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This page shows you the most recent publications within this specialty of the MedWorm directory. This is page number 20.

Development of a multiplex PCR assay for simultaneous detection of Theileria annulata, Babesia bovis and Anaplasma marginale in cattle.
This study describes development and evaluation of multiplex and single PCR assays for simultaneous detection of Theileria annulata, Babesia bovis and Anaplasma marginale in cattle. Following in silico screening for candidate target genes representing each of the pathogens, an optimised multiplex PCR assay was established using three primer sets, cytob1, MAR1bB2 and bovar2A, for amplification of genomic DNA of T. annulata, A. marginale and B. bovis respectively. The designed primer sets were found to be species-specific, generating amplicons of 312, 265 and 166 base pairs, respectively and were deemed suitable for the deve...
Source: Experimental Parasitology - November 24, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Bilgiç HB, Karagenç T, Simuunza M, Shiels B, Tait A, Eren H, Weir W Tags: Exp Parasitol Source Type: research

Infections with Wolbachia, Spiroplasma, and Rickettsia in the Dolichopodidae and other Empidoidea.
Abstract Vertically transmitted reproductive parasites are both extraordinarily widespread and diverse in their effects on their invertebrate hosts. In addition to causing skewed population sex ratios via male-killing or feminization, such bacteria can further cause cytoplasmic incompatibility or parthenogenesis. Previous surveys show that the microbes Wolbachia and Spiroplasma are common in some dipteran families, e.g. Drosophilidae or Scathophagidae, and are known to be heritable symbionts and affect reproduction in the Diptera. However, little is known of Rickettsia infections and detailed surveys targeting othe...
Source: Infection, Genetics and Evolution - November 24, 2012 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: Martin OY, Puniamoorthy N, Gubler A, Wimmer C, Bernasconi MV Tags: Infect Genet Evol Source Type: research

Intramedullary hydatid cyst of the cervical spine
Senol , Mehmet Güney, Tekeli , Hakan Kendirli, Mustafa Tansel, Kaya , Serdar , Turhan Vedat, Sonmez Güner, Saracoglu , Meh Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology 2012 30(4):480-481Hydatid disease (Echinococcosis) is a common parasitic infection caused by Echinococcus granulosus mainly in sheep-raising areas of the world. Liver, lungs and brain are the predominantly involved organs. However, 0.5-1% of the hydatid disease involves the spine and in 90% of the cases it is confined to the bone and the epidural space. Although intramedullary involvement is extremely rare, in this report, we present a ...
Source: Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology - November 24, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: SenolMehmet GüneyTekeliHakan KendirliMustafa TanselKayaSerdarTurhan VedatSonmez GünerSaracogluMeh Source Type: research

Health and adult productivity: The relation between adult nutrition, helminths, and agricultural, hunting, and fishing yields in the Bolivian Amazon
Conclusions:These findings suggest that the effects of adult infection and nutritional stress may be less clearly identified outside of the context of wage labor. Further research linking adult physical activity levels and metabolic rates to productivity in diverse contexts is needed. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2012. © 2012Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Source: American Journal of Human Biology - November 24, 2012 Category: Biology Authors: S. Tanner, A. Rosinger, W.R. Leonard, V. Reyes‐García, Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Secrets of Manchester's mummies revealed by a trip to the hospital
Pioneering research brings new stories of Egyptian life and death to revamped Ancient Worlds gallery at city museumLate at night, when most of the hospital is quiet and dark, a van arrives, bringing very elderly neighbours of the Royal Manchester children's hospital: the mummies from the nearby university museum, come to have the secrets hidden within their ancient shrouds and bandages penetrated by the hospital's CT scanner.The children's hospital is regularly used because its scanner is less in demand than those of other nearby hospitals, and never at night except in dire emergencies. Some of the results are already on d...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - November 23, 2012 Category: Science Authors: Maev Kennedy Tags: Manchester The Guardian Museums Greater Manchester Culture Archaeology Egyptology Features UK news Science Source Type: news

Are urban chicken-keepers doing more harm than good?
This week it was suggested that the growing numbers of city dwellers keeping chickens were spreading disease and harming birds. But is it just bad blood on the part of big food producers?Billy, seven, brings me a book. "Have you seen this?" It is a well-worn copy of Keeping Chickens, with colour photos and illustrations on every page, several of them featuring attractive children shot against beautiful blue skies. On the table in the open-plan living space of his north London family home, the book falls open on a chapter headed "What to consider"."Ask yourself whether you are interested in keeping chickens for profit, self...
Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - November 23, 2012 Category: Science Authors: Susanna Rustin Tags: The Guardian Food & drink industry Farming Food security Society Food safety Animal welfare Features Animals Life and style Gardening advice Gardens Global development Environment Business Agriculture Science Source Type: news

Lagochilascaris minor Leiper, 1909 (Nematoda: Ascarididae) in Mexico: three clinical cases from the Peninsula of Yucatan.
Abstract Human lagochilascariasis (HL) is a parasite produced by Lagochilascaris minor Leiper 1909 that also can be found in cats and dogs. HL is considered an emerging zoonosis in the Americas, spreading from Mexico to Argentina, and the Caribbean Islands. The present paper describes three HL cases from the Peninsula of Yucatan, Mexico, recorded in the last decade. It describes the characteristics of the lesions and discusses the route of transmission in humans and particularly in the observed patients. PMID: 23152314 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de Sao Paulo - November 23, 2012 Category: Tropical Medicine Authors: Barrera-Pérez M, Manrique-Saide P, Reyes-Novelo E, Escobedo-Ortegón J, Sánchez-Moreno M, Sánchez C Tags: Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo Source Type: research

Effects of vitamin C supplementation on acute phase Chagas disease in experimentally infected mice with Trypanosoma cruzi QM1 strain.
Abstract The tissue changes that occur in Chagas disease are related to the degree of oxidative stress and antioxidant capacity of affected tissue. Studies with vitamin C supplementation did not develop oxidative damage caused by Chagas disease in the host, but other studies cite the use of peroxiredoxins ascorbate - dependent on T. cruzi to offer protection against immune reaction. Based on these propositions, thirty "Swiss" mice were infected with T. cruzi QM1 strain and treated with two different vitamin C doses in order to study the parasitemia evolution, histopathological changes and lipid peroxidation biomark...
Source: Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de Sao Paulo - November 23, 2012 Category: Tropical Medicine Authors: Marim RG, Gusmão AS, Castanho RE, Deminice R, Therezo AL, Jordão Júnior AA, Martins LP Tags: Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo Source Type: research

[Investigation of Anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG and IgM Antibodies in Beta Thalaseamia Major Patients in Aydın Province].
Conclusion: Although there is no significant statistical difference, we suggest that blood transfusion donors should be investigated for infectious agents such as Toxoplasma gondii. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 133-6). PMID: 23169154 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Karakaş S, Ozlem S, Tellioğlu AM, Ertabaklar H, Ertuğ S Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

[Evaluation of Serological Results of Patients with Suspected Toxoplasmosis Admitted to the Medical Parasitology Laboratory of Celal Bayar University Hospital between 2006-2010].
Conclusion: Raw meat consumption was detected as the most important risk factor in Toxoplasma infection. A decrease in anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies was detected in recent years considering the five years' serologic data, but toxoplasmosis remains important as a public health problem in Manisa. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 137-41). PMID: 23169155 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Bölük S, Ozyurt BC, Girginkardeşler N, Kilimcioğlu AA Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

[Research to investigate the human cystic echinococcosis with ultrasound and serologic methods and educational studies in different provinces in aydın/turkey].
Conclusion: This study is one of the small number of community-based studies about CE performed in Turkey, in which US was applied. Our results suggest that we need national control programs including a multi-sectorial collaboration to eradicate hydatidosis and effective actions to control cystic echinococcosis. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 142-6). PMID: 23169156 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Ertabaklar H, Dayanır Y, Ertuğ S Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

[Incidence of Intestinal Parasites Detected in the Department of Parasitology in Celal Bayar University Hospital between 2006 and 2010].
Conclusion: While Blastocystis spp., E. vermicularis and G. intestinalis were the most frequently detected intestinal parasites in our province, intestinal parasites still remain important despite advances in infrastructure in recent years. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 147-51). PMID: 23169157 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Düzyol D, Kilimcioğlu AA, Ozyurt BC, Ozkan H, Girginkardeşler N Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

[The prevalence of liver trematodes in equines in different cities of Turkey].
Conclusion: This study determinated the prevalance of the liver trematodes to be low in the equines, higher in donkeys than in horses and no clinical signs due to the number of parasites which cause helminthosis. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 152-5). PMID: 23169158 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Soykan E, Oge H Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

[Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior of People Living in Rural Areas of Erzurum about Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever].
Conclusion: The training of health workers and an increase in the efforts to make the community, especially the women, aware of this problem is ugently needed. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 156-9). PMID: 23169159 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Vançelik S, Avşar U, Aktürk Z Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

Laboratory Evaluation of the Effect of Egyptian Native Plants Against Some Parasitic Vectors.
Conclusion: Egyptian native plants continue to provide a wealth of potential sources for biologically active agents that may have a promising role in the production of safe, biodegradable eco-friendly and natural molluscicidal and insecticidal agents. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 160-5). PMID: 23169160 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Taher E, Mahmoud N, Mahmoud M Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

Egg Laying Site and Oviposition Pattern of Two Phthirapteran Species Parasitizing Red Whiskered Bulbul (Pycnonotus jocosus).
Conclusion: The ischnoceran louse, Brueelia guldum exhibits widespread oviposition sites while amblyceran louse, Menacanthus eurysternus shows restricted oviposition sites on the host body. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 166-8). PMID: 23169161 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Saxena AK, Arya G, Bansal N Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

[The First Record of Ornithocheyletia hallae Smiley, 1970 (Acariformes: Actinedida: Cheyletidae) and Its Prevalance on Pseudolynchia canariensis (Mcquart, 1840) (Diptera: Pupipara: Hippoboscidae) in Turkey].
Conclusion: It was detected that approximately one third of P. canariensis were infested with Ornithocheyletia hallae, and this acar species was recorded for the first time in Turkey in this study. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 169-73). PMID: 23169162 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Dik B Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

Metazoan Parasites of the Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L., 1758) from Tahtalı Dam Lake (İzmir).
Conclusion: The parasite species were new records for Tahtalı Dam Lake. Contracaecum sp. larvae were recorded for the first time from Cyprinus carpio in Turkey. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 174-7). PMID: 23169163 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Karakişi H, Demir S Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

Description of Rhynchocystis silvae sp. nov (Apicomplexa: Eugregarinida) From Metaphire peguana Rosa (1890) of Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Conclusion: A new gregarine parasite species is described. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 178-81). PMID: 23169164 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Sarkar S, Bandyopadhyay PK, Göçmen B Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

[Microscopic Examination of Vaginal Discharge Specimens for Trichomonas vaginalis and Other Micro-Organisms in 18-45 Age Group Women].
Conclusion: It is possible to say that, in spite of a definite diagnosis of trichomoniasis made by cultivation method, examining the vaginal smear by direct microscope also has an important role in the diagnosis of infection. Direct microscopic examination will help in deciding whether to begin the treatment of trichomoniasis. (Turkiye Parazitol Derg 2012; 36: 182-4). PMID: 23169165 [PubMed - in process]
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Keşli R, Pektaş B, Ozdemir M, Günenc O, Coşkun E, Baykan M, Baysal B Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

A Pediculid Case: Autosensitization Dermatitis Caused by Pediculosis Capitis.
Abstract Pediculosis capitis is a worldwide infestation caused by Pediculus humanus capitis ectoparasite that only lives on the hairs of the scalp. As a result of severe itching excoriation, secondary bacterial infection, cervical and occipital lymphadenopathy are seen frequently where, sometimes bite reaction, viral exanthema mimicking hypersensitivity eruption and conjunctivitis may occur. Hereby, with the presentation of a quite rarely seen pediculid case, characterized with common autosensitization dermatitis as an -id reaction to pediculosis capitis, the importance of exploring the source of the ...
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Takcı Z, Tekin O, Karadağ AS Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

[A case report: elephantiasis].
Abstract Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome (KTS) is a rare disease and a syndrome that is characterized by the triad of congenital port wine stains,venous malformations with or without varicose veins, bone or soft tissue hypertrophy. Lymphatic filariasis is a filarial disease which usually occurs with genital anomalies, pathologies associated with lymphedema or elephantiasis caused by a filarial infectious agent. In this case report, a 20-year-old male patient admitted to our clinic for diagnosis and treatment with right leg edema and lesions compatible with dermatological manifestations. In the list of diff...
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Karagöz E, Karaahmetoğlu G, Acar A, Turhan V, Oncül O, Görenek L Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

[A case of persistent urinary schistosomiasis transmitted through the lake Malawi].
Abstract There are only few urinary schistosomiasis cases reported from Turkey. These recently diagnosed cases are either associated with overseas journeys or observed in foreign citizens visiting our country as afflicted with disease from abroad. Our case was infected when working in Africa and was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the bladder by mistake at the outset. The patient, who had recovered after a single-day praziquantel therapy, applied to our clinic due to a relapse after 21 months, underwent therapy with praziquantel for the second time. This case was presented for discussion with...
Source: Turkish Society for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Yıldırmak MT, Simşek F, Gedik H, Kantürk A Tags: Turkiye Parazitol Derg Source Type: research

The behavioral immune system and social conservatism: a meta-analysis
Abstract: The behavioral immune system (BIS) is a cluster of psychological mechanisms (e.g., disgust) that have evolved to promote disease-avoidance (Schaller M. (2006). Parasites, behavioral defenses, and the social psychological mechanisms through which cultures are evoked. Psychological Inquiry, 17, 96–101). Recent evidence suggests that the BIS may promote avoidance of outgroup members, an historical source of contamination, by evoking social conservatism (Terrizzi JA Jr, Shook NJ, & Ventis WL. (2010). Disgust: A predictor of social conservatism and prejudicial attitudes toward homosexuals. Personality and Individual...
Source: Evolution and Human Behaviour - November 23, 2012 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: John A. Terrizzi, Natalie J. Shook, Michael A. McDaniel Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research

Detection of circulating antigen in serum of mice infected with Trichinella spiralis by an IgY-IgM mAb sandwich ELISA.
In this study, a sandwich ELISA based on IgY (egg yolk immunoglobulin) and IgM monoclonal antibody (mAb) against excretory-secretory (ES) antigens of Trichinella spiralis muscle larvae was developed for detection of circulating antigens (CAg) in serum from mice infected with T. spiralis. The IgY-IgM sandwich ELISA involved the use of chicken antibody IgY as a capture antibody and mouse IgM mAb 5A7G4 as a detecting antibody. This assay was able to detect as little as 1ng/ml of ES antigens added to normal mouse serum. Two groups of BALB/c mice infected with T. spiralis larvae were used: heavily infected mice (20 mice infecte...
Source: Experimental Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Liu LN, Jing FJ, Cui J, Fu GY, Wang ZQ Tags: Exp Parasitol Source Type: research

Unusual chromatin structure associated with monoparalogous transcription of the Babesia bovis ves multigene family.
Abstract Rapid antigenic variation in Babesia bovis involves the variant erythrocyte surface antigen-1 (VESA1), a heterodimeric protein with subunits encoded by two branches of the ves multigene family. The ves1α and ves1β gene pair encoding VESA1a and 1b, respectively, are transcribed in a monoparalogous manner from a single locus of active ves transcription (LAT), just one of many quasi-palindromic ves loci. To determine whether this organization plays a role in transcriptional regulation, chromatin structure was first assessed. Limited treatment of isolated nuclei with micrococcal nuclease to assay nucleosomal...
Source: International Journal for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Huang Y, Xiao YP, Allred DR Tags: Int J Parasitol Source Type: research

Proteomic analysis of the Theileria annulata schizont.
Abstract The apicomplexan parasite, Theileria annulata, is the causative agent of tropical theileriosis, a devastating lymphoproliferative disease of cattle. The schizont stage transforms bovine leukocytes and provides an intriguing model to study host/pathogen interactions. The genome of T. annulata has been sequenced and transcriptomic data are rapidly accumulating. In contrast, little is known about the proteome of the schizont, the pathogenic, transforming life cycle stage of the parasite. Using one-dimensional (1-D) gel LC-MS/MS, a proteomic analysis of purified T. annulata schizonts was carried out. In whole ...
Source: International Journal for Parasitology - November 23, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: Witschi M, Xia D, Sanderson S, Baumgartner M, Wastling JM, Dobbelaere DA Tags: Int J Parasitol Source Type: research

Iron Deficiency Anemia: Buried Evidence
Question: A 22-year-old man of Pakistani origin presented to clinic with a history of persistent iron-deficiency anemia despite treatment with oral iron. He described a 6-month history of lethargy, decreased appetite, weight loss, and abdominal pain, and denied diarrhea, rectal bleeding, or melena. There was no relevant past medical or family history and clinical examination was normal. Laboratory examination revealed a microcytic anemia; hemoglobin 8.4g/dL, mean corpuscular volume of 78.4 fL, ferritin 4 ng/mL, and eosinophilia 2.3 × 109; platelets and white cell count were normal. A stool sample obtained 2 weeks after th...
Source: Gastroenterology - November 23, 2012 Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Lucy Pickard, Deepa Rattehalli, Tariq Iqbal Tags: Electronic Clinical Challenges and Images in GI Source Type: research

Toxoplasma gondii secretory proteins bind to sulfated heparin structures
Toxoplasma gondii is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, one of the most widespread infections in humans and animals, and is a major opportunistic pathogen in immunocompromised patients. Toxoplasma gondii is unique as it can invade virtually any nucleated cell, although the mechanisms are not completely understood. Parasite attachment to the host cell is a prerequisite for reorientation and penetration and likely requires the recognition of molecules at the host cell surface. It has been reported that the affinity of tachyzoites, the invasive form of T. gondii, for host cells can be inhibited by a variety of soluble-sulf...
Source: Glycobiology - November 23, 2012 Category: Biology Authors: Azzouz, N., Kamena, F., Laurino, P., Kikkeri, R., Mercier, C., Cesbron-Delauw, M.-F., Dubremetz, J.-F., De Cola, L., Seeberger, P. H. Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLES Source Type: research

Male pregnancy and biparental immune priming.
Abstract Abstract In vertebrates, maternal transfer of immunity via the eggs or placenta provides offspring with crucial information on prevailing pathogens and parasites. Males contribute little to such transgenerational immune priming, either because they do not share the environment and parasite pressure of the offspring or because sperm are too small for transfer of immunity. In the teleost group of Syngnathids (pipefish, seahorses, and sea dragons), males brood female eggs in a placenta-like structure. Such sex-role-reversed species provide a unique opportunity to test for adaptive plasticity in immune transfe...
Source: The American Naturalist - November 22, 2012 Category: Biology Authors: Roth O, Klein V, Beemelmanns A, Scharsack JP, Reusch TB Tags: Am Nat Source Type: research

Plasmid DNA could be delivered into Eimeria maxima unsporulated oocyst with gene gun system.
Abstract Eimerian coccidia are the most common parasitic organisms infecting chickens. The feasibility of genetic manipulation of these parasites via electroporation is proven, but this method is cumbersome and time consuming. Here we report our endeavour to develop a rapid and simple transfection method by gene gun. Tungsten particles coated with plasmid DNA encoding enhanced yellow fluorescent protein (EYFP) were used for the bombardment of Eimeria maxima unsporulated oocysts. Seven Mpa (1015 psi) helium pressure, 65 mm target distance and -0.098 Mpa (24.8″ Hg) chamber vacuum were the optimised parameters for b...
Source: Acta Veterinaria Hungarica - November 22, 2012 Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Li J, Zou J, Yin G, Liu X, Suo X Tags: Acta Vet Hung Source Type: research

PCR-based molecular characterization, phylogenetic analysis and secondary structure of the 28S rDNA of Thaparocleidus wallagonius (Monogenea: Dactylogyridae) - the most primitive species of this genus from India.
Abstract Species of the monogenean genus Thaparocleidus are specific to freshwater siluriform fish. The infection caused by these gill parasites are a major health problem to fish. But, to focus the control strategies of these parasites, first it is important to establish an accurate discrimination by molecular methods. In the present study, phylogenetic and structural analysis of 28S region of ribosomal DNA of T. wallagonius species collected from fish Wallago attu from Meerut (U.P.), India, was carried out. In the first step, we amplified, sequenced 28S region of ribosomal DNA of T. wallagonius to establish the p...
Source: Bioinformation - November 22, 2012 Category: Bioinformatics Authors: Verma C, Chaudhary A, Singh HS Tags: Bioinformation Source Type: research

Phylogenetic study of nine species of freshwater monogeneans using secondary structure and motif prediction from India.
Abstract The present study was performed to identify and validate monogenean species from different piscine hosts using molecular tools. Nine species of freshwater monogeneans were collected from gills and skin of freshwater fishes at Hastinapur, Meerut, India. After microscopic examination, molecular analysis was performed utilizing 28S gene marker. Phylogenetic analysis indicated the validation and systematic position of these nine different monogeneans belongs to the Dactylogyridae and Gyrodactylidae families. The findings also confirm that the 28S rDNA sequence is highly conserved and may prove to be useful in ...
Source: Bioinformation - November 22, 2012 Category: Bioinformatics Authors: Chaudhary A, Singh HS Tags: Bioinformation Source Type: research

Cluster analysis identifies aminoacid compositional features that indicate Toxoplasma gondii adhesin proteins.
Abstract Toxoplasma gondii invade host cells using a multi-step process that depends on the regulated secretion of adhesions. To identify key primary sequence features of adhesins in this parasite, we analyze the relative frequency of individual amino acids, their dipeptide frequencies, and the polarity, polarizability and Van der Waals volume of the individual amino acids by using cluster analysis. This method identified cysteine as a key amino acid in the Toxoplasma adhesin group. The best vector algorithm of non-concatenated features was for 2 attributes: the single amino acid relative frequency and the dipeptid...
Source: Bioinformation - November 22, 2012 Category: Bioinformatics Authors: Arenas AF, Salcedo GE, Moncada DM, Erazo DA, Osorio JF, Gomez-Marin JE Tags: Bioinformation Source Type: research

RKN Lethal DB: A database for the identification of Root Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) candidate lethal genes.
Abstract Root Knot nematode (RKN; Meloidogyne spp.) is one of the most devastating parasites that infect the roots of hundreds of plant species. RKN cannot live independently from their hosts and are the biggest contributors to the loss of the world's primary foods. RNAi gene silencing studies have demonstrated that there are fewer galls and galls are smaller when RNAi constructs targeted to silence certain RKN genes are expressed in plant roots. We conducted a comparative genomics analysis, comparing RKN genes of six species: Meloidogyne Arenaria, Meloidogyne Chitwoodi, Meloidogyne Hapla, Meloidogyne Incognita, Me...
Source: Bioinformation - November 22, 2012 Category: Bioinformatics Authors: Ismail A, Matthews BF, Alkharouf NW Tags: Bioinformation Source Type: research

Conventional polymerase chain reaction for the diagnosis of neurotoxoplasmosis: comparison of three sets of primers for the B1 gene using CSF samples
Abstract: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has made a significant improvement in the diagnosis of toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE). Nevertheless, a wide variety of targets and primers has been used in different assays, and few comparative studies had been carried out. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficiency of 3 conventional PCR methods by using 3 sets of primers targeting the repetitive B1 gene in the diagnosis of TE. Diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of PCR and nested-PCR protocols were assessed for 207 (nested-PCR/T1-T4), 200 (nested-PCR/S1-AS1), and 206 (PCR/B22-B23) cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) sample...
Source: Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease - November 22, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: Yenisey Alfonso, Jorge Fraga, Raymundo Cox, Narciso Jiménez, Virginia Capó, Olga Pomier, Carlos Fonseca, Francisco Bandera, Alberto J. Dorta-Contreras, Vianka Calá, Dora Ginorio Tags: Parasitology Source Type: research

Caudal is a negative regulator of the Anopheles IMD Pathway that controls resistance to Plasmodium falciparum infection.
Abstract Malaria parasite transmission depends upon the successful development of Plasmodium in its Anopheles mosquito vector. The mosquito's innate immune system constitutes a major bottleneck for parasite population growth. We show here that in Anopheles gambiae, the midgut-specific transcription factor Caudal acts as a negative regulator in the Imd pathway-mediated immune response against the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Caudal also modulates the mosquito midgut bacterial flora. RNAi-mediated silencing of Caudal enhanced the mosquito's resistance to bacterial infections and increased the transcr...
Source: Developmental and Comparative Immunology - November 22, 2012 Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Clayton AM, Cirimotich CM, Dong Y, Dimopoulos G Tags: Dev Comp Immunol Source Type: research

'Repurposed' anti-parasite drug shows promise as new TB treatment: UBC research
(University of British Columbia) A well-established family of drugs used to treat parasitic diseases is showing surprising potential as a therapy for tuberculosis, according to new research from University of British Columbia microbiologists.
Source: EurekAlert! - Infectious and Emerging Diseases - November 22, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Source Type: news

Factors associated with the occurrence and level of Isospora suis oocyst excretion in nursing piglets of Greek farrow-to-finish herds
Conclusion: Apart from prophylactic treatment with toltrazuril, the risk and the level of I. suis oocyst excretion from piglets in their second week of life, was associated with managerial and environmental factors. Changes in these factors, which may enhance prevention of piglet isosporosis -- either alternatively or supplementary to medical control -- are of increasing importance because of the likely development of resistant parasites under the currently widespread use of anticoccidial compounds.
Source: BMC Veterinary Research - Latest articles - November 22, 2012 Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Vasilis SkampardonisSmaragda SotirakiPolychronis KostoulasLeonidas Leontides Source Type: research

Plasmodium serine hydroxymethyltransferase: indispensability and display of distinct localization
The folate pathway of Plasmodium is critically important for parasite viability, and it includes enzymes which have been the target of important anti-malarials - used for both treatment and prophylaxis. There has been a considerable amount of research carried out on this pathwaybut serine hydroxymethyltransferase has been the subject of less enquiry. This paper is a useful addition to this body of knowledge.
Source: Malaria Journal - November 22, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Wichai PornthanakasemDarin KongkasuriyachaiChairat UthaipibullYongyuth YuthavongUbolsree Leartsakulpanich Source Type: research

List of Referees
Source: Parasite Immunology - November 22, 2012 Category: Parasitology Tags: List of Referees Source Type: research

Analysis of serum cytokine levels in children with chronic cough associated with Toxocara canis infection
Summary Toxocara infection is associated with an increased prevalence of airway symptoms and may be a possible aetiologic agent of chronic cough. The occurrence of toxocariasis in Hungary is mild and/or sporadic. The purpose of this study was to investigate the levels of serum cytokines (IL‐1, IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐13, IFN‐gamma and TNF‐alpha) and total IgE, the blood eosinophil count, the results of skin prick and non‐specific bronchus provocation tests in Toxocara‐seropositive children with chronic cough relative to those in healthy controls. The patients exhibited moderate eosinophilia,...
Source: Parasite Immunology - November 22, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: D. Nagy, O. Bede, J. Danka, Z. SzÉnási, S. Sipka Tags: Original Article Source Type: research

Reduced Plasmodium berghei sporozoite liver load associates with low protective efficacy after intradermal immunization
In conclusion, protection against sporozoite infection is likely dependent on parasite liver infection and subsequently generated cellular immune responses.
Source: Parasite Immunology - November 22, 2012 Category: Parasitology Authors: K. NGANOU‐MAKAMDOP, I. PLOEMEN, M. BEHET, G.‐J. VAN GEMERT, C. HERMSEN, M. ROESTENBERG, R. W. SAUERWEIN Source Type: research

Salinity-tolerant larvae of mosquito vectors in the tropical coast of Jaffna, Sri Lanka and the effect of salinity on the toxicity of Bacillus thuringiensis to Aedes aegypti larvae
Several mosquito species were found in brackish water sites in Jaffna Peninsula. Salinity was found to have a small but significant effect on the toxicity of Bacillus thuringiensis to Ae. aegypti larvae. Image: Brackish water coastal marsh in Sarasalai where mosquito larvae, including Aedes albopictus were collected in the black battery box shown.
Source: Parasites and Vectors - November 22, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: Pavilupillai JudeTharmatha TharmasegaramGobika SivasubramaniyamMeena SenthilnanthananSelvam KannathasanSelvarajah RaveendranRanjan RamasamySinnathamby Surendran Source Type: research

Predicting the spatio-temporal distribution of culicoides imicola in Sardinia using a discrete-time population model
Longitudinal entomological surveillance networks are valuable sources of information in order to characterize insect vector population dynamics. Here, we present the results of a model which predicts monthly population abundance of the main bluetongue vectors found in the Mediterranean basin, as a function of eco-climatic variables recorded either by remote-sensing or by weather stations, one time-step before insect catches. Image: Predicted distribution of the dominant BT vector in Sardinia.
Source: Parasites and Vectors - November 22, 2012 Category: Microbiology Authors: Thibaud RigotAnnamaria ConteMaria GoffredoEls DucheyneGuy HendrickxMarius Gilbert Source Type: research

Validation of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the quantification of human IgG directed against the repeat region of the circumsporozoite protein of the parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Paper describes the methodology for the standardization and validation of an ELISA protocol for the repetitive region of the P. falciparum circumsporozoite protein on which a present malaria vaccine in phase III clinical trial is based.
Source: Malaria Journal - November 22, 2012 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Frederic ClementVincent DewarEva Van BraeckelIsabelle DesombereMarianne DewerchinChristine SwysenMarie-Ange DemoitiéErik JongertJoe CohenGeert Leroux-RoelsPierre Cambron Source Type: research

A dedicated surveillance network for congenital toxoplasmosis in Greece, 2006-2009: assessment of the results
Conclusion: The DSN for CT proved to be more sensitive than the classical notification system, easy in application and very efficient in reporting rare diseases such as CT. Similar DSNs could be used to provide useful information on other rare diseases.
Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles - November 22, 2012 Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Maria AptouramaniMaria TheodoridouGeorge SyrogiannopoulosAndreas MentisVasiliki PapaevangelouKaterina GaitanaAlexandros DaponteChristos Hadjichristodoulou Source Type: research

Apoptosis in Blastocystis spp. is related to subtype
This study reports that among the four subtypes of Blastocystis spp. investigated for rate of apoptosis when treated with MTZ, subtype 3 showed the highest significant increase after 72h of in vitro culture when treated with MTZ at 0.1mg/ml (79%; p
Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene - November 21, 2012 Category: Tropical Medicine Authors: D.B. Dhurga, K.G. Suresh, T.C. Tan, S. Chandramathi Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research

No effect of host–parasite co‐evolution on host range expansion
Abstract Antagonistic co‐evolution between hosts and parasites (reciprocal selection for resistance and infectivity) is hypothesized to play an important role in host range expansion by selecting for novel infectivity alleles, but tests are lacking. Here, we determine whether experimental co‐evolution between a bacterium (Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25) and a phage (SBW25Φ2) affects interstrain host range: the ability to infect different strains of P. fluorescens other than SBW25. We identified and tested a genetically and phenotypically diverse suite of co‐evolved phage variants of SBW25Φ2 against both sympatric a...
Source: Journal of Evolutionary Biology - November 21, 2012 Category: Biology Authors: P. D. Scanlan, A. R. Hall, P. Burlinson, G. Preston, A. Buckling Tags: Short Communication Source Type: research