{"title":"Spatial Heterogeneity of <i>CYP9K1</i> Gene Overexpression Driving Cross-Resistance to Insecticide in <i>Anopheles</i> Mosquitoes Across Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.","authors":"Obinna Chukwuemeka Nwinyi, Kehinde Favour Siyanbola","doi":"10.1155/japr/7708566","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/7708566","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Insecticide resistance in <i>Anopheles</i> mosquitoes poses a growing challenge to malaria elimination efforts across sub-Saharan Africa, threatening the continued effectiveness of frontline interventions. Among the metabolic mechanisms driving resistance, the cytochrome P450 monooxygenase gene <i>CYP9K1</i> has been increasingly associated with detoxification and cross-resistance to multiple insecticide classes, particularly pyrethroids. This review assessed spatial heterogeneity in <i>CYP9K1</i> overexpression (log₂ fold change) in cross-resistant <i>Anopheles</i> mosquito populations across sub-Saharan Africa. This systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, drawing data from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, BioMed Central, and Google Scholar (2015-2025). Random-effects models using restricted maximum likelihood (REML) estimation were applied in JASP, alongside subgroup, sensitivity, and publication bias analyses. Out of 17,163 retrieved records, 11 studies met the inclusion criteria, representing data from six sub-Saharan African countries. The pooled log<sub>2</sub> fold change for <i>CYP9K1</i> expression was 1.910 (95% CI: 1.274-2.545; <i>p</i> < 0.001), confirming significant upregulation in resistant mosquito populations. Subgroup analyses further revealed that <i>CYP9K1</i> overexpression followed a similar trend across countries, with no statistically significant differences observed between the countries (<i>p</i> > 0.05). This consistency suggests that the same <i>CYP9K1</i>-linked resistance mechanism may be spreading across different ecological and geographic regions, possibly through gene flow or shared selection pressure from insecticide use. These findings highlight <i>CYP9K1</i> as a key metabolic marker conferring cross-resistance among <i>Anopheles</i> mosquitoes. The integration of <i>CYP9K1</i> molecular surveillance into national vector control programs will strengthen early detection of resistance hotspots, inform insecticide rotation policies, and support the development of next-generation long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) incorporating synergists or nonpyrethroid active ingredients. This evidence-based approach could guide tailored resistance management strategies essential for sustaining malaria control gains across sub-Saharan Africa.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"7708566"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13238507/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148199236","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":"African Trypanosomiasis Research at a Crossroads: Bibliometric and Systematic Insights for the Future.","authors":"Israel Ogwuche Ogra, Jeremiah Zaphnathpaaneah Adaji, Emohchonne Utos Jonathan, Benita Kenechukwu Nwajiani, Samson Usman, Alexander Kurovsky, Kodjovi Sossou, Emmanuel Oluwadare Balogun","doi":"10.1155/japr/9018223","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/9018223","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Aim: </strong>Despite a reduction in the overall incidence and prevalence in the last two decades, trypanosomiasis continues to be a public health concern in Africa. This study was designed to comprehensively evaluate current trends in trypanosomiasis research using bibliometric approaches to uncover emerging topics and knowledge gaps, thereby guiding future investigations, particularly in Africa.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Relevant articles were systematically selected from the Scopus-retrieved dataset and analyzed using Microsoft Excel, VOSviewer, and the Bibliometrix software. A total of 4036 documents were analyzed.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The results revealed the involvement of 8849 authors, 696 sources, and an annual growth rate of 3.52%. A period of rapid increase in trypanosomiasis research was observed after 1973. Kenya and Nigeria were the leading countries in African trypanosomiasis research. The most relevant affiliation was Ahmadu Bello University, Nigeria, whereas the most relevant and impactful sources were the <i>Acta Tropica and PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases</i>, respectively. Similarly, <i>Buscher, P</i>. emerged as the most relevant and impactful author in the field. Some notable keywords observed are <i>trypanocidal agents</i>, <i>prevalence</i>, <i>parasitemia</i>, and <i>polymerase chain reaction</i>. Furthermore, themes such as <i>antitrypanosomal</i> and <i>molecular docking</i> represented the recent research interests.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study provides a comprehensive overview of research output and evolution on trypanosomiasis in Africa and highlights critical ways forward in combating the disease, such as the One Health approach, strengthening health systems and capacities, and improving diagnostic and surveillance tools across African nations in addressing African trypanosomiasis. These findings are crucial for directing future research on African trypanosomiasis.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"9018223"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13240390/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148199004","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}
Abbas Mohammed Ahmed Al-Azab, Yousef A J Fadladdin, Saeed M N Alasmari, Adel Mohammed Redhwan
{"title":"Mechanical Transmission of Protozoan and Helminthic Parasites by Synanthropic Flies in Sana'a, Yemen.","authors":"Abbas Mohammed Ahmed Al-Azab, Yousef A J Fadladdin, Saeed M N Alasmari, Adel Mohammed Redhwan","doi":"10.1155/japr/4095876","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/4095876","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Nonbiting flies, particularly <i>Musca domestica</i> and <i>Sarcophaga haemorrhoidalis</i>, are widely recognized as potential mechanical vectors of intestinal parasites. This study investigated the role of these flies in transmitting parasitic organisms in Sana'a City, Yemen, where poor sanitation may facilitate such transmission. From June to August 2023, 300 flies were randomly collected from six locations in Sana'a City, including markets, garbage sites, fish-selling areas, and butcher shops. Flies were trapped using sticky ribbons and sweep nets, then transferred to sterile tubes containing 3 mL of saline. Morphological identification was performed using standard keys. To isolate parasites, flies were washed in saline, centrifuged, and examined microscopically using iodine staining. The parasites were identified based on standard morphological characteristics. Of the 300 flies examined, 195 (65%) carried intestinal parasites. Infection was more prevalent in <i>M. domestica</i> (74%) than in <i>S. haemorrhoidalis</i> (45%). Nine parasitic species were identified on the external surfaces, comprising three protozoan cysts-<i>Entamoeba coli</i> (40%), <i>E. histolytica</i> (55%), <i>Giardia</i> spp. (53%)-and six helminths-<i>Ascaris lumbricoides</i> (28%), <i>Enterobius vermicularis</i> (20%), <i>Taenia</i> spp. (5%), <i>Hymenolepis nana</i> (35%), <i>Trichuris trichiura</i> (5%), and <i>Strongyloides stercoralis</i> larvae (3%). The highest infection rate (87%) was recorded in flies from Bab Al-Yemen, whereas the lowest infection rate (20%) was recorded at the Sana'a University Campus. This study confirmed that nonbiting flies in Sana'a City can carry a range of intestinal parasites on their external surfaces, posing a public health risk. Improved hygiene and further studies on the carriage of internal parasites are warranted.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"4095876"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13201255/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148042663","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":"Epidemiology of Bovine Trypanosomiasis in Abe Dongoro District, Western Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.","authors":"Abdu Muhammed, Mitiku Wamile, Negasa Tamasgen, Belay Beyene, Megarsa Gemechu","doi":"10.1155/japr/6290672","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/6290672","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background and aims: </strong>Bovine trypanosomosis is a major protozoan disease constraining cattle productivity in sub-Saharan Africa. This cross-sectional study is aimed at determining the prevalence and associated risk factors of bovine trypanosomosis in the Abe Dongoro district, Western Ethiopia.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study was conducted between June 2023 and October 2023. A total of 520 randomly selected indigenous cattle were examined using buffy coat and Giemsa-stain thin smear techniques for parasitological and hematological analysis. Packed cell volume (PCV) was measured to assess anemia. Data were analyzed using chi-square tests, independent <i>t</i>-tests, and multivariate logistic regression.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The overall prevalence of bovine trypanosomes was 20.96% (109/520; 95% CI:17.6-24.7). <i>T. congolense</i> was the predominant species (39.45%; 95% CI: 30.8-48.7), followed by <i>T. vivax</i> (24.77%; 95% CI: 17.8-33.3), <i>T. brucei</i> (22.02%; 95% CI: 15.1-30.8), and mixed infections (13.6%; 95% CI: 8.3-21.6). The prevalence was significantly higher in cattle with a poor body condition (AOR = 3.12; 95% CI: 1.82-5.34; <i>p</i> < 0.001), of adult age (AOR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.06-3.29; <i>p</i> = 0.041), and with a black coat color (AOR = 8.94; 95% CI: 4.78-16.72; <i>p</i> < 0.001). Anemia (PCV < 24) was present in 21.54% (112/520) of cattle, with parasitemic animals showing significantly lower mean PCV (mean difference = 6.5 percentage points; <i>t</i> = -20.55; <i>p</i> < 0.001).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Bovine trypanosomiasis remains a major constraint to cattle health and productivity in the Abe Dongoro district, highlighting the need for sustained vector control, routine screening, and integrated disease management strategies.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"6290672"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13197834/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148016127","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}
Tadesse Duguma, Surafel Fikadu, Sintayehu Kochito, Hayat Mohammed, Fikre Demango
{"title":"Prevalence of Malaria and Soil-Transmitted Helminths and Associated Factors Among Pregnant Women Visiting Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Ethiopia.","authors":"Tadesse Duguma, Surafel Fikadu, Sintayehu Kochito, Hayat Mohammed, Fikre Demango","doi":"10.1155/japr/2720965","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/2720965","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>The most common parasitic diseases in underdeveloped countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), are malaria and soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection, which primarily affect pregnant women and children under five.</p><p><strong>Objective: </strong>To determine the prevalence and associated factors of malaria and STH infections among pregnant women at Mizan-Tepi University Teaching Hospital (MTUTH), Southwest Ethiopia, between March 1 and June 30, 2024.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study was carried out among 330 pregnant women who attended an antenatal clinic at MTUTH between March 1 and June 30, 2024. Blood and stool samples were collected using a systematic random sampling procedure following the acquisition of signed informed consent. A standardized pretested questionnaire was utilized to gather clinical and sociodemographic information. Epi-data and SPSS Version 27.0 were used for data entry and analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to assess the associated factors. Statistical significance was set at a <i>p</i> value of less than 0.05.</p><p><strong>Result: </strong>A prevalence of 25.2% (83/330) was recorded for malaria, and STH infections were identified among 29.4% (97/330) of pregnant women who participated, with <i>Ascaris lumbricoides</i> having the highest prevalence among the helminths. Residence (rural) and occupational status (farmer) showed statistically significant associations with malaria infection (AOR = 2.011; <i>p</i> = 0.024) and (AOR = 4.801; <i>p</i> = 0.048), respectively, whereas presence of stagnant water and use of insecticidal residual spray showed an association with malaria infection (AOR = 2.150; <i>p</i> = 0.008) and (AOR = 1.756; <i>p</i> = 0.047), respectively. Handwashing practice before meals and after toilet showed statistically significant association with STH infection (AOR = 6.468; <i>p</i> = 0.002) and (AOR = 8.826; <i>p</i> = 0.001), respectively.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The high burden of malaria and STH among pregnant women highlights the need for integrated antenatal interventions, including early ANC attendance, health education, sanitation improvements, and preventive measures like insecticide-treated nets and deworming, which would substantially lower these infections and improve maternal and fetal outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"2720965"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13191788/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148016105","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}
Muhi-Deen Wonwana Mohammed, Yussif Owusu Aboagye, Akwasi Anyanful, Samuel Kyei, Kwame Kumi Asare
{"title":"Evidence Gaps and Global Patterns in Leishmaniasis Control: A Scoping Review of Clinical, Diagnostic, and Treatment Strategies.","authors":"Muhi-Deen Wonwana Mohammed, Yussif Owusu Aboagye, Akwasi Anyanful, Samuel Kyei, Kwame Kumi Asare","doi":"10.1155/japr/8882865","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/8882865","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease with diverse clinical forms, heterogeneous geographical distribution, and persistent diagnostic and treatment challenges. Although substantial primary research exists, evidence remains fragmented, limiting integrated and context-specific control strategies. This scoping review synthesizes global evidence on disease distribution, diagnostic performance, and treatment outcomes, and identifies critical evidence gaps.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Four electronic databases were searched for studies published between January 2000 and January 2026. Data were synthesized narratively. A total of 118 studies were included in the review, of which 75 were analyzed to assess the geographical distribution of Leishmaniasis, while the remaining 43 studies were used to evaluate diagnostic tools and treatment outcomes.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Seventy-five studies from 53 countries were included. Cutaneous leishmaniasis was reported in 58 studies (77.3%) and was the most geographically widespread form, whereas visceral leishmaniasis was reported in 26 studies (34.7%) and showed marked focality, particularly in East Africa, South Asia, and Brazil. Molecular diagnostics demonstrated superior performance, with PCR and qPCR sensitivities ranging from 89% to 100% and specificities from 57% to 100%, depending on target gene and sample type. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification showed sensitivities of 89.7%-95% and specificities of 63.6%-100%. In contrast, microscopy showed lower sensitivity (32.8%-80.8% for cutaneous and 44%-67% for visceral leishmaniasis) but high specificity (> 95%). Serological tests and rapid diagnostic tests performed well for visceral leishmaniasis, with rK39-based assays showing sensitivities of 78-96.4% and specificities of 93%-97%, and direct agglutination tests achieving sensitivities of 97.3%-99.1% and specificities of 97.5%-98.8%. Fewer than one-third of studies evaluated operational feasibility. Liposomal amphotericin B achieved the highest cure rates for visceral leishmaniasis, whereas antimonials remained the most frequently used treatment for cutaneous disease. Relapse was predominantly reported in visceral leishmaniasis.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Leishmaniasis exhibits substantial global heterogeneity, with molecular diagnostics offering high analytical accuracy but limited real-world deployment. Addressing operational constraints and integrating emerging technologies are critical priorities for strengthening global leishmaniasis control. Molecular and antigen-based diagnostics offer improved accuracy but remain underutilized in resource-limited settings. Effective treatment is complicated by toxicity, cost, and relapse. Expanding diagnostic capacity, optimizing treatment protocols, and strengthening surveillance systems are criti","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"8882865"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13191776/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148016089","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}
Irdayanti Irdayanti, Hijral Aswad, Puji B S Asih, Ismail E Rozi, Herdiana Herdiana, Ajib Diptyanusa, Helen D Prameswari, Yenni Yusuf, Bahrani Bahrani, Najdah Hidayah, I Made Artika, Din Syafruddin
{"title":"The Impact of <i>pfmdr1</i> Gene Copy Number on the Efficacy of Dihydroartemisinin-Piperaquine in Treating Malaria in West Sumba and Kupang Districts, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.","authors":"Irdayanti Irdayanti, Hijral Aswad, Puji B S Asih, Ismail E Rozi, Herdiana Herdiana, Ajib Diptyanusa, Helen D Prameswari, Yenni Yusuf, Bahrani Bahrani, Najdah Hidayah, I Made Artika, Din Syafruddin","doi":"10.1155/japr/1352732","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/1352732","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The efficacy of antimalarial treatment, particularly artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), continues to face persistent threats due to the development of drug resistance in <i>Plasmodium falciparum</i>. Although artemisinin derivatives remain effective, ACT regimen failure often results from decreased efficacy of the companion drug. Therefore, robust molecular surveillance focusing on genetic markers associated with companion drug resistance is essential to maintain global efficacy. The combination of dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DHA-PPQ) has long been used as first-line therapy and has proven effective; however, reports of resistance to piperaquine (PPQ) in Southeast Asia are cause for concern. The study is aimed at evaluating copy number variation (CNV) of the <i>Plasmodium falciparum multidrug resistance-1</i> (<i>Pfmdr1</i>) gene as part of a descriptive molecular surveillance approach in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. A total of 41 dried blood spot (DBS) samples from patients with <i>falciparum</i> malaria treated with DHA-PPQ were analyzed. The DNA extraction was performed using the QIAamp DNA Mini Kit, and CNV of the <i>Pfmdr1</i> gene was determined by real-time PCR. The phenotypes of all 41 patients showed a good treatment response, with 100% adequate clinical and parasitological response (ACPR) on Day 42. Analysis of the <i>Pfmdr1</i> gene CNV identified 36 isolates (87.81%) with <i>a single copy</i> and 5 isolates (12.19%) with <i>multiple copies.</i> These findings indicate genetic variation related to selective pressure against PPQ. While DHA-PPQ remains clinically effective in East Nusa Tenggara for now, the presence of these genetic markers necessitates a proactive surveillance strategy to detect shifts in drug sensitivity before widespread clinical failure occurs.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"1352732"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13191822/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"148016095","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}
Peyman Bagherzadeh, Seyed Mohammad Mousavi, Amir Tavakoli Kareshk, Mahmoodreza Behravan, Davod Javanmard
{"title":"Molecular Identification of <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> Isolates From Spontaneous Abortion Placentas in Women in Eastern Iran.","authors":"Peyman Bagherzadeh, Seyed Mohammad Mousavi, Amir Tavakoli Kareshk, Mahmoodreza Behravan, Davod Javanmard","doi":"10.1155/japr/4639653","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/4639653","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong><i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> is a globally prevalent protozoan parasite associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including miscarriage and congenital abnormalities. This study investigated the molecular presence of <i>T. gondii</i> in placental tissues from women with spontaneous abortion and explored potential associated risk factors in Birjand, Eastern Iran.</p><p><strong>Materials and methods: </strong>A total of 100 placental or fetal tissue samples were collected from women with confirmed spontaneous abortion during 2022-2023. Genomic DNA was extracted and analyzed using nested PCR targeting the B1 gene of <i>T. gondii</i>. Demographic, obstetric, and behavioral data were also collected and statistically analyzed.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong><i>T. gondii</i> DNA was detected in 8% of samples. A significant association was observed between infection and contact with domestic animals, including pet care (<i>p</i> < 0.05). No significant relationships were identified with maternal age, place of residence, or prior abortion history (<i>p</i> > 0.05). Notably, all positive cases were identified in pregnancies beyond 8 weeks of gestation (<i>p</i> < 0.05), suggesting an increased detectability or susceptibility in later gestational stages.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>These findings indicate that <i>T. gondii</i> infection may contribute to a subset of spontaneous abortions in this region. The results highlight the importance of targeted preventive strategies, including improved hygiene practices and awareness regarding animal exposure. Further large-scale studies integrating both molecular and serological approaches are warranted to better elucidate the role of <i>T. gondii</i> in adverse pregnancy outcomes.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"4639653"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13184545/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147981972","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}
Sandra S Gyarteng Mensah, Brian Acheampong, Adrian Streit, John A Larbi
{"title":"Zoonotic Risk of Intestinal Parasites in Ghana's Protected Areas: A Nexus for Human-Nonhuman Primates-Dog Interactions.","authors":"Sandra S Gyarteng Mensah, Brian Acheampong, Adrian Streit, John A Larbi","doi":"10.1155/japr/4239782","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/4239782","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Intestinal parasites with zoonotic potential and the risk factors associated with their transmission pose a significant health threat to humans, nonhuman primates, and dogs living in or around protected areas. This study is aimed at determining the prevalence, species richness, and associated risk factors of the interaction between humans, nonhuman primates, and dogs in Boabeng Fiema, Mole National Park, and Shai Hills reserve resources. A cross-sectional study was used to collect stool samples and questionnaire data. The stool was analyzed using a formal ether sedimentation method, and a stratified questionnaire was used to assess the risk factors associated with the interaction between the three hosts in and around the three protected areas. Using R software, the chi-square test was used to evaluate the significance of associations with dog management, hygiene, and sanitation practices. Prevalence in humans was 10.56% in Boabeng Fiema, 44.94% in Mole National Park, and 58.13% in Shai Hills; dogs and nonhuman primates carried higher burdens (dogs: 89.59%, 82.14%, and 27.27%; nonhuman primates: 60.78%, 42.85%, and 47.72%, respectively). Hookworms and ascarids were the common parasites shared among all three hosts. Shai Hills recorded the highest species richness. Parasites identified in the study were strongylids, hookworms, <i>Ascaris</i> sp., <i>Balantidium</i> sp., <i>Diphyllobothrium</i> sp., <i>Entamoeba</i> sp., <i>Schistosoma</i> sp., <i>Trichuris</i> sp., <i>Taenia</i> sp., and <i>Hymenolepis</i> sp. Poor dog confinement, open defecation, inconsistent wearing of footwear, and suboptimal hygienic and deworming practices contributed to sustaining transmission. The high prevalence of intestinal parasites recorded in dogs and nonhuman primates should be treated as a public health threat. These results emphasise the urgent need to integrate intervention, using a One Health approach to minimise the zoonotic transmission of intestinal parasites in and around Ghana's protected areas.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"4239782"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13179750/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147963768","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}
Chet Raj Pathak, Deb Prasad Pandey, Prabhat Khanal
{"title":"Species Diversity and Geographical Distribution of Poultry Ascaridids: A Scoping Review.","authors":"Chet Raj Pathak, Deb Prasad Pandey, Prabhat Khanal","doi":"10.1155/japr/2396097","DOIUrl":"10.1155/japr/2396097","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Poultry nematodes, particularly Ascaridid species, significantly affect avian health and productivity and are widely distributed globally. Yet despite over 80% of poultry in developing countries being raised under extensive rearing systems, knowledge on infection risks posed by different poultry nematodes remains limited. This scoping review synthesizes the knowledge based on the evaluation of existing literature, consolidating insights into the diverse Ascaridid species infecting poultry and their distribution, thereby contributing to the broader comprehension and management of avian nematodes. We found a total of 11 nematode species infecting 8 host types having median prevalence of 24% (IQR: 41.07%-12%). <i>Ascaridia galli</i> and <i>Heterakis gallinarum</i> were the cosmopolitan nematodes reported with median prevalences of 28.75% and 17.20%, respectively. These nematodes almost have a cosmopolitan distribution with a potentiality of transmission between domesticated and across wildlife-poultry pathways. However, during this scoping review, analysis verifies that six <i>Ascaridia</i> and five <i>Heterakis</i> species are present in chickens worldwide, with Africa and Asia showing a higher prevalence of infection because of adopting long-standing free-range poultry farming. The occurrence and diversity of Ascaridid infections in poultry depend on geography, host type, diagnostic methods, and rearing practices, highlighting the need for effective disease management, biosecurity, and control of anthelmintic resistance.</p>","PeriodicalId":16662,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Parasitology Research","volume":"2026 ","pages":"2396097"},"PeriodicalIF":1.7,"publicationDate":"2026-05-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC13179451/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147963830","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}