were usually synchronized with a sudden lowering of water temperature and light intensity and occasionally with their increase. As the nocturnal periodicity of the emergence was observed in the dark and outdoors, it was suggested that emergence might be dependent on temperature, which is secondarily influenced by photoperiodicity and light intensity.
Observations onToxocara pteropodisinfections in mice
Authors: Prociv P.
Published: June 2009

Infection in mice withToxocara pteropodiswas investigated. In mice fed infective eggs, third-stage larvae hatched out and penetrated the mucosa, predominantly that of the lower intestine. They travelled via the portal vein to the liver, where they remained at least 14 months. They grew in length from 430±15μm, at three days post infection (p.i.), to 600 ± 50 μm, at six to nine weeks p.i., after which time growth ceased. Blood eosinophilia appeared at 28 days p.i., and esosinophil levels continued to rise gradually beyond this time. In female mice the larvae did not migrate from the liver in response to pregnancy or lactation. When infective eggs were inoculated subcutaneously or intra-peritoneally, larvae hatched out and ultimately appeared in the liver in larger numbers than seen with oral infections.
Variable infectivity of third-stage larvae of Brugia malayi
Authors: Eberhard Mark L. , Lowrie Robert C.
Published: June 2009

Infectivity of third-stage larvae of Brugia malayi was assessed following intraperitoneal inoculation into jirds, Meriones unguiculatus. Larvae were of two ages and were derived from two sites in Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, i.e., specimens collected from the thorax 11 days after infection and from the head on day 14. Larvae from the thorax had just completed the second moult and measured 990 to 1100μm in length. Only 6% of these specimens developed to adult worms in jirds. Larvae that migrated to the head were 1400 to 1700 μm long on day 14 and, in contrast, 23% of the inocula developed to adult worms. This study establishes that all third-stage larvae, regardless of their age or location in the arthropod host, are potentially infective. However, pronounced physical maturation does seem to be accompanied by a marked increase in infectivity.
Effect of mutagen on culturedSchistosoma mansoni
Authors: Coles G. C. , Fitzgerald J.
Published: June 2009

Although lightly homogenized three-week-oldSchistosoma mansoniincubated in Mistuhashi and Maramorosch insect tissue culture medium or the medium of Weller and Wheeldon produced adherent cell layers, continued growth of these cells did not occur. Non-adherent cells obtained by trypsinization also failed to produce long term cell cultures even after the addition of a range of growth factors. The possibility of producing tumour-like schistosome cells by the use of the mutagen ethyl methane sulphonate was therefore examined. Four-hour exposure of three-week-old schistosomes caused in some worms (a) large fluid filled ‘ballooning’, which also occurred in adult males, (b) enlargement of the gut, (c) increase in numbers of large round cells within the worms and (d) tissus outgrowths. It is suggested that these effects of mutagen offer new approaches to obtaining permanent schistosome cell cultures.
Schistosome infection in the kelp gull, Larus dominicanus, from Port Elizabeth, Republic of South Africa
Authors: Appleton C. C. , Randall R. M.
Published: June 2009

A schistosome infection, cf Gigantobilharzia sp., is recorded from a South African coastal bird, Larus dominicanus, for the first time. The histological response to the presence of the worms and their eggs was considered to be unusually mild. These eggs were all immature and were found only in the mucosa of the gut wall. This raises questions about the oviposition behaviour of the female worm.
Comparative evaluation of various immunodiagnostic tests for the diagnosis ofTaenia soliumcysticercosis in pigs, using fractionated antigens
Authors: Kumar D. , Gaur S. N. S.
Published: June 2009

The sensitivity and specificity of double immunodiffusion (DID), indirect haemagglutination test (IHA), immunoelectrophoresis (IEP), counterimmunoelectrophoresis (CIEP) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were evaluated and compared using saline extracted ofTaenia soliumlarval scolex and its Sephadex G-200 fractionated 1st and 2nd peak as antigens. Various immunodiagnostic tests gave different results with different antigens. Highest sensitivity (92·5%) was obtained with ELISA using 1st peak antigen and lowest sensitivity was obtained with DID. However, 88·4% and 84·6% sensitivity was obtained with IHA and CIEP respectively using scolex antigen. CIEP gave better results as compared to IEP. Crude antigen gave high sensitivity but less specificity. It was concluded that CIEP can be used as a field test for the anti-mortem diagnosis and ELISA can be employed for laboratory confirmation ofT. soliumcysticercosis in pigs using frationated 1st peak antigen.
Hymenolepis murissylvatici: humoral response in intestinal lavages of the mouse
Authors: Van Der Vorst E. , Dhont H. , Van Haeren C. , Deceunynck R. , De Rycke P. H.
Published: June 2009

Hymenolepis murissylvaticielicits a humoral response in serum and in the intestine of the mouse from which it is immunologically rejected. In serum, significant differences were recorded 3 days after reinfection, while in intestinal lavages it takes place from day 9 after reinfection. In serum the response is largely the result of IgG and IgM antibodies whereas in the intestine, IgA is the most abundant antibody. Although specific IgE could not be demonstrated in serum, it was present in intestinal lavages, although rather late (i.e. day 14 after reinfection). Treatment of young wormsin vitroboth with immune serum or intestinal lavages had no apparent effect on their viability. Immune serum produced a complement independent precipitation on the surface of the wormsin vitro. This reaction did not affect viability or infectivity of the parasite, as demonstrated by the successful implantation of treated worms in recipient mice. The above-mentioned results, together with the knowledge that theHymenolepismodel has no tissue stages and causes no tissue damage, make it probable that further study of this model will reveal some specific intestinal immunological reactions.
Mammomonogamus laryngeus(Railliet, 1899) infections in cattle from Sri Lanka
Authors: Van Aken D. , De Bont J. , Fransen J. , Vercruysse J.
Published: June 2009

During one year 1249 male cattle were examined forMammomonogamus laryngeusinfections in the slaughterhouse at Kandy, Sri Lanka. The overall prevalence was 40% with only light monthly variations (34 to 52%). The infection rate was highest (47%) in 2 to 2·5 year old animals. In infected animals an average of 6·4 parasite pairs was found with higher numbers in older animals. The majority of worms were located on the posterior side of the epiglottis. Lesions observed were mucosal plugs at the site where the parasites were attached to the mucosa and moderate to severe erosions and ulcers in other zones.
Oswaldocruzia filiformis (Nematoda: Trichostrongyloidea) in frogs (Rana temporaria) from three locations in Ireland
Authors: Griffin Christine T.
Published: June 2009

A total of 444 adult frogs (Rana temporaria) were obtained from three sites in the east of Ireland. Oswaldocruzia filiformis was present at all times of the year; overall, 64% of the frogs were infected, with a mean burden of 5 worms/frog. Most of the parasites were in the first half of the small intestine. A single gross lesion associated with a high worm burden is described. Female parasites were more abundant than males. Most parasitic stages of O. filiformis overwintered in hibernating hosts. Seasonal patterns in the levels of parasitization were not discerned. The intensity of infection was significantly greater in female than male frogs at one of the sites. There was little correlation between the size of host and degree of parasitization. None of the 45 frog tadpoles examined harboured O. filiformis. Frogs became infected by August of their first year.
Cutaneous oesophagostomiasis in man
Authors: Ross R. A. , Gibson D. I. , Harris Eileen A.
Published: June 2009

A case is presented of infection by Oesophagostomum, a nematode worm, producing a cutaneous nodule in man. Of the 70 individual cases reported in man it is believed that this is the first in which the worm has produced a lesion outside the gastro-intestinal tract and without evidence of bowel infection. This finding suggests either that the worm is able to achieve direct skin penetration or that it can be disseminated from the bowel via the bloodstream or the lymphatics. The pathology caused by Oesophagostomum and the possible modes of infection are discussed in relation to studies in animals, particularly simians and cattle.
Biochemical characterization ofTaenia hydatigenacysticerci from goats and pigs
Authors: Abidi S. M. A. , Nizami W. A. , Khan P. , Ahmad M. , Irshadullah M.
Published: June 2009

Analysis of the major biochemical components ofTaenia hydatigenacysticerci collected from goats and pigs showed marked differences, particularly in glycogen, protein, lipid and DNA levels. Differences were also detected in the levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, free fatty acids and phospholipids. Furthermore, the profile of phospholipid fractions revealed quantitative differences between the two species. It is concluded that the cysticerci of goat and pig origin probably represent two different strains and possibly follow the same pattern of speciation as reported in the related taeniid,Echinococcus granulosus.
Composition, secretion, and fate of the glands in the miracidium and sporocyst of Fasciola hepatica L.
Authors: Buzzell Gerald R.
Published: June 2009

The anterior end of the miracidium of Fasciola hepatica contains a large flask-shaped apical gland and four unicellular lateral glands, all of which have ducts which pass to the tip of the apical papilla. These glands appear to be involved in penetration of the larva into the snail host. The apical gland secretes as the miracidium proves the epidermis of the host before attachment. It seems likely that its secretion is a chemical which lyses the epidermal cells. The lateral glands are PAS-positive and may contain a neutral mucopolysaccharide. They also secrete as the miracidium probes the snail and a layer of PAS-positive material may be seen at the leading edge of the apical papilla as the larva penetrates into the host. Both the apical gland and the lateral glands may be visible in the sporocyst for several days after penetration.
Morphological and histochemical observations on the oocapt and oviducal transport of oocytes in Paramphistomum cervi (Zeder, 1790) (Digenea: Trematoda)
Authors: Gupta B. C. , Parshad V. R. , Guraya S. S.
Published: June 2009

The oocapt of Paramphistomum cervi has a narrow constriction followed by a wide lumen with a thickened wall and is surrounded by several unicellular flask-shaped gland cells opening into the lumen. The oocapt gland cells are filled with granules, the size and number of which vary in the body cells and its duct. Histochemical studies have shown that the oocapt gland cells secrete mainly mucoproteins but a few lipoprotein and phospholipid granules have also been observed. The passage of the oocyte through the lumen of the oocapt, appears to stimulate the oocapt gland cells to release their secretion which seems to be involved in transport of the oocyte through the oviduct.
Heterophyes species in Greece: record of H. heterophyes, H. aequalis and H. dispar from the first intermediate host, Pirenella conica
Authors: Taraschewski Horst , Nicolaidou Artemis
Published: June 2009

Heterophyes heterophyes is reported for the first time from the snail host Pirenella conica in Greece. H. aequalis and H. dispar are reported for the first time from Greece and from Europe. The results presented, together with the available data on necropsies of dogs and cats, human infections and the biotope preference of the snail, suggest that Greece is an important focus of infection in Europe.
An evaluation of the efficacy of monensin againstFasciola hepaticain the albino rat
Authors: Skuce P. J. , Fairweather I. , Kenny J. W. M.
Published: June 2009

Thein vivoefficacy of monensin againstFasciola hepaticawas determined in the albino rat. The results were variable, with monensin generally showing greater activity against juvenile (two-week-old) than adult (12-week-old) fludes. Significant (p<0·005) reductions in worm burdens were obtained only following treatment of adult flukes with 2×10 mg/kg monensin (52·9% efficacy), and of juvenile flukes with 1×10 mg/kg (42·4% efficacy) and 2×10 mg/kg (56·23% efficacy). Monensin administered in the diet (200 ppm) had a negligible effect on juvenile and adult fluke burdens. Prophylactic treatment of rats with monensin (100 ppm) produced a 45·5% efficacy, but this was not statistically significant. At doses of 1×5 mg/kg and 2×2·5 mg/kg, monensin had little effect on egg output byF. hepatica. No clear relationship was established between egg output and worm burden, and so faecal egg counting was not a reliable indicator of fluke burdens in the rat.
The pathogenesis of benzimidazole-resistant and benizimidazole-susceptible strains of trichostrongylus colubriformis in the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus)
Authors: Maclean John M. , lewis David , Holmes Peter H.
Published: June 2009

Mongolian gerbils were infected with either a benzimidazole-susceptible or a benzimidazole-resistant strain of Trichostrongylus colubriformis larvae. The comparative pathogensis of both strains of T. colubriformis was investigated for 50 days post-infection. The gerbils infected with the drug-susceptible strain of the parasite showed lower survival rates, reduced body weights, higher parasite egg output and higher worm burdens than animals intected with the drug-resistant stram of parasite. There was also evidence of an enhanced hypoalbuminaemia and a more marked gastrointestinal plasma leak in the gerbils infected with the drug-susceptible strain of patasite. Scanning electron microscope examination of the small intestine showed signs of villus atriphy in both groups of ingected grebils.
In vitroeffects of mebendazole on the carbohydrate metabolism ofAvitellina lahorea(Cestoda)
Authors: Ahmad M. , Nizami W. A.
Published: June 2009

Mebendazole (3.3 μmol), causesin vitroglycogen depletion and inhibits glucose uptake inAvitellina lahorea. Inhibition of non-specific phosphomonoesterases and adenosine triphosphatase by mebendazole is discussed in the light of the role of phosphatases in uptake mechanisms. Mebendazole has no effect on hexokinase which has broad substrate specificity but influences the activities of some glycolytic enzymes such as phosphorylase, phosphoglucomutase and glucose-6-phosphatase. Thus, it appears that mebendazole also acts to disrupt certain enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism which may ultimately cause death of the parasite.
Antifilarial effect of Zingiber officinale on Dirofilaria immitis
Authors: Datta Anita , Sukul Nirmal C.
Published: June 2009

Dogs, naturally infected with Dirofilaria immitis, were treated with the residues of the alcoholic extracts of the rhizomes of Zingiber officinale (ginger). Twelve subcutaneous injections of the extract given at 100 mg/kg reduced microfilarial concentration in blood by a maximum of 98%. Fifty five days after the last injection there was 83% reduction in microfilarial concentration suggesting partial destruction of adult worms. Half of the treated dogs showed some lethargy at the beginning of treatment possibly due to the mass annihilation of microfilariae in blood.
Partial purification and characterization of a soluble acid phosphatase from the tapeworm,Hymenolepis diminuta
Authors: Bumbulis Michael J. , Pappas Peter W.
Published: June 2009

An acid phosphatase activity (APA; EC 3.1.3.2) was demonstrated in homogenates of adultHymenolepis diminuta. The APA was soluble based on the observation that it did not sediment at 130 000 g. APA was partially purified using a combination of differential centrifugation, ammonium sulphate precipitation, chloroform extraction, and gel and fast-protein-liquid-chromatography. This combination of techniques resulted in a preparation with a specific activity approximately 500 times greater than the crude enzyme preparation. The temperature and pH optima of the partially purified APA were 44°C and pH 5·0. The enzyme appeared to be a monomer with a molecular weight of approximately 62 000. APA had a higher affinity for a greater activity towards aromatic than aliphatic phosphoesters and phosphoryl transferase activity was demonstrable using 1-butanol and ethylene glycol as acceptors. APA was inhibited significantly by sodium dodecyl sulphate, fluoride, molybdate and tartrate, but CuSO4and Fast Garnet GBC were poor inhibitors. The precise cellular localization and function of this enzyme remains unknown since it possesses characteristics of both cytoplasmic and lysosomal APA's of other organisms.
Studies on the infectivity of Diplostomum spathaceum in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Whyte S. K. , Secombes C. J. , Chappell L. H.
Published: June 2009

The infectivity of Diplostomum spathaceum (Digenea: Trematoda) cercariae to rainbow trout and the efficacy of the diplostomule migration to the lens following different routes of administration was examined. The optimum age of infectivity for cercariae was between 0–5 h after liberation from the snail and for intraperitoneally injected diplostomules, 5 h post-transformation in vitro through fish skin. After exposure of the entire fish body or head to cercariae, metacercariae first appeared in the lens at 5 h and their numbers gradually increased until 22 h. Following exposure of the tail region of rainbow trout to cercariae, metacercariae first appeared in the lens at 14 h. Significantly more metacercariae established in the lens of fish following exposure of the fish head compared with the tail region; 40% of penetrating cercariae reached the lens of fish following exposure of the head or entire body, 20% of cercariae or diplostomules injected either intraperitoneally, intramuscularly or intracardially reached the lens while only 5% of cercariae established as metacercariae following exposure of the tail region.
Complications ofAscaris lumbricoidesinfection: case reports from south western Uganda
Authors: Mpairwe J. B.
Published: June 2009

Two cases of intestinal obstruction due toAscaris lumbricoidesinfection are reported from Ishaka Adventist Hospital, in south western Uganda. One was a male aged two and a half years and another was a female aged twenty. They were both treated surgically with good results. A review of the literature also revealed that intestinal obstruction due toA. lumbricoidesis a common complication, though other surgical and nutritional complications also seem to be common, they are less reported.
Morphological changes inSchistosoma mansonicaused by the mutagen ethyl methane sulphonate
Authors: Coles G. C. , Zuckerman B. M.
Published: June 2009

Three week oldSchistosoma mansoni, cultured for up to sixty days after exposure to ethyl methane sulphonate, showed extensive ballooning which often involved most of the worm's body. Other changes included tegumental breakdown which was expressed in varying degrees from mild hernia to total disruption of body shape. Increase in gut size involved stretching of the epithelium and inclusions ranging from masses of disrupted tissue to large, dark opaque masses. Masses were also occasionally seen in the fluid filled spaces of worms. Evidence of hyperplasia was not observed in any of the histological examinations performed.
Humoral and cellular response to infection withEchinostoma revolutumin the golden hamster,Mesocricetus auratus
Authors: Mabus J. , Huffman J. E. , Fried B.
Published: June 2009

Laboratory hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus) were infected withEchinostoma revolutum(Trematoda). Immunoelectrophoretic studies of hamster serum showed no demonstrable antibody response toE. revolutum. Histopathologic examination of intestinal tissue of infected hamsters showed erosion of intestinal villi and lymphocytic infiltration as the primary host response. Spleens from infected hamsters were hyperplastic during the first 3 weeks of infection and atrophic from 4 to 8 weeks postinfection. Hamsters were unable to acquire a resistance toE. revolutuminfection. Lack of resistance was demonstrated in hamsters where the parasite infection was no longer detected based on the absence of eggs in the faeces; these hamsters were then reinfected. Hamsters treated with the anthelmintic oxyclozanide were also reinfected withE. revolutum.
Surface carbohydrate changes onOnchocerca lienalislarvae as they develop from microfilariae to the infective third-stage inSimulium ornatum
Authors: Ham P. J. , Smail A. J. , Groeger B. K.
Published: June 2009

Use was made of seven FITC labelled lectins as tools to investigate the surface ofOnchocerca lienalislarvae as they develop through to the infective third-stage in a natural vector,Simulium ornatum. The lectins were derived fromCanavalia ensiformis(Con A),Lens culinaris(lentil),Triticum vulgaris(wheat germ),Arachis hypogaea(peanut),Helix pomatia, Phaseolus vulgaris(kidney bean) andTetragonolobus purpureus(asparagus pea). Between 70 and 100 living parasites were examined for each developmental stage; i.e. skin microfilariae, late first-stages, second-stages, preinfective third-stages and infective third-stages isolated from the mouth parts of the flies. None of the lectins used bound to the surface of the microfilariae. However, progressive binding to the cuticle of the first- and second-stages was observed using Con. A, lentil lectin and wheat germ agglutinin (WGA). Following moulting to the third-stage, binding of these three lectins declined. Furthermore, as these lectins decreased, peanut andHelix pomatialectins progressively increased in their binding, despite the fact that they showed little or no binding to the first- and second-stages; stages at which Con A, lentil and WGA were at their maximum. Asparagus pea and kidney bean lectins failed completely to bind to any of the larvae examined. Carbohydrate inhibition tests showed that the lectin was indeed binding specifically to glycoconjugates on the parasite surface. WGA binding was not inhibited by prior incubation with N-acetyl-D-glucosamine, even at high concentrations, but neuraminic acid did completely inhibit its binding. Judging from the patterns of binding on the nematodes themselves, the carbohydrates may not be vector in origin, but derive from the worms. The lectin specificities indicate that initially mannose/glucose type derivatives are present on the surface. Following moulting to the third-stage these are progressively replaced, or overlaid with galactosamine type derivatives, also present on the infective third-stage as it enters the bovine host. The availability of these surface glycoconjugates to attack mediated by natural insect lectins may be of importance in the parasite regulatory mechanisms of the blackfly. Variability in these surface carbohydrates, and in the response to them could well be a contributing factor in the cytospecific variation inS. damnosumsusceptibility to geographical variants ofO. volvulus.
The effect of cyclosporin A on the course ofParagonimus miyazakiiinfection in rats
Authors: Hashiguchi Yoshihisa , Okamura Yoshisuke
Published: June 2009

The effect of the immunomodulatory fungal metabolite cyclosporin A (CyA) on the course ofParagonimus miyazakiiinfection in rats was studied. Administration of CyA 15 to 19 days post-infection resulted in a significantly lower recovery rate of worms and cyst formation in the host's lungs than in controls. Administration of CyA − 1 to + 3 days post-infection enhanced the growth and maturation ofP. miyazakii, expressed as weight of worms and the number of worms with eggs in uteri with respect to control values. This study shows that administration of CyA to rats affects the host-parasite relationship, depending on the time of administration of the drug.
In vitrotransformation ofDiplostomum spathaceum(Digenea) cercariae and short term maintenance of post-penetration larvaein vitro
Authors: Whyte S. K. , Chappell L. H. , Secombes C. J.
Published: June 2009

Optimum conditions for thein vitrotransformation ofDiplostomum spathaceumcercariae have been established by which large numbers of post-penetration larvae (diplostomules) can be produced; short-term maintenance of diplostomulesin vitrois described. Experimental studies on this migratory larval stage may now be possible.
Morphological differences between Venezuelan and African microfilariae of Onchocerca volvulus
Authors: Botto C. , Escalante A. , Arango M. , Yarzabal L.
Published: June 2009

Comparative morphological and biometric characteristics of microfilariae of Onchocerca gutturosa and O. volvulus from different geographical areas (Upper Orinoco, Venezuela; Togo; Liberia) were assessed. “Stepwise” discriminant analysis and Mahalanobis estimators were applied to measure distance between populations. The results indicate a strong similarity between the two strains from the Upper Orinoco (Venezuela) and the Togo strain, as well as a clear separation between these strains and that of O. gutturosa. The Liberian strain was easily distinguishable from microfilariae from Togo and Venezuela. Discriminant analysis showed the Liberian deme to be as different from the Venezuelan and Togo demes as these demes were from microfilariae of the reference species, O. gutturosa. Although it is necessary to confirm these data using formalin-fixed specimens obtained from the skin, the present findings suggest the existence of geographically-different strains of O. volvulus in America and Africa.
Heligmosomoides polygyrus: effect of exogenous steroid hormones on egg output in vitro
Authors: Richardson Tammi L. , Mackinnon Barbara M.
Published: June 2009

The effect of exogenous steroid hormones on the egg output of Heligmosomoides polygyrus (Nematoda: Trichostrongylidae) was examined in vitro. Using worms raised in female mice, it was found that estradiol, testosterone, and cortisone each significantly decreased egg output. Although similar trends were found using H. polygyrus raised in male mice, none of the decreases found was significant. No significant differences were found with ecdysone or progesterone treatments using worms from female or male mice. Treatment of worms with cortisone did not significantly affect retention of eggs within the uterus of H. polygyrus. Titration of the effect of cortisone on egg output indicated that levels of reduction were significant for concentrations of 5·6 × 10−6 M to 5·6 × 10−3 M in worms from female mice and for concentrations of 5·6 × 10−8, × 10−7, × 10−5 and × 10−3 in worms from male mice. Radioisotope labelling experiments showed incorporation of 3H-corticosterone in the nucleus of intestinal cells of H. polygyrus suggesting that its effect on egg production may be via a modulatory effect on the intestinal cells.
Experimental observations on the specificity of Apatemon (Australapatemon) minor (Yamaguti 1933) (Digenea: Strigeidae) toward leech (Hirudinea) second intermediate hosts
Authors: McCarthy Andrew M.
Published: June 2009

The infectivity of Apatemon (Australapatemon) minor cercariae to 7 species of freshwater leech was examined under laboratory conditions. The leech species exposed to infection were; Erpobdella octoculata, Helobdella stagnalis, Glossiphonia heteroclita, Glossiphonia complanata, Hemiclepsis marginata, Piscicola geometra, and Theromyzon tessulatum. Five species were capable of acting as second intermediate hosts. Despite this broad specificity only Erpobdella octoculata and Helobdella stagnalis could be considered to show a high degree of compatibility with the parasite. In these 2 leech species more than 38% of the cercariae successfully penetrated and established metacercarial cyst infections. The leeches Piscicola geometra and Theromyzon tessulatum did not become infected. Close parallels were found between the species order of host utilization determined experimentally and that revealed by a range of field surveys in Britain, Eastern Europe and Russia. This suggests that the order of second intermediate host utilization in the natural environment has, at least in part, a physiological basis. The degree to which different leeches are utilized as hosts may relate to the opportunity which they afford for transmission of A. minor to wildfowl definitive hosts.
Effect of concurrent infection with Muellerius capillaris on the development of redial generations of Fasciola hepatica in Lymnaea truncatula
Authors: Hourdin P. , Rondelaud D. , Cabaret J.
Published: June 2009

The rediae of Fasciola hepatica were counted according to generation in adult and juvenile Lymnaea truncatula following single infection with Fasciola hepatica, double infection with F. hepatica and then Muellerius capillaris, or double infection with M. capillaris and F. hepatica. The rediae found in double infections were essentially first generation and an early cohort from the second generation. The following differences were observed in adult snails which underwent double infection when compared to corresponding single infections: i) dependent rediae were almost completely absent; ii) degenerating independent rediae were found in identical or decreased numbers; iii) living independent rediae of the first generation were decreased in number, while those of the second generation had variable decreased numbers. The results were similar in juvenile snails with double infections, except that the numbers of degenerating independent rediae were higher than those found in corresponding single infections and the numbers of rediae of the second generation were increased. The order of exposure in double infections had no influence on the number and maturation of fasciolid rediae.
In vivo passage through calves of nematophagous fungi selected for biocontrol of parasitic nematodes
Authors: Larsen M. , Wolstrup J. , Henriksen S. A. , Grønvold J. , Nansen P.
Published: June 2009

The experiment was designed to test the survival and performance of stress selected nematophagous fungi after passage through the gastro-intestinal tract of cattle. Ruminating calves were fed daily with a fixed amount of fungal material grown on barley grains. The excreted dung was collected on days four and five after the start of the feeding experiment. Barley grains were washed out of the excreted dung and incoculated on water-agar plates. After incubation for one week, nine out of ten fungal isolates were re-isolated from these plates. The predatory capacity of the fungi in the excreted faeces was tested in a dung pat bioassay and a faecal culture system. In the dung pat bioassay. two fungi of the genus Arthrobotrys and six of the genus Duddingtonia reduced the development of Ostertagia ostertagi third stage larvae by 85% (61%–93%). compared to the number of larvae developed from fungus-free control pats. In seven out of these eight isolates, the reduction of larvae in the faecal cultures was 92% (76%–99%).
Studies on the life-cycle of Tremiorchis ranarum
Authors: Rajendran K. V. , Janardanan K. P.
Published: June 2009

The life-cycle of Tremiorchis ranarum Mehra and Negi, 1926 (Trematoda: Plagiorchiidae) infecting Rana tigrina and R. cyanophlyctis is elucidated. Life-cycle stages, from egg to egg-producing adults, were successfully established in the laboratory. Life-cycle took more than two months for completion. Cercariae were found in the snail, Pila virens collected from paddy fields at Chelembra in the Malappuram district of Kerala during the monsoon months. Cercariae are of the xiphidiocercous type. Metacercariae occurred beneath the skin and in head, tail and body musculature of tadpoles of R. tigrina and R. cyanophlyctis. Adult frogs are refractory to cercarial infection. Frogs became infected when they fed on tadpoles containing metacercariae. Successive stages in the development to adult from the metacercariae were followed. Chronological synchronization in the reproductive activity of the host and the parasite is briefly discussed.
A simplified method for the fractionation ofGnathostoma-specific antigens for serodiagnosis of human gnathostomosis
Authors: Tuntipopipat Siripon , Chawengkirttikul Runglawan , Sirisinha Stitaya
Published: June 2009

Specific immunoreactive components present in crude somatic extract and in excretory-secretory (ES) products ofGnathostoma spinigerumadvanced third-stage larvae (L3) were identified by Western blotting and their diagnostic potential evaluated by indirect ELISA. Although both crude antigen preparations were highly complex, the ES antigen gave a more satisfactory diagnostic result. MostG. spinigerumspecific components present in the somatic and ES preparations had molecular weights below 29 kD and were not glycosylated, judging from the concanavalin A staining pattern. Specific diagnostic antigens were prepared by subjecting the crude preparations to SDS-PAGE. Low molecular weight components were identified and electroeluted from the gel. Excess SDS was removed by the use of an ion retardation resin. The antigens obtained by this relatively simple procedure were found to be highly specific forG. spinigerum. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for the assay using the fractionated somatic antigen were 100%.
Development of Proteocephalus torulosus in the intermediate host under experimental conditions
Authors: Scholz T.
Published: June 2009

The development of the tapeworm Proteocephalus torulosus (Batsch, 1786) (Cestoda: Proteocephalidae), a parasite of cyprinid fish, was studied in the intermediate host under experimental conditions. The eggs of P. torulosus were typified by a relatively small outer envelope (hyaline membrane) and a thick middle layer surrounding the oncosphere. Incubation of P. torulosus eggs at different temperatures revealed the ability of some oncospheres to survive and remain infective to the intermediate host for up to 5 weeks at 5–7°C, 12 days at 10–12°C, and 8 days at 20–22°C. Of 8 copepod species used in these experiments, complete development of larvae was observed only in Cyclops strenuus. Growth was completed in 9–12 days at 20–22°C and four weeks at 9–10°C. During development the cercomer was not observed. The infectivity of larvae from C. strenuus for the definitive hosts, cyprinid fish, was very low and only one chub of 26 fish used for feeding experiments (21 chub, Leuciscus cephalus, 3 bleak, Alburnoides bipunctatus, 1 rudd, Scardinius erythrophthalmus—all the family Cyprinidae, and 1 loach, Noemacheilus barbatulus—the family Cobitidae) became infected.
The role of dissolved carbon dioxide and whole bile in the in vitro activation of Taenia taeniaeformis oncospheres
Authors: Ishiwata K. , Oku Y. , Kamiya M.
Published: June 2009

Dissolved carbon dioxide was deemed not to be an important factor in the activation of Taenia taeniaeformis oncospheres. Rabbit bile was found to provide the most appropriate whole bile for in vitro activation of oncospheres
Population dynamics of the metacercarial stage of the bucephalid trematode,Labratrema minimus(Stossich, 1887) from Salses-Leucate lagoon (France) during the cercarial shedding period
Authors: Faliex E. , Morand S.
Published: June 2009

The population dynamics ofLabratrema minimus(Stossich, 1887) metacercariae (Trematoda, Bucephalidae) were studied in its second intermediate fish hostAtherina boyerifrom Salses-Leucate lagoon (Northwest Mediterranean Sea, South of France), during the cercarial shedding period. The infection parameters (prevalence and mean abundance of infection) showed the high susceptibility of silversides (juveniles and adults) to infection. The observed variation in the mean abundance of infection with respect to time and host size was explained by (i) the susceptibility ofA. boyerito multiple successive infections (increase in abundance of infection with host length and raising of parasite burden until August) and (ii) the loss, probably by more rapid death, of heavily infected silversides from each host size group (decrease in abundance of infection in September within each host size group, stability of the parasite burden within the older class of hosts over the whole period, premature decrease in the condition factor in August). Finally, it was deduced that the infection pattern observed over the May–September period was a dynamic process controlled by: availability of infective cercariae, influx of newborn silversides free of metacercariae until September, high susceptibility of juvenile and adultA. boyerito infection, metacercarial loss and probably by parasite-induced host mortality.
An antigenic recombinant fusion protein fromTrichinellaspiralis induces a protective response in BALB/c mice
Authors: Sun S. , Xu W. , He N. , Sugane K.
Published: June 2009

A previously reported recombinant λ Ts39 fusion protein (FP) derived fromTrichinella spiralislarvae was purified by affinity chromatography using an anti-β-galactosidase antibody conjugated column and the effect of FP on induction of a protective response in mice was studied. BALB/c mice were injected three times at weekly intervals with FP emulsified in an equal volume of Freund's complete adjuvant and one week after the last injection mice were each challenged with a lethal dose of 1200 L1larvae ofTrichinella spiralis. As a result, the FP induced significant protection. Mice were also infected orally with 250 L1larvae each after injection of the FP. On the 35th day of infection, immunized mice with the FP harboured 78% fewer muscle larvae than saline controls. Also, the numbers of adult worms in the small intestine were smaller in FP injected mice than saline controls on day 6 and 9 of the infection. These results suggest that the recombinant λ Ts39 FP is a potentially valuable antigen for vaccine development.
Schistosoma japonicumandS. mansoni: comparison of larval migration patterns in mice
Authors: Gui M. , Kusel J.R. , Shi Y.E. , Ruppel A.
Published: June 2009

Mice were infected percutaneously with cercariae ofSchistosoma japonicumorS. mansoniand parasites recovered by tissue-mincing from the skin or lungs or by perfusion of the mesenteric veins.S. japonicumhad a narrow peak of recovery (up to 30%) from the lungs 3 days after infection, whereas lung recovery ofS. mansonipeaked only on day 6 and levelled off during the following week. Infection withS. japonicuminduced lung petechiae, but only after most of the parasites had left the lungs. The axillary lymph nodes draining the infection site increased in weight after infection and this effect was much greater and longer withS. mansonithan withS. japonicum. S. japonicumwas perfusable from the mesenteric veins earlier (from day 3 onwards) and in higher number (40–60% from days 6 to 10) thanS. mansoni(20% on day 20). The percentage of cercariae developing to adult worms was 57% forS. japonicumand 33% forS. mansoni. The data demonstrate thatS. japonicummight escape from local tissue reactions in the skin and lungs and, due to its rapid migration, might induce only poor lymphocyte proliferation. As a possible consequence,S. japonicummay establish more efficiently in mice thanS. mansoni.
Cross-resistance betweenStrongyloides venezuelensisandS. rattiin mice
Authors: Korenaga M. , Hitoshi Y. , Takatsu K. , Tada I.
Published: June 2009

Cross-resistance betweenStrongyloides venezuelensisandS. rattiwas tested in mice. The mice were immunized withS. rattiand challenged with infective filariform larvae or larvae recovered from the lungs of mice, of a heterologous species,S. venezuelensis. In this system, cross-resistance was expressed to the intestinal stage but not to the migrating stage of the parasite. Anti-interleukin (IL)-5 monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatment showed that peripheral blood eosinophilia after infection with both species of the genusStrongyloideswas dependent on IL-5. Cross-resistance expressed to the intestinal stages was inhibited partially by injection of anti-IL-5 mAb.
Allergic reactivity and IgG subclasses to a proteinase fraction ofSetaria digitatain filariasis
Authors: Beuria M.K. , Bal M. , Das M.K.
Published: June 2009

A low molecular weight fraction (30 KDa) of the cattle filarial parasiteSetaria digitatathat was earlier demonstrated to have allergenic activity was characterized to be a zinc-dependent cysteine proteinase. Immediate type hypersensitivity (ITH) reaction to the proteinase was evaluated in lymphatic filariasis patients and in endemic controls from Orissa, India. The extent of ITH positivity to the proteinase in infected individuals ranged from 20% in chronic filariasis (CP) patients group to 56% in asymptomatic microfilaraemic carriers (AS). About 62% of endemic normals (EN) were also ITH positive. The serum levels of IgG subclasses were compared in ITH positive and ITH negative filarial patients (AS and CP) as well as in endemic normals (EN) respectively. IgG4levels were found to be inversely dependent on ITH reaction only in AS groups. Asymptomatic patients (AS) with positive ITH reactivity had lower IgG4than ITH negative individuals from the same group. The serum levels of other IgG subclasses except IgG2did not correlate with ITH reactivity. IgG2levels were higher in ITH negative EN and CP patients but not in the AS group.
Histochemical characteristics of the metacercarial cyst wall of Gynaecotyla adunca
Authors: Lee J. , Medlin M.A. , Dunn S.T.
Published: June 2009

The cyst wall of the metacercaria of Gynaecotyla adunca (Microphallidae: Digenea) was subjected to comprehensive histochemical analysis. At the light microscope level, a uniformly thick, bipartite cyst wall, probably wholly of parasite origin, was evident. Structural modification of the cyst wall to provide an escape aperture was not apparent. The thicker, inner layer was comprised of phospholipid and glyco- and/or mucoproteins, possibly similar in structure to collagen. The outer layer was highly proteinaceous and contained additional amounts of acidic and neutral mucosubstances. The results are discussed in the context of previous observations regarding the excystment requirements of this microphallid species.
Ultrastructural study ofTrichinella spiraliswith emphasis on adult female reproductive organs
Authors: Takahashi Y. , Goto C. , Kita K.K.
Published: June 2009

The ultrastructure of the reproductive organs of adult femaleT. spiraliswas described on the basis of extensive observation under an electron microscope. The organisms were recovered from the host intestine 7 days after oral infection. The organs consisted of a single ovary, seminal receptacle, uterus and vagina, confirming the reports described by previous authors at light microscopical level. All the organs were surrounded by a basal lamina and epithelial cells, and were bathed in haemolymph. Ova were formed in a germinal zone on the ovary wall exhibiting a half-moon shape, and spread to other sides of the ovary Mature ova exhibited a smooth cell surface, cuboidal shape, prominent cytoplasmic polysomes, a clear nucleus and a well-developed nucleolus. Embryos in early stage of development consisted of numerous small cells and were surrounded by a sheath.As they matured they shed the sheath and left a pool of sheaths in the uterus. During oogenesis and embryogenesis of adult worms in normal development, there occurred lipid droplets and the degradation of embryos; reportedly signs of worm damage.
A comparison of Echinostoma trivolvis and E. caproni using random amplified polymorphic DNA analysis
Authors: Fujino T. , Takahashi Y. , Fried B.
Published: June 2009

The random amplified polymorphic DNA polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) technique was applied to two closely-related echinostome species, Echinostoma trivolvis and E. caproni, to demonstrate interspecffic polymorphisms of genomic DNA. Band patterns generated using five individual primers showed that these two echinostomes were genetically distinct, although they share genomic DNA to some extent.
Stage-specific development of a filarial nematode (Dipetalonema dracunculoides) in vector ticks
Authors: Olmeda-García A.S. , Rodríguez-Rodríguez J.A.
Published: June 2009

This paper reports the development of the canid filarial worm,Dipetalonema dracunculoides, in the brown dog tick,Rhipicephalus sanguineusby determining whether development is similar within larval, nymphal and adult stages of infected ticks. This study demonstrates that only infected nymphal ticks can support the complete development of the filarial worm. Infected larval ticks are not suitable intermediate hosts, nor are infected adults. Development depends on some stage-specific property of the vector, and the maturation to the infective stage is stimulated during the course of the nymphal-adult moult.
Cytochemical observations on cholinergic, serotoninergic and peptidergic neuronal pathways in Cephalochlamys namaquensis
Authors: Mckay D. M. , Halton D. W. , Johnston C. F. , Shaw C. , Fairweather I.
Published: June 2009

The localization and distribution of cholinergic, serotoninergic (5-HT, serotonin) and peptidergic components of the nervous system of adult Cephalochlamys namaquensis (Cestoda: Pseudophyllidea) have been determined using enzyme histochemical and immunocytochemical techniques interfaced with light and confocal scanning laser microscopy. All three classes of neuroactive substance showed a similar pattern of staining, occurring extensively throughout the central and peripheral nervous systems of the parasite. There were some minor regional differences in staining, suggesting specific roles for certain classes of neurone, and nerve cell bodies were most evident following immunostaining for serotonin. The general overlap in the distribution of staining may be indicative of some co-localization of neurotransmitter and/or neuromodulatory substances.