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Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal... Sep 2020Nitrate ( ) supplementation is an effective methane (CH ) mitigation strategy for ruminants but may produce nitrite ( ) toxicity. It has been reported that rumen...
Nitrate ( ) supplementation is an effective methane (CH ) mitigation strategy for ruminants but may produce nitrite ( ) toxicity. It has been reported that rumen protozoa have greater ability for and reduction than bacteria. It was hypothesised that the absence of ruminal protozoa in sheep may lead to higher accumulation in the rumen and a higher blood methaemoglobin (MetHb) concentration. An in vivo experiment was conducted with defaunated (DEF) and faunated (FAU) sheep supplemented with 1.8% in DM. The effects of rumen protozoa on concentrations of plasma and ruminal and , blood MetHb, ruminal volatile fatty acid (VFA) and ruminal ammonia (NH ) were investigated. Subsequently, two in vitro experiments were conducted to determine the contribution of protozoa to and reduction rates in DEF and FAU whole rumen digesta (WRD) and its liquid (LIQ) and solid (SOL) fractions, incubated alone (CON), with the addition of or with the addition of . The results from the in vivo experiment showed no differences in total VFA concentrations, although ruminal NH was greater (p < .01) in FAU sheep. Ruminal , and plasma concentrations tended to increase (p < .10) 1.5 hr after feeding in FAU relative to DEF sheep. In vitro results showed that reduction to NH was stimulated (p < .01) by incoming in both DEF and FAU relative to CON digesta. However, adding increased (p < .05) the rate of accumulation in the SOL fraction of DEF relative to both fractions of FAU digesta. Results observed in vivo and in vitro suggest that and are more rapidly metabolised in the presence of rumen protozoa. Defaunated sheep may have an increased risk of poisoning due to accumulation in the rumen.
Topics: Ammonia; Animal Feed; Animals; Diet; Dietary Supplements; Eukaryota; Female; Fermentation; Gastrointestinal Contents; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Nitrates; Nitrites; Rumen; Sheep
PubMed: 32333622
DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13365 -
Parasites & Vectors Jun 2023Dirofilariasis, the disease caused by Dirofilaria spp., and in particular by Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens in canines, occurs frequently in canids and... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Dirofilariasis, the disease caused by Dirofilaria spp., and in particular by Dirofilaria immitis and Dirofilaria repens in canines, occurs frequently in canids and felids, and occasionally in humans, in temperate, sub-tropical and tropical regions globally. Although highly effective, safe and convenient preventive medicines have been available for the treatment of dirofilariasis for the past three decades, the disease remains a major veterinary and public health concern in endemic areas. The insect vectors, host-parasite relationships and interactions of Dirofilaria spp. have received little attention in China, and there is very little information in English regarding the prevalence of dirofilariasis in animals and humans in the country. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the status of canine dirofilariasis in China based on the available literature in English and in Chinese.
METHODS
We systematically searched five databases for epidemiologic studies on the prevalence of canine dirofilariasis in China and finally selected 42 studies eligible for inclusion in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was performed using the random effects model in the meta package in R v4.2.1.
RESULTS
The random effects model gave a pooled and weighted prevalence of Dirofilaria infection among dogs in China in the past 100 years of 13.8% (2896/51,313, 95% confidence interval 8.2-20.4%) with a high level of heterogeneity (I = 99.5%).
CONCLUSIONS
Our analyses indicated that the prevalence of canine dirofilariasis in China has gradually declined, but that the range of Dirofilaria spp. has expanded. Older and outdoor dogs presented a higher rate of positive infection. The findings indicated that more attention should be paid to host factors for the effective control and management of this disease.
Topics: Animals; Dogs; China; Dirofilaria immitis; Dirofilaria repens; Dirofilariasis; Dog Diseases; Prevalence
PubMed: 37340314
DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05770-9 -
Parasitology Research Sep 2021Acanthamoeba spp. are among the most worldwide prevalent protozoa. It is the causative agent of a disease known as Acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful and severe... (Review)
Review
Acanthamoeba spp. are among the most worldwide prevalent protozoa. It is the causative agent of a disease known as Acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful and severe sight-threatening corneal infection that can lead to blindness. In recent years, the prevalence of Acanthamoeba keratitis has rapidly increased, growing its importance to human health. This systematic review aims to assess the distribution of Acanthamoeba sp. genotypes causing keratitis around the world, considering the sample collected type and the used identification method. Most of the cases were found in Asia and Europe. Not surprisingly, the T4 genotype was the most prevalent worldwide, followed by T3, T15, T11, and T5. Furthermore, the T4 genotype contains a higher number of species. Given the differences in pathology, susceptibility to treatment, and clinical outcome between distinct genotypes, it is essential to genotype isolates from Acanthamoeba keratitis cases to help to establish a better correlation between in vitro and in vivo activities, resulting in better drug therapies and successful treatment in cases of this important ocular infection.
Topics: Acanthamoeba; Acanthamoeba Keratitis; Cornea; Genotype; Humans
PubMed: 34351492
DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07261-1 -
Journal of Travel Medicine Feb 2023Blastocystis sp. is a worldwide-distributed protist colonizing the guts of humans and a great variety of animals. It is unclear whether it is just a commensal or an... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
BACKGROUND
Blastocystis sp. is a worldwide-distributed protist colonizing the guts of humans and a great variety of animals. It is unclear whether it is just a commensal or an infectious parasite that prompts eradication.The main objective of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of metronidazole in patients with gastrointestinal symptoms harbouring only Blastocystis sp. In addition, we explored whether Blastocystis subtype or concomitant parasitic infection detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) may influence treatment outcome.
METHODS
We included adults with persistent gastrointestinal symptoms (>14 days) visiting a primary care physician and in whom stool microscopy revealed only Blastocystis sp. Eligible patients were randomized to receive 10 days of metronidazole or placebo, followed by a crossover if still symptomatic. The primary outcome was normal stool consistency. Secondary outcomes were the changes in other abdominal symptoms (bloating, flatulence, abdominal pain, number of daily bowel movements) and general wellbeing. After the clinical phase of the study, Blastocystis subtypes were determined by PCR sequencing and stool samples were tested for 11 other protozoa with an in-house PCR.
RESULTS
We screened 581 outpatients for inclusion, of which 50 met the eligibility criteria. There was no difference in the primary outcome, nor any of the secondary outcomes between the subjects treated with metronidazole and placebo.The most frequent Blastocystis subtypes were ST4 (11/36) and ST2 (10/36). The in-house PCR was positive for other protozoa in 25% (10/40) of the patients. We identified Dientamoeba fragilis in 5, Entamoeba dispar in 3 and Cyclospora cayetanensis in 2 patients. Stratified analysis according to Blastocystis subtype or the presence of other protozoa showed no significant difference in treatment outcome with metronidazole or placebo.
CONCLUSIONS
Among patients infected with Blastocystis sp., metronidazole, compared with placebo, was not better in improving gastrointestinal symptoms, irrespective of subtype or microscopically undetected coinfection with other protozoa.
Topics: Adult; Animals; Humans; Blastocystis; Blastocystis Infections; Metronidazole; Pilot Projects; Gastrointestinal Diseases; Feces
PubMed: 36440639
DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taac143 -
Future Microbiology Jul 2020Currently, there is growing interest in the identification and purification of microbial lectins due to their involvement in the pathogenicity mechanisms of pathogens,... (Review)
Review
Currently, there is growing interest in the identification and purification of microbial lectins due to their involvement in the pathogenicity mechanisms of pathogens, such as and free-living amoebae. The Gal/GalNAc lectin from participates in adhesion, cytotoxicity and regulation of immune responses. Furthermore, mannose- and galactose-binding protein have been described in and , respectively and they also contribute to host damage. Finally, in , molecules containing mannose and fucose are implicated in adhesion and cytotoxicity. Considering their relevance in the pathogenesis of the diseases caused by these protozoa, lectins appear to be promising targets in the diagnosis, vaccination and treatment of these infections.
Topics: Amebiasis; Amoeba; Animals; Balamuthia mandrillaris; Entamoeba histolytica; Entamoebiasis; Glycoconjugates; Glycoproteins; Host-Parasite Interactions; Humans; Lectins; Naegleria fowleri; Vaccination; Virulence Factors
PubMed: 32716210
DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2019-0275 -
Turkiye Parazitolojii Dergisi Dec 2020Ocular parasitic infections, which lead to significant morbidity and mortality in particular areas, have been shifting from endemic areas to other regions due to... (Review)
Review
Ocular parasitic infections, which lead to significant morbidity and mortality in particular areas, have been shifting from endemic areas to other regions due to tourism, wars and migrations in recent years. This study aimed to review the parasitic factors related to the human eye and their geographical distribution, pathogenesis of the disease and the methods used in and studies conducted for its diagnosis. PubMed, MEDLINE and Google databases were researched and reviewed for relevant keywords in recent publications. Although such parasitic infections are rare in many parts of the world, they continue to be an important public health problem that affects human and animal health in places with poor health conditions. The distribution of ocular parasites and their spread to non-endemic areas are facilitated. The morbidity and mortality risks have been increasing due to the difficulties encountered by health personnel in the diagnosis of these parasitic infections. Defining them accurately and appropriately can save not only eyesight but also lives.
Topics: Animals; Eye Infections, Parasitic; Global Health; Humans; Parasites; Travel-Related Illness
PubMed: 33269567
DOI: 10.4274/tpd.galenos.2020.6710 -
Acta Tropica Jan 2021The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of intestinal helminths and protozoa in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and to estimate the influence of the... (Randomized Controlled Trial)
Randomized Controlled Trial
PURPOSE
The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of intestinal helminths and protozoa in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and to estimate the influence of the anti-parasitic therapy on the course of the disease.
METHODS
The study was conducted at the Research Institute of Epidemiology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases and Coloproctology Department of the Republic Clinical Hospital №1 of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Uzbekistan. One hundred UC patients and 200 healthy individuals were examined by triple coproscopy. Additionally, 20, 25 and 22 UC patients with Blastocystis infection were treated with nitazoxanide (1.0 g/day), mesalazine (1.5-2 g/day) or a combination of nitazoxanide (1.0 g/day) and mesalazine (≥1.5-2 g/day) for 14 consecutive days, respectively. Parasitological, clinical and endoscopic examinations were conducted before therapy, immediately after and 6 and 12 weeks after therapy completion.
RESULTS
The overall prevalence of helminths in UC patients and control individuals was not significantly different: 14±3.4% and 8.5±1.9%, respectively (OR: 1.7524; 95% CI: 0.8258 to 3.7186; P=0.1). Giardia lamblia was the most prevalent parasite in both groups, but the difference compared to the control was insignificant (OR: 0.4565; 95% CI: 0.2020 to 1.0318; P=0.05). A significantly higher prevalence of Blastocystis sp., Chilomastix mesnili and Iodamoeba butschlii in UC patients compared to control individuals was found (P<0.0005): 65.0%, 14.0% and 22.0%, respectively. During all follow-up periods, the clinical response and clinical remission were not statistically different between the groups (P>0.05). Mucosal healing immediately and 6 weeks after therapy with a combination of nitazoxanide with mesalazine was significantly better than with a monotherapy of nitazoxanide, respectively (P<0.05). UC patients treated with a combination of nitazoxanide with mesalazine showed better mucosal healing than in patients treated with a monotherapy of mesalazine (P>0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
Diagnosis of Blastocystis sp. should be introduced in the complex examination of UC patients. Further clinical studies are necessary for assessment of the efficiency of anti-Blastocystis therapy in UC patients.
Topics: Adult; Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; Antiparasitic Agents; Blastocystis; Blastocystis Infections; Colitis, Ulcerative; Drug Therapy, Combination; Female; Giardia lamblia; Humans; Intestines; Male; Mesalamine; Middle Aged; Nitro Compounds; Prevalence; Thiazoles; Treatment Outcome; Young Adult
PubMed: 33188747
DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105755 -
Acta Tropica Jul 2022Gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs), including helminths and protozoa species, are a major health problem in many parts of the world. About 3.5 billion people are affected...
Gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs), including helminths and protozoa species, are a major health problem in many parts of the world. About 3.5 billion people are affected by the parasites worldwide. GIPs are one of the leading causes of death among immunocompromised individuals and can cause serious clinical complications, especially in people with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/AIDS, hemodialysis patients, and transplant recipients. This study aimed to compare the prevalence of GIPs among immunocompromised patients and immunocompetent individuals in Lorestan province, West Iran. In the current study, with a sampling of 232 participants (114 hemodialysis, AIDS, and organ transplantation immunocompromised patients and 118 immunocompetent individuals as the control group), demographic characteristics and risk factors for GIPs were collected through a pre-designed questionnaire. Stool samples of patients and the control group were examined for GIPs using different diagnostic methods including direct smear (saline and Lugol's iodine), Ziehl-Neelsen staining, agar-plate culture, and concentration method (formalin ether sedimentation). To evaluate the relative status of the immune system, TCD4 cells were counted in the blood samples of the subjects by flow cytometry. The results were analyzed using SPSS 21 software, Fisher exact, and chi-square statistical tests. Multivariate modeling of the data was performed using logistic regression. The prevalence of GIPs in immunocompromised patients was more than twice that of immunocompetent individuals in the control group (42.06% vs. 17.79%). The most prevalent parasites identified among immunocompromised patients were Cryptosporidium sp. (27.1%), Blastocystis sp. (16.7%), and Entamoeba coli (14.6%) respectively. Cryptosporidium sp. had the highest frequency among hemodialysis patients (6.49%), AIDS patients (26.92%), and transplant recipients (18.18%) respectively. Patients with AIDS had the highest positive results for Cryptosporidium sp. followed by Microsporidia sp. (23.7%). In immunocompetent individuals, the highest prevalence of GIPs was related to Blastocystis sp and Trichomonas hominis (28.57%). Statistical analysis of the data showed that there was a statistically significant difference between various age groups regarding infection with GIPs so the highest rate of GIPs infection was observed in the age group lower than 50 years (P = 0.035). The statistical difference between the variable of location and infection with GIPs was insignificant but remarkable (P = 0.070). According to the results, it can be concluded that GIP is more common in immunocompromised patients than in immunocompetent individuals with cryptosporidium sp. predominance. Due to the favorable conditions of immunocompromised patients for GIPs and considering them as one of the important sources of parasitic infections and parasite transmission in society, control, prevention, and monitoring of their social behaviors along with health issues are inevitable.
Topics: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; Animals; Cross-Sectional Studies; Cryptosporidiosis; Cryptosporidium; Feces; Humans; Immunocompromised Host; Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic; Middle Aged; Parasites; Prevalence
PubMed: 35421383
DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106464 -
Parasites & Vectors Nov 2020Parasitic infections can cause many respiratory, digestive and other diseases and contribute to some performance conditions in equids. However, knowledge on the... (Review)
Review
Parasitic infections can cause many respiratory, digestive and other diseases and contribute to some performance conditions in equids. However, knowledge on the biodiversity of parasites of equids in Iran is still limited. The present review covers all the information about parasitic diseases of horses, donkeys, mules and wild asses in Iran published as articles in Iranian and international journals, dissertations and congress papers from 1931 to July 2020. Parasites so far described in Iranian equids include species of 9 genera of the Protozoa (Trypanosoma, Giardia, Eimeria, Klossiella, Cryptosporidium, Toxoplasma, Neospora, Theileria and Babesia), 50 helminth species from the digestive system (i.e., 2 trematodes, 3 cestodes and 37 nematodes) and from other organs (i.e., Schistosoma turkestanica, Echinococcus granulosus, Dictyocaulus arnfieldi, Parafilaria multipapillosa, Setaria equina and 3 Onchocerca spp.). Furthermore, 16 species of hard ticks, 3 mite species causing mange, 2 lice species, and larvae of 4 Gastrophilus species and Hippobosca equina have been reported from equids in Iran. Archeoparasitological findings in coprolites of equids include Fasciola hepatica, Oxyuris equi, Anoplocephala spp. and intestinal strongyles. Parasitic diseases are important issues in terms of animal welfare, economics and public health; however, parasites and parasitic diseases of equines have not received adequate attention compared with ruminants and camels in Iran. The present review highlights the knowledge gaps related to equines about the presence, species, genotypes and subtypes of Neospora hughesi, Sarcocystis spp., Trichinella spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, Blastocystis and microsporidia. Identification of ticks vectoring pathogenic parasites, bacteria and viruses has received little attention, too. The efficacy of common horse wormers also needs to be evaluated systematically.
Topics: Animals; Cestode Infections; Cryptosporidiosis; Equidae; Feces; Helminthiasis, Animal; Horse Diseases; Horses; Iran; Parasitic Diseases, Animal
PubMed: 33213507
DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04472-w -
Annals of Parasitology 2021Generally the most common blood parasites identified in cattle are protozoa in the genera Trypanosoma, Theileria, Babesia, and rickettsia in the genus Anaplasma. These... (Review)
Review
Generally the most common blood parasites identified in cattle are protozoa in the genera Trypanosoma, Theileria, Babesia, and rickettsia in the genus Anaplasma. These parasites can cause clinical symptoms and productivity loss which will therefore consequently in economic loss. At present, blood parasite infection in cattle often has poor treatment outcomes and there is an increase of reports which indicating that drug resistance may occur in treating infections. Trypanosoma vivax, T. congolense, and T. brucei have been reported for resistance to isometamidium chloride and diminazene aceturate drug. Babesia bovis is resistant to diminazene aceturate drug, and Anaplasma marginale and A. centrale are resistant to oxytetracycline drug. The most common methods for diagnosing drug resistance are block treatment, in vivo standardized drug sensitivity tests, and molecular tools. Drug-resistant causes a decrease in treatment performance, therefore, new methods have been developed for choosing appropriate treatment of blood parasitic infection including using a primary drug combined with other substance, using herbal extracts, or developing a new effective drug.
Topics: Animals; Cattle; Cattle Diseases; Drug Resistance; Parasitic Diseases; Trypanocidal Agents; Trypanosoma congolense; Trypanosomiasis, African
PubMed: 35247238
DOI: 10.17420/ap6704.374