bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dung-derived biological agents associated with reduced numbers of infective larvae of equine strongyles in faecal cultures
Authors: Bird J. , Larsen M. , Nansen P. , Kraglund H.O. , Grønvold J. , Henriksen S.A. , Wolstrup J.
Published: June 2009

Two sets of dung-derived organisms from soil routinely fertilized with manure (MA) and soil chemically fertilized (CH) were cultured separately in the laboratory. Baermannized organisms from these cultures were added to 20 g of faeces from strongyle-infected horses to form three treatment groups: (i) no soil organisms; (ii) low inoculum of soil organisms containing all organisms present in a suspension of approximately 100 adult female free-living nematodes; and (iii) high inoculum containing those soil organisms present with approximately 1000 adult female free-living nematodes. Three studies were conducted using MA cultures and faeces containing 50 strongyle epg, CH cultures and faeces containing 1500 strongyle epg, and a mixture of soil organisms from the two cultures (MC) and faeces containing 600 strongyle epg. Within each study, five control cultures and 15 each of low and high inoculum cultures were prepared and incubated at 24°C and 95% humidity in a climate chamber for 15 days. Parasitic and free-living nematodes were then recovered by the Baermann technique and counted. The numbers of third stage larvae were significantly lower in the high inoculum group compared to controls. The percent reductions in the number of third stage larvae for the low and high inoculum groups were 63.6% and 90.9%, 85.1% and 97.1%, 84.5% and 98.4% for MA, CH, and MC studies, respectively, indicating that mortality increased with the number of soil organisms added to cultures. Examination of the source cultures detected the presence of two species of nematophagous fungi and three genera of free-living nematodes reported to be predacious.
Studies on the rate of selective uptake of amino acids by Trichinella larvae in vivo
Authors: Alkarmi T. , Ijaz M.K. , Dar F.K. , Galadari S. , Alharbi S. , Alnaqib M. , Abdo S.
Published: June 2009

Groups of C57BL/6J mice, orally infected with 300 larvae each of Trichinella spiralis or T. pseudospiralis were injected with [3H]-alanine, tyrosine, tryptophan or glycine. The incorporation of isotope labelled amino acids into larval proteins was measured at 2, 6, and 12 months post-infection. It was shown that there is a significant increase in the in vivo uptake of isotope labelled amino acids with time by the larvae of T. spiralis and T. pseudospiralis. The level of uptake was highest for tyrosine followed by tryptophan, alanine and then glycine, for both species. The in vivo uptake of amino acids by T. pseudospiralis larvae was always higher than T. spiralis or the host at 6 and 12 months post-infection. At 2 months post-infection, T. spiralis uptake of these amino acids was higher, except for tyrosine. This may be related to the special needs of these larvae during the process of encystation. The higher metabolic requirements of T. pseudospiralis may be related to the higher energy needs of these non encapsulated, highly motile and mobile muscle larvae.
A New Filarial Worm from a North American Snake
Authors: Khanna R. K.
Published: June 2009

In the course of an examination of unidentified Zoological material in the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, I recently came across a species of filarial worm from the portal vein of a North American Snake, Coluber melanoleucus, which I name Macdonaldius seetai n.g., n.sp.
Quiescence and Reviviscence in Nematodes, with special reference to Tylenchus tritici and Tylenchus dipsaci.
Authors: Goodey T.
Published: June 2009

During the past few years the writer has had an opportunity of making observations on the quiescent larvæ of Tylenchus tritici occurring in galls from ears of wheat, and of examining certain resting stages of Tylenchus dipsaci from diseased Narcissus bulbs.
On the Intestinal Parasites of Sheep and other Ruminants in Scotland
Authors: Cameron T. W. M.
Published: June 2009

1. From an examination of over 700 sheep of Scottish origin a list of the parasites found in the intestinal tract has been prepared.

2. The commonest parasite found is Monodontus trigonocephalus, a worm which occurs also in goats and cattle. This parasite can be found at any season.

3. Nematodirus sp. also is extremely common during the warmer months.

4. From a systematic geographical examination of sheep it has been ascertained that Monodontus trigonocephalus occurs in every district in
Scotland ; and of 40 sheep examined in this part of the enquiry, 38 were found to be infected. Thirty specimens have been recovered from an apparently healthy sheep, but usually the number is much smaller (7–10).
Description of Capillaria leucisci, n.sp., found in the Intestine of Leuciscus phoxinus Linn.
Authors: Hesse A. J.
Published: June 2009

The nematode described in this paper was obtained from the minnow, Leuciscus phoxinus Linn. About 50 minnows were caught in Loch Lubnaig in Perthshire, Scotland. Only two specimens were infected, one with a single female, the other with two females and a male. The worms were found in the mucus of the posterior part of the intestine.
The Complement Fixation Reaction in Schistosoma japonicum with Cercarial Antigen prepared from Oncomelania hupensis
Authors: Andrews Mary N.
Published: June 2009

1. The preparation of a cercarial antigen from infected livers of Oncomelania hupensis the intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum in China is described.

2. The sera of 49 human beings and five dogs have been investigated for the Schistosome complement fixation reaction, using as antigens Bilharzial cercarial antigen, and an alcoholic extract of the livers of Oncomelania hupensis infected with cercariae of S. japonicum.

3. Thirty-seven of the 49 sera examined were from cases of Schistosomiasis, and of these 24 gave a positive complement fixation reaction, and 2 others a weak reaction.

4. Of the five dogs examined three were infected with Schistosoma japonicum. These gave positive reactions.

5. In 24 cases both antigens were used, and the results obtained were almost identical.

6. The Bilharzial antigen was used in 33 cases including 25 cases of Schistosomiasis, of which 19 gave a positive reaction.

7. In 40 cases the Oncomelania antigen was used. This series included 32 cases of Schistosomiasis of which 23 gave a positive reaction and 3 a weak positive reaction.

8. Negative results were obtained with 50 strongly positive Wasserman sera, and with 2 cases of infection with Fasciolopsis buski, and two cases of Clonorchis sinensis. Ascaris and hookworm infestations also gave negative results.
Experiments on the Control of “Potato-Sickness” by the addition of Certain Chemicals to Soil infected with Heterodera schachtii.
Authors: Hurst Richard H. , Triffitt Marjorie J.
Published: June 2009

1. Laboratory experiments have shown that solutions of ferric chloride, ferrous sulphate and chinosol, in sufficient concentration, have a lethal action on the larvae of H. schachtii. The vapours given off by potassium ethyl xanthate were also found to be lethal.

2. Each of these four chemicals was mixed with moist infected soil and the mixture left for a period. When the cysts were separated and placed in a solution of potato-root excretion, the numbers of larvae which hatched were reduced as a result of the chemical treatments, in the order: potassium ethyl xanthate, ferric chloride, chinosol, ferrous sulphate.

3. When ferric oxide was placed in a solution of root excretion containing cysts, the commencement of hatching was delayed.

4. Experiments on a very small field scale were carried out, the chemicals being applied chiefly to the rows in which potatoes were planted. The plants growing on the treated areas did not, in general, show marked symptoms of root-eelworm infection as did those on the control areas.

5. The yields of potatoes from each row are tabulated. The highest yields were obtained following the treatment with ferric oxide.
Hymenolepis chrysolampidis n. sp., a parasite of Chrysolampis mosquitus of Brazil
Authors: Clapham Phyllis A.
Published: June 2009

The material forming the basis of the following account was collected from a ruby-crested humming bird, Chrysolampis mosquitus, a native of Brazil. This bird died in the gardens of the Zoological Society of London and the parasites were forwarded for identification to Dr. R. T. Leiper, F.R.S., of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
The Occurrence of Haemonchus similis Travassos, 1914 in Cattle in Fiji
Authors: Donald A. D.
Published: June 2009

Haemonchus similis Travassos, 1914 is recorded from Fiji for the first time. The third stage infective larva of H. similis is briefly described. Attention is drawn to the similarity of this larva to that of H. contortus of sheep and some of the implications are discussed.
Comparative Studies on the Helminth Fauna of Native and Introduced Domestic Fowls in Ghana
Authors: Hodasi J. K. M.
Published: June 2009

1. One hundred and eight native domestic fowls and the same number of introduced birds were killed and examined for helminth parasites between July 1965 and April 1966.

2. Eighteen species of helminths were found in the native birds as opposed to ten in the introduced ones.

3. A detailed comparison of the incidence and intensity of is infection of the different species of parasites in each type of fowl given.

4. The frequency distribution of the number of species of helminths in both types of chickens follows a normal distribution, reflecting the multiple infection in the birds. The frequency distribution of the number of individuals of any one species approximately fits a negative binomial distribution.

5. In general, the native birds were found to be more heavily infected than the introduced ones. This is probably related to differences in host resistance, diet, sanitation and the type of poultry husbandry practised.
Susceptibilities of Cultivated and Weed Plants to the Sugar-beet Nematode, Heterodera schachtii Schmidt, 1871, in Southwestern Ontario
Authors: Mulvey Roland H.
Published: June 2009

In 1939 the sugar-beet nematode, Heterodera schachtii Schmidt, 1871, was found attacking the roots of sugar beets in the Blackwell district near Sarnia, Ontario. Studies were started in 1947 on the control and biology of this cyst-forming nematode, including the susceptibilities of various cultivated and weed plants to the nematode. Susceptibility was based on the presence or absence or degree of infestation of gravid white females on the roots.
On a New Cestode, Paradilepis maleki sp. nov. (Diplepididae), from a Sacred Ibis in the Sudan
Authors: Khalil L. F.
Published: June 2009

A new cestode, Paradilepis maieki sp.nov. is described from the intestine of a Sacred Ibis in the Sudan, and differentiated from the other nearer species.
Annulospira oculata gen. et sp. nov. (Nematoda: Thelaziidae) from India
Authors: Jairajpuri Durdana S. , Siddiqi Ather H.
Published: June 2009

Annulospira oculata gen. et sp. nov., belonging to the family Thelaziidae is reported from the orbital cavity of a parrot. It has coarsely annulated cuticle, well developed buccal capsule, narrow caudal alae, pedunculated cloacal papillae and a gubernaculum.
Nematodes from the Banks of Still and Running Waters. VI. Rhabditida from Sewer
Authors: Khera S.
Published: June 2009

Four new genera (each containing one new species) belonging to the order Rhabditida have been described from Jodhpur Sewer.Mesodiplogasteroidesn.g. (subfamily Diplogasterinae) is distinguished from the closely allied genusButleriusby the absence of setose papillae on the head and the presence of a rudimentary bursa in male.Operculorhabditisn.g. (subfamily Rhabditinae) is characterized by the presence of a flap-like, deciduous, cuticular operculum covering the vulva which is well posterior.Praeputirhabditisn.g. (subfamily Rhabditinae) is unique in possessing prepuce-like loose cuticle through which the tail can be protruded.Saprorhabditisn.g. (sub-family Protorhabditinae) has neither a glottoid apparatus nor a median oesophageal bulb but possesses an oesophageal collar. The genusMatthesonemais transferred to the subfamily Rhabditinae.Rhabditis(Rhabditella)octopleurais being recorded for the first time from India.
Onchocerca sweetae(Nematoda: Filarioidea): notes on the intermediate host
Authors: Spratt D. M. , Dyce A. L. , Standfast H. A.
Published: June 2009

Microfilariae ofOnchocerca sweetaeare broadly distributed in the superficial layers of the dermis of the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). A total of 2855 insects representing 20 species were collected fromO. sweetae-infected bait buffaloes. Only one species,Culicoidessp. “M”, ingested microfilariae from buffalo skin. Larval development ofO. sweetaewas observed in the thorax of this species. A total of 829 insects, representing 7 species and including 749 parousCulicoidesspp. were collected from light and Manitoba traps. Developing filarioid larvae were observed only inCulicoidessp. “M”. It is concluded thatCulicoidessp. “M” is a natural intermediate host ofO. sweetaein the Northern Territory of Australia.
The influence of physical factors on the behaviour and infectivity of miracidia of Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium II. Effect of light and depth
Authors: Prah S. K. , James C.
Published: June 2009

A striking was difference was found in the responses of Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium miracidia to the intensity and direction of light and to gravity. S. mansoni miracidia were found to be positively phototactic and sensitive to small changes in light intensities. They were indifferent to gravity. S. haematobium miracidia however were negatively phototactic and unable to distinguish low light intensities from darkness. They showed a strong positive geotaxis.

Both S. mansoni and S. haematobium miracidia could successfully find and infect snails to a depth of 2 metres of water: the significance of these findings in relation to transmission of schistosomiasis in the field is discussed.
Studies of the relationships between Schistosoma and their intermediate hosts. IV. The genus Bulinus and Schistosoma bovis from Morocco
Authors: Frandsen Flemming
Published: June 2009

Schistosoma bovis from Morocco was used in infection experiments with several populations of Bulinus truncatus. The snails from Libya, Malawi, Morocco and Senegal were very compatible with the schistosome since the infection rates were approximately 90%, the mortality was low, and a very high production of cercariae, approximately 1.2 million per 100 exposed snails, was observed. Only a very few B. truncatus (2n = 36) from Rhodesia became infected. B. permembranaceus and B. forskalii were refractory.
Echidnotaenia tachyglossi (Johnston) gen. et comb. nov. (Anoplocephalata: Linstowiidae) from the monotreme Tachyglossus aculeatus Shaw in Australia
Authors: Beveridge I.
Published: June 2009

Echidnotaenia gen. nov. (Anoplocephalata: Linstowiidae) is proposed for Cittotaenia tachyglossi Johnston, 1913 from the monotreme Tachyglossus aculeatus Shaw, 1792. The new genus is distinguished from other genera of the Linstowiidae by its paired genitalia and aporally extended vitellaria.
Immunofluorescent studies in filariasis: antibody levels in rats infected with the Malayan forest filaria, Breinlia booliati
Authors: Singh Mulkit , Kane G. B. , Yap Eu-Hian , Ho Beng-Chuan , Mak Joon-Wah , Kang Kim-Lian
Published: June 2009

Antibody levels were investigated in rats infected with Breinlia booliati using the indirect immunofluorescent antibody technique. Sonicated antigens were prepared from microfilariae and adult worms. Adult worm antigen was rather unsatisfactory. The sonicated microfilarial antigen was useful in detecting antibodies in various groups of rat sera. Very high antibody levels were seen in amicrofilaraemic rats harbouring unisexual infections of varying worm loads. The singnificance of these observations are discussed.
Inorganic elements in the adults of Haemonchus contortus (Nematoda: Trichostrongylidae)
Authors: Sood M. L. , Kapur Jyotika
Published: June 2009

Inorganic substances play a significant role in the physiology of parasites and their importance, especially to gastro-intestinal parasites, is also demonstrated by the influence of mineral deficiencies in the host's diet (see Von Brand, 1966).
Effect of high doses of gamma-irradiation on growth of Hymenolepis diminuta
Authors: Christie P. R. , Moqbel R.
Published: June 2009

Irradiation-attenuated helminth parasites have been used in protection against homologous challenge (reviewed by Cox, 1978). The exact dose of irradiation required to attenuate without loss of immunogenicity varies between different species; determination of the dosage and difinition of the effects of irradiation is therefore a vital preliminary step.
Aspects of the humoral response of laboratory white mice infected with the metacestodes of Taenia crassiceps
Authors: Chernin Jack
Published: June 2009

Two strains of laboratory white mice, CFLP and LACA, were infected with the metacestodes of Taenia crassiceps. The serum from each infected mouse was tested for antibodies on double-diffusion gel plates and the number of antigen-antibody precipitin lines formed related (a) to the duration of the infection and (b) to the volume of metacestodes. There was a significant increase in the number of antigen-antibody precipitins with regard to the time infected but not to the volume of metacestodes. The pattern of development of the antigen-antibody precipitation system was also examined.
Mesocoelium malayanum sp.n. (Digenea: Brachycoeliidae) in a frog, Rana macrodon Dumeril and Bibron 1941, from Malaysia
Authors: Palmieri James R. , Sullivan John T.
Published: June 2009

Mesocoelium malayanum sp.n. is described from the frog Rana macrodon, in Malaysia. Elongate body, broader anteriorly, measuring 1·900 (1·679–2·070) mm long by 0·404 (0·380–0·437) wide, tegument aspinose oral sucker 0·212 (0·200–0·228) by 0·202 (0·191–0·205), acetabulum 0·141 (0·132–0·150) by 0·139 (0·123–0·146), prepharynx present, oesophagus 0·115 (0·096–0·137), caeca reaching posterior ⅓ of body, anterior testis 0·097 (0·087–0·110) by 0·091 (0·087–0·100) dorsal to acetabulum, posterior testis 0·094 (0·087–0·101) by 0·092 (0·091–0·100), cirrus pouch 0·121 (0·111–0·130) by 0·047 (0·041–0·055), genital pore at left of midline of oesophagus just anterior to intestinal bifurcation, ovary 0·110 (0·091–0·127) by 0·089 (0·085–0·096) on left of body and posterior to acetabulum, vitelline glands with single follicles extending from intestinal bifurcation to ends of caeca, excretory vesicle I-shaped and eggs 0·040 (0·037–0·046) by 0·023 (0·022–0·024). Although morphologically related to M. maroccanum and M. meggitti, M. malayanum is considered to be a new species.
A new filarial nematode (Onchocercidae) from warthogs (Phacochoerus aethiopicus) of the Kruger National Park
Authors: Palmieri J. R. , Pletcher J. M. , De Vos V. , Boomker J.
Published: June 2009

Fifty-five warthogs [Phacochoerus aethiopicus (Suidae: Artiodactyla)] from the Kruger National Park, Republic of South Africa, were examined for parasites. Adult filarial nematodes were found in lymphatic vessels adjacent to peripheral and visceral lymph nodes, and microfilariae were found in lymph nodes and circulating blood. Both the adult parasite and the microfilaria are described. Specific identification is pending confirmation and recovery of intact adult specimens and microfilariae identical to those described herein.
Factors affecting the reliability of the McMaster technique
Authors: Dunn Alison , Keymer Anne
Published: June 2009

Factors detraction from the reliability of faecal egg counts based on the McMaster technique include variation in flotation time (interval between loading chamber and counting eggs) and sample dilution (ratio of faecal material to salt solution). We recommend standardization of both these variables as normal laboratory procedure, and propose optima of a 30 minute flotation time and a sample dilution of 15 ml salt solution/ g faeces for use of the McMaster technique in the estimation of the fecundity of Heligmosomoides polygyrus (Nematoda).
Inorganic elements in the adults of Ascaridia galli (Schrank, 1788)
Authors: Pandey K. C. , Choudhry Sangeeta
Published: June 2009

Inorganic analysis of Ascaridia galli has shown the levels of sodium, potassium, copper, magnesium, calcium, zinc, iron, nitrogen, phosphorus, sulphur, chlorine and cobalt (expressed as percentage of dry weight) to be higher in females than in males.
Genetic characterization of three species ofOnchocercaat 23 enzyme loci
Authors: Andrews R. H. , Beveridge I. , Adams M. , Baverstock P. R.
Published: June 2009

The technique of allozyme electrophoresis was applied to species ofOnchocercafrom cattle to increase the number of enzyme loci established and therefore provide a genetic basis for a rational species-level taxonomy. Twenty-three enzyme loci were established and provided unequivocal genetic evidence for the taxonomic validity ofOnchocerca gibsoni, O. gutturosaandO. lienalis. Furthermore, the diagnostic enzyme markers detected form the basis for identification of life-cycle stages, individuals and species and population structure analyses.
Immunodepression in hamsters experimentally infected with Opisthorchis viverrini
Authors: Wongratanacheewin S. , Rattanasiriwilai W. , Priwan R. , Sirisinha S.
Published: June 2009

Hamsters experimentally infected with Opisthorchis viverrini had significant depression of the antibody response to sheep red blood cells. The depression was more severe with prolonged infections. Lymphoproliferative response to phytohaemagglutinin stimulation was also depressed when compared with uninfected controls. The immunodepression in these animals was abolished by anthelmintic treatment, suggesting that the immunodepressive effect is reversible and is associated with active infection.
Schistosoma mansoni: vitelline gland development in females from single sex infections
Authors: Shaw M. K.
Published: June 2009

Vitelline gland development and incomplete parthenogenesis in 65-week-old female Schistosoma mansoni from single sex infections is described. Vitelline gland development was restricted to the extreme posterior end of each worm and the developed vitelline lobules showed the normal sequence of development and maturation. The ovary, however, was always in an immature state. Egg production occurred although the eggs were non-viable.

The results suggest that, whilst male stimulation is not necessary to initiate vitelline gland development and egg production, it appears to be essential for the complete maturation of the ovary. The possible importance of ovarian maturation to the production of viable eggs is discussed.
Effect of cyclosporin A and some derivatives in Litomosoides carinii-infected Mastomys natalensis
Authors: Zahner H. , Schultheiss Karin
Published: June 2009

Litomosoides carinii-infected Mastomys natalensis were treated 85 days post infection with cyclosporin A (CyA) or 8 derivatives with different immunosuppressive capacities. CyA (oral doses of 5x25 mg/kg. 5x50 mg/kg, 5x80 mg/kg on consecutive days) reduced parasitaemia levels in a dose dependent way, beginning 3 weeks after first drug administration. Using 5x50 and 5x80 mg/kg animals were free from circulating microfilariae on the day of necropsy (day 56). Derivatives were administered in 5 daily oral doses of 50 mg/kg. Compounds B–5–49 and G–7–53 had similar effects as CyA. Compounds A–4–16 and E–6–44 caused mean microfilaraemia reductions of about 80% until day 56. Compounds C–5–34, D–6–45, F–7–62 and H–7–94 were only marginally effective (10–40%). None of the drugs affected the number or the motility of adult worms. However, in the case of efficacious compounds the number of intrauterine microfilariae was considerably reduced and most of the intrauterine stages were pathologically altered. The efficacy of the various derivatives was independent of their immunosuppressive activity in vivo and in vitro, their anti-inflammatory activity and their activity against Plasmodium berghei. Effects on intrauterine stages were first detectable 7 days after treatment with 5x80 mg CyA/kg when the number of intrauterine microfilariae had decreased and the proportion of pathologically altered stages had increased. Alterations increased with time after treatment. Additionally, the uteri contained relatively large amounts of highly active microfilariae which were still included in an ovoid sheath. These stages seemed to try unsuccessfully to stretch their stiff sheath, and also degenerated by 35 days.
Identification of human hookworm in failed-treatment cases using Chinese hamsters (Cricetulus griseus) and scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Evans A. C. , Daly T. J. M. , Markus M. B.
Published: June 2009

An attempt was made to identify the human hookworm involved in failed-treatment cases using abnormal hosts and scanning electron microscopy. Thirty-seven, 2 to 6 month old Chinese hamsters (Cricetulus griseus) from a closed, outbred, conventional colony, were each given between 20 and 120 filariform larvaeper os. The larvae were cultured from faeces from mebendazole (Vermox®) 500 mg single-dose, failed-treatment cases living in the lowveld farming area of the Transvaal Province, South Africa. About 60 to 78 days after inoculation, the animals were killed and adult worms were removed from their small intestines. Eleven (30%) of the 37 hamsters harboured a total of 31 adult worms (19 males and 12 females), while 26 hamsters were refractory to infection. The greatest number of worms recovered from a single animal was six. A total of 27 worms (17 males and 10 females) were subjected to examination by scanning electron microscopy. Micrographs showed male and female worms to be morphologically all of theNecator americanusspecies, as identified by a pair of ventral and dorsal cutting plates, a dorsal tooth and the fused terminus of spicules in the male bursa. The transverse cuticular striations were distinct and smooth. Several points of interest arose from the results of this study and are discussed.
The daily cercarial emission rhythm of Schistosoma margrebowiei with particular reference to dark period stimuli
Authors: Raymond K. , Probert A. J.
Published: June 2009

The cercariae of Schistosoma margrebowiei showed two peaks of emergence from Bulinus natalensis in a 12 h light/dark cycle. Peak emission occurred at 0700 h (one hour after the onset of light) and at 1900 h (one hour after the onset of darkness). Both peaks were of equal magnitude and were maintained during constant illumination indicating that the rhythm is innate. Delaying or advancing the timing of the dark period did not affect the timing of these two peaks. Following a five minute dark treatment elevation in cercarial output resulted irrespective of when the treatment was applied. Subjecting snails to various intensities of light only resulted in an elevation in output when a sudden change in intensity from 0 to 360 Lux or the reverse was applied. No response was seen to a gradual change in light intensity although the parasite could detect a change in light from 1 to 0 Lux. These responses appear to optimize the chances of host parasite contact.
The use of lyophilizedSchistosoma mansonieggs as antigenic particles in a radioimmunoassay
Authors: Hamburger J. , Moscovici H. , Lustigman S.
Published: June 2009

Lyophilized eggs ofSchistosoma mansoni, when incubated briefly with serum from infected mice, bind antibodies, as made evident by subsequent binding of flurorescein labelled anti-IgG or125I-labelled protein A. On the basis of these findings, a radioimmunoassay was devised which employs whole lyophilized eggs (500 or 250 eggs/serum sample) as antigenic particles and125I-labelled protein A as a probe for antibody binding. Only 10 μl of serum are required to obtain 90% of the maximal binding. Kinetic studies indicated that 70% of the maximal seropositivity develops in mice between five and six weeks after a light infection, reaches a maximum at eight weeks and fluctuates around a high plateau thereafter. Pre-incubation of the test serum with soluble egg antigen (sea) considerably inhibits antibody binding to the eggs, suggesting that SEA-like antigens participate in the reaction.
Nematospiroides dubius: factors affecting the primary response to SRBC in infected mice
Authors: Ali Najah M. H. , Behnke Jerzy M.
Published: June 2009

Mice infected with Nematospiroides dubius were incapable of responding normally to i.p. or i.v. challenge with SRBC. The HA and PFC response to SRBC in infected animals was characterized by a severe depression of antibody to SRBC on day 4 and a reduced HA peak titre during the following week. The greatest depression of the response to SRBC was associated with an interval of 14 days between infection and the administration of antigen, suggesting that a particular stage of the parasite contributed significantly to immunodepression during this critical period. It was proposed that a combination of parasite induced damage to the intestine, release of parasite secretory/excretory products and loss of appetite by the host produced trauma during which the host was incapable of responding normally.

However, mice given low-level and long-standing infections also showed reduced responses to SRBC, although these animals were not severely depressed. It is possible that this generalized weakening of host immunocompetence is the inevitable consequence of a parasite mechanism which operates more specifically to suppress the expression of homologous immunity at the intestinal level.
Dipetalonema viteae and Brugia pahangi transplant infections in gerbils for use in antifilarial screening
Authors: Court J. P. , Stables J. N. , Lees G. M. , Martin-Short M. R. , Rankin R.
Published: June 2009

Transplanted infections of Dipetalonema viteae and Brugia pahangi have been evaluated as tools for experimental chemotherapy. Attempts were made to establish these filariae in similar pharmacokinetic sites within the same host, so that direct comparisons of in vivo drug susceptibilities could be made. Unfortunately, it was not possible to establish B. pahangi in the subcutaneous tissues, the preferred site of D. viteae. Therefore, intraperitoneal B. pahangi and subcutaneously implanted D. viteae in gerbils were used for the study. D. viteae infections were significantly enhanced by concomitant infections with B. pahangi, while B. pahangi infection rates were unaffected by the presence of D. viteae. Experiments with amoscanate, CGP6140 and Mel W demonstrated the importance of employing both B. pahangi and D. viteae for antifilarial discovery work and the fundamental effect of parasite location on drug efficacy. D. viteae rapidly migrate from the peritoneal cavity of gerbils following implantation; twenty one hours after infection 73% of transplanted worms were found in the subcutaneous tissues. It was shown that the migration response could be used as a stringent parameter for demonstrating antifilarial activity. D. viteae were exposed to antifilarial drugs for 24 hours in vitro, washed and implanted into the peritoneal cavity of gerbils. At autopsy, 5 days later, 10−8M ivermectin and milbemycin D had prevented migration; CGP6140, amoscanate, suramin, flubendazole and furapyrimidone were also detected at <10−6M using this parameter. In all cases the migration response was more sensitive to drugs than parasite kill. Ivermectin's ability to inhibit worm migration through the tissues is discussed, with respect to the role of itinerant males in the reproductive cycle of Onchocerca volvulus.
Specific cross-immunity betweenHymenolepis nanaandH. diminuta: immunization with heterologous and homologous light infections
Authors: Gabriele F. , Wakelin D. , Palmas C.
Published: June 2009

The consequences of previous and concurrent infection with two related species of cestodes,Hymenolepis nanaandH. diminuta, were studied in CD1 mice. AH. diminutainfection strongly affected the establishment and the survival of a secondaryH. nanaegg or cyst infection administered 30 days later. An infection of 20H. nanaeggs strongly protected against a 5-cystH. diminutachallenge, whereas an infection of 10H. nanacysts was ineffective; 20H. nanaeggs also protected against a challenge with 5 cysts ofH. diminutaadministered 5 days later. No effects were observed in either parasite during a concurrent infection established by administration of cysts. AnH. nanaegg-infection was unable to affect the establishment of a secondaryH. nanacyst-infection given 1 month later; however a significant decrease in growth was found. Similar results were found when a primaryH. nanaegg-infection was followed 5 days later by the homologous cyst-infection. But an infection with 5H. nanacysts was unable to protect against a homologous challenge of 5 cysts or 20 eggs. The reciprocal cross immunity between the heterologous parasites and the failure of protection of homologous challenges are discussed in relation to light infections.
Host age and the growth and fecundity of Hymenolepis diminuta in the rat
Authors: Quinnell R. J.
Published: June 2009

Five, 20, and 80 cysticercoid infections of Hymenolepis diminuta were established in 1-, 2- and 5-month-old male Wistar rats. Worm numbers, dry weights and egg outputs were determined on day 28 post infection. Worm recovery was found to be independent of cysticercoid dose in 1-month-old rats, but density-dependent in older rats. Density dependence affected both worm dry weight and egg production in all 3 age classes of host studied. However, at the highest dose both dry weight and egg production were significantly decreased in 2- and 5-month-old rats compared with 1-month-old rats. The results cannot be explained solely in terms of competition for a resource, and suggest that immunological mechanisms may have an important role in the “crowding effect”.
Chemotherapy of Onchocerca lienalis microfilariae in mice: a model for the evaluation of novel compounds for the treatment of onchocerciasis
Authors: Townson Simon , Dobinson A. , Connelly C. , Muller R.
Published: June 2009

The model of Onchocerca lienalis microfilariae (mf) injected into inbred CBA/Ca mice was studied for its usefulness as an additional primary/secondary drug screen for onchocerciasis. Invermectin, DEC, suramin, flubendazole, mebendazole, levamisole, Mel W, furapyrimidone, metrifonate, amoscanate and the new Ciba-Geigy compounds CGP 6140, CGP 20'376 and CGI 17658 all significantly reduced levels of mf at a dose of 5x100 mg/kg or less. An early dosing protocol, on days 3–7 after infection, was found to be generally more effective than dosing on days 11–15, followed by necropsy on day 18. In some cases there were important differences in levels of drug activity depending on whether the drug was administered by the subcutaneous or oral route, indicating that new compounds should be tested via both routes. Ivermectin was by far the most active compound examined, virtually clearing mf from the skin at a dose of 5x0.0063 mg/kg and producing a significant mf reduction (63.5%) at 5x0.008 mg/kg following subcutaneous administration. In comparison, DEC was much less active, producing a 32.4% mf reduction at 5x25 mg/kg ranging up to a maximum of 72% reduction at 5x100 mg/kg. CGI 17658 was the most active compound examined next to ivermectin, almost 100% effective against skin mf at a dose of 5x6.25 mg/kg via the oral route while being less effective via subcutaneous administration (65% reduction). The lowest effective dose examined was 5x3.13 mg/kg (per os) which reduced mf levels by 64%. CGP 20'376 was also very active, resulting in a 46% (subcutaneous) and 62% (per os) reduction at a dose of 5x6.25 mg/kg. This mouse model has clearly identified all the known microfilaricides examined and also, to a lesser extent, those compounds considered to be principally macrofilaricides. We believe it has value as an additional drug screen for onchocerciasis, which will enable the evaluation of novel compounds against skin-dwelling Onchocerca mf at the primary/secondary level, providing complementary information to new in vitro screens using adult Onchocerca.
The capability of the predacious fungusArthrobotrys oligospora(Hyphomycetales) to reduce numbers of infective larvae ofOstertagia ostertagi(Trichostrongylidae) in cow pats and herbage during the grazing season in Denmark
Authors: Grønvold J. , Nansen P. , Henriksen S. A. , Thylin J. , Wolstrup J.
Published: June 2009

Artificially prepared cow pats containingOstertagia ostertagieggs were deposited on two pasture plots in May, June and July 1986. Half of the cow pats, placed on one plot, were inoculated with 2000 conidia per gram faeces of the predacious fungusArthrobotrys oligospora. On the other plot fungus-free control cow pats were placed at the same time. In the faeces generally fewer infectiveO. ostertagilarvae developed in the inoculated than in the control cow pats. On the herbage around the control cow pats deposited in May, June and July a maxium concentration of infective larvae was found at the same time on the 6th of August 1986. At that time the herbage larval infectivity around inoculated cow pats deposited in May, June and July was subject to a reduction of 48%, 89% and 46%, respectively, compared with fungus-free control cow pats. This experiment indicates that a concentration of 2000A. oligosporaconidia per gram faeces results in a significant lowering of the herbage larval infectivity during the grazing season in Denmark.
Effects of infection with Angiostrongylus cantonensis on the circulating haemocyte population and the haematopoietic organ of the host snail M-line Biomphalaria glabrata
Authors: Noda S. , Sato A.
Published: June 2009

The number of circulating haemocytes, the size of the haematopoietic organ, and the size of haemocyte capsules around the parasite were studied in M-line Biomphalaria glabrata snails exposed to 100 or 400 first-stage larvae of Angiostrongylus cantonensis. The number of haemocytes in exposed snails increased significantly at 1 day post-exposure, decreased to control value, and then increased again. The decrease in number of circulating haemocytes is probably due to the removal of cells from the circulation to participate in encapsulation of larvae. The majority of circulating haemocytes in M-line B. glabrata are fully-spread granulocytes, which increase significantly in number in snails following exposure to A. cantonensis larvae. However, populations of partially-spread granulocytes, round cells, hyalinocytes and miscellaneous haemocytes were relatively constant. The size of capsules around the parasite increased during the 42-day interval of the experiment. The haematopoietic organ increased in size in response to infection.
Characterization of glucose uptake by Trichuris globulosa (Nematoda) in vitro
Authors: Jasra Nisha , Sanyal Sankar N. , Khera S.
Published: June 2009

14C-glucose uptake by adult Trichuris globulosa is found to be a non-linear function of time and limiting substrate concentration. The uptake is a two component process, an initial rapid burst is followed by a lower steady state, implying a mediated process. The uptake is dependent on Na+ ions which cannot be replaced by K+, Li+ or choline. The uptake is also dependent on pH, being maximal at pH 7·4. 14C-glucose absorption is markedly inhibited by glucose, phlorizin, ouabain and to a smaller extent by a number of monosaccharides and other sugar-phosphates, nucleosides and metabolic inhibitors like p-nitrophenyl phosphate and iodoacetate. The inhibition constant for glucose, phlorizin and ouabain has been found to be 8 mM, 5 mM and 7 mM, respectively. A modified Dixon-plot shows that glucose is a completely competitive inhibitor for 14C-glucose uptake while the nature of competitive inhibition of phlorizin and ouabain are found to be partial.
A probable case of vertical transmission of Onchocerca volvulus microfilariae
Authors: Anosike J. C. , Onwuliri C. O. E.
Published: June 2009

A probable case of vertical transmission of Onchocerca volvulus microfilariae in Dass Bauchi State, Nigeria is presented. A 28-week-old male child delivered by a 39-year-old Fulani woman suffering from onchocerciasis was positive for O. volvulus microfilariae based on skin snip examinations. The child had general pruritic rash and intermittent fever. Although the child's skin snip on re-examination five weeks later was positive, the fever had gradually subsided.
Isoenzymatic pattern of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase from Ascaris suum
Authors: Cutillas C. , Rodriguez B. , German P. , Guevara D.
Published: June 2009

The isoenzymatic pattern of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (abbreviation G6PD) from Ascaris suum has been studied by vertical polyacrylamide gel (PAGE) and horizontal starch gel electrophoresis. After polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, two stained zones could be identified. One corresponded to tetrazolium oxidase activity; since this zone was stained even in the absence of glucose 6-phosphate (G6P), non-specific staining could be detected. In the other zone of activity, seven regularly-spaced bands were identified by staining in the presence of G6P and NADP as substrates. By using starch gel electrophoresis, different electrophoretic patterns for G6PD have been observed in the muscular sac, intestine and reproductive system from A. suum. The existence of three different alleles of G6PD in the same individual suggests the existence of at least two genes for this enzyme.
The infection characteristics of the antelope schistosomes, Schistosoma margrebowiei and S. leiperi, in inbred BALB/c mice and in Mastomys coucha
Authors: Dettman C.D. , Higgins-Opitz S.B.
Published: June 2009

Detailed studies were carried out to assess the infection characteristics of the antelope schistosomes in BALB/c mice and Mastomys coucha. Both schistosome species reached sexual maturity in these hosts. However, they differed markedly in terms of egg production rates and preferred sites of tissue egg deposition. Tissue egg deposition commenced between 4 and 5 weeks in the case of Schistosoma margrebowiei and between 6 and 7 weeks in the case of S. leiperi. Tissue egg accumulation rates of S. leiperi were calculated to be 334 and 311 eggs/gravid worm pair/day in mice and M. coucha, respectively. The fecundity of S. margrebowiei was found to be substantially greater (approximately 5 times; daily output ranging from 1600–1900 eggs/gravid worm pair). While S. leiperi infections remained relatively stable in both hosts during the study period (i.e. up to 15 weeks after onset of egg laying), S. margrebowiei infections were observed to deteriorate rapidly in M. coucha.
Further evaluation of a perfusion technique for the recovery of Dictyocaulus viviparus from bovine lungs
Authors: Andrews S.J. , James F.M.
Published: June 2009

A further modification of a lung perfusion technique was evaluated by examining the recovery rate of 14-day-old Dictyocaulus viviparus worms from the excised lungs of 15 dead bovine calves. Up to 89% of the total number of worms found in 12 l of perfused fluid was recovered in the first 4 l collected. The application of this observation will increase the efficiency of the routine laboratory diagnosis of D. viviparus infection.
The minimum effective dose of praziquantel in treatment of Hymenolepis diminuta in rats
Authors: Fan P.C. , Ito A.
Published: June 2009

To determine the minimum effective dose of praziquantel against Hymenolepis diminuta in rats, 5.0 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 1.0 mg/kg, 0.5 mg/kg, 0.1 mg/kg, or 0.05 mg/kg praziquantel were given to each of five experimentally infected rats in six groups. Faecal samples from each rat were examined for worms on day 10. Based on the results of faecal examination and autopsy, the minimum effective dose of praziquantel against Hymenolepis diminuta in rats was determined to be 0.5 mg/kg.
The effects of the presence and absence of intestinal contents on survival, size and distribution of Echinostoma caproni in ICR mice
Authors: Kaufman A.R. , Fried B.
Published: June 2009

Fifteen female ICR mice, 6–8 weeks old, were each exposed to 25 metacercarial cysts of Echinostoma caproni. To determine the effects of withholding food on survival, size and distribution of E. caproni in ICR mice, two groups of five each were maintained without food for 1 day (group A) or 2 days (group B) prior to necropsy. Group C consisted of five mice maintained with food for the duration of the experiment. All mice were necropsied at 12 days postinfection. There was no significant difference in worm survival, body area or distribution between group A and C or group B and C mice. The results of this experiment show that short-duration removal of food has no effect on worm survival, size or distribution of E. caproni adults in the small intestine of the ICR mouse.
Comparison of restriction fragment length polymorphisms of ribosomal DNA betweenDiphyllobothrium nihonkaienseandD. latum
Authors: Matsuura T. , Bylund G. , Sugane K.
Published: June 2009

Restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) were compared betweenDiphyllobothrium latumandD. nihonkaienseusing seven kinds of restriction endonucleases. No intra-specific variation in restriction fragment profiles was shown within both species ofDiphyllobothrium. Digestion of the genomic DNA with three endonucleases, Smal, Hinfl and Hhal, provided one or two different bands between two species, although the hybridization patterns generated with the others, Hindlll, Xbal, Styl and Haelll, were the same in both. RFLPs in the digested profiles with Smal, Hinfl and Hhal could be used as species-specific markers even if only fragments of strobilae with morphological similarity were available. Other cestodes,Spirometra erinaceiandTaenia saginata, used as controls showed quite different restriction fragment patterns with all the enzymes used.
The expulsion of Echinostoma trivolvis: worm kinetics and intestinal reactions in C3H/HeN mice treated with dexamethasone
Authors: Fujino T. , Ichikawa H. , Fried B. , Fukuda K.
Published: June 2009

C3H/HeN mice were each infected with 40 Echinostoma trivolvis metacercarial cysts on day 0, given intramuscular injections of dexamethasone (DEX) daily for 30 days, and necropsied on days 5, 8, 12, 15, 20 and 30 p. i. Control mice were each infected with 40 echinostome cysts on day 0, but were not treated with DEX and necropsied on the same days as the DEX-treated mice. DEX treatment caused an inhibition of worm expulsion and suppressed the increase in goblet cell numbers that peaked around day 12 p. i. in the untreated control mice. Increase in the number of mucosal mast cells and eosinophils in the control mice that peaked around day 15 and 12 p. i., respectively, was also suppressed by the DEX treatment. The mean body area of the worms from the DEX-treated mice was about the same as that of the control worms on day 5 p. i., and then significantly greater than the control worms on days 8 and 12 p. i. The worms in the treated mice continued to grow until the end of the experiment, on day 30 p. i. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed that serum IgM from the treated and control mice increased from day 12 p. i., peaked on day 15 p. i., and then decreased. An IgM titre of the treated mice was slightly higher than that of the controls. No marked rise in IgG and IgA titres occurred throughout the experiment in both groups.
Nematode population genetics
Authors: Viney M.E.
Published: June 2009

Population genetics seeks to understand the genetic relationships within and between populations of a species and the processes that generate these patterns. Little is known about the population genetics of parasitic nematodes. This is a notable gap in our knowledge since understanding the population genetic patterns and processes of parasitic nematodes has profound implications for our ability to fully understand this important group of pathogens. For example, it is only possible to begin to understand how a parasite population will respond to an imposed selection pressure (such as an anthelmintic drug, a vaccine, or resistant hosts) when the population genetic structure and patterns of gene flow of that population is known. Equally, the epidemiology of many nematode parasites is well known empirically and theoretically, yet this epidemiological information is of limited use without a good understanding of the genetic structure of those populations (Anderson & May, 1992).