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Fasciolosis, caused by the liver fluke Fasciola spp., is a significant parasitic disease of livestock and humans worldwide. Fasciola transmission and life cycle are highly dependent on climatic conditions, especially temperature and humidity. This dependency has gained significance in the context of ongoing climate change. This literature review examined evidence on the effects of temperature variability on the developmental stages of Fasciola spp. and the snail intermediate hosts. We reviewed free larval stages of Fasciola spp. development, as well as snail intermediate hosts, while investigating the climate-related factors influencing each stage. We found that Fasciola spp. egg hatching and development were inhibited below 10 °C and optimal between 20 and 30 °C, miracidia hatching time decreased with higher temperatures and cercarial shedding by snail hosts accelerated around 27 °C. Further, metacercarial viability declined at higher temperatures but was prolonged by higher humidity. Snail intermediate host growth rates peaked at 25 °C, and their susceptibility to Fasciola infection depends on temperature, underscoring its importance in transmission dynamics. Overall, the Fasciola life cycle and snail host development exhibit stage-specific temperature thresholds, indicating a complex relationship between temperature fluctuations and parasite transmission potential. This research highlights the key role of temperature and humidity on Fasciola spp. and snail development, shedding light on the potential consequences of climate change on their survival, development, and disease transmission. Data limitations, primarily from the scarcity of high-resolution climate-related experiments, should drive future research to enhance predictive models and deepen our understanding of the impact of climate change on this parasitic disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of the present study was to describe a very rare case of gallstone (cholelithiasis) in a goat associated with chronic fasciolosis. During a routine slaughterhouse‐based survey, a two‐and‐half‐year‐old female Black Bengal Goat was found to be affected with severe chronic fascioliosis characterized by the massive damage in the liver. Through systemic dissection of liver, we isolated 94 adult Fasciola spp., and by PCR, we confirmed the fluke as Fasciola gigantica. The gallbladder of the goat was oedematous. On opening the gallbladder, we recovered 255 stones of variable sizes. Stones were whitish in colour and friable, and some of the fragile stones were attached to the wall of the gallbladder. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of the cholelithiasis in a goat associated with F. gigantica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasciolosis is an economically important disease in sheep, caused by the trematode, Fasciola, also known as liver fluke, belonging to the Class Trematoda (Phylum Platyhelminthes). In order to determine the prevalence of this fluke parasite, based on different risk factor(s) associated with sheep raised in pasture land of Kargil, Ladakh, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 410 faecal samples consisting of 148, 127 and 135 samples of local breeds Purgi, Cross breed (CB) Karakul and CB-Kashmiri Merino sheep respectively. Fresh faecal samples were taken directly from the rectum and brought in airtight polythene bags for parasitological examination to the Department of Sheep Husbandry Parasitology Laboratory, Kargil, Ladakh. The samples were examined through standard floatation and sedimentation techniques. The overall prevalence was found to be low (0.97%). Generally, the risk factors such as type of breed, was found to have a significant (p£0.05) influence on the risk of fasciolosis in the sheep whereas other factors viz., age, sex and season were found to have statistically non-significant (p>0.05) effect. According to breed, the infection was seen only in CB-Kashmiri Merino while with respect to age and sex, the higher infection was recorded in >2 year and in the female counterparts as compared to age 1-2 years and in the males. However, no infection was recorded in <1 year kids. Based on the influence of season, the higher infection (2.19%) was recorded in autumn, while lower infection (1.98%) was recorded in summer season. No infection was recorded in spring and winter seasons. The very low infection rates and absence of infection in native breeds like local Purgi and CB-Karakul sheep could be attributed to the absence of intermediate hosts in other regions of district Kargil because the infection was recorded only from Drass Valley, where the native flocks shared a pasture land with the exotic breeds of other states. The present study will be useful in comprehending the epidemiology of gastrointestinal helminths in small ruminants, particularly in resource-poor communities of cold dessert Ladakh and the findings of this study serve as a message to small-scale rearers/stakeholders to formulate a proper sustainable management system and avoid sharing grazing/breeding lands with exotic breeds in order to prevent the cross infection with GIT helminth parasites in their native sheep flocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gebeyehu Alkadir, Dinka Ayana Department of Veterinary Pathology & Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, EthiopiaCorrespondence: Gebeyehu Alkadir, Email gebeyehu.alkadir@aau.edu.etIntroduction: Gastrointestinal helminth parasitism is an important problem of livestock in many places of the globe. Despite the fact that the disease is one of the leading causes of economic losses, there is little information on the occurrence of the infection in cattle and sheep in Ethiopia.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2022 to February 2023 in urban and peri-urban areas of the Ada’a District with the objective of estimating the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites (GIHPs) in sheep and cattle and to assess the commercial anthelmintic utilization practices and associated risk factors in sheep and cattle. A total of 351 randomly selected fecal samples (192 cattle and 159 sheep) were collected from the rectum and examined using flotation and sedimentation. One hundred respondents were interviewed for questionnaire surveys on anthelmintic utilization practices.Results and Discussion: The overall prevalence of GIHPs (61.25%) was recorded during the study. Among the animals, 55.21% and 68.55% prevalence of the infection was observed in cattle and sheep, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05) in gastrointestinal helminth parasite (GIHP) infection between the study animal species, breeds, body condition of the animals, and production systems. However, there were no significant differences in gastrointestinal helminth parasite (GIHP) infection (P > 0.05) according to sex and age of the animals. A higher prevalence of strongyle (55.34%), fasciola (13.48%), and moniezia eggs (10.69%) was recorded. According to a questionnaire survey, ivermectin was found to be the most used anthelmintic drug. This study addresses the challenge of anthelmintic resistance (AR) against currently available anthelmintics; highly prevalent parasitic infections are causing tremendous economic losses to the animal industry.Keywords: nematode, trematode, cestode, strongyle, fasciola, moniezia

Abstract Background Snails of the Lymnaeidae family are the intermediate hosts of Fasciola species, the causative agents of fascioliasis. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of Fasciola species in lymnaeid snails and to investigate the association of geoclimatic factors and Fasciola species distribution in northwestern provinces of Iran using geographical information system (GIS) data. Methods A total of 2000 lymnaeid snails were collected from 33 permanent and seasonal habitats in northwestern Iran during the period from June to November 2021. After identification by standard morphological keys, they were subjected to shedding and crushing methods. Different stages of Fasciola obtained from these snails were subjected to the ITS1 polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) method for species identification. The associations of weather temperature, rainfall, humidity, evaporation, air pressure, wind speed, elevation, and land cover with the distribution of Fasciola species were investigated. Geographical and statistical analysis was performed using ArcMap and SPSS software, respectively, to determine factors related to Fasciola species distribution. Results Of the 2000 snails collected, 19 were infected with Fasciola hepatica (0.09%), six with F. gigantica (0.03%), and 13 with other trematodes. Among geoclimatic and environmental factors, mean humidity, maximum humidity, and wind speed were significantly higher in areas where F. hepatica was more common than F. gigantica. The altitude of F. hepatica-prevalent areas was generally lower than F. gigantica areas. No significant relationship was observed between other investigated geoclimatic factors and the distribution of infected snails. Conclusions The present study showed the relationship of humidity and wind speed with the distribution of snails infected with F. hepatica or F. gigantica in the northwestern regions of Iran. In contrast to F. gigantica, F. hepatica was more prevalent in low-altitude areas. Further research is recommended to elucidate the relationship between geoclimatic factors and the presence of intermediate hosts of the two Fasciola species. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Starting in October 2021, quarterly malacological surveys have been undertaken in Malawi, with the sampling of 12 specified freshwater habitats throughout a calendar year. Each survey monitors the presence of aquatic intermediate snail hosts of medical and veterinary importance. In March 2023, the alien lymnaeid species Pseudosuccinea columella was encountered for the first time in the surveys, in Nsanje District. This species identity was later confirmed upon DNA analysis of mitochondrial ribosomal 16S sequences. In July 2023, P. columella was also noted at single sites within Mangochi and Chikwawa Districts, and again in Nsanje District, with an additional location observed. Of particular importance, our sampled location in Mangochi District was directly connected to Lake Malawi, which expands the species list of invasive molluscs in this lake. While P. columella is a well-known intermediate snail host for human and animal fascioliasis, screening collected snails for trematode cercariae, alongside molecular xenomonitoring, did not yield equivocal evidence of active fluke infection. However, the newly recognized presence of this alien intermediate snail host within Lake Malawi, and along the Shire River Valley, flags a new concern in altered local transmission potential for human and animal fascioliasis. Graphical Abstract

Background: The insulin/insulin-like signalling (IIS) pathway is common in mammals and invertebrates, and the IIS pathway is unknown in Fasciola gigantica. In the present study, the IIS pathway was reconstructed in F. gigantica. We defined the components involved in the IIS pathway and investigated the transcription profiles of these genes for all developmental stages of F. gigantica. In addition, the presence of these components in excretory and secretory products (ESPs) was predicted via signal peptide annotation. Results: The core components of the IIS pathway were detected in F. gigantica. Among these proteins, one ligand (FgILP) and one insulin-like molecule binding protein (FgIGFBP) were analysed. Interestingly, three receptors (FgIR-1/FgIR-2/FgIR-3) were detected, and a novel receptor, FgIR-3, was screened, suggesting novel functions. Fg14-3-3ζ, Fgirs, and Fgpp2a exhibited increased transcription in 42-day-old juveniles and 70-day-old juveniles, while Fgilp, Fgigfb, Fgsgk-1, Fgakt-1, Fgir-3, Fgpten, and Fgaap-1 exhibited increased transcription in metacercariae. FgILP, FgIGFBP, FgIR-2, FgIR-3, and two transcription factors (FgHSF-1 and FgSKN-1) were predicted to be present in FgESPs, indicating their exogenous roles. Conclusions: This study helps to elucidate the signal transduction pathway of IIS in F. gigantica, which will aid in understanding the interaction between flukes and hosts, as well as in understanding fluke developmental regulation, and will also lay a foundation for further characterisation of the IIS pathways of trematodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The potential molluscicidal extracts, obtained from indigenous plants Cannabis sativa, Acacia nilotica, and Tinospora cordifolia, were tested for toxicity against freshwater pulmonate snail Lymnaea acuminata, an intermediate host of Fasciola hepatica. The organic extracts had a significant effect on young snails. Materials and Methods: All organic extracts and column-purified fractions gave median lethal concentrations (19–100.05 mg/L; 24 h) that fell well within the threshold level of 100 mg/L, set for a potential molluscicide by the World Health Organization. Results: The toxicity of T. cordifolia stem acetone extract (96 h LC50: 16.08 mg/L) was more pronounced compared with C. sativa leaf ethanol extract (96 h LC50: 16.32 mg/L) and A. nilotica leaf ethanol extract (96 h LC50: 24.78 mg/L). β-caryophyllene, gallic acid, and berberine were characterized and identified as active molluscicidal components. Co-migration of β-caryophyllene (retardation factor [Rf] 0.95), gallic acid (Rf 0.30), and berberine (Rf 0.23) with column-purified parts of Cannabis sativa, Acacia nilotica, and Tinospora cordifolia on thin-layer chromatography demonstrates same Rf value, that is, 0.95, 0.30, and 0.23, respectively. Conclusion: This study indicates that these extracts thus represent potential plant-derived molluscicides that are worthy of further investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal helminths are important causes of hindering global goat production. To find the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths of Black Bengal and Jamunapari breeds of goats, the current investigation was carried out at Barishal Sadar Upazilla of Barishal district, Bangladesh. The gastrointestinal helminths were identified through coprological examination. A total of 112 fecal samples were collected from household goats across different seasons, breeds, sexes, and ages. During the study period, four types of gastrointestinal helminths were identified based on the presence of helminth eggs in fecal samples. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in goats was found to be 82.1%, while the prevalence rates of Fasciola gigantica (F. gigantica), Paramphistomum spp., Bunostomum spp., and Hemonchus spp. were 34.8% (95% CI: 1.4-2.5), 22.3% (95% CI: 0.7-1.8), 14.3% (95% CI: 0.1-1.5), and 10.7% (95% CI: 0.2-1.0), respectively. A significantly different prevalence was observed among different gastrointestinal helminths in goats. A significantly lower prevalence of F. gigantica and Paramphistomum spp. was observed in male goats, compared to females. A higher prevalence of F. gigantica was significantly observed during the winter, compared to the summer. The current study elucidates that F. gigantica was more prevalent in female goats. The current study indicated that F. gigantica was more prevalent in female goats. These findings underscore the importance of further research and control measures to manage gastrointestinal helminth infections in goats across southern Bangladesh and other regions with similar environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Snails of the Lymnaeidae family are the intermediate hosts of Fasciola species, the causative agents of fascioliasis. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of Fasciola species in lymnaeid snails and to investigate the association of geoclimatic factors and Fasciola species distribution in northwestern provinces of Iran using geographical information system (GIS) data. Methods: A total of 2000 lymnaeid snails were collected from 33 permanent and seasonal habitats in northwestern Iran during the period from June to November 2021. After identification by standard morphological keys, they were subjected to shedding and crushing methods. Different stages of Fasciola obtained from these snails were subjected to the ITS1 polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR–RFLP) method for species identification. The associations of weather temperature, rainfall, humidity, evaporation, air pressure, wind speed, elevation, and land cover with the distribution of Fasciola species were investigated. Geographical and statistical analysis was performed using ArcMap and SPSS software, respectively, to determine factors related to Fasciola species distribution. Results: Of the 2000 snails collected, 19 were infected with Fasciola hepatica (0.09%), six with F. gigantica (0.03%), and 13 with other trematodes. Among geoclimatic and environmental factors, mean humidity, maximum humidity, and wind speed were significantly higher in areas where F. hepatica was more common than F. gigantica. The altitude of F. hepatica-prevalent areas was generally lower than F. gigantica areas. No significant relationship was observed between other investigated geoclimatic factors and the distribution of infected snails. Conclusions: The present study showed the relationship of humidity and wind speed with the distribution of snails infected with F. hepatica or F. gigantica in the northwestern regions of Iran. In contrast to F. gigantica, F. hepatica was more prevalent in low-altitude areas. Further research is recommended to elucidate the relationship between geoclimatic factors and the presence of intermediate hosts of the two Fasciola species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The occurrence of trematodes among ruminants and their snail vectors is a major concern across various agro-ecological regions of Ethiopia. Trematodes pose significant threats to animals, causing considerable economic losses and impacting public health. In this study, we have investigated 784 ruminant fecal samples, and 520 abattoir samples, alongside the collection and identification of snail vectors from various agro-ecological regions. Fecal examinations revealed Fasciola, Paramphistomum and Schistosoma species infected 20.5% (95% CI: 17.6, 23.8), 11.7% (95% CI: 9.6, 14.2), and 6.3% (95% CI: 4.1, 9.1) of the animals, respectively. The overall prevalence of trematodes among ruminants was 28.8% (95% CI: 25.7, 32.1%), with 6.0% (95% CI: 4.3, 7.7) showing mixed infections. Fasciola was more prevalent in Asela (26%) compared to Batu (19%) and Hawassa (11.5%), while a higher proportion of animals in Batu were infected with Paramphistomum. Schistosoma eggs were detected only in Batu (12.5%), but not in other areas. Sheep and cattle exhibited higher infection rates with Fasciola, Paramphistoma, and Schistosoma compared to goats. Significant associations were observed between trematode infections and risk factors including agro-ecology, animal species, body condition score, and deworming practices. About 20.8% and 22.7% of the slaughtered animals harbored Fasciola and Paramphistomum flukes, respectively, with a higher prevalence in Asela and Hawassa abattoirs compared to Batu abattoir. Additionally, a total of 278 snails were collected from the study areas and identified as lymnae natalensis, lymnae trancatula, Biomphalaria pffiferi, Biomphlaria sudanica, and Bulinus globosus. In conclusion, the study highlights the widespread occurrence of trematode infections, emphasizing the need for feasible control measures to mitigate their economic and public health impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fascioliasis and toxoplasmosis are the two important zoonotic diseases that are endemic in Iran and share some common transmission routes. The present study is aimed at determining the seroprevalence of human fascioliasis and toxoplasmosis in rural and urban areas of Jolfa County, Northwest Iran. In a cross-sectional study, 600 human sera were collected randomly from humans living in Jolfa County including three cities and 13 villages from 2017 to 2018. Anti-Toxoplasma IgG and anti-Fasciola sp. IgG tests have been performed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Four (0.7%) out of 600 human sera showed positive levels of anti-Fasciola IgG. Three out of four seropositive humans were from an urban area, and one (25%) was from rural inhabitants. Considering T. gondii infection, 45% of studied human sera were seropositive for anti-T. gondii IgG. In conclusion, this is the first study reporting Fasciola seropositivity in the area. Based on the findings, human fascioliasis is present in the studied area, Northwest Iran, granted in low prevalence. Considering T. gondii seropositivity, the prevalence is high, yet close to the reports from other regions in the province. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Wider distribution of invasive snails compared with native snails in the Limpopo River system. • cox 1 genetic data shows multiple lineages of invasive snails outside their native ranges. • More digenean species occurred in Pseudosuccinea columella than in the other snails. • The present xiphidiocercaria represents an unknown species of Orientocreadium. Invasive snails are associated with ecological problems in freshwater bodies worldwide. However, their impact on the transmission of digenean infections remain underreported. In the present study, 1708 specimens representing four snail species were sampled from four impoundments in the Limpopo River system in South Africa. Gyraulus chinensis (Planorbidae), Physella acuta (Physidae) and Pseudosuccinea columella (Lymnaeidae), which are invasive, were found in all the sampling sites. In contrast, the native lymnaeid Radix natalensis occurred at only one study site. Digeneans were observed only from R. natalensis (prevalence = 49%) and Ps. columella (prevalence = 23%). Morphological and genetic analyses revealed four digeneans: Fasciola nyanzae , Orientocreadium sp., Petasiger sp. and Patagifer vioscai. Pseudosuccinea columella was infected by the four digeneans while R. natalensis harboured only Orientocreadium sp. and Petasiger sp. Partial sequences of Orientocreadium sp. from the current study differed from congeners whose DNA data are available on GenBank, by p-distances of at least 1.84 and 2.2% for 28S and the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) rDNA, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that the present species is sister to Orientocreadium batrachoides. Genetic and phylogenetic data based on 28S and ITS rDNA suggested that Petasiger sp. from the present study and isolates of three unidentified Petasiger spp. from Kenya, Hungary and Australia, were representatives of the same species. This is the first known report of Orientocreadium , Petasiger and Patagifer from Ps. columella. The occurrence of F. nyanzae in Ps. columella indicates spillback from R. natalensis. These findings echo the concerns raised in previous studies about the potential role of Ps. columella in the amplification of digenean diseases in its introduced range. Phylogenetic analyses of partial sequences of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 mitochondrial gene (cox 1) showed multiple lineages of Ps. columella in North and South America. Pseudosuccinea columella specimens from the present study belong to an invasive genotype that has spread globally and has been reported from Zimbabwe, Egypt, Portugal, Australia, Argentina, Colombia and New Mexico (USA). Physella acuta from the current study had a stronger genetic relationship with isolates from Canada and Iceland, than with isolates from other parts of Africa, suggesting several invasion routes into Africa. This is the first known DNA characterisation of G. chinensis from Africa. Phylogenetic reconstruction indicated multiple exit events of G. chinensis from Asia into Europe and Africa. South African isolates clustered in a recent branch containing isolates from the Czech Republic and Hong Kong, China. Considering the presence of invasive snails in all the sampling sites in the present study, it is necessary to investigate the factors that enhance their establishment and to monitor their effects on the native snail populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Importance: Equines are indispensable in reducing the huge burden on children and women and income generation. On the other hand, minimal attention is given to improving their health and welfare. Objective: This study examined the prevalence and associated risk factors of helminth parasites of equine in the Gamo Gofa Zone. Methods: A cross-sectional study was employed from June 2019 to March 2020. The study districts and Kebeles were selected purposively based on agroecology whereas selection of study households and animals were performed based on simple random sampling techniques. Identification of nematode, trematode parasite ova and larvae of D. arnfieldi were done by floatation, sedimentation, and Baermann techniques respectively. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression was applied to estimate the prevalence and association of risk factors with helminth parasites. Results: The overall helminth parasite prevalence in the study area was 90.4%, 425/470 (95% [CI], 87.16-92.9). The prevalence of Strongyle, Fasciola, O. equi, P. equorum, D. arnfieldi, and mixed parasite infections were 65.1%, 21.7%, 17.4%, 34%, 34%, and 58.1%, respectively. Infections from Fasciola species and D. arnfieldi infection were four ([AOR], 4.4; 95% CI, 2-9.4) and two times (AOR, 2; 95% CI, 1.1-3.6) respectively more likely occur in donkeys than in mules. The occurrence of Strongyle species in midland agroecology was two times (AOR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.4-4.7) more likely than lowland agroecology. Conclusions and Relevance: The present study identified diverse species of equine helminth parasites that necessitate urgent disease control and prevention measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bovine fasciolosis causes significant economic losses to farmers and herders in Africa. The study aimed at determining how often bovine fasciolosis occurs in Jalingo abattoirs. Methods: This study was conducted in Jalingo abattoir using retrospective records from the year 2012 to 2021 and a prospective abattoir meat inspection survey to evaluate the prevalence and seasonal variation of bovine fasciolosis in Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria. Results: An overall bovine fasciolosis prevalence of 8.29% was observed in 149,611 cattle slaughtered at the abattoir. There was statistical significance (p < 0.05) between seasons and bovine fasciolosis occurrence, with the rainy season having a slightly higher prevalence. Additionally, the prospective study analyzed 2424 cattle during the months of March and April 2022 at the Jalingo abattoir. Cows had a higher infection rate (6.15%) than bulls (2.43%), although the prospective study had a bovine fasciolosis prevalence of 8.58 percent. Bovine fasciolosis occurrence was shown to have a significant association with age, with a higher prevalence in older cattle (5.82%) compared to younger cattle (2.76%). However, there was no association that could be considered statistically significant between infection rates and the breed or sex of the slaughtered cattle. Conclusion: Both investigations, retrospective and prospective, shed light on the frequency and seasonal fluctuations of bovine fasciolosis in the research area. These insights can be utilised as a basis for further design considerations in future studies aimed at eradicating the disease or reducing its prevalence in the cattle herd and boosting livestock health and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unionoid freshwater mussels (Bivalvia: Unionidae) are free-living apart from a brief, obligately parasitic, larval stage that infects fish hosts, and gravid female mussels have evolved a spectrum of strategies to infect fish hosts with their larvae. In many North American species, this involves displaying a mantle lure: a pigmented fleshy extension that acts as an aggressive mimic of a host fish prey, thereby eliciting a feeding response that results in host infection. The mantle lure of Lampsilis fasciola is of particular interest because it is apparently polymorphic, with two distinct primary lure phenotypes. One, described as "darter-like", has "eyespots", a mottled body coloration, prominent marginal extensions, and a distinct "tail". The other, described as "worm-like", lacks those features and has an orange and black coloration. We investigated this phenomenon using genomics, captive rearing, biogeographic, and behavioral analyses. Within-brood lure variation and within-population phylogenomic (ddRAD-seq) analyses of individuals bearing different lures confirmed that this phenomenon is a true polymorphism. The relative abundance of the two morphs appears stable over ecological timeframes: the ratio of the two lure phenotypes in a River Raisin (MI) population in 2017 was consistent with that of museum samples collected at the same site six decades earlier. Within the River Raisin, four main "darter-like" lure motifs visually approximated four co-occurring darter species (Etheostoma blennioides, E. exile, E. microperca, and Percina maculata), and the "worm-like" lure resembled a widespread common leech, Macrobdella decora. Darters and leeches are typical prey of Micropterus dolomieui (smallmouth bass), the primary fish host of L. fasciola. In situ field recordings of the L. fasciola "darter" and "leech" lure display behaviors, and the lure display of co-occurring congener L. cardium, were captured. Despite having putative models in distinct phyla, both L. fasciola lure morphs have largely similar display behaviors that differ significantly from that of sympatric L. cardium individuals. Some minor differences in the behavior between the two L. fasciola morphs were observed, but we found no clear evidence for a behavioral component of the polymorphism given the criteria measured. Discovery of discrete within-brood inheritance of the lure polymorphism implies potential control by a single genetic locus and identifies L. fasciola as a promising study system to identify regulatory genes controlling a key adaptive trait of freshwater mussels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starting in October 2021, quarterly malacological surveys have been undertaken in Malawi, with the sampling of 12 specified freshwater habitats throughout a calendar year. Each survey monitors the presence of aquatic intermediate snail hosts of medical and veterinary importance. In March 2023, the alien lymnaeid species Pseudosuccinea columella was encountered for the first time in the surveys, in Nsanje District. This species identity was later confirmed upon DNA analysis of mitochondrial ribosomal 16S sequences. In July 2023, P. columella was also noted at single sites within Mangochi and Chikwawa Districts, and again in Nsanje District, with an additional location observed. Of particular importance, our sampled location in Mangochi District was directly connected to Lake Malawi, which expands the species list of invasive molluscs in this lake. While P. columella is a well-known intermediate snail host for human and animal fascioliasis, screening collected snails for trematode cercariae, alongside molecular xenomonitoring, did not yield equivocal evidence of active fluke infection. However, the newly recognized presence of this alien intermediate snail host within Lake Malawi, and along the Shire River Valley, flags a new concern in altered local transmission potential for human and animal fascioliasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we report biliary fascioliasis in two women 27 and 54 years old from Ardabil Province, Iran who presented with nausea, anorexia, weight loss, and pain between shoulder blades. Endoscopic ultrasound showed distal common bile duct strictures (CBD) and a lesion in its proximal. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) was performed and live parasites were diagnosed and successfully managed into the duodenal lumen. The clinical findings of the patient improved after the procedure. This report emphasizes that the prevalence of Fasciola in Ardabil is predictable and this infection could be simultaneously diagnosed and treated by the ERCP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bleeding is a very rare complication of Fasciola species (F. hepatica or F. gigantica) infection. We present here three cases of subcapsular liver bleeding caused by the hepatic phase of Fasciola spp. infection in patients, two of whom were women, aged 22, 66, and 84 years in Diyarbakir Province, southeastern Turkey. They had symptoms of right upper quadrant pain (n = 3), nausea (n = 1), and vomiting (n = 2) for periods ranging from 6 hours to 15 days. All patients with clinical presentations ranging from moderate abdominal pain to hypovolemic shock and ischemic hepatitis were improved with supportive treatment without the need for surgery. They showed complete clinical and laboratory recovery after triclabendazole administration in their follow-up. In conclusion, Fasciola spp. infection should be considered in the etiology of bleeding from liver disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasciolosis is a disease caused by the genus Fasciola which attacks wild animals, livestock and humans. Molecular characterization of Fasciola sp. important for identifying the species Fasciola sp. The aim of this research was to analyze the characteristics of the worm Fasciola sp. molecularly on samples of cattle slaughtered at the Kediri City Slaughterhouse Regional Technical Implementation Unit. This research was carried out from January to February 2023. The samples were adult worms Fasciola sp. taken from one beef cattle and one dairy cattle. The PCR used is conventional PCR with primers from mitochondrial DNA genes. PCR products are passed to the sequencing stage. The PCR test results read on 2% agarose gel electrophoresis showed that the PCR product had high specificity, namely forming a single band at position 752 bp showed positive for F. gigantica. the results of the phylogenetic tree of Fasciola sp. with data in GenBank showing Fasciola sp. beef and dairy cattle isolates in Kediri City are closely related to Fasciola sp. dairy cattle isolate from China with Accession Number KF543343.1 and Fasciola sp. long-haired cattle (yak) isolate from China Accession Number MH621335.1. The existence of international livestock trade can result in the introduction of various diseases, one of which is Fasciolosis. Livestock import-export activities from China allow the introduction of Fasciola sp. to Indonesia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Fascioliasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection caused by Fasciola species in humans and animals. Despite significant advances in vaccination and new therapeutic agents, little attention has been paid to validating methods for the diagnosis of fascioliasis in humans. Serological techniques are convenient assays that significantly improves the diagnosis of Fasciola infection. However, a more sensitive method is required. The aim of this study was to compare the Real-Time PCR technique with the indirect-ELISA for the detection of Fasciola hepatica in human. Using a panel of sera from patients infected with Fasciola hepatica (n = 51), other parasitic infections (n = 7), and uninfected controls (n = 12), we optimized an ELISA which employs an excretory–secretory antigens from F. hepatica for the detection of human fascioliasis. After DNA extraction from the samples, molecular analysis was done using Real-Time PCR technique based on the Fasciola ribosomal ITS1 sequence. Of 70 patient serum samples, 44 (62.86%) samples were identified as positive F. hepatica infection using ELISA and Real-Time PCR assays. There was no cross-reaction with other parasitic diseases such as toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis, taeniasis, hydatidosis, trichinosis, toxocariasis, and strongyloidiasis. The significant difference between the agreement and similarity of the results of patients with indirect ELISA and Real-Time PCR was 94.4% and 99.2%, respectively (Cohen’s kappa ≥ 0.7; P = 0.02). Based on the Kappa agreement findings, the significant agreement between the results of ELISA and Real-Time PCR indicates the accuracy and reliability of these tests in the diagnosis of F. hepatica in humans.

The Drosophila repleta group is one of the most widely used model systems for studying adaptation and speciation. Traditionally, five subgroups are recognized within the repleta group: fasciola, hydei, mercatorum, repleta and mulleri. A sixth subgroup, inca, was the last to be defined. The inca species subgroup includes three species: Drosophila inca, Drosophila huancavilcae and Drosophila yangana, all of which are endemic to Ecuador and Peru. Previous molecular phylogenetic studies have been inconclusive regarding the geographic location, time and mode of diversification of lineages within the repleta group. By applying a phylogenetic and biogeographical analysis of 54 taxa belonging to the repleta, nannoptera, atalaia and virilis groups, the aim of this study was to: (1) determine the relationships between the inca subgroup and the other five subgroups within the repleta group, (2) improve the unresolved branching and low supports of the early divergent lineages in the repleta group phylogeny and (3) estimate the geographic and temporal context of the early divergence within the repleta group. Based on these findings, it is proposed that the Drosophila repleta group first diversified during the mid-late Miocene, most likely following the uplift of the Northwestern Andes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intrashell oxygen isotope (δ18Os) analyses of terrestrial snails have been carried out over two decades. However, the intraspecies/interspecies differences are not yet well understood. Here, we conducted a high‐resolution intrashell δ18Os study on 43 shells from Cathaica fasciola and Bradybaena ravida, and 1449 δ18Os data were obtained. These large amounts of data demonstrate the reproducibility of intrashell δ18Os. Our results suggest that C. fasciola and B. ravida have similar growing seasons mainly from March to October in the studied region. The ecological habits of the two species could explain the distinctive variations in their δ18Os sequences. Therefore, our study may interpret the discrepancy between the studies of land snail species and the stable/clumped isotopes of their shells. Moreover, the calculated average growth rate is ∼290 μm/day (from 250 to 330 μm/day) for nonadult C. fasciola. Thus, the use of snail shells for reconstructing high‐resolution terrestrial climate changes is promising. Plain Language Summary: Land snails are sensitive to climatic and environmental changes. Therefore, the oxygen isotopic composition of snail shells (δ18Os) has often been used to study environmental changes. Researchers started to collect multiple samples from a single shell for δ18Os analyses about two decades ago. However, it is still unclear whether high‐resolution intrashell δ18Os results are repeatable and whether the influences of different individuals/species may exist. To address these issues, we collected 43 snail shells from Cathaica fasciola and Bradybaena ravida. In total, 1449 δ18Os data were obtained. The large amount of data showing similar variations in the intrashell δ18Os from different shells demonstrates the repeatability. Accordingly, our data suggest that the two species have similar growing seasons, mainly from March to October, although their ecological habits are different. In addition, the ecological habits of these two species could explain the subtle differences in their δ18Os. Taken together, our study could resolve the discrepancy between previous work on land snail species and stable/clumped isotopes. Furthermore, the estimated average growth rate is ∼290 μm/day (from 250 to 330 μm/day) for nonadult C. fasciola. Overall, snail shells are promising records for exploring high‐resolution terrestrial climate changes in the future. Key Points: The intrashell δ18Os of land snails is reproducible, which mainly records the δ18O of precipitationCathaica fasciola and Bradybaena ravida have different ecological habits but similar growing seasonEcological habits could explain the discrepancy between studies of land snail species and stable/clumped isotopes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radix (Lymnaea) natalensis (Krauss, 1848) is an essential host in the completion of the life cycle of Fasciola gigantica especially in large areas of Africa, where it is reputed to serve as the main, if not the only intermediate of Fasciola. In this study, 18S rDNA gene was employed for the molecular characterization of morphologically identified Radix natalensis collected from Nigerian Northern cities of Gombe and Jos. The obtained result revealed that the amplification of the 18S rDNA gene at 450bp identified and confirmed the collected species as Radix natalensis. BLASTn search showed that sequences of Nigerian isolates of Radix natalensis had high (99-100%) degree of similarities with each other and with other sequence deposits in the NCBI GenBank. The Nigerian sequences on phylogenetic analysis formed a separate clade distinct from other sequences of Radix natalensis from other parts of Africa and the rest of the world, suggestive of clustering based on geographical location. Thus, the availability and confirmation of Radix (Lymnaea) natalensis from the study locations as evidenced by the results of this study further justifies the assertion of Lymnaea natalensis, being a putative intermediate host of Fasciola spp. in Nigeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fasciola gigantica is a helminth parasite of veterinary importance and a constraint on the growth and productivity of domestic livestock in the tropical countries of Asia and Africa. Present study aimed at determining the expression of four cysteine protease genes including cathepsin (cat) L-1 D and cat-Bs in the embryonated egg stage of F. gigantica by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In addition to the analysis of expression of the above genes in the embryonated eggs, inhibition of in vitro hatching of the miracidia from the eggs was carried out using three protease inhibitors viz. serine, cysteine and leucine aminopeptidase inhibitors to understand the possible role of these proteases in the hatching of the miracidia from the eggs. Methods: Cat- L-1D, cat B-1, cat B-2 and cat B-3 genes were amplified by reverse transcriptase and quantitative-PCR, respectively for determining their expression in the embryonated eggs. Inhibition of in vitro hatching of the miracidia from the eggs was carried out by exposing the embryonated eggs to different concentrations of iodoacetamide, phenyl methyl sulphonyl fluoride and bestatin as cysteine, serine and leucine aminopeptidase inhibitors. Result: Results showed that cat L1-D, cat B-1 and cat B-3 genes were expressed at the embryonated egg stage but cat B-2 gene was not expressed at this stage of the parasite. Iodoacetamide and phenyl methyl sulphonyl fluoride (cysteine and serine protease inhibitors) inhibited the miracidial hatching at different concentrations, indicating probable role of cysteine and serine proteases in its hatching process. However, leucine aminopeptoidase does not seem to influence the miracidial hatching from the eggs as bestatin did not inhibit its hatching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The objective of this study is to study the secondary structure analysis of Fasciola flukes from a rare mithun host from Manipur. Fascioliasis, a neglected tropical trematodiasis, is poorly studied in India and is widely believed to be predominantly caused by F. gigantica. Through this study, we want to assess the flukes from the rare semi-wild ruminants of Northeast India. This study is important as the mithun population is semi-wild and its population is declining in Manipur. Methods: Sample collected from the difficult and challenging terrain of Northeast India. The sample was collected from mithun and observed under the microscope. DNA was isolated, sequenced, and analyzed using various bioinformatics tools. The secondary structure analysis of the Internal Transcribed Spacer 2 (ITS2) region was also performed. Results: The secondary structure species tree corroborated the Bayesian inference and, hence, strengthened the phylogeny reconstructed. The annotated ITS2 sequence and RNA secondary of the Manipur isolate displayed the typical four-helix or four-domain model. Helix III reveals the presence of the UGGU motif with other deviations like UGG and GGU. Conclusion: This is an in-depth analysis of the secondary structure of Fasciola species. The present study has demonstrated the usefulness of ITS2 and its secondary structures for characterizing parasites. The information on fascioliasis in the mithun's population presents itself useful with regards to their conservation strategy as their populations in both Manipur and Nagaland are dwindling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fascioliasis is a zoonotic parasitic infection caused by Fasciola species in humans and animals. Despite significant advances in vaccination and new therapeutic agents, little attention has been paid to validating methods for the diagnosis of fascioliasis in humans. Serological techniques are convenient assays that significantly improves the diagnosis of Fasciola infection. However, a more sensitive method is required. The aim of this study was to compare the Real-Time PCR technique with the indirect-ELISA for the detection of Fasciola hepatica in human. Using a panel of sera from patients infected with Fasciola hepatica (n = 51), other parasitic infections (n = 7), and uninfected controls (n = 12), we optimized an ELISA which employs an excretory–secretory antigens from F. hepatica for the detection of human fascioliasis. After DNA extraction from the samples, molecular analysis was done using Real-Time PCR technique based on the Fasciola ribosomal ITS1 sequence. Of 70 patient serum samples, 44 (62.86%) samples were identified as positive F. hepatica infection using ELISA and Real-Time PCR assays. There was no cross-reaction with other parasitic diseases such as toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis, taeniasis, hydatidosis, trichinosis, toxocariasis, and strongyloidiasis. The significant difference between the agreement and similarity of the results of patients with indirect ELISA and Real-Time PCR was 94.4% and 99.2%, respectively (Cohen's kappa ≥ 0.7; P = 0.02). Based on the Kappa agreement findings, the significant agreement between the results of ELISA and Real-Time PCR indicates the accuracy and reliability of these tests in the diagnosis of F. hepatica in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fascioliasis is a neglected tropical zoonotic disease caused by liver flukes belonging to the genus Fasciola. The emergence of resistance to triclabendazole, the only World Health Organization-recommended drug for this disease, highlights the need for the development of new drugs. Helminths possess an anaerobic mitochondrial respiratory chain (fumarate respiration) which is considered a potential drug target. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of fumarate respiration in Fasciola flukes. We analyzed the properties of the respiratory chain of Fasciola flukes in both adults and newly excysted juveniles (NEJs). Fasciola flukes travel and mature through the stomach, bowel, and abdominal cavity to the liver, where oxygen levels gradually decline. High fumarate reductase activity was observed in the mitochondrial fraction of adult Fasciola flukes. Furthermore, rhodoquinone-10 (RQ10 Em’= −63 mV), a low-potential electron mediator used in fumarate respiration was found to be predominant in adults. In contrast, the activity of oxygen respiration was low in adults. Rotenone, atpenin A5, and ascochlorin, typical inhibitors of mitochondrial enzymes in complexes I, II, and III, respectively, inhibit the activity of each enzyme in the adult mitochondrial fraction. These inhibitors were then used for in vitro viability tests of NEJs. Under aerobic conditions, NEJs were killed by rotenone or ascochlorin, which inhibit aerobic respiration (complex I–III), whereas atpenin A5, which inhibits complex II involved in fumarate respiration, did not affect NEJs. Moreover, ubiquinone-10 (UQ10 Em’= +110 mV), which is used in oxidative respiration, was detected in NEJs, in addition to RQ10. In contrast, under anaerobic conditions, rotenone and atpenin A5, which inhibit fumarate respiration (complex I–II), were crucial for NEJs. These findings demonstrate that NEJs have active hybrid respiration, in which they can properly use both oxygen and fumarate respiration, depending on oxygen availability. Thus, fumarate respiration is a promising drug target for Fasciola flukes, because it plays an essential role in both adults and NEJs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver flukes are parasitic flatworms that can infect humans and other mammals. In this study, freshwater snails from Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari province in Iran were investigated for the presence of liver fluke larvae. The snails were collected from various rivers and analysed using standard morphological and molecular techniques. Additionally, molecular identification of the collected snails was conducted through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequencing of the COI gene. The freshwater snails were identified as Physella acuta (Draparnaud, 1805), Galba truncatula (O.F. Müller, 1774), Radix euphratica (Mousson, 1874), Radix auricularia (Linnaeus, 1758) and Planorbis planorbis (Linnaeus, 1758). The presence of larval stages of Fasciola spp. in individual snails was examined using stereomicroscopy and a crushing method. Morphological and molecular identification based on the ITS-1 marker for identifying Fasciola spp. revealed that 10.9% (59 out of 549) of R. auricularia and 5.8% (37 out of 630) of P. acuta were infected. A blastn analysis of the collected samples revealed that all isolates belonged to F. hepatica, indicating a potential risk of liver fluke infection in the study area. These findings emphasise the importance of regular surveillance and control measures to prevent the spread of these parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fasciolosis is an emerging public health threat in a number of regions worldwide. To date, we lack an overview of both its occurrence and distribution in Southeast Asia across all actors involved in the life cycle, which impedes the development of disease control measures. Therefore, our objective was to collect recent information on the distribution and the prevalence of Fasciola spp. and the associated risk factors for infection in humans, animals, snails and plant carriers in Southeast Asia. Methodology: Bibliographic and grey literature databases as well as reference lists of important review articles were searched for relevant records published between January 1st, 2000, and June 30th, 2022. The systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for reporting systematic reviews. A total of 3,887 records were retrieved, of which 100 were included in the final analysis. Principal findings: The studies focused mainly on one host species (96.0%), with Fasciola spp. infection in animals being the most studied (72.0%), followed by humans (21.0%). Based on the used inclusion and exclusion criteria, reports were retrieved describing the presence of Fasciola spp. infection was in seven out of 11 countries in Southeast Asia. Depending on the diagnostic tool applied, the prevalence of Fasciola spp. infection ranged between 0.3% and 66.7% in humans, between 0% and 97.8% in animals, and between 0% and 66.2% in snails. There were no studies reporting the presence of metacercariae on plant carriers. Conclusions/Significance: Our study reconfirms that Fasciola spp. infections are widespread and highly prevalent in Southeast Asia, but it remains difficult to accurately assess the true occurrence of Fasciola spp. in absence of well-designed surveys covering all hosts. As next steps we propose to assess the occurrence of the infection across all actors involved in the transmission, to identify associated risk factors and to estimate the burden of the disease to support national and international decision makers. Author summary: Fasciolosis is a foodborne disease that is caused by a parasitic worm. The disease affects both public and animal health worldwide. The transmission of Fasciola is complex and involves humans, animals and plants. The adult worms are observed in both humans and ruminants, while larval stages develop in freshwater snails. The infective larval stage attaches to aquatic plants. In recent decades, human fasciolosis has been considered an emerging disease in many regions of the world, including Southeast Asia. Although various studies surveyed Fasciola infection, an overview of existing knowledge on the distribution and prevalence of Fasciola across the different hosts is missing for this region. Yet, this is important to develop appropriate disease control measures. In this study, we systematically searched for literature on Fasciola spp. infection in Southeast Asia. Our study reconfirms that Fasciola is widespread in this region, but that it remains difficult to accurately assess the occurrence of parasite in the absence of well-designed surveys. A firm response to control fasciolosis requires both transdisciplinary and international partnerships. As next steps we propose to assess the occurrence of Fasciola spp. across all actors involved in the transmission, to identify associated risk factors and to estimate the disease burden to support national and international decision makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasciolosis is a prevalent disease that significantly affects the health and productivity of cattle and causes significant economic loss. Beyond individually available studies with varying prevalence rates, there are no pooled national prevalence studies on bovine fasciolosis. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to determine the combined magnitude and economic significance of fasciolosis among cattle on postmortem examination. Inverse variance (I2), sensitivity analysis, funnel plots, Begg's test, and Egger's regression test were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled burden of fasciolosis among cattle. The pooled prevalence of fasciolosis among cattle on postmortem examination was 31.77 % (95 % CI=27.82–35.71). Among a total of 14,965 livers of slaughtered cattle examined in municipal abattoirs, Fasciola hepatica (54.4 %) was the predominant fluke identified compared to F. gigantica (24.6 %). Mixed infections of both species and unidentified immature flukes were detected in 12.4 % and 7.6 %, respectively, of affected livers. Regarding the severity of the pathological lesions observed, 30.5 %, 44.3 %, and 25.2 % of the livers were lightly, moderately, and seriously infested, respectively. The pooled annual economic loss attributed to fasciolosis-associated liver condemnation among cattle in 40 reported studies was approximately 40,833,983.15 ETB (6,417, 847.73 USD). Therefore, bovine fasciolosis requires integrated control methods to address its influence on animal health and economic impact.

Application of 'omics' technology, and advances in in vitro methods for studying the growth of Fasciola hepatica, have highlighted the central role of migrating neoblasts in driving forward development and differentiation towards the adult-like form. Neoblast populations present molecular heterogeneity, morphological variation and changes associated with recruitment of these stem cells into their final tissue locations. However, terminal differentiation towards function, has received much less attention than has been the case for the free-living Platyhelminths. An actively replicating neoblast population, comprising cells with heterochromatic nuclei consistent with regulation of gene expression, has been identified in the parenchyma of juvenile Fasciola gigantica migrating in the liver of experimentally infected mice. In some of these cells, early cytoplasmic differentiation towards myocyte function was noted. Neoblasts have also been identified close to, and incorporated in, the subtegumental zone, the gastrodermis and the excretory ducts. In these locations, progressive morphological differentiation towards terminal function has been described. This includes the appearance of specific progenitors of type-1, type-2 and type-3 tegumental cells, the latter possibly contributing to tegumental spine development. 'Cryptic' surface molecular differentiation is postulated to account for recognition and 'docking' of migrating neoblasts with their final site for terminal differentiation. • Migrating neoblasts have been identified in juvenile Fasciola gigantica in mice. • Neoblasts also occur in the subtegument, gastrodermis and excretory ducts. • Morphological differentiation towards terminal function has been described. • Differentiating type-3 tegumental cells may contribute to tegumental spines. • 'Cryptic' surface molecular differentiation may facilitate neoblast localisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fasciolosis is a prevalent disease that significantly affects the health and productivity of cattle and causes significant economic loss. Beyond individually available studies with varying prevalence rates, there are no pooled national prevalence studies on bovine fasciolosis. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to determine the combined magnitude and economic significance of fasciolosis among cattle on postmortem examination. Inverse variance ( I 2 ), sensitivity analysis, funnel plots, Begg's test, and Egger's regression test were used to assess heterogeneity and publication bias. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled burden of fasciolosis among cattle. The pooled prevalence of fasciolosis among cattle on postmortem examination was 31.77 % (95 % CI=27.82-35.71). Among a total of 14,965 livers of slaughtered cattle examined in municipal abattoirs, Fasciola hepatica (54.4 %) was the predominant fluke identified compared to F. gigantica (24.6 %). Mixed infections of both species and unidentified immature flukes were detected in 12.4 % and 7.6 %, respectively, of affected livers. Regarding the severity of the pathological lesions observed, 30.5 %, 44.3 %, and 25.2 % of the livers were lightly, moderately, and seriously infested, respectively. The pooled annual economic loss attributed to fasciolosis-associated liver condemnation among cattle in 40 reported studies was approximately 40,833,983.15 ETB (6,417, 847.73 USD). Therefore, bovine fasciolosis requires integrated control methods to address its influence on animal health and economic impact., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (© 2024 The Author(s).)

Fasciolosis is a zoonotic disease, considered an emerging neglected tropical disease threatening ruminant productivity and causing economic losses. Controlling fasciolosis is challenging due to the complex life cycle of Fasciola, which involves snail intermediate hosts. The high rainfall status in Taiping makes it an optimal region for snail abundance, which increases the opportunity to complete Fasciola's life cycle. Previous studies showed that liver condemnation caused by fasciolosis was highly prevalent in the Taiping abattoir compared to other investigated main abattoirs of Peninsular Malaysia. Therefore, the present study determined the prevalence of bovine fasciolosis and risk factors in farms from Larut and Matang (Taiping), Malaysia. Sampling was carried out from February until August 2020. In this cross-sectional study, a total of 371 fecal samples from bovines (dairy cattle, beef cattle, buffalo) were examined from 23 farms selected based on location, farmer consent, and history of anthelmintic usage. Animal's intrinsic and farm management details were recorded, and interview sessions were conducted with farmers to collect information on the potential risk factors. Individual fecal samples were examined for the presence of Fasciola egg using Flukefinder® sedimentation. There was moderate prevalence of bovine fasciolosis in Taiping (36.9%, n = 137/371). Significant risk factors (p < 0.05) were observed, which include buffalo group (OR = 9.5, 95% CI: 9.44-9.55), age of >3 years (OR = 5.5, 95% CI: 5.43-5.57), thinner animals with body condition score of 1 to 4 (OR = 1.2-14.9, 95% CI: 1.09-15.08), and larger grazing area (OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.30-1.31). Additional risk factors include the presence of more than one ruminant species in the same farm (OR = 2.0-2.1, 95% CI: 2.00-2.22), extensive housing system (OR = 4.0, 95% CI: 3.77-4.23), farm age (OR = 1.2, 95% CI: 1.20-1.21), and also co-infection with Paramphistomes (OR = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.10-1.71). The present study underscores the importance of local bovine fasciolosis epidemiology, which could be used to conduct future veterinary and public health programmes to inform effective parasitic management aimed at reducing the prevalence of fasciolosis., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declared that they have no competing interests in the publication of this manuscript., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Fasciolosis is caused by parasites of the genus Fasciola, affecting animals and humans worldwide. In South America, the disease is a result of infection with Fasciola hepatica and although animal infections are more frequently reported, the full extent of the impact on human health due to underdiagnosis remains uncertain. This study analyzed changes in land use and the distribution of F. hepatica in bovine livers in Brazil over 18 years. Data on land use and land cover were collected from the Mapbiomas Project. Data on 414,481,963 slaughtered cattle and condemned livers due to F. hepatica infection were obtained from 4,433 municipalities. Joinpoint analysis was used to study the time series, and the Susceptible-Infected-Recovered (SIR) model was utilized to explore the behavior of F. hepatica infection. In the North, pasture areas significantly increased (P = 0.000001), while forested areas decreased (P = 0.000001). The midwestern and northern regions concentrated the highest number (>290 million) of cattle slaughtered in Brazil. More than 2 million bovine livers were infected by F. hepatica. The infected cattle originated from 194 municipalities in 2002, increasing to 747 in 2020. We consider that the changes in land use and intense cattle transportation may have caused the expansion of F. hepatica. The SIR model analyzed the spread of the disease looking at all six biomes: Caatinga, Amazon Forest, Cerrado, Pantanal, Atlantic Forest, and Pampa. Moreover, this infection not only threatens the health of animals but is also a major concern to biodiversity and vulnerable human communities in South America. Emblematic biomes such as the Amazon basin already face challenges with logging, desertification, and loss of biodiversity. Therefore, strategies for mitigating infection should include controlling illegal pasture areas, establishing health inspections of animal transport, quarantine of newly arrived animals, and livestock zoning, as well as clear One Health policies., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2023 Australian Society for Parasitology. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Fasciola spp. is a major livestock parasite, especially in cattle, water buffalo, sheep, and goats. Infection reduces animal productivity, e.g., meat, dairy, wool and might cause death. In Thailand, reports of Fasciola spp. infection in livestock, especially dairy and beef cattle, are sparse. Pakchong district in Nakhon Ratchasima province is one of Thailand's largest farming areas for dairy and beef cattle, but the prevalence of Fasciola spp. infection has never been reported in this district. The landscape of this area is mainly a hilltop plateau with many water sources suitable for the development of lymnaeid snails, the intermediate host of Fasciola spp., which are essential for the parasite life cycle. This study surveyed the copro- and seroprevalence of Fasciola spp. infection in dairy and beef cattle farmed in Pakchong district by microscope-based examination, PCR, and indirect ELISA. Associated risk factors and geographic information data were collected and analyzed. Paired stool and serum samples were collected from 102 dairy cattle and 99 beef cattle from April to November 2021. Sample analyses demonstrated a high prevalence of Fasciola spp. infection, especially in beef cattle. The overall copro-prevalence was 5.97%, with 0.99% in dairy cattle and 11.11% in beef cattle. The overall seroprevalence was 23.88%, with 2.94% in dairy cattle and 45.45% in beef cattle. Moreover, the data indicated that infection status was not correlated with animal sex and age whereas consumption of natural grasses, water resources, housing floor, and farming system were significant risk factors. Data analysis by a geographic information system (GIS) demonstrated that an associated risk could be farmed in lowering areas, especially in Chan Thuck, Nong Sa Rai, and Khlong Muang subdistricts. In conclusion, this study reports the prevalence of Fasciola spp. infection in cattle in a major farming area of Thailand which could be beneficial for designing parasite control policies in this region as well as adapting this knowledge to other Fasciola spp. endemic areas. [Display omitted] • Beef cattle in the vast farming area of Thailand have a high prevalence of Fasciola spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Legumains belonging to C_13 peptidase family of proteins, and are ubiquitously disseminated among all vertebrate and invertebrate organisms, and have been implicated in innumerable biological and cellular functionality. Herein, we characterized and evaluated immunoregulatory characteristics of Legumain-1 from Fasciola gigantica (Fg-LGMN-1) during its interaction with host immune cells. The isopropyl-ß-d-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG) stimulated RFg-LGMN-1 protein was positively detected by rat serum containing anti-RFg-LGMN-1 polyclonal antibodies. Furthermore, the uptake of RFg-LGMN-1 by goat monocytes was successfully confirmed using Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA). The immunohistochemical analysis revealed the native localization of LGMN-1 protein on the periphery and internal structures such as suckers, pharynx, and genital pore of the adult parasite, thereby validating its presence in excretory-secretory (ES) products of F. gigantica. The RFg-LGMN-1 co-incubated with concanavalin-A (Con-A) stimulated the increase of interleukin 2 (IL-2), IL-10, and IL-17 in monocytes derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in the concentration-dependent manner. However, the IL-4 cytokine in response to the RFg-LGMN-1 protein declined. These results illuminated the role of LGMN-1 during the parasite-host interface. Our findings elaborated additional evidence that Legumain protein play a role in the manipulating host immune responses during parasite infections. However, further evaluation of RFg-LGMN-1 protein in context of its immunomodulatory roles should be conducted to enhance our understandings of the mechanisms employed by F. gigantica to evade host immune responses. [Display omitted] • Fg-LGMN-1 protein assumed to be released into the host-parasite interface. • RFg-LGMN-1 could be bound on surface of goat monocytes and participated in immunoregulatory functions. • Native LGMN-1 was detected both in tegument as well as internal parasite structure. • RFg-LGMN-1 exerts both Th1 and Th2 immune responses in interaction with goat monocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Consuming contaminated raw vegetables and fruits is one of the primary means of parasite transmission to humans. Periodic monitoring of parasitic contamination in these food items is a crucial step in preventing the spread of parasitic disease in the community. This study was aimed at detecting intestinal parasitic contamination caused by consuming raw vegetables and fruits sold in three open-air markets and its associated factors in peri-urban areas of Jimma City, Oromia, Ethiopia., Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on fruits and vegetables collected from three peri-urban open-aired markets (namely; Hora Gibe, Bore and Jiren markets) in peri-urban areas of Jimma City between July and September 2021. A total of 187 fresh vegetable samples and 188 fruits were collected and examined for intestinal parasite contamination. About 200g of fruit and vegetable samples were processed and examined microscopically for parasite contamination, utilizing direct wet mount and modified Zeihl-Neelson staining methods in accordance with standard protocols. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on the socio-demographic characteristics of vendors and risk factors for fruit and vegetable contamination. All data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0., Result: Of the 187 fresh vegetable samples and 188 fresh vegetable samples, 105 (56.1%) and 68/188 (36.2%) of vegetables and fruit samples, respectively, were found contaminated with one or more intestinal parasites. Remarkably, high level of contamination in fresh vegetable samples was recorded both in Carrot (Daucus carota) 63.8% (30/46) and Lettuce (Lactuca sativa) 63.1% (29/46) while Green pepper (Capsicum spp.) is the least contaminated. In fruit samples, Avokado (Persea americana) 42.6% (20/47) and Banana (Musa acuminata) 14.9% (7/47) were the most and the least commonly contaminated items respectively. The identified helminthes and protozoans were Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides stercoralis, Hymenolepis nana, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium spp., Toxocara spp. And Fasciola spp. The most predominant parasite encountered was A. lumbricoides 46(12.3%) whereas both Toxocara spp. 12(6.9) and Fasciola spp. 2(0.5) were the least detected parasites. It is worth-mentioned that the rate of contamination in Bore market (38.15%) was higher compared with Jiren market (34.7%) and Hora Gibe market (27%). However, the rate of contamination in vegetables and fruit obtained from the three district was non-significant (p = 0.19). Contamination was more common in vegetables than fruits (AOR = 5.78, p<0.001). It was also observed that decreased parasitic contamination was significantly associated with washing the products before displaying it for selling (p < 0.001)., Conclusion: The study has identified a high rate of raw vegetables and fruits contaminated with intestinal helminthes and protozoan. Contaminated fresh vegetables and fruits in open-aired peri-urban markets of Jimma city, Ethiopia may play a significant role in transmission of intestinal parasitic infections to humans, particularly A. lumbricoides infection. Therefore, it is urgently needed for health authorities to educate the public on the proper handling of vegetables and fruits prior to consumption., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2024 Zeynudin et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

Fascioliasis is a neglected tropical zoonotic disease caused by liver flukes belonging to the genus Fasciola . The emergence of resistance to triclabendazole, the only World Health Organization-recommended drug for this disease, highlights the need for the development of new drugs. Helminths possess an anaerobic mitochondrial respiratory chain (fumarate respiration) which is considered a potential drug target. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of fumarate respiration in Fasciola flukes. We analyzed the properties of the respiratory chain of Fasciola flukes in both adults and newly excysted juveniles (NEJs). Fasciola flukes travel and mature through the stomach, bowel, and abdominal cavity to the liver, where oxygen levels gradually decline. High fumarate reductase activity was observed in the mitochondrial fraction of adult Fasciola flukes. Furthermore, rhodoquinone-10 (RQ 10 Em'= -63 mV), a low-potential electron mediator used in fumarate respiration was found to be predominant in adults. In contrast, the activity of oxygen respiration was low in adults. Rotenone, atpenin A5, and ascochlorin, typical inhibitors of mitochondrial enzymes in complexes I, II, and III, respectively, inhibit the activity of each enzyme in the adult mitochondrial fraction. These inhibitors were then used for in vitro viability tests of NEJs. Under aerobic conditions, NEJs were killed by rotenone or ascochlorin, which inhibit aerobic respiration (complex I-III), whereas atpenin A5, which inhibits complex II involved in fumarate respiration, did not affect NEJs. Moreover, ubiquinone-10 (UQ 10 Em'= +110 mV), which is used in oxidative respiration, was detected in NEJs, in addition to RQ 10 . In contrast, under anaerobic conditions, rotenone and atpenin A5, which inhibit fumarate respiration (complex I-II), were crucial for NEJs. These findings demonstrate that NEJs have active hybrid respiration, in which they can properly use both oxygen and fumarate respiration, depending on oxygen availability. Thus, fumarate respiration is a promising drug target for Fasciola flukes, because it plays an essential role in both adults and NEJs., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Tashibu, Inaoka, Sakamoto, Murakami, Zannatul, Kita and Ichikawa-Seki.)

Fascioliasis, a prevalent disease in livestock globally, is primarily caused by the trematode parasites Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica. This parasitic infection leads to significant economic repercussions. In this study, our objective was to gain insight into the pathophysiological consequences of Fascioliasis in cattle through the evaluation of metabolic, oxidative stress, and histological parameters. A thorough investigation was carried out on the liver of 197 bovines after their slaughter, which unveiled the occurrence of Fascioliasis, with a prevalence rate of 13.2% observed. The bovine that were infected exhibited notable increase in serum transaminases (ALT, AST, and ALP) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and catalase (CAT) while the decrease in glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. The lipid profile analysis of infected cattle revealed alterations in the cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Moreover, the histopathological examination revealed a range of hepatic lesions associated with Fascioliasis, including necrosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and proliferative alterations. The bile ducts also displayed distinct pathological changes, including hyperplasia, thickening, and edema, and harbored various developmental stages of Fasciola spp. highlighting the parasitic infestation's effects on the biliary system. These results highlight the serious effects of Fascioliasis on lipid metabolism and the oxidative damage that is induced in the livers of cattle. Thus, Fasciola infestation in bovine causes alteration in biochemical and antioxidant activities, which are considered as important factors in the diagnosis of Fascioliasis., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature B.V.)