Published by De Gruyter

Volume 62 Issue 3

Issue of Acta Parasitologica

Contents
Journal Overview

Review

July 5, 2017

Snail species diversity impacts the infection patterns of Echinostoma spp.: Examples from field collected data

Michael R. Zimmermann, Kyle E. Luth, Gerald W. Esch

Page range: 493-501

Abstract

Rapid losses of biodiversity due to the changing landscape have spurred increased interest in the role of species diversity and disease risk. A leading hypothesis for the importance of biodiversity in disease reduction is the dilution effect, which suggests that increasing species diversity within a system decreases the risk of disease among the organisms inhabiting it. The role of species diversity in trematode infection was investigated using field studies from sites across the U.S. to examine the impact of snail diversity in the infection dynamics of both first and second intermediate larval stages of Echinostoma spp. parasites. The prevalence of Echinostoma spp. sporocysts/rediae infection was not affected by increases in snail diversity, but significant negative correlations in metacercariae prevalence and intensity with snail diversity were observed. Additionally, varying effectiveness of the diluting hosts was found, i.e., snail species that were incompatible first intermediate hosts for Echinostoma spp. were more successful at diluting the echinostome parasites in the focal species, while H . trivolvis , a snail species that can harbor the first intermediate larval stages, amplified infection. These findings have important implications not only on the role of species diversity in reducing disease risk, but the success of the parasites in completing their life cycles and maintaining their abundance within an aquatic system.

July 5, 2017

Molecular phylogeny of the Haplosplanchnata Olson, Cribb, Tkach, Bray and Littlewood, 2003, with a description of Schikhobalotrema huffmani n. sp.

Daniel C. Huston, Scott C. Cutmore, Thomas H. Cribb

Page range: 502-512

Abstract

We describe Schikhobalotrema huffmani n. sp. from Tylosurus crocodilus (Péron and Leseur) (Belonidae) collected off Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Queensland, Australia and Tylosurus gavialoides (Castelnau) collected from Moreton Bay, Queensland. Schikhobalotrema huffmani n. sp., along with Schikhobalotrema ablennis (Abdul-Salam and Khalil, 1987) Madhavi, 2005, Schikhobalotrema acutum (Linton, 1910) Skrjabin and Guschanskaja, 1955 and Schikhobalotrema adacutum (Manter, 1937) Skrjabin and Guschanskaja, 1955 are distinguished from all other species of Schikhobalotrema Skrjabin and Guschanskaja, 1955 in having ventral suckers which bear lateral lobes and have longitudinal apertures. Schikhobalotrema huffmani n. sp. differs from S. ablennis in having an obvious post-vitelline region and a longer forebody. From S. acutum, S. huffmani n. sp. differs in having a prostatic bulb smaller than the pharynx and more anterior testis. From S. adacutum, S. huffmani n. sp. differs in having more prominent ventral sucker lobes, a conspicuous prostatic bulb and a longer forebody. We also report the first Australian record of Haplosplanchnus pachysomus (Eysenhardt, 1829) Looss, 1902, from Mugil cephalus Linnaeus (Mugilidae) collected in Moreton Bay. Molecular sequence data (ITS2, 18S and 28S rDNA) were generated for Schikhobalotrema huffmani n. sp., H. pachysomus and archived specimens of Hymenocotta mulli Manter, 1961. The new 18S and 28S molecular data were combined with published data of five other haplosplanchnid taxa to expand the phylogeny for the Haplosplanchnata. Bayesian inference and Maximum Likelihood analyses recovered identical tree topology and demonstrated the Haplosplanchnata as a well-supported monophyletic group. However, relationships at and below the subfamily level remain poorly resolved.

July 5, 2017

Structuraland antigenic analysis of a new Rhoptry Pseudokinase Gene (ROP54) in Toxoplasma gondii

Jian Zhou, Gang Lu, Lin Wang, Aihua H. Zhou, Yali L. Han, Jingjing J. Guo, Pengxia X. Song, Huaiyu Y. Zhou, Hua Cong, Ming Hou, Shenyi Y. He

Page range: 513-519

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii is defined as an obligate intracellular apicomplexan parasite and influences approximatelyone-third of the human all over the world. ROP54 protein is expressed in the rhoptry of Toxoplasma gondii . In the present study, we used SMART software to analyzethe secondary structure of ROP54. The 3D model of ROP54 protein was constructed and analyzed using SWISS-MODEL server and VMD software. The structure results fully showed that ROP54 proteinis an importantmember from the ROP family. Moreover, DNAMAN software and Epitope Database online service were used to analyze liner-B cell epitopes and Th-cell epitopes of the protein. The bioinformatics prediction of ROP54 protein could provide positive information on treatment and vaccine for toxoplasmosis. Furthermore, ROP54 gene was obtained from PCR, and a recombinant eukaryotic expression vector (pEGFP-ROP54) was constructed in the following study. After identification of enzyme digestion, the constructed plasmid was transfected into HEK 293-T cells. The RT-PCR result suggested that the recombinant plasmid could transcribe successfully in HEK 293-T cell.

July 5, 2017

Ultrastructure of the spermatozoon of Macvicaria obovata (Digenea: Opecoelidae), a parasite of Sparus aurata(Pisces: Teleostei) from the Gulf of Gabès, Mediterranean Sea

Hichem Kacem, Yann Quilichini, Lassad Neifar, Jordi Torres, Jordi Miquel

Page range: 520-528

Abstract

The ultrastructural organization of the spermatozoon of the digenean Macvicaria obovata (Opecoelidae) is described by transmission electron microscopy. Alive digeneans were collected from the digestive tract of Sparus aurata (Teleostei, Sparidae), caught from the Gulf of Gabès in Chebba, Tunisia (Eastern Mediterranean Sea). The male gamete of M. obovata is a filiform cell, tapered at both extremities and exhibits typical characters such as two axonemes of different lengths showing the 9+‘1’ trepaxonematan pattern, a nucleus, mitochondria, two bundles of parallel cortical microtubules, external ornamentation of the plasma membrane, spine-like bodies and granules of glycogen. Cortical microtubules are absent in the anterior spermatozoon extremity and appear after the disappearance of the electron-dense material. The first mitochondrion is of moniliform type and it is associated with the external ornamentation of the plasma membrane and spine-like bodies. The second mitochondrion is more posteriorly located, reaching the nuclear region. The present study provides new data on the mature male gamete of M. obovata that may be useful for the understanding of digenean relationships and phylogenetic studies.

July 5, 2017

Epidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii infection in native Tibetans in Tibet, China

Kun Li, Meng Wang, Hui Zhang, Zhixin Lei, Lihong Zhang, Houqiang Luo, Gang Qiu, Khalid Mehmood, Muhammad Shahzad, Jiakui Li

Page range: 529-532

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii ( T . gondii ) is one of the most common and widespread protozoan parasite which caused toxoplasma infection in animals and humans. Toxoplasma infection in healthy people is usually asymptomatic and it can lead to serious pathological effects in congenital cases and immunodeficient patients. The aim of the study is to investigate the prevalence of T . gondii infection in native Tibetans in Tibet as scarce information is available on such a high plateau. A total of 600 blood samples were collected from Tibetans people who visited the hospital in Nyingchi city with the history of flu, swollen lymph glands, muscle pain, and neurological or eyes complications (showing single or more signs). The serum of collected samples were tested for IgG antibody by ELISA. The result showed that the prevalence in men and women were 11.3% and 11.0%, respectively, the prevalence in different ages were 9.8% in < 7 years, 6.2% in ≥7–17 years, 10.1% in ≥18–40 years, 14.8% in ≥41–65 years and 11.6% in ≥66 years. The current study indicates the first report of this zoonotic parasite infection in Tibetan people.

July 5, 2017

A PCR survey of vector-borne pathogens in different dog populations from Turkey

Huanping Guo, Ferda Sevinc, Onur Ceylan, Mutlu Sevinc, Ege Ince, Yang Gao, Paul Franck Adjou Moumouni, Mingming Liu, Artemis Efstratiou, Guanbo Wang, Shinuo Cao, Mo Zhou, Charoonluk Jirapattharasate, Aaron Edmond Ringo, Weiqing Zheng, Xuenan Xuan

Page range: 533-540

Abstract

In the present study, a total of 192 blood samples were collected from pet dogs, kennel dogs and shepherd dogs in Konya district, Turkey, and tested by specific PCR for the presence of vector-borne pathogens. Several pathogens were identified, most of which can cause substantial morbidity in dogs. PCR results revealed that 54 (28.1%) dogs were infected with one or more pathogens. Positive results were obtained for Babesia spp. in 4 dogs (2.1%), Hepatozoon spp. in 8 dogs (4.2%) and Mycoplasma spp. in 46 dogs (24%). Three dogs (1.6%) were infected with two or three pathogens. The sequence analysis of the positive DNA samples revealed the presence of Babesia canis vogeli , Hepatozoon canis , Hepatozoon sp. MF, Mycoplasma haemocanis and Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum . Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys were not detected. Regardless of ownership status, vector-borne diseases were common in these dog populations. There was significant difference of pathogen prevalence among the different dog populations. Mycoplasma spp. was more frequent in the kennel dogs (31.9%) than in the pet (21.4%) and shepherd dogs (13.8%). Additionally, the frequency of Babesia spp. and Hepatozoon spp. was higher in the shepherd dogs which account for three quarters and half of the total number of Babesia spp. and Hepatozoon spp., respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first report of Mycoplasma infection in dogs in Turkey. The results of the present study provide a foundation for understanding the epidemiology of canine vector-borne diseases (CVBDs), and for strategies to control these diseases in Turkey.

July 5, 2017

Diplectanids (Monogenea) parasitic on sciaenid fish from Peru with the proposal of Pseudorhamnocercoides n. gen., the description of Rhamnocercus dominguesi n. sp. and the redescription of Rhamnocercoides menticirrhi Luque and Iannacone, 1991

Jhon D. Chero, Celso L. Cruces, Gloria Sáez, José Iannacone, José L. Luque

Page range: 541-548

Abstract

Rhamnocercoides menticirrhi Luque and Iannacone, 1991 is redescribed from newly collected material of snakehead kingcroaker Menticirrhus ophicephalus (Jenyns, 1840) from Peru, and as a result of this redescription, the diagnosis of Rhamnocercoides is emended. Rhamnocercus dominguesi n. sp. is described from the Peruvian banded croaker Paralonchurus peruanus (Steindachner, 1875). It differs from congeneric species mainly in the morphology of the male copulatory organ (with distal and proximal portion of the external tube expanded and distal portion of the internal tube uncovered by external tube) and the number of peduncular spines (18–22, arranged in 2 longitudinal rows). Pseudorhamnocercoides n. gen. is proposed for species with two longitudinal rows of peduncular spines with anterior and posterior roots, two longitudinal rows of acicular spines associated with peduncular spines, a medial constriction in the ventral bar and more than six haptoral accessory spines at level of the ventral bar with fan-like distal extremity. Rhamnocercoides stichospinus (Seamster and Monaco, 1956) is transferred to Pseudorhamnocercoides n. gen as Pseudorhamnocercoides stichospinus (Seamster and Monaco, 1956) n. comb (assigned as type species).

July 5, 2017

Differentiation of Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati based on PCR-RFLP analyses of rDNA-ITS and mitochondrial cox1 and nad1 regions

Fattaneh Mikaeili, Alexander Mathis, Peter Deplazes, Hossein Mirhendi, Afshin Barazesh, Sepideh Ebrahimi, Eshrat Beigom Kia

Page range: 549-556

Abstract

The definitive genetic identification of Toxocara species is currently based on PCR/sequencing. The objectives of the present study were to design and conduct an in silico polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method for identification of Toxocara species. In silico analyses using the DNASIS and NEBcutter softwares were performed with rDNA internal transcribed spacers, and mitochondrial cox1 and nad1 sequences obtained in our previous studies along with relevant sequences deposited in GenBank. Consequently, RFLP profiles were designed and all isolates of T. canis and T. cati collected from dogs and cats in different geographical areas of Iran were investigated with the RFLP method using some of the identified suitable enzymes. The findings of in silico analyses predicted that on the cox 1 gene only the Mbo II enzyme is appropriate for PCR-RFLP to reliably distinguish the two species. No suitable enzyme for PCR-RFLP on the nad 1 gene was identified that yields the same pattern for all isolates of a species. DNASIS software showed that there are 241 suitable restriction enzymes for the differentiation of T. canis from T. cati based on ITS sequences. Rsa I, Mva I and Sal I enzymes were selected to evaluate the reliability of the in silico PCR-RFLP. The sizes of restriction fragments obtained by PCR-RFLP of all samples consistently matched the expected RFLP patterns. The ITS sequences are usually conserved and the PCR-RFLP approach targeting the ITS sequence is recommended for the molecular differentiation of Toxocara species and can provide a reliable tool for identification purposes particularly at the larval and egg stages.

July 5, 2017

The Prevalence of Cyclospora cayetanensis and Cryptosporidium spp. in Turkish patients infected with HIV-1

Hayriye Kirkoyun Uysal, Gokhan Tolga Adas, Kevser Atalik, Semih Altiparmak, Ozer Akgul, Suat Saribas, Mert Gurcan, Pelin Yuksel, Taner Yildirmak, Bekir Kocazeybek, Tevhide Ziver, Yasar Ali Oner

Page range: 557-564

Abstract

Opportunistic infections such as cryptosporidiosis and cyclosporiasis are commonly encountered in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). We investigated the existence of opportunistic protozoans that significantly affect the quality of life in HIV-1 infected patients using conventional and molecular methods. The study group comprised 115 HIV-1 positive patients. In the identification of Cyclospora cayetanensis and Cryptosporidium , the formol-ether precipitation method was used and smears were evaluated in optical microscope by staining modified Ziehl–Neelsen (ZN). The primers and probes used for PCR were Heat shock protein 70 for C . cayetanensis and the oocysts wall protein for Cryptosporidium spp.. Cyclospora and Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts were detected in one and two patients, respectively, by staining, whereas we detected C . cayetanensis in three patients out of 115 (2.6%) by PCR, and Cryptosporidium spp. in a further three patients (2.6%). C . cayetensis was detected in patients with CD4 counts of 64 cells/μm, 182 cells/μm and 287 cells/μm, respectively. Cryptosporidium spp. was detected in patients with CD4 counts of 176 cells/μm, 241 cells/μm and 669 cells/μm. As conclusion, PCR method is faster and more sensitive than microscopic methods and to screen intestinal pathogens routinely in patients infected with HIV should not be neglected in developing countries like Turkey.

July 5, 2017

Molecular characterization and functional analysis of a glutathione peroxidase gene from Aphelenchoides besseyi (Nematoda: Aphelenchoididae)

Bu-Yong Wang, Rong-Rong Wen, Ling Ma

Page range: 565-574

Abstract

Aphelenchoides besseyi , the nematode agent of rice tip white disease, causes huge economic losses in almost all the rice-growing regions of the world. Glutathione peroxidase (GPx), an esophageal glands secretion protein, plays important roles in the parasitism, immune evasion, reproduction and pathogenesis of many plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs). Therefore, GPx is a promising target for control A . besseyi . Here, the full-length sequence of the GPx gene from A . besseyi ( AbGPx1 ) was cloned using the rapid amplification of cDNA ends method. The full-length 944 bp AbGPx1 sequence, which contains a 678 bp open reading frame, encodes a 225 amino acid protein. The deduced amino acid sequence of the AbGPxl shares highly homologous with other nematode GPxs, and showed the closest evolutionary relationship with DrGPx. In situ hybridization showed that AbGPx1 was constitutively expressed in the esophageal glands of A . besseyi , suggesting its potential roles in parasitism and reproduction. RNA interference (RNAi) was used to assess the functions of the AbGPx1 gene, and quantitative real-time PCR was used to monitor the RNAi effects. After treatment with dsRNA for 12 h, AbGPx1 expression levels and reproduction in the nematodes decreased compared with the same parameters in the control group; thus, the AbGPx1 gene is likely to be associated with the development, reproduction, and infection ability of A . besseyi . These findings may open new avenues towards nematode control.

July 5, 2017

Durettenema guangdongense gen. et sp. nov. (Nematoda: Molineoidea) from Hipposideros larvatus (Horsfield) (Chiroptera: Rhinolophidae) with discussion of the taxonomic status of Macielia rhinolophi Yin, 1980

Hui-Dong Ju, Liang Li, Lu-Ping Zhang

Page range: 575-581

Abstract

Durettenema guangdongense gen. et sp. nov. is described from Hipposideros larvatus (Horsfield) (Chiroptera: Rhinolophidae) in Guangdong Province, China. The new genus differs from the other genera of subfamily Molineinae in the structure of the synlophe, the absence of lateral alae, the arrangement of the bursa rays, the shape of the spicules, the female tail and the presence of gubernaculum. Meanwhile, considering the morphological characters of Macielia rhinolophi Yin, 1980, including the pattern of the bursa ray, the shape of the spicules, and the female tail, this species should be transferred to the genus Durettenema , as D . rhinolophi (Yin, 1980) comb. nov., which can be distinguished from D . guangdongense in the shape of the ovejector. In addition, the ITS-1 sequences of D . guangdongense were also analysed, these sequence added new data for the molecular diagnosis of trichostrongylid nematodes.

July 5, 2017

In vitro effects of purine and pyrimidine analogues on Leishmania donovani and Leishmania infantum promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes

Samira Azzouz, Philippe Lawton

Page range: 582-588

Abstract

Inhibition of parasite metabolic pathways is a rationale for new chemotherapeutic strategies. The pyrimidine and purine salvage pathways are thus targets against Leishmania donovani and L . infantum , causative agents of visceral human leishmaniasis and canine leishmaniosis. The antiproliferative effect of the pyrimidine analogues Cytarabine and 5-fluorouracil and of the purine analogues Azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine was evaluated in vitro on the promastigote and the intracellular amastigote stages of the parasite. Cytarabine and 5-fluorouracil were the best inhibitors against promastigotes, whereas 5- fluorouracil and azathioprine displayed the best efficacy against the amastigote stage. The ultrastructural study showed an important cytoplasmic vacuolization and with azathioprine and 5-fluorouracyl, a mitochondrial swelling and appearance of autophagosome-like structures. Alterations of the kinetoplast were also observed with 5-fluorouracil, all these damages eventually resulting in an autolysis process that triggered the subsequent death of the intracellular parasites.

July 5, 2017

Population structure of the monogenean, Paramazocraes thrissocles (Mazocraeidae) on the gills of clupeoid fish, Thryssa mystax of Visakhapatnam coast, Bay of Bengal

Bade Sailaja, Ummey Shameem, Rokkam Madhavi

Page range: 589-596

Abstract

An investigation was undertaken on the population biology of the mazocraeid monogenean Paramazocreas thrissocles occurring on the gills of the engraulid fish Thryssa mystax at Visakhapatnam coast , Bay of Bengal. The influence of season and host size on the parasite population density and the dispersion pattern of the parasite in the host population were analysed. A distinct seasonal pattern in the prevalence and intensity to infection is noted with higher parasite loads prevailing during warmer summer months and very low or no infection during winter months. The heavy infections are found to be promoted by high temperatures prevailing during summer months coupled with high host density and the larger size of fish examined during this period. A positive correlation between host size and prevalence and mean intensity to infection with the monogenean was noted, larger fish often carrying heavy infections. Further the monogenean showed an aggregated distribution on the host population as evidenced by the low value of negative binomial parameter ‘K’.

July 5, 2017

Redescription of Eutarsopolipus elongatus Regenfuss, 1968 (Acari: Podapolipidae) parasitising carabid beetles, with first description of the male

Mohammad Sobhi, Hamidreza Hajiqanbar, Abdolazim Mortazavi

Page range: 597-605

Abstract

A species of mites of the genus Eutarsopolipus Berlese, 1911 (Acari: Prostigmata: Podapolipidae), Eutarsopolipus elongatus Regenfuss, 1968, belonging to the acanthomus species group, is found from northwestern Iran. This is first record of the species from Asia including Iran. Also, unknown male of this species is discovered. During a survey on mites associated with insects in northwestern Iran, three colonies of this ectoparasitic species were recovered from subelytral cavity of the carabid beetles ( Amara aenea ). Purposes of this article are to describe the male and to redescribe the larval and adult females of this species, with world key to male stage of the acanthomus species group of the genus Eutarsopolipus .

July 5, 2017

Seroprevalence and risk factors of Neospora spp. and Toxoplasma gondii infections among horses and donkeys in Nigeria, West Africa

Eva Bártová, Kamil Sedlák, Kateřina Kobédová, Marie Budíková, Yakubu Joel Atuman, Joshua Kamani

Page range: 606-609

Abstract

Neospora spp. and Toxoplasma gondii are considered to be a globally distributed parasites affecting wide range of warm-blooded animals. Neosporosis has caused clinical illness in horses and consumption of horse meat has been epidemiologically linked to clinical toxoplasmosis in humans. This study was conducted to determine Neospora spp. and T . gondii antibodies and risk factors of infection in horses and donkeys from three states of Nigeria. A total of 144 samples were collected from clinically healthy animals (120 horses and 24 donkeys). The sera were tested for antibodies to Neospora spp. and T . gondii by indirect fluorescence antibody test, a titer ≥ 50 was considered positive. Seroprevalence data were statistically analyzed, considering the variables of gender, age, use, state, origin of breed and type of management. Antibodies to Neospora spp. and T . gondii were detected in 8% horses with titers 50 and in 24% horses with titers 50–800, respectively. Co-infection of both parasites was proved in three horses (3%). Statistical differences were found only for T . gondii seroprevalence in horses with different use, locality, origin and management (p-value ≤ 0.05). Antibodies to T . gondii were detected in four (17%) of 24 donkeys with statistical difference (p-value ≤ 0.05) in animals of different use; antibodies to Neospora spp. were not proved in any of the donkeys. This is the first seroprevalence study of Neospora spp. and T . gondii in equids from Nigeria.

July 5, 2017

Spinicauda sumatrana sp. nov. (Nematoda: Heterakidae) from Ludeking’s Crested Dragon, Lophocalotes ludekingi (Agamidae), from the Bukit Barisan Range of Sumatra

Charles R. Bursey, Stephen R. Goldberg, Michael B. Harvey

Page range: 610-616

Abstract

Spinicauda sumatrana sp. nov. is described from the large intestine of Ludeking’s Crested Dragon, Lophocalotes ludekingi (Agamidae) from the Bukit Barisan Range of Sumatra. The new species is assigned to Spinicauda based on the presence of off-set lips in both male and female and a ventrally directed sucker combined with the absence of caudal alae in males. It is the 17 th species assigned to the genus and differs from all congeners in the combination of spicule length, presence of a gubernaculum, presence of a tail filament and fourteen pairs of caudal papillae.

July 5, 2017

The systematic position and structure of the genus Leyogonimus Ginetsinskaya, 1948 (Platyhelminthes: Digenea) with comments on the taxonomy of the superfamily Microphalloidea Ward, 1901

Gerard Kanarek, Grzegorz Zaleśny, Jiljí Sitko, Vasyl V. Tkach

Page range: 617-624

Abstract

The systematic position, phylogenetic relationships and composition of the genus Leyogonimus Ginetsinskaya, 1948 have always been uncertain. In the present study, we investigate the taxonomic position and phylogenetic relationships between the type-species L . polyoon (Linstow, 1887) and L . postgonoporus (Neiland, 1951) (previously classified as Macyella ), based on newly obtained partial sequences of the nuclear large ribosomal subunit DNA. To test some of the previously proposed systematic arrangements, we have also sequenced specimens of Stomylotrema vicarium Braun, 1901 and Phaneropsolus sp. Our results clearly demonstrate that both L . polyoon and L . postgonoporus belong to the family Pleurogenidae Looss, 1899 within the superfamily Microphalloidea. Thus, the Leyogonimidae Dollfus, 1951 should be recognized as a synonym of the Pleurogenidae. Leyogonimus polyoon clearly constitutes a separate, sister branch to the clade consisting of Collyricloides massanae Vaucher, 1969 and L . postgonoporus . Based on these results, we resurrect the genus Macyella Neiland, 1951 with type-species M . postgonoporus . Besides, Collyricloides Vaucher, 1968 is synonymized with Macyella resulting in new combination Macyella massanae (Vaucher, 1968) comb. nov. Molecular phylogenetic analysis has demonstrated the lack of a close phylogenetic relationships between Stomylotema vicarium and Leyogonimus previously placed by several authors into the family Stomylotrematidae Poche, 1925. The status of the Phaneropsolidae Mehra, 1935 as independent family was confirmed with the addition of the newly sequenced Phaneropsolus sp. from China.

July 5, 2017

Leishmania infantum is present in vaginal secretions of naturally infected bitches at lower levels in oestrogenized bitches than in non-oestrogenized bitches

Alinne Gonçalves Magro, Viviane Pedersoli Assis, Lucélia Coimbra Silva, Wagner Luiz Tafuri, Soraia Oliveira Silva, Maria Norma Melo, Guilherme Ribeiro Valle

Page range: 625-629

Abstract

Naturally Leishmania infantum infected bitches were divided into oestrogenized (n = 11) and non-oestrogenized (n = 6) groups. Vaginal secretions were collected for polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and vulval, vaginal and uterine tissues were collected for the immunohistochemical (IHQ) identification of L . infantum . Parasite DNA was identified in vaginal secretions of non-oestrogenized (41.8%) and oestrogenized (18.2%) bitches (P<0.05; Fisher’s Exact test). IHQ was positive in vulvar dermis (23.5%) and vaginal mucosa (17.7%) but negative in endometrium of all bitches. Poor association between positive vaginal secretion PCR and tissue IHQ (Kappa index) were observed. The results showed that genital secretions are a potential source for dog contamination.

July 5, 2017

Intestinal coccidian parasites as an underestimated cause of travellers’ diarrhoea in Polish immunocompetent patients

Matylda Kłudkowska, Łukasz Pielok, Krystyna Frąckowiak, Małgorzata Paul

Page range: 630-638

Abstract

Intestinal coccidian parasites are intracellular protozoa most frequently transmitted during food-borne and water-borne infections. This group of parasites is responsible for acute diarrhoeal illnesses especially among immunocompromised patients. However, they are more frequently detected in immunocompetent individuals including travellers, and they should also be considered as important etiologic factors of travellers’ diarrhoea. We examined 221 immunocompetent patients hospitalized due to acute or chronic diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal symptoms after returning from international journeys to hot climates. A basic microscopical examination and acid – fast staining of stool samples was performed. Each patient was also a part of the epidemiological investigation to define potential risk factors of tropical gastrointestinal infections. Intestinal coccidiosis was confirmed in 12 out of 221 successively hospitalized patients (5.4%). The most common coccidian parasite was Cryptosporidium spp., detected in nine Polish travellers (4.1%). Cyclospora spp. was diagnosed in three cases (1.4%), including two mixed infections with Cryptosporidium spp., and Cystoisospora spp. in two other cases (0.9%). The study has revealed that intestinal coccidian parasites are a significant threat to immunocompetent travellers and should be always considered in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal disorders. Therefore, it is necessary to perform specialized diagnostic methods for the detection of Cryptosporidium spp., Cystoisospora spp., and Cyclospora spp. oocysts in reference parasitology laboratories. Clinical observations demonstrated simultaneously an insufficient level of knowledge in Polish tourists concerning the main risk factors of intestinal parasitic diseases during international travels, particularly to developing countries with lower economic and sanitary conditions.

July 5, 2017

Hymenolepididae (Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea) of ciconiiform and pelecaniform birds: the genera Oschmarinolepis Spassky and Spasskaja, 1954 and Paraoschmarinolepis gen. n.

Oksana Greben, Vadim Kornyushin, Jean Mariaux

Page range: 639-651

Abstract

The monotypic genus Oschmarinolepis Spassky and Spasskaja, 1954 (Cestoda, Hymenolepididae) is reviewed. Its validity is confirmed with an updated diagnosis, and its type-species, Oschmarinolepis microcephala (Rudolphi, 1819), is redescribed. The new monotypic genus Paraoschmarinolepis gen n. is erected with Paraoschmarinolepis multiformis (Creplin, 1829) comb. n., as its type-species. The morphology of both type-species, O . microcephala and P . multiformis comb. n. is reviewed on the basis of published data and examination of collection material from Plegadis falcinellus from Ukraine and Ciconia ciconia from Slovakia. We show that some material previously assigned to O. microcephala , belong in fact P. multiformis comb. n.

July 5, 2017

Redescription of two species of Thaparocleidus (Monogenea: Dactylogyridae), with the description of T. armillatus sp. n. from Wallago attu and a phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rDNA sequences

Chandni Verma, Anshu Chaudhary, Hridaya Shanker Singh

Page range: 652-665

Abstract

The phylogenetic studies on monogeneans of the genus Thaparocleidus parasitizing W. attu in India was inferred from 18S rDNA gene data. Out of species of Thaparocleidus , one new, T. armillatus sp. n., is described herein which distinguished from its congener species in the shapes and sizes of sclerotized structures and rest of the two species, T. indicus and T. wallagonius are redescribed morphologically as well as validated and confirmed by molecular means also. Besides the above, T. gangus was also included in the molecular analysis as it is recently described on the basis of morphology only. The phylogenetic tree was also reconstructed in order to elucidate the taxonomic status of Thaparocleidus armillatus sp. n., T. indicus, T. wallagonius and T. gangus . This research reports for the first time, the molecular phylogenetic analysis of 18S rDNA gene for four species belonging to the genus Thaparocleidus from W. attu collected off the River Ganga in India. In phylogram, all four species of Thapaocleidus come in a single clade that confirmed their monophyletic status. A very low interspecific variability was observed in T. armillatus sp. n. and T. wallagonius suggesting that these species are highly similar in morphology. Correspondingly, T. indicus and T. gangus also showed low interspecific variability which too signifies their morphological similarities in their sclerotized structures. Our result suggested that all four species taken in the present investigation from India are monophyletic and it is also observed that morphological similarities in the sclerotized structures are well correlated with phylogeny.

July 5, 2017

In vitro and in vivo studies of nematophagous fungi Arthrobotrys musiformis and Arthrobotrys robusta against the larvae of the trichostrongylides

Kui Zheng Cai, Bo Bo Wang, Qiang Xu, Jun Lin Liu, Kang Ying Wang, Yu Jia Xue, Hai Yan Zhang, Hai Yu Wang, Xin Cao, Zhong Ren Ma

Page range: 666-674

Abstract

Six isolates of Arthrobotrys musiformis and five isolates of Arthrobotrys robusta were assessed in in vitro test regarding the capacity of prey larvae of the natural mixed trichostrongylides. In 5 isolates of A . robusta , the decrease percentage of infective larvae (L3) of trichostrongylides ranged from 97.71%–99.98% and for the isolates of A . musiformis , 5 isolates ranged from 97.99%–99.95% and only NF015 isolate 60.72%. In the following, the isolate (NPS045) of A . musiformis was selected to assess its excretion time in feces after oral administration of goats. Regarding L3 reduction rate, results demonstrated by NPS045 at each time point after fungal administration were 31.65% (12 h), 51.25% (24 h), 41.07% (48 h), 6.44% (72 h), 0% (96 h) and (120 h) (p<0.05) respectively, when compared to the control group. In the plates of the treated groups, the presence of the isolate (NPS045) was detected in samples at 12, 24 and 48 h after the fungus dose and 72 h later was not done. All native isolates of nematophagous fungi, including 6 isolates of A . musiformis and 5 isolates of A . robusta were assessed in vivo regarding the capacity of supporting the passage through goat gastrointestinal tract. The 3 isolates of A . musiformis could be able to pass through the digestive tract of goats without complete loss of ability of preying larvae of trichostrongylides in feces and their efficacies ranged from 47.60% to 55.93%. The two isolates of A . robusta survived the passage and the percentage reduction of L3 in feces were 41.96% and 66.97%, respectively. The remaining isolates were negative for both the efficacy of L3 reduction and the fungal examination in feces. In this study, the native isolates whose efficacies are good in vivo test have preliminarily demonstrated to be potential for the biological control of small ruminant parasite.

July 5, 2017

Three monogeneans parasitic on marine sciaenid fish from Peru including description of Cynoscionicola veranoi n. sp. (Microcotylidae), and redescription of C. americanus Tantaleán, Martínez and Escalante, 1987 and Hargicotyle sciaenae Oliva and Luque, 1989 (Diclidophoridae)

Jhon D. Chero, Celso L. Cruces, Gloria Saez, José L. Luque

Page range: 675-687

Abstract

Cynoscionicola veranoi n. sp. (Monogenea: Microcotylidae) is described based on specimens collected from the gills of lorna drum Sciaena deliciosa (Tschudi, 1846) (Sciaenidae) from Peru. The new species can be differentiated from the other congeneric species by the combination of the following characteristics: (1) haptor with two types of clamps, (2) number and shape of the spines in anterolateral pouches of genital atrium (10–11 curved spines and 3–4 short and bifid spines with a knob in each lateral margin), (3) number and shape of the spines in posterolateral pouches of genital atrium (13–18 bifid spines), (4) 4–6 small spherical unarmed pouches in the genital atrium, and (5) 10–15 testes. In addition, a redescription of Cynoscionicola americanus Tantaleán, Martínez and Escalante, 1987 and Hargicotyle sciaenae Oliva and Luque, 1989 (Diclidophoridae) based on examination of type material and newly collected specimens from snakehead kingcroaker Menticirrhus ophicephalus (Jenyns, 1840) and S. deliciosa (type hosts), respectively, are provided herein.

July 5, 2017

New and previously described dactylogyrid species (Monogenoidea: Polyonchoinea) and a gastrocotylinean pre-adult (Heteronchoinea) from pomacentrid and caesionid (Perciformes) fishes from Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia

Edgar F. Mendoza-Franco, Sandra A. Binning, Dominique G. Roche

Page range: 688-698

Abstract

During a parasitological survey of perciform fishes from Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia, we found the following gill monogenoidean species (Platyhelminthes): Euryhaliotrema lizardi n. sp. on Caesio caerulaurea Lacepède, 1801 (Caesionidae) (type host) and Haliotrema weberii n. sp. on Chromis weberi Fowler and Bean, 1928 (Pomacentridae) (type host), Chromis amboinensis (Bleeker, 1871), Chromis atripectoralis Welander and Schultz, 1951 and Caesio teres Seale, 1906. Euryhaliotrema lizardi n. sp. is characterized by having anchors with an elongated straight shaft and point as well as a vaginal canal with two loops before connecting to the seminal receptacle. Ha . weberii n. sp. is distinguished from other congeners by possessing a tubular male copulatory organ (MCO), partially straight. Two previously described dactylogyrids were also found: Haliotrematoides caesionis (Yamaguti, 1953) Kritsky, Yang and Sun 2009) on Caesio cuning (Bloch, 1791) and Ca . teres (new host record) and Haliotrematoides patellacirrus (Bychowsky and Nagibina, 1971) Kritsky, Yang and Sun 2009, on Ca . cuning (new host record). Finally, we provide the first report of a gastrocotylinean pre-adult on Ca . teres . We provide descriptions and illustrations of the new species and the gastrocotylinean pre-adult and include supplemental observations of Ht . caesionis and Ht . patellacirrus . The present findings expand the known spectrum of host species of Euryhaliotrema, Haliotrema and Haliotrematoides to include new caesionid and pomacentrid fishes.

July 5, 2017

Erratum to: 2017, 62(1) should be 2017, 62(2)

Page range: 699-699

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