Journal of Parasitology Research最新文献

{"title":"Schistosomiasis Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among School-Going Children Aged 5-14 Years in Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB), South Africa.","authors":"Maryline Vere, Wilma Ten Ham-Baloyi, Lucy Ochola, Opeoluwa Oyedele, Takafira Mduluza, Paula Melariri","doi":"10.1155/japr/6617259","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/6617259","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Schistosomiasis, a parasitic waterborne infection, remains a major public health challenge in disadvantaged regions, with schoolchildren (5-14 years) at high risk due to frequent water exposure. The study is aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to schistosomiasis among school-aged children in Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB) and examining how sociodemographic and environmental factors influence KAP outcomes.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 759 schoolchildren aged 5-14 years, enrolled in Grades 0-7. Data were collected using a structured, closed-ended, interview-administered questionnaire, which included sections on sociodemographic characteristics, clinical history, and KAP related to schistosomiasis. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed to evaluate associations and describe the data using R software (Version 4.3.1).</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Only 11% participants were aware of schistosomiasis, mainly learning from school (62%) or home (35%). Key environmental factors included urinating in rivers (44%), living near water bodies (21.1%), and swimming (11.3%). Knowledge and attitude scores showed a moderate positive correlation (<i>r</i> = 0.33; <i>p</i> < 0.001). Gender and grade level significantly influenced KAP scores, with males and older children (Grades 4-7) exhibiting better knowledge (<i>p</i> = 0.015), attitudes (<i>p</i> = 0.023), and practices (<i>p</i> = 0.001). Females had lower knowledge scores (<i>β</i> = -0.15; <i>p</i> = 0.018), while older children displayed fewer positive attitudes (<i>β</i> = 0.07; <i>p</i> = 0.038) and poorer practices (<i>β</i> = 0.11; <i>p</i> = 0.001).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Significant gaps in knowledge, poor attitudes, and inadequate hygiene practices highlight the need for targeted education and community-based strategies to improve KAP and reduce schistosomiasis risk in NMB schoolchildren.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"6617259"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-05-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13147206/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147839315","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"<i>Leishmania</i> RNA Virus and Its Impact on Drug Response and Clinical Outcomes in Leishmaniasis: A Comprehensive Review.","authors":"Azadeh Zolfaghari, Sarah Seyedyousefi, Zabihollah Shahmoradi, Erfan Zaker, Bahman Rahimi Esboei","doi":"10.1155/japr/9924037","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/9924037","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><i>Leishmania</i> RNA viruses (LRVs) have emerged as significant modulators of disease severity, therapeutic response, and clinical outcomes in various forms of leishmaniasis. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge surrounding LRV1 and LRV2, focusing on their taxonomy, molecular biology, epidemiological patterns, and pathogenic roles across <i>Leishmania</i> species. LRV1, predominantly infecting New World <i>Leishmania</i> (<i>Viannia</i>) species such as <i>L. guyanensis</i> and <i>L. braziliensis</i>, and LRV2, primarily associated with Old World species such as <i>L. major</i>, <i>L. tropica</i>, and <i>L. infantum</i> as viral endosymbionts, have both been associated with increased mucocutaneous dissemination, treatment failure, and disease relapse. Mechanistically, these viruses enhance parasite virulence through immune modulation-particularly via Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3)-leading to chronic inflammation and host tissue damage. The presence of LRV has been correlated with unresponsiveness to first-line treatments such as meglumine antimoniate and amphotericin B, especially in endemic regions. Furthermore, LRV may serve as a prognostic biomarker, and its detection could guide therapeutic decision-making in high-risk patients. The review also discusses emerging therapeutic strategies targeting viral components, such as capsid proteins and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, as well as vaccine development using recombinant viral antigens. Finally, it emphasizes the urgent need for expanded surveillance, standardized diagnostics, and deeper exploration of host-virus-parasite interactions to better understand the clinical and epidemiological impact of LRV-positive leishmaniasis.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"9924037"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-05-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13136598/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147839301","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Evaluation of the Antimalarial Potential of a Combination of <i>Terminalia macroptera</i> and <i>Erythrina sigmoidea:</i> In Vitro and In Silico Assays.","authors":"Tientcheu Noutong Jemimah Sandra, Noumedem Anangmo Christelle Nadia, Yamssi Cedric, Gamago Nkadeu Guy-Armand, Ngouyamsa Nsapkain Aboubakar Sidiki, Mounvera Abdel Azizi, Vincent Khan Payne, Haibo Hu","doi":"10.1155/japr/2472782","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/2472782","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background: &lt;/strong&gt;Due to the increasing resistance of malaria parasites to antimalarial drugs, medicinal plants are increasingly being employed to cure malaria. The purpose of this study is to establish the cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and antiplasmodial activity of a mixture of &lt;i&gt;Terminalia macroptera&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;Erythrina sigmoidea&lt;/i&gt; extracts, two plants that have been traditionally used together in the management of malaria in Cameroon's Western Region.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Methods: &lt;/strong&gt;The stem bark extracts of both plants were formulated according to established protocols. Previous studies reported the use of blends of &lt;i&gt;E. sigmoidea&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;T. macroptera&lt;/i&gt; in antiplasmodial assays employing established methods. Three combinations were used: 75% &lt;i&gt;T. macroptera&lt;/i&gt; and 25% &lt;i&gt;E. sigmoidea&lt;/i&gt; in Combination 1, 50% &lt;i&gt;T. macroptera&lt;/i&gt; and 50% &lt;i&gt;E. sigmoidea&lt;/i&gt; in Combination 2, and 25% &lt;i&gt;T. macroptera&lt;/i&gt; and 75% &lt;i&gt;E. sigmoidea&lt;/i&gt; in Combination 3. The in vitro antiplasmodial activity of the combinations against chloroquine-sensitive (3D7) and chloroquine-resistant (Dd2) &lt;i&gt;Plasmodium falciparum&lt;/i&gt; strains was evaluated by the SYBR green fluorescence-based assay. Antioxidant activity was evaluated by DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2picrylhydrazyl), FRAP free radical scavenging (ferric reducing antioxidant capacity), H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide), and NO (nitric oxide) radical scavenging. Cytotoxicity of the extracts was evaluated by using Vero cell line and human donor red blood cells (RBCs). Docking studies were conducted using the Schrodinger Maestro software.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Result: &lt;/strong&gt;Extracts of &lt;i&gt;E. sigmoidea&lt;/i&gt; and &lt;i&gt;T. macroptera&lt;/i&gt; were effective in all the three combinations. Being effective with IC&lt;sub&gt;50&lt;/sub&gt; values of 4.64 ± 0.09 &lt;i&gt;μ&lt;/i&gt;g/mL for the 3D7 strain and 4.67 ± 0.24 &lt;i&gt;μ&lt;/i&gt;g/mL for the Dd2 strain of &lt;i&gt;P&lt;/i&gt;. &lt;i&gt;falciparum&lt;/i&gt;, the third combination proved to be the most effective. The free radical scavenging activity of all the plant extracts was good. Against DPPH, FRAP, NO, and H&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;O&lt;sub&gt;2&lt;/sub&gt;, IC&lt;sub&gt;50&lt;/sub&gt; values for the combination were 510.3 μg/mL, 159.6 μg/mL, and undetermined, respectively. Plant extract Combination 3 was not cytotoxic in cytotoxicity assay with CC&lt;sub&gt;50&lt;/sub&gt; of 217.05 ± 0.21 &lt;i&gt;μ&lt;/i&gt;g/mL against Vero cells and reduced hemolysis compared with positive control. Phytochemical analysis of plant extract identified the existence of alkaloids, triterpenoids, tannins, quinones, saponins, flavonoids, and phenolics. Sigmoidin A, Bidwillon A, Abyssinone V, Flavogallonic acid, 3,4,5-tri-O-caffeoylquinic acid were the Top 5 ligands that had the highest docking scores. Compounds are docked to &lt;i&gt;PfDHFR&lt;/i&gt; because it is an essential enzyme, a validated antimalarial drug target, and docking provides mechanistic insight, resistance relevance, and predictive support for antiplasmodial activity.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Conclusion: &lt;/strong&gt;These findings suggest that the combination of ","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"2472782"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-05-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13136524/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147839258","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Seasonal Climate Drivers and Immunohematological Profiles of Malaria in Rohingya Refugee Camps, Bangladesh: A 4-Year Repeated Cross-Sectional Study.","authors":"Ashekul Islam, Maria Mehjabin Akhi, Akram Hossain, Pulak Kanti Palit, Nafsoon Rahman, Sunanda Baidya, Tabassuma Marzia Prome, Mishu Rahman, Afroza Sultana, Mohammed Mehadi Hassan Chowdhury, Md Shah Alam","doi":"10.1155/japr/6044433","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/6044433","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Malaria remains a critical public health challenge in southeastern Bangladesh, particularly in Cox's Bazar, where the mass displacement of over one million Rohingya refugees since 2017 has heightened transmission risks. The interplay of ecological fragility, overcrowded living conditions, and climatic variability underscores the need for a deeper understanding of malaria epidemiology in this high-risk setting.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A 4-year repeated cross-sectional study was conducted (2021-2024) in Camp No. 26, Teknaf, Cox's Bazar. A total of 582 participants were enrolled, comprising 486 individuals from the malaria-endemic refugee camp and 96 healthy controls from a nonendemic region. All were screened for <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i> and <i>Plasmodium vivax</i> using rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), with microscopy performed to confirm all RDT-positive cases and a subset of RDT-negative samples. Meteorological data (temperature, rainfall, and humidity) were obtained from regional weather stations. Serological profiling assessed total anti-<i>Plasmodium</i> antibodies, while hematological parameters including hemoglobin concentration, RBC and platelet counts, and ESR were measured. Correlation and regression analyses were employed to identify climatic predictors of malaria incidence and their associations with immunohematological changes.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Out of 582 individuals, 345 malaria cases were confirmed. Peak transmission occurred during the monsoon season (June-September), particularly in August. <i>P. falciparum</i> infections showed earlier and sharper peaks compared to <i>P. vivax</i>. Relative humidity demonstrated the strongest correlation with incidence (<i>r</i> = 0.724-0.77), followed by rainfall and temperature. Antibody titers were significantly higher in <i>P. falciparum</i>-positive individuals. Infected participants exhibited anemia, thrombocytopenia, and elevated ESR, with more pronounced alterations in <i>P. falciparum</i> cases.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study highlights the seasonal and species-specific nature of malaria transmission in Rohingya refugee camps, driven predominantly by climatic variables, particularly humidity. The observed serological and hematological alterations underscore their potential as biomarkers for surveillance. These findings advocate for climate-sensitive, species-specific malaria control strategies tailored to displaced populations.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"6044433"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13121911/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147774427","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Infections of Dwarf Tapeworm <i>Hymenolepis nana</i> (Cestoda: Hymenolepididae) and Its Associated Risk Factors Among Internally Displaced Children in Deynile District, Mogadishu, Somalia.","authors":"Mohamed Adam Mahamud, Nasteho Ali Isse, Abdirizaq Adan Ali, Abdikani Omar Salah, Ahmed Mahad Sheikh Mohamed, Jamal Hassan Mohamoud, Mohamed Hussein Adam, Bashiru Garba, Hodo Aideed Asowe, Arwa Elaagip","doi":"10.1155/japr/1526083","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/1526083","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Hymenolepis nana remains a major public health problem in areas with inadequate sanitation and limited access to healthcare. The infection is common in developing countries with high fecal-oral transmission rates. In Somalia, frequent internal displacement caused by conflict and natural disasters increases the vulnerability of children living in internally displaced person (IDP) camps.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>This study is aimed at determining the prevalence of <i>H. nana</i> infection and identifying associated risk factors among displaced children residing in IDP camps in the Deynile district of Mogadishu, Somalia.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March 2024 among children aged 6 months-15 years in two IDP camps: Iga-Daba Geey and Jilyaal. A total of 384 children were selected using a convenient sampling method. Data were collected through structured questionnaires covering sociodemographic information, hygiene practices, and potential risk factors. Stool samples were examined microscopically for <i>H. nana</i> eggs using the saline wet mount technique. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify statistically significant risk factors.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The overall prevalence of <i>H. nana</i> infection was 27.08%, with males being significantly more affected than females (<i>p</i> = 0.003). Children from Iga-Daba Geey had higher infection rates compared with those from Jilyaal (<i>p</i> = 0.004). Significant risk factors included large family size (> 5 members) (AOR = 6.96, <i>p</i> < 0.0001), playing on unclean grounds (AOR = 3.92, <i>p</i> = 0.030), fingernail biting (AOR = 3.25, <i>p</i> = 0.002), and consumption of unwashed vegetables and fruits (AOR = 8.16, <i>p</i> < 0.0001).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This study reveals a high prevalence of <i>H. nana</i> infection among children in IDP camps in Mogadishu. The findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions, including improved sanitation, hygiene education, and regular deworming programs, to reduce infection risks among displaced populations.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"1526083"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13112591/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147774391","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Prevalence and Infection Intensity of Soil-Transmitted Helminths and Schistosomiasis Among Preschool Children in Mainland Tanzania.","authors":"Kaunara Azizi, Analice Kamala, Devotha Mushumbusi, Francis Modaha, Tuzie Edwin, Ramadhani Mwiru, Mwanaidi Kafuye, Peter Kaswahili, Donath Tarimo, Germana Leyna","doi":"10.1155/japr/6492754","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/6492754","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) and schistosomiasis (SCH) are significant public health concerns in Tanzania, known to impair cognitive and physical development in young children. To effectively guide control programs, a comprehensive understanding of their current prevalence and intensity is essential. This cross-sectional study was aimed at determining the prevalence and intensity of STH and SCH infections and associated anemia among preschool children aged 12-59 months across seven agroecological zones in Tanzania. A total of 1612 children were examined using the Kato-Katz technique for <i>Schistosoma mansoni</i> and STH eggs, urine filtration for <i>Schistosoma haematobium</i> eggs, and the HemoCue photometer for anemia. Statistical associations were assessed using chi-square tests (<i>p</i> < 0.05). The prevalence of any STH infection was 4.82% (95% CI: 3.84-6.02), with hookworm being the most prevalent (3.56%; 95% CI: 2.63-4.55), followed by <i>Ascaris lumbricoides</i> (1.19%; 95% CI: 0.65-1.79) and <i>Trichuris trichiura</i> (0.07%; 95% CI: 0.01-0.37). The overall SCH prevalence was 0.90%, and 34.06% of children were anemic (95% CI: 31.78-36.41). All STH infections were of mild intensity, and among SCH cases, infection intensity was predominantly light, with only one child exhibiting a heavy <i>S. mansoni</i> infection. Children residing in rural areas exhibited a 2.57-fold higher likelihood of helminth infection compared to urban children (<i>p</i> < 0.001). While 85.2% of parents reported knowledge of helminthiasis, only 57.57% reported a history of deworming. The observed low prevalence of STH and SCH suggests a potential positive impact of the national deworming program. However, ongoing surveillance and regular evaluations are crucial to monitor program effectiveness, address persistent anemia, and optimize intervention strategies.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"6492754"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13100894/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147774375","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Congenital and Neonatal Malaria in Ethiopia: A Narrative Review.","authors":"Yemane Leake, Hindeya Hailu Hagos, Birhanu Kassie Reta","doi":"10.1155/japr/6152607","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/6152607","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Malaria remains a major public health problem in Ethiopia. Congenital malaria results from transplacental transmission of malaria parasites from mother to fetus before or during delivery, whereas neonatal malaria is acquired after birth, typically through mosquito bites within the first 28 days of life. Both conditions are associated with significant neonatal morbidity and mortality in endemic settings. Despite Ethiopia's high malaria burden, evidence on congenital and neonatal malaria remains fragmented and limited.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>This narrative review synthesizes the existing literature on congenital and neonatal malaria in Ethiopia, highlighting epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, management, and prevention, with the aim of informing clinical practice and guiding future research.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Published studies reporting congenital and neonatal malaria in Ethiopia were identified through searches of PubMed, Google Scholar, Medline, and grey literature sources. Evidence was synthesized narratively, with emphasis on patterns, themes, and clinical implications. All eligible studies identified through PRISMA-guided screening were incorporated into the synthesis.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Ten studies conducted in Ethiopia reported a total of 46 cases of congenital and neonatal malaria. <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i> was the predominant species (35 cases), followed by <i>Plasmodium vivax</i> (eight cases) and mixed infections (three cases). Forty cases were classified as congenital malaria, whereas six were neonatal malaria. Most reports were case reports or case series, reflecting the limited scope of available data.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Congenital and neonatal malaria in Ethiopia are under recognized despite the country's substantial malaria burden. <i>P. falciparum</i> is the dominant causative species. Greater clinical awareness, improved diagnostic vigilance, and larger epidemiological studies are urgently needed to better define disease burden and optimize prevention and management strategies for this vulnerable population.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"6152607"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13080498/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147698846","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Comparison of Th-2 Cytokines and Associated Gene Expression in Peripheral Blood of Resistant and Susceptible Garole Sheep Infected With <i>Haemonchus contortus</i>.","authors":"Ananta Hembram, Supradip Das, Soumitra Pandit, Surajit Baidya, Abhijit Nandi, Subhas Chandra Mandal, Shyam Sundar Kesh, Shamik Polley, Amlan Patra, Ayan Mukherjee, Ruma Jas","doi":"10.1155/japr/3052032","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/3052032","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Level of Th-2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) in serum and relative expression of associated cytokine genes (<i>IL-4</i>, <i>IL-5</i>, and <i>IL-13</i>) in peripheral blood along with other parameters of host resistance were compared between the resistant and susceptible Garole sheep infected with <i>Haemonchus contortus</i>. Resistant (<i>n</i> = 12) and susceptible Garole sheep (<i>n</i> = 12) were selected based on faecal egg count (FEC) and packed cell volume (PCV) and were divided into three equal groups: healthy control, infected resistant, and infected susceptible. Sheep of infected groups were orally challenged with infective larvae of <i>H</i>. <i>contortus</i> and then FEC, body weight, haemoglobin (Hb), PCV, peripheral eosinophil counts (PEC), and serum Th-2 cytokines concentration and associated gene (<i>IL-4</i>, <i>IL-5,</i> and <i>IL-13</i>) expressions were measured. Partial sequences of all the three cytokine genes were also analysed. Significantly (<i>p</i> < 0.05) lower FEC was observed in resistant sheep with no eggs in faeces from 31 to 35 DPI while the susceptible sheep continued to pass <i>Haemonchus</i> eggs through faeces till end of the study. Body weight, Hb, PCV, and PEC of resistant sheep were higher (<i>p</i> < 0.05) compared with susceptible sheep. Concentrations of Th-2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13) as well as expression all the genes (<i>IL-4</i>, <i>IL-5</i>, and <i>IL-</i>13) were found to be greater (<i>p</i> < 0.05) in resistant sheep on different days post infection. No single nucleotide variation was observed in either of the three genes that could be suggested to be responsible host resistance. In resistant sheep, increased eosinophilia, Th-2 cytokine concentration, and relative expression Th-2 cytokine genes in peripheral blood were observed synchronously with that of the elimination of parasites indicating the role of those components in resistance against <i>H</i>. <i>contortus</i> and this needs to be explored by examining local reaction in the abomasum of infected host.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"3052032"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13080255/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147698768","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Assessment of Pet Owners' Knowledge on Parasitic Infection in Sylhet City Corporation, Bangladesh.","authors":"Saiful Islam, Rakibul Hasan, Shofiqul Islam, Md Khairul Amin Rafi, Md Saruar Jahan Nayem, Onnapurna Roy, Tushar Kanti, Marjana Mowrin Jui, Muhammad Mujahidul Islam, Mohammad Sujaur Rahman, Md Mowdudul Hasan Talha, Real Datta, Kazi Mehetazul Islam, Saiful Islam","doi":"10.1155/japr/3031689","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/3031689","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Pets can contain parasites along with other infectious diseases. This survey investigates risk factors associated with pet owners' sociodemographic status and categorizes pet animals into different risk groups, as reported by their owners, in Sylhet City Corporation, Bangladesh. Data were collected using a preplanned questionnaire from cat and dog owners at different pet clinics. The responses provided details on pets' living conditions and classified them into one of the four levels of risk for ESCCAP infections (A, B, C, and D). The chi-square test examined associations between risk groups and the owners' sociodemographic factors. This study assessed 197 cat owners and 32 dog owners to assess their pets' risk of diseases using ESCCAP guidelines and its relationship with owners' sociodemographic factors. Among dogs, 50% were classified in the highest-risk group (D), requiring monthly deworming, while 54% of cats were in the lowest-risk group (A), reflecting reduced exposure to parasites. For dogs, significant associations were observed between risk groups and owners' education, gender, veterinary visits, and residency (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Among cat owners, owners' residency, responsibility, vet visits, and attitude toward pets are significantly associated with different risk groups (<i>p</i> < 0.05). Deworming compliance was higher among cat owners (55.83%) than dog owners (18.75%), though it remained suboptimal overall. Awareness of zoonotic diseases was low, with only 21.87% of dog owners and 25.38% of cat owners informed. The serious shortage of zoonotic awareness among pet owners forms the basis of the One Health challenges. This represents a major threat to public health owing to the intimate relationship between owners and vulnerable pets, such as 50% of dogs in group D. Vaccination rates were higher for cats (56.34%) than dogs (28.12%). Pets in urban areas faced lower risks than those in rural settings (<i>p</i> < 0.001), underscoring the role of environmental exposure. These findings emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive health education, better veterinary engagement, and targeted interventions to enhance parasite control and reduce zoonotic risks within the One Health framework.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"3031689"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13080500/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147698809","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Malaria: 11-Year Experience With Imported Cases at a German University Hospital and Epidemiological Trends Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic.","authors":"Patricia Mester, Claudia Kunst, Stephan Schmid, Katharina Zimmermann, Sigrid Bülow, Janine Rennert, Benedikt M J Lampl, Tobias Schilling, Martina Müller, Vlad Pavel","doi":"10.1155/japr/9333826","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1155/japr/9333826","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>By the mid-20th century, Europe eradicated endemic malaria. However, the significance of imported infections in nonendemic regions is growing. These cases often constitute the majority, can sustain transmission, trigger relapses, and increase mortality in these areas.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We conducted a retrospective, single-center study of patients with malaria treated at the University Hospital Regensburg located in the State of Bavaria, Germany, between 2012 and 2023. Our single-center epidemiological data were analyzed in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and compared with overall data from Bavaria, Germany, and Europe.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Fifty-eight patients with malaria were treated at a German university hospital. The median age at diagnosis was 37.5 years, with 65% of patients being male. A total of 31.6% of the patients required intensive care. This study revealed a survival rate of 98%. Only 17% had taken malaria prophylaxis, and <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i> was the causative agent in 96% of cases. The primary laboratory abnormality was thrombocytopenia. Germany reports a significant number of imported malaria cases annually. North Rhine-Westphalia is the most affected region. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted global malaria epidemiology, leading to a drastic decrease in malaria cases across Europe, including Germany.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Imported malaria remains rare in Europe. However, severe cases still occur, often requiring intensive care and resulting in high morbidity or even death. The diagnosis and management of malaria in nonendemic settings present a clinical challenge, and the delayed diagnosis is responsible for preventable deaths.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"9333826"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2026-04-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13058724/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147645609","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}