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Background: This study sheds light on the genetic blueprints of chaetogenesis (bristle formation), a complex biomineralization process essential not only for the diverse group of bristle worms (annelids) but also for other spiralians. We explore the complex genetic mechanisms behind chaetae formation in Osedax japonicus, the bone-devouring deep-sea worm known for its unique ecological niche and morphological adaptations. Results: We characterized the chaetal structure and musculature using electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry, and combined RNAseq of larval stages with in-situ hybridization chain reaction (HCR) to reveal gene expression patterns integral to chaetogenesis. Our findings pinpoint a distinct surge in gene expression during the larval stage of active chaetogenesis, identifying specific genes and cells involved. Conclusions: Our research underscores the value of studying on non-model, "aberrant" organisms like Osedax, whose unique, temporally restricted chaetogenesis provided insights into elevated gene expression across specific larval stages and led to the identification of genes critical for chaetae formation. The genes identified as directly involved in chaetogenesis lay the groundwork for future comparative studies across Annelida and Spiralia, potentially elucidating the homology of chaetae-like chitinous structures and their evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The grinding process of transmission gear with worm grinding wheel usually relies on the manual parameter setting by experienced engineers, but the reliability and validity are quite hard to control due to many grinding factors that affect the surface quality (e.g. structure, size, and materials of gear, heat treatment process, surface accuracy requirements). Therefore, it is necessary to set up a decision system for assisting engineers with designing the process plan efficiently and reasonably. A modified model of the revision method based on the radial basis function (RBF) neural network and case-based reasoning (CBR) considering evaluation index was proposed in this paper. A similar case retrieval mainly relies on the soft likelihood function considering a compound evaluation index model, where the score value of each new case execution test is converted into the corresponding index to achieve effective case storage. Process solutions for similar cases that perform better will be recommended from the case database by means of CBR. These candidates can be revised systematically based on a self-learning model. A modified RBF neural network trained by the existing cases will apply the learned experience to revise solution in part or in whole, which utilizes a self-filtering attribute method based on the correlation coefficient matrix so as to gain the primary attributes. In the case of the grinding gear with worm grinding wheel, the applicability of this technology was demonstrated. A decision-making system applying this method was developed by using.Net framework4.0 and SQL Server. Consequently, the technique can quickly generate a feasible process plan for specific gear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The worm snail Thylacodes adamsii (Mörch, 1859) (Littorinimorpha: Vermetidae) is a sessile gastropod that mainly inhabits rocky shores along the warm temperate to tropical ocean. Herein, the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of T. adamsii from South Korea was characterized. The genome is 14,913 bp in length and contains 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 tRNA genes, and 2 rRNA genes. The genome organization and base composition of T. adamsii are similar to those of other vermetids. A phylogenetic tree was reconstructed using maximum likelihood based on the nucleotide sequences of the 13 PCGs; this tree supported the monophyly of Vermetidae. The complete mitogenome of T. adamsii can assist with molecular species identification and vermetid phylogenetic research in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present design of a set of worm gears used in a soot blower produced by a certain manufacturer has an efficiency of 68.8%. A soot blower is one of the most critical components in industrial applications for removing the large amounts of soot generated by boilers and is required to be operational 24×7. The energy consumption of the soot blower depends on its working efficiency and ultimately the design of its set of worm gears. This paper focuses mainly on the design and analysis of available industrial worm-gear sets used in soot blowers. The theoretical, experimental, and finite-element analysis approaches are validated for the stability of the worm gear set under typical input conditions. This paper also describes an analytical design of experiments (DOE) approach to identify the most significant factor for performance (efficiency) improvement and suggests some design improvements for the worm gear set using the profile modification approach. These ensure the efficiency improvement of the current industrial design of the set of worm gears used in a soot blower. The analytical DOE approach helped identify that the number of worm wheel teeth (Z2) and gear module (m) are the two most significant factors affecting performance. Accordingly, based on the improved design, the final efficiency increased from 68.8% to 74.6% (~8.5% increment), resulting in lower power consumption during industrial application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper introduces an approximate grinding method (AGM) and tooth flank deviation correction strategies for helical face gears (HFGs) generated by grinding worm, addressing the issue of singularities on the grinding worm thread surface that hinders HFGs grinding properly. Firstly, the tooth flanks of the face gear and grinding worm are derived, and singularities on the grinding worm are determined. Then, based on the grinding generation theory of HFGs, the AGM is proposed to solve the challenge of grinding HFGs with a large helix angle. Next, the tooth flank deviation of HFG generated by the grinding worm with the AGM is investigated; meanwhile, the tooth contact pattern and transmission error analysis are conducted. In addition, the correction method of the HFG tooth flank deviation is researched. Finally, a grinding experiment is performed and demonstrates the validity of the theoretical analysis of the AGM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adult planarians can grow when fed and degrow (shrink) when starved while maintaining their whole-body shape. It is unknown how the morphogens patterning the planarian axes are coordinated during feeding and starvation or how they modulate the necessary differential tissue growth or degrowth. Here, we investigate the dynamics of planarian shape together with a theoretical study of the mechanisms regulating whole-body proportions and shape. We found that the planarian body proportions scale isometrically following similar linear rates during growth and degrowth, but that fed worms are significantly wider than starved worms. By combining a descriptive model of planarian shape and size with a mechanistic model of anterior-posterior and medio-lateral signaling calibrated with a novel parameter optimization methodology, we theoretically demonstrate that the feedback loop between these positional information signals and the shape they control can regulate the planarian whole-body shape during growth. Furthermore, the computational model produced the correct shape and size dynamics during degrowth as a result of a predicted increase in apoptosis rate and pole signal during starvation. These results offer mechanistic insights into the dynamic regulation of whole-body morphologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Spence Shale Member of the Langston Formation in northern Utah and southern Idaho preserves generally non-biomineralized fossil assemblages referred to as the Spence Shale Lagerstätte. The biota of this Lagerstätte is dominated by panarthropods, both biomineralized and soft-bodied examples, but also preserves diverse infaunal organisms, including species of scalidophorans, echinoderms, lobopodians, stalked filter feeders, and various problematic taxa. To date, however, only a single annelid fossil, originally assigned to Canadia sp., has been described from the Spence Shale. This lone specimen and another recently collected specimen were analysed in this study using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry. The previous occurrence was reassigned to Burgessochaeta cf. B. setigera. The new fossil, however, has been identified as a novel polychaete taxon, Shaihuludia shurikeni gen. et sp. nov., characterised by the presence of fused, bladed chaetae and a wide body. The occurrence of Burgessochaeta is the first outside the Burgess Shale and its vicinity, whereas Shaihuludia shurikeni gen. et sp. nov. adds to the diversity of annelids in the middle Cambrian and highlights the diversity of the Spence Shale Lagerstätte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the use of sipunculans, also known as peanut worms, as a marine resource in Brazil. Sipunculans are marine annelids that are traditionally used as food or fishing bait in countries like China, Vietnam, and Indonesia. In Brazil, sipunculans have recently been observed being collected for fishing bait by local fishermen. The collection methods, social and demographic aspects of the worm diggers, and the environmental impacts of bait digging are also discussed. The article emphasizes the need for further research and management strategies to understand the ecological pressures and ensure the sustainability of sipunculan populations in Brazil. [Extracted from the article]

Mutualism profoundly affects the morphology and ecological evolution of both hosts and symbionts involved. Heterocyathus is a solitary scleractinian coral that lives on soft substrata, and sipunculan worms live symbiotically in the tube-like cavities (orifice) inside the coral skeletons. This habitat provides protection to the sipunculan worms against predators and—owing to the mobility of the worms—prevents the coral from being buried with sediments. The orifice growth is closely related to the symbiont sipunculan worms; however, this has not been previously elucidated. Here, we clarified the growth process of scleractinian coral orifices and the influence of sipunculan activity on this. The orifices were originally formed by rapid accretion deposits. The coral soft tissue enveloping the growth edge of the orifice repeatedly retreated to the outer side due to direct damage to the soft part and/or excessive stress caused by the rubbing of the sipunculan through locomotion, excretion, and feeding behaviour. This resulted in a toppled-domino microskeletal structure appearance and maintenance of the orifice growth. These outcomes demonstrate the first example of the direct influence of symbionts on the skeletal morphogenesis of scleractinian corals. The mutualism between the two organisms is maintained by the beneficial confrontation in forming orifices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method for dressing the worm wheel for grinding face gear with arbitrary modification amount by double cone dressing wheel is proposed. In order to ensure the machining accuracy and balance the machining time, the iteration method of tangent's deviation is proposed and the nominal residual mean error is defined. In order to improve the versatility of the scheme, a double cone dressing wheel and a universal worm grinding machine are used to carry out the research. Considering the complex space position transition, the principle of virtual phase transition is proposed to achieve the equivalent replacement of the motion of the double cone dressing wheel by the motion of the crown worm wheel, which consists of the principle of virtual tool setting and the principle of rotating virtual center distance. Finally, a simulation experiments is carried out on the dressing process of the modification crown worm wheel. The result shows that this method can effectively realize the modification dressing process of the crown worm wheel for grinding face gear. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post COVID-19, there has been renewed interest in understanding the pathogens challenging the human health and evaluate our preparedness towards dealing with health challenges in future. In this endeavour, it is not only the bacteria and the viruses, but a greater community of pathogens. Such pathogenic microorganisms, include protozoa, fungi and worms, which establish a distinct variety of disease-causing agents with the capability to impact the host's well-being as well as the equity of ecosystem. This review summarises the peculiar characteristics and pathogenic mechanisms utilized by these disease-causing organisms. It features their role in causing infection in the concerned host and emphasizes the need for further research. Understanding the layers of pathogenesis encompassing the concerned infectious microbes will help expand targeted inferences with relation to the cause of the infection. This would strengthen and augment benefit to the host's health along with the maintenance of ecosystem network, exhibiting host-pathogen interaction cycle. This would be key to discover the layers underlying differential disease severities in response to similar/same pathogen infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • C57BL/6 Rag2/Il-2rγ-/- mice are susceptible to infections with Dirofilaria immitis. • Dirofilaria immitis worms reach the adult stage in C57BL/6 Rag2/Il-2rγ-/- mice. • Dirofilaria immitis worms migrate to the heart in C57BL/6 Rag2/Il-2rγ-/- mice. • Mice are prone to develop caval syndrome during late-stage heartworm infections. Dirofilaria immitis is the causative agent for one of the major parasitic infections in dogs. It is currently not possible to reliably diagnose the infection before the development of fertile adult female worms and the presence of microfilariae which takes six to 7 months. However, at this point adult worms already reside in the pulmonary arteries and can cause significant damage. Novel in vivo models may facilitate the development of new diagnostic tools and improve treatment options for both the early and late stages of D. immitis infections. In this paper, we aimed to increase the capabilities of recently published mouse models in which severely immune-deficient mice were shown to be susceptible to D. immitis. Our data shows that D. immitis may grow into fully developed mature male and female worms in C57BL/6 Rag2/Il-2rγ-/- mice with comparable growth rates to the natural canine host. The adult worms of D. immitis were shown to migrate into body cavities as well as the heart in this model. However, the presence of adult worms inside the heart of infected mice led to the development of caval syndrome in 36% of infected mice after five to 6 months. Overall, the current study complements recently published efforts to establish a D. immitis mouse model by extending the development of D. immitis into mature adult stages and will facilitate further preclinical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theory of calculating the curvature interference limit line of the offset involute cylindrical worm drive based on the singular point condition on the enveloping surface is established. The tooth surface equations and the meshing function of the worm drive are derived. Based on the singular point condition that the normal vector of the enveloping surface is zero, the equation of the curvature interference limit line is obtained. By employing the resultant elimination method and the geometric construction, the existence of the solutions of the curvature interference limit line is determined, and the reasonable initial values for the iteration program are afforded. The numerical outcomes show that there is one meaningful curvature interference limit line on each flank of single tooth of the worm gear, which usually does not enter the worm gear tooth surface. Both flanks of the worm gear are all settled in the side of the limit line, the curvature interference does not happen on the worm gear tooth surface. The undercutting of the cutting engagement process generally does not happen. The results also reveal that the curvature interference limit line is closer to the addendum and heel of the face worm gear on the i flank, which has the greatest potential venture inflict the undercutting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diversity of nemerteans along the Pacific coast of the United States is regarded as well characterized, but there remain many cryptic, undescribed, and "orphan" species (those known only in their larval form). Recent sampling of nemerteans in Oregon and Washington has begun to fill in these taxonomic gaps, but nemertean diversity in California has received relatively little attention over the past 60 years. During the summers of 2019 and 2020, nemertean specimens were collected from 20 locations in the Bodega Bay region of northern California, USA, including rocky intertidal shores, sandy beaches, mudflats, and other habitats. Based on morphological assessment and DNA sequence analysis (partial Cytochrome Oxidase I and 16S rRNA genes), our surveys identified 34 nemertean species. Only 13 of these (38%) can be confidently assigned to described species. Another 11 represent species that are new to science, including members of the genera Riserius, Nipponnemertes, Poseidonemertes, Zygonemertes, Nemertellina, Oerstedia, and three species of uncertain affiliation. The remaining ten species include undescribed or cryptic species of uncertain status that have been found previously along the Pacific Coast of North America. Our surveys also document extensions of known geographic ranges for multiple species, including the first records in California of Antarctonemertes phyllospadicola, Cephalothrix hermaphroditica, and Maculaura oregonensis. This is the first report of the genus Nemertellina in the northeast Pacific and Riserius in California. Overall, our findings highlight how much remains to be learned about the diversity and distribution of nemerteans in the northeast Pacific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The density of peanut worms is concentrated in the subtidal zone and is closely related to the substrate where they live. This research aims to determine spatial variations in peanut worm density. This research was carried out at Toronipa Beach, Southeast Sulawesi from June 2020 to February 2021. Peanut worms were collected using a hand scoop to a depth of ±10 cm in a 10x10 m² quadrat transect at each station. Data were analyzed using standard formulas and tested using Mann-Whitney and linear regression. The results showed that the highest density of peanut worms was found at station II with a mean value of 12±104 ind/10m² which was significantly different from stations I and III with densities of 9±52 ind/10m² and 7±124 ind/10m² respectively. Five types of seagrass were identified, namely Cymodocea rotundata, Enhalus acoroides, Halodule uninervis, Halophila minor, and Thalassia hemprichii. The number of seagrass species found at stations I, II, and III were 1, 2, and 5, respectively. Peanut worm density was positively correlated with seagrass density with a coefficient of determination of 86.45%. Water quality tends to be the same at all stations, except that organic matter is higher than at stations I and II. The dominant fine sand fraction was found at stations I and III, while very coarse sand was dominantly found at station II. The density of peanut worms on Toronipa Beach is determined by a combination of seagrass density, high levels of organic matter, and the dominant texture of the coarse sand substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dead coral rocks are prevalent hard substrates in shallow warm waters, providing habitat for various infaunal and boring invertebrates. Despite this, the nature of species interactions, especially symbiotic relationships, among them remains poorly understood. Bonellia (Annelida: Thalassematidae: Bonelliinae) is a group of greenish echiuran worms commonly inhabiting cavities inside dead coral rocks. Although echiuran burrows in marine sediments are known to harbour various host-specific macrosymbionts, it remains unclear whether such associations also occur in hard substrates. To address this, we investigated the diversity of macrosymbionts associated with the burrows of Bonellia sp. aff. minor in the warm-temperate coast of the Kii Peninsula, Japan, and the evolutionary origins of those symbionts. The host's burrow morphology was also examined using micro-computed tomography (CT) scanning. Our field survey revealed that the burrows of Bo. sp. aff. minor hosted three commensal species including a polychaete, Oxydromus fauveli , and two new species, a bivalve (Basterotia bonelliphila sp. nov.) and an amphipod (Leucothoe bonelliae sp. nov.). Our molecular phylogenetic analyses showed that each symbiont species belongs to a clade comprising commensal species specific to echiurans or annelids. Overall, our findings contribute to a better understanding of symbiotic associations in marine hard substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drugs that form self-assembled supramolecular structures to be most-active is a promising way of creating new highly specific and active pharmaceuticals. Controlling the activity of bioactive supramolecular structures such as drug-loaded micelles is possible by both core/shell and inter-assembly cross-linking. However, if the flexibility of the assembly is mandatory for the activity cross-linking is not feasible. Thus, such structures cannot be manipulated in their activity. The present study demonstrates a novel concept to control the activity of not drug-releasing, non-cross-linked bioactive superstructures. This is achieved by formation of nanostructured nanoparticles derived by non-covalent inter-assembly cross-linking of the superstructures. This is shown on the example of amphiphilic diblock-copolymers conjugated with the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP). These polymer-antibiotic conjugates form worm micelles, which greatly activate the conjugated antibiotic without releasing it. Non-covalent inter-assembly cross-linking of these CIP-worm-micelles with amphiphilic triblock copolymers terminated with lipase-cleavable esters leads to nanostructured nanoparticles that resemble cross-linked worm micelles and show an up to 135-fold lower activity than the free worm micelles. The activity of the worm-micelles can be fully recovered by cleaving the end groups of the polymeric cross-linker with lipase. [Display omitted] • nanoprecipitation inactivates ciprofloxacin polymer conjugate (PAC) worm micelles. • non-covalent cross-linking of PAC by triblockcopolymers (TBC) with ester end groups. • lipase cleaves ester end groups of TBC in aggregates. • lipase destroys superstructure of aggregates. • lipase releases activated, antibacterial PAC worm micelles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on a nostalgic journey through different periods in Zambia. It discusses about from traditional food practices involving kandolo (worms), greens and cassava pounding, to the changing culinary landscape influenced by global events like the rise of Africa, the COVID-19 lockdown and discussions on food security; the evolution of Zambian cuisine amidst cultural shifts and challenges; and contemporary narratives of globalization, health consciousness and economic realities.

The present report is about the successful surgical retrieval of eye worms in 15 horses. Most of the animals were presented with lacrimation, photophobia, and varying degrees of corneal opacity. On ophthalmic examination, worms appeared like moving white threads in the anterior chamber. Animals were restrained with xylazine-ketamine general anesthesia. Regional nerve blocks were given to minimize eyeball movements and a 2-3 mm clear corneal incision near the limbus at the 10-2 O'clock position of the eyeball was given to retrieve worms. With a single incision, worms were successfully removed in all the cases. Bolus of Ivermectin was given orally along with analgesic and antibiotics eye drops postoperatively. The vision was restored and corneal opacity subsided within 10-20 days post-surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a demand for worm gearboxes in diversified industrial fields that include machinery such as escalators, ribbon blenders, pulverisers, bowl mills, etc. because of their peculiar characteristics like torque and quick retardation. The most commonly occurring defects in a worm gear box are scratches that develop in the worm gear and in bearings. Early defect categorization is required to prevent a sudden breakdown that would decrease production. The defect is depicted in different cases, which include defects in the gear tooth and the outer and inner races of the bearing. In another case, the defect is considered in the gear tooth as well as the bearing. The severity is designated using the ANN. The experiments were performed under these conditions with a good worm gearbox to capture vibration response signatures. Using these values as an input to the ANN, the model is trained. Experimental results show that vibration amplitude increases with fault progression in the worm gearbox, and the trained ANN model effectively categorizes worm gearbox faults with an accuracy of 97.12%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In view of the increasing occurrence of anthelmintic-resistant strains of gastrointestinal nematodes in ruminants, various alternative control strategies have been investigated, such as those based on the induction of protective immune responses by immunisation with parasite antigens. In this study, the protective activity of somatic antigens from adult worms of Teladorsagia circumcincta purified by affinity chromatography on thiol-sepharose was analysed in goats. After challenge, the enriched products induced a slight reduction in the cumulative faecal egg counts (21%) and in the number of worms (23.3%), with a greater effect on female worms, which also showed a reduction in parameters related to their fertility. These parasitological findings were associated with a Th2 immune response, with a prominent local humoral response and an eosinophilic infiltrate in the gastric mucosa (negatively associated with the fertility of female worms and the number of worms, respectively), as well as an infiltration of MCHII+, CD4+, IgG+ and IgA+ cells. However, several analyses showed an increase in CD8+ cells in the mucosa, as well as IL-2 expression in the gastric lymph nodes, which may have been associated with inhibition of protective responses or with the development of mixed Th1/Th2 responses, a finding that should be analysed in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Loa loa , the African eye worm, is a filarial pathogen transmitted by blood-sucking flies of the genus Chrysops. Loiasis primarily affects rural populations residing in the forest and adjacent savannah regions of central and west Africa, where more than 20 million patients are chronically infected in medium and high transmission regions. For a long time, loiasis has been regarded as a relatively benign condition. However, morbidity as measured by disability-adjusted life-years lost might be as high as 400 per 100 000 residents, and the population attributable fraction of death is estimated at 14·5% in highly endemic regions, providing unequivocal evidence for the substantial disease burden that loiasis exerts on affected communities. The clinical penetrance of loiasis is variable and might present with the classic signs of eye worm migration or transient Calabar swellings, but might include common, unspecific symptoms or rare but potentially life-threatening complications. Although adult worm migration seems most closely linked to symptomatic disease, high levels of microfilaraemia are associated with clinically important complications and death. Loiasis remains difficult to diagnose, treat, and control due to an absence of reliable point-of-care diagnostic assays, safe and efficacious drugs, and cost-effective prevention strategies. This Review summarises the major advances in our understanding of loiasis made over the past decade and highlights the many gaps that await to be addressed urgently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

So far, the phonation among worm lizards (Amphisbaenia) was virtually unknown, but herein we present for the first time a loud and clear record of sound emission by an amphisbaenian and its acoustic parameters. We observed an adult female of Amphisbaena alba emitting a high‐pitched sound, able to be heard a few meters away by a human ear. The sound was emitted with the mouth wide open and consisted of a short well‐defined note, presenting harmonics and frequency modulation. Based on the context of display and the body posture of the individual, we suggest that the oral emission of A. alba may be considered a defensive sound emission. However, based on the spectral structure of emission within hearing acuity reported for the species, we cannot disregard the possibility that this sound might act in communication with conspecifics. Beyond raising possible defensive and intra‐specific communication roles for the sound emissions of worm lizards, our findings contribute to the understanding of acoustic communication in tetrapods through the analysis of sounds produced by these fossorial reptiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda (J E Smtih) is a native of the neotropics and it has invaded Nigeria region of Africa in 2016 and reached India in May 2018. Since then it has spread to most of the South and Southeast Asian countries, Australia and recently reached New Zealand and some South Pacific islands. Even though FAW has many hosts in its native region, the population that reached Africa and spread to Asia and Oceania prefers maize the most. In its biology, the capability of adults to fly more than 100 km in a night, females laying eggs in clusters of 100 or more to a maximum of 2,000 eggs in five days of their lifetime, later instar larvae becoming cannibalistic, pupating in soil, not diapausing and inability to survive at temperatures below 10oC, offers a unique opportunity to devise an effective management strategy. The IPM package for maize incorporating management of FAW involve: seed treatment with a systemic insecticide to protect young plants up to three weeks after planting; release of egg parasitoids Trichogramma pretiosum (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) and Telenomus remus (Hymenoptera: Platygastridae) immediately after finding FAW moths caught in the pheromone traps in the field; and release of larval parasitoids Bracon (Habrobracon) hebetor, and Bracon (Habrobracon) brevicornis (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) and treating with bio- and botanical pesticides, when whorl damage in observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J E Smith) has become a devastating pest in maize. Field experiments were carried out to assess the efficacy of various IPM modules against this pest. Amongst these, biointensive module recorded highest number of coccinellids (1.27/ plant) and ants (0.42/ plant), while chemical control module led to highest larval reduction over control (86.04%) and being superior with significantly higher grain yield (53.45 q/ ha). This also gave a 1.86 B:C ratio followed by the IPM module (48.06 q/ ha) with 1.85 B:C ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earhead worm Autoba silicula (Swinhoe, 1897) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) is recorded for the first time in India on maize. Larvae were found feeding on maturing grains and silk, fully fed matured larvae pupates under a dome shaped or elongated galleries made of silk inside the cob. Roving survey conducted during 2019 and 2020 recorded on an average 0.40 and 0.45 larvae per plant, respectively, which is below the economic threshold. In the present study, information on species diagnosis with illustrations, occurrence, nature and symptoms of damage are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silk worm Bombyx mori L is a holometabolous, lepidopteran model for investigating the effect of various molecules. The sex-limited character of cocoon colour is useful for the separation of male and female pupae during commercial seed production. Fecundity is the major limitation of cocoon colour sex-limited breeds. Spermidine is a polyamine, present in all living cells involved in the growth and reproduction of many organisms. The effect of spermidine on testicular and ovarian development in the selected bivoltine sex-limited breed; APS27SL and non-sex-limited hybrid; APS45 x APS12 is studied in the present work. Results showed that foliar feeding of spermidine significantly increased pupal growth, testicular and ovarian growth, number of ovarioles and ovules in the sex-limited breed. Moreover, increased expression of Bm-tektin was observed in the testes of spermidine fed groups. Thus, the study suggests that foliar feeding of spermidine can be used to overcome the limitation of reproductive potential in sex-limited breeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Ascariasis caused by the helminth Ascaris suum is the most common parasitosis of swine worldwide and it may involve all age categories of pigs. The present study reports an unusual localization of A.suum worms in the biliary system of a piglet slaughtered for human consumption. Methods: The liver was subjected to ultrasound scan and pathological examination. The isolated worms were morphologically examined and the DNA was extracted for the molecular identification of the species involved. Results: A total of 43 preadult nematodes were found within the gallbladder and the bile ducts. Parasites were morphologically identified as belonging to the genus Ascaris and molecularly as A. suum. At gross examination, the liver was moderately enlarged, with the bile ducts severely dilated. A chronic inflammatory infiltrate was noted, often centered around ectatic bile ducts (up to 5 mm in diameter), lined by hyperplastic epithelium and filled with sections of nematodes. The worm sections showed smooth cuticle, coelomyarian musculature, and an intestinal tract lined by columnar, uninucleated cells within a pseudocoelom. The ex vivo ultrasonographic examination of the liver allowed the visualization of several nematodes in the bile duct lumen and could be suggested for in vivo diagnosis. Unfortunately, the absence of the intestine did not allow to define the pathogenesis of the infection. Conclusion: Although, given the unusual nature of this finding, it is difficult to identify predisposing factors for this A. suum localization, it suggests that ascariasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pigs with hepatobiliary disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opisthorchis viverrini is a parasitic liver fluke contracted by consumption of raw fish, which affects over 10 million people in Southeast Asia despite sustained control efforts. Chronic infections are a risk factor for the often fatal bile duct cancer, cholangiocarcinoma. Previous modeling predicted rapid elimination of O. viverrini following yearly mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns. However, field data collected in affected populations shows persistence of infection, including heavy worm burden, after many years of repeated interventions. A plausible explanation for this observation is systematic adherence of individuals in health campaigns, such as MDA and education, with some individuals consistently missing treatment. We developed an agent-based model of O. viverrini which allows us to introduce various heterogeneities including systematic adherence to MDA and education campaigns at the individual level. We validate the agent-based model by comparing it to a previously published population-based model. We estimate the degree of systematic adherence to MDA and education campaigns indirectly, using epidemiological data collected in Lao PDR before and after 5 years of repeated MDA, education and sanitation improvement campaigns. We predict the impact of interventions deployed singly and in combination, with and without the estimated systematic adherence. We show how systematic adherence can substantially increase the time required to achieve reductions in worm burden. However, we predict that yearly MDA campaigns alone can result in a strong reduction of moderate and heavy worm burden, even under systematic adherence. We predict latrines and education campaigns to be particularly important for the reduction in overall prevalence, and therefore, ultimately, elimination. Our findings show how systematic adherence can explain the observed persistence of worm burden; while emphasizing the benefit of interventions for the entire population, even under systematic adherence. At the same time, the results highlight the substantial opportunity to further reduce worm burden if patterns of systematic adherence can be overcome. Author summary: Opisthorchis viverrini is a liver parasite contracted by consumption of raw fish which affects over 10 million people in Southeast Asia despite sustained control efforts, with heavy infections being a major risk factor for often fatal bile duct cancer. Efforts to reduce the worm burden in populations include education of individuals on the safe consumption of fish meals, improvement of sanitation to interrupt the parasitic life cycle and mass drug administration campaigns, where ideally all targeted individuals of a population receive a drug against the parasite without a prior test of whether they are infected. We present a new agent-based mathematical model of Opisthorchis viverrini transmission and control. This model allows us to include systematic adherence to interventions, which describes the pattern of some individuals consistently being missed by interventions aimed at an entire (sub-)population. Our findings show how systematic adherence can explain the observed persistence of worm burden, but how interventions can be greatly beneficial even for individuals that systematically miss treatment. At the same time, we show the substantial opportunity to further reduce worm burden if patterns of systematic adherence can be overcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the declaration of the fall armyworm (FAW) pandemic across sub-Saharan Africa in 2016, the polyphagous insect has threatened food security and livelihoods in the sub-region, particularly among farmers producing maize for sustenance. To mitigate the worm infestation, synthetic insecticides are used as a promising solution to effectively manage the threat of the worms, despite the negative consequences such as effects on human health, ecosystem sustainability, and overall societal and economic costs. This study, therefore, uses a structured questionnaire to collect primary data on 250 maize farmers to assess their perceptions and determinants of synthetic insecticides used to manage FAW in the Ejura-Sekyedumase municipality in the Ashanti region of Ghana. The findings showed that emamectin-benzoate, chlorpyrifos, and lambda-cyhalothrin-based insecticides were the dominant chemicals used to manage FAW infestations. Farmers' overall perceptions are indifferent, which raised doubts about the sustainability and efficacy of applying synthetic insecticides. The findings highlight farmers' concerns about the effects of synthetic insecticides on human health and the environment, which calls for the investigation of less expensive, low-risk alternatives to insecticides such as microbial and botanical insecticides that are safer for humans and enhance ecosystem sustainability. Results from a Heckman selection model which corrects sample selection bias showed that three institutional covariates, three perception attributes, and five personal factors significantly influence the adoption of synthetic insecticides to control FAW in the study area. The study's findings imply that if proper measures are put in place to encourage the use of prescribed and environmentally friendly insecticides to counteract FAW's attack, maize productivity and production will be improved in a more sustainable manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Water, often considered a fundamental component of life, is the most commonly used ingredient in the formulation of dermocosmetic products, with waterless products being the exception. Dermocosmetic products can contain anywhere from 50% to 85% water, which contributes to their texture and specific characteristics. The chemical composition of water varies depending on its origin and can be categorized as highly mineralized or low mineralized. These compositions could impact the water's efficacy in anti‐aging applications. In this study, the objective is evaluating the anti‐aging properties of highly and low mineralized water with the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. Methods: In this article, we employed the alternative model organism C. elegans to assess the impact of 5 branded waters, one physiological water and one ultra‐pure water on the model's lifespan, using the survival medium conventionally used for C. elegans as a comparison. Results: Waters may have either a positive or a negative impact on the C. elegans lifespan expectancy. Our results indicate that only one of the water brands we assessed (Volvic®) had a significantly positive effect on worm longevity. In contrast, we found that two other brands (Hepar® and Contrex®) had a negative impact on the later stages of the worm's adulthood. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the impact of the brand water samples on lifespan expectancy varied depending on their physicochemical composition, in particular when ion concentrations were most extreme. Conclusion: This study shows that the highly mineralized waters studied have a detrimental effect on the survival of C. elegans, and a preliminary test with ultra‐pure water could not be completed due to its deleterious effect on the worms. This suggests the hypothesis that both highly mineralized and completely demineralized waters may not be the most suitable for skin formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review is based investigations on the Western Isles, Scotland, by Martin Martin, a notable Scottish Highlander, academic and medical doctor, of the 17th–18th century. His extensive observations of the geography and peoples of these Isles were recorded in his books, "On the Description of the Western Islands of Scotland Circa 1695" and "A Late Voyage to St Kilda". In these books and subsequent papers there were some noteworthy observations on the occurrence (and as he says non-occurrence) of "epidemical" diseases and conditions afflicting the peoples of The Isle of Skye and the Western Isles of Scotland in this period, and these are discussed in this review. Martin also gives details of a wide variety of remedies that were observed or reported by inhabitants around that time. Some of these remedies are interesting for their relevance to the period but others are of doubtful merit. These are reviewed here more for their significance in the understanding of the diseases and conditions of humans and even in some cases animals at that time. Introductions by Charles Withers and R.W. Munro, 11 and re-assessments of the contributions of Martin and colleagues of that time have given insight into the health and condition of peoples of the Western Isles of Scotland(the Occidental) (Martin 1695; Martin 1716). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Corinnaeturris from the southeastern Gulf of Mexico is described and compared with C. leucomata (Dall, 1881) and C. angularis Figueira & Absalão, 2010, the only two species of that genus heretofore described (Worms, 2023). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe the physics of the "Windkessel effect" and its role in smoothing the output of water produced by piston-driven pumps found in early fire engines and modern residential well houses. We also construct a simple, analytical model of its operation and apply this model to the Windkessel in Richard Newsham's 1725 fire engine. We find that Newsham's Windkessel reduces the variations in the pump output stream from a high of 80% to a low of 16%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel methodology for determining the singular point of an enveloped surface is put forward. Unlike some existing methods, the presented method starts directly from the equation of the enveloped surface instead of that of the generating surface, and it is thus called a direct method. The calculation for the normal vector of the enveloped surface is well simplified with the help of the moving frame approach, which makes the presented method feasible. The singularity condition equation is extracted by using the theory of linear algebra. For singular points with different properties, proper solving techniques are established, including resultant elimination and simple elimination. Applying the developed method, the undercutting characteristics of the Archimedes worm wheel are investigated from the perspective of spatial meshing. The numerical results demonstrate that the worm wheel generally has one undercutting limit line, whose trend is along the tooth width of the wheel. Locating on one side of the tooth surface and near the tooth root is a dangerous part of the worm wheel undercutting. The proposed method is beneficial for the development of gear meshing science. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Filarial worms are important vector-borne pathogens of a large range of animal hosts, including humans, and are responsible for numerous debilitating neglected tropical diseases such as, lymphatic filariasis caused by Wuchereria bancrofti and Brugia spp., as well as loiasis caused by Loa loa. Moreover, some emerging or difficult-to-eliminate filarioid pathogens are zoonotic using animals like canines as reservoir hosts, for example Dirofilaria sp. 'hongkongensis'. Diagnosis of filariasis through commonly available methods, like microscopy, can be challenging as microfilaremia may wane below the limit of detection. In contrast, conventional PCR methods are more sensitive and specific but may show limited ability to detect coinfections as well as emerging and/or novel pathogens. Use of deep-sequencing technologies obviate these challenges, providing sensitive detection of entire parasite communities, whilst also being better suited for the characterisation of rare or novel pathogens. Therefore, we developed a novel long-read metabarcoding assay for deep-sequencing the filarial nematode cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene on Oxford Nanopore Technologies' (ONT) MinION™ sequencer. We assessed the overall performance of our assay using kappa statistics to compare it to commonly used diagnostic methods for filarial worm detection, such as conventional PCR (cPCR) with Sanger sequencing and the microscopy-based modified Knott's test (MKT). Results: We confirmed our metabarcoding assay can characterise filarial parasites from a diverse range of genera, including, Breinlia, Brugia, Cercopithifilaria, Dipetalonema, Dirofilaria, Onchocerca, Setaria, Stephanofilaria and Wuchereria. We demonstrated proof-of-concept for this assay by using blood samples from Sri Lankan dogs, whereby we identified infections with the filarioids Acanthocheilonema reconditum, Brugia sp. Sri Lanka genotype and zoonotic Dirofilaria sp. 'hongkongensis'. When compared to traditionally used diagnostics, such as the MKT and cPCR with Sanger sequencing, we identified an additional filarioid species and over 15% more mono- and coinfections. Conclusions: Our developed metabarcoding assay may show broad applicability for the metabarcoding and diagnosis of the full spectrum of filarioids from a wide range of animal hosts, including mammals and vectors, whilst the utilisation of ONT' small and portable MinION™ means that such methods could be deployed for field use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Modern integrative taxonomy-based annelid species descriptions are detailed combining morphological data and, since the last decades, also molecular information. Historic species descriptions are often comparatively brief lacking such detail. Adoptions of species names from western literature in the past led to the assumption of cosmopolitan ranges for many species, which, in many cases, were later found to include cryptic or pseudocryptic lineages with subtle morphological differences. Natural history collections and databases can aid in assessing the geographic ranges of species but depend on correct species identification. Obtaining DNA sequence information from wet-collection museum specimens of marine annelids is often impeded by the use of formaldehyde and/or long-term storage in ethanol resulting in DNA degradation and cross-linking. Results: The application of ancient DNA extraction methodology in combination with single-stranded DNA library preparation and target gene capture resulted in successful sequencing of a 110-year-old collection specimen of quill worms. Furthermore, a 40-year-old specimen of quill worms was successfully sequenced using a standard extraction protocol for modern samples, PCR and Sanger sequencing. Our study presents the first molecular analysis of Hyalinoecia species including the previously known species Hyalinoecia robusta, H. tubicloa, H. artifex, and H. longibranchiata, and a potentially undescribed species from equatorial western Africa morphologically indistinguishable from H. tubicola. The study also investigates the distribution of these five Hyalinoecia species. Reassessing the distribution of H. robusta reveals a geographical range covering both the Atlantic and the Indian Oceans as indicated by molecular data obtained from recent and historical specimens. Conclusion: Our results represent an example of a very wide geographical distribution of a brooding deep-sea annelid with a complex reproduction strategy and seemingly very limited dispersal capacity of its offspring, and highlights the importance of molecular information from museum specimens for integrative annelid taxonomy and biogeography. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ichnogenus Circulichnis Vyalov is a horizontal a ring- or ellipse-shaped burrow and/or locomotion trace of an unknown producer, most likely an annelid or a "worm", preserved on the bedding plane. This ichnogenus is known over a wide age interval (Ediacaran-Oligocene). Circulichnis demonstrates a wide ecological range and has been found in continental (Mermia ichnofacies), shelf, and relatively deep-water (turbidites) deposits. It is commonly interpreted as a sediment feeding trace, but the peculiarities of its formation remain somewhat mysterious, as it is unclear how the tracemaker reached the sediment surface, as lateral branches of the ring-shaped traces are extremely rare and have only been observed by a few researchers. A rather large specimen of Circulichnis montanus Vyalov, 1971 with a preserved lateral branch was found in the Mospyne Formation (upper Bashkirian, Lower Pennsylvanian) of the Donets Basin. This discovery confirmed the assumption made by Alfred Uchman and Bruno Ratazzi regarding the peculiarities of formation of Circulichnis. According to these authors, a single ring-shaped Circulichnis indicates an attempt to forage at a specific level in the sediment, while the lateral branches of Circulichnis are part of a vertical shaft leading to another level within the sediment. The study of Circulichnis montanus from the Donets Basin has confirmed that at least variant C of the Circulichnis formation scheme proposed by Uchman and Ratazzi is correct, i.e. the lateral branch is a horizontal or subhorizontal part of a generally vertical shaft. However, it is important to note that the correctness of variants A and B of the Uchman and Ratazzi scheme cannot be excluded. To answer this question unequivocally, new finds of well-preserved Circulichnis are necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this article is to establish the meshing theory for the offsetting Archimedes cylindrical worm drive, which consists of a cylindrical worm with asymmetric tooth profile and a plane worm gear. The equations of the tooth surfaces, the meshing function, the curvature interference limit function, and the curvature parameters are all obtained for the worm drive. By means of the developed reference-point-based meshing theory, the reference point located strictly on the tooth surfaces of a worm drive is determined via solving the system of nonlinear equations, in which no iteration is needed to perform this process. Based on the location of the reference point, the tooth surface boundaries are ascertained for the plane worm gear. The numerical case is carried out and the conjugate zone, the instantaneous contact lines, and the local meshing property parameters are acquired for the worm drive. The whole thread length of the cylindrical worm can almost be used and the conjugate zone can cover the whole tooth surface of the mating plane worm gear. In the meshing zone, not only the contact stress level between the tooth surfaces is relatively low, but also the lubrication condition is favorable. The comparative study on the meshing properties between the offsetting Archimedes cylindrical worm drive and the Archimedes conical worm drive is carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the hydrolysis of diclofop‐methyl (DM) in aqueous system and the bioaccumulation of its main metabolite, Diclofop (DA), in the tubifex worms were investigated using enantioselective high‐performance liquid chromatography. With the addition of tubifex, rapid hydrolysis was observed for DM. It is revealed that the hydrolysis of DM in the water and the accumulation of DA in the worms were both enantioselective. Meanwhile, either the hydrolysis amount or the levels of enantioselectivity were influenced by the tubifex. After incubated for 24 h, about 94.6% of the DM was hydrolyzed and the enantiomer fraction of metabolite (DA) deviated from 0.5 with R‐DA significantly higher than S‐DA. The enantiopure S‐DM and R‐DM and S‐DA and R‐DA were incubated, and enantiomerizations were detected between the two DM enantiomers with S‐form inversing into R‐form and vice versa. It was found that the S‐DM exhibited a higher tendency to invert than the R‐DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To determine the prevalence of helminth infection in Trichomycterus nigromaculatus captured in environments defined from the physicochemistry of the Gaira River, in Minca, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia. Material and Methods. We collected 476 specimens of T. nigromaculatus covering both climatic periods of the area, which were dissected to analyze the visceral cavity. Isolated parasites were fixed in 10% formalin for subsequent clarification. The specimens were identified by observation of adult stages under a stereoscopic microscope after clarification. Results. Specimens were found exclusively from the genus Spirocamallanus (Nematoda), the species Spirocamallanus sp. parasitic prevalence ranged from 0% in August to 28.57% in April with an abundance of 1.09 worms/host. Environmental parameters such as dissolved oxygen (Mean:5.65 mg. L-1, Max:7.5 mg. L-1, Min:4.41 mg. L-1); pH (Mean:7.2, Max: 9.3, Min: 5.7) and conductivity (Mean:72.82 µs.cm-1, Max: 123.7 µs.cm-1, Min: 40 µs.cm-1) presented statistically significant differences, the environment is eutrophicated. Conclusions. Spirocamallanus sp. were described in the areas of presence of the parasitic association in T. nigromaculatus, which constitutes a new record for the Colombian Caribbean and an extension of the geographic distribution and host range of the nematode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species of the mollusc genus Coriocella (Velutinidae) produce defensive biocompounds, making them potentially valuable hosts for other marine invertebrates. However, so far, only two instances of crustaceans ectosymbiotic on their mantle have been reported. This is the first observation, made in New Caledonia, of a pair of scale-worms identified as Asterophilia cf. culcitae (Polynoidae) hiding themselves on the mantle of Coriocella cf. tongana. This finding represents the first evidence of a symbiotic interaction between these two groups, expanding the association range for both taxa, and providing new insight into their, mostly unknown, ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Decapod crustaceans are important components of the fauna of soft-bottom habitats. In this work, the records of decapod crustaceans are provided through the analysis of a large soft-bottom benthic macroinvertebrates dataset of the Central Mediterranean Sea. Decapod crustacean assemblages were collected in the last twenty years by a Van Veen grab in 42 study sites located along the Italian coasts at depths ranging from 1 up to 120 m. The spatial distribution of the crustaceans examined, which include 120 species belonging to 40 families, was investigated according to the biogeographical zones identified in the Italian seas. The spatial distribution of 36 species was updated, comparing the ISPRA decapod crustacean dataset with the most recent Italian checklists. For the species updated, the number of specimens, the year and season of sampling, and environmental data, such as the bathymetric range and habitat details, are provided for each site investigated. Data are discussed and compared with the existing literature, also referring to what is reported in the World Register of Marine Species (WoRMS), with the aim of contributing to the knowledge of the biodiversity of the marine species and supporting the updating of checklists and registers in the Mediterranean Basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine worms of the family Serpulidae (Annelida) construct calcareous tubes that adhere to hard substrata. The tubes of the Spirobranchus kraussii complex have a flat projection, known as a 'flap', over the opening of the tube. In the present study, we examined the reconstruction growth rates of the flap of Spirobranchus akitsushima after artificial removal, compared with the normal growth rates (control), for approximately a month at a study site in Shirahama, Wakayama, Japan. Although the difference in the length of the flap on day 8 compared with the original length (before the removal treatment) was significant in the treatment group, the differences became nonsignificant after day 13. The flap growth rate was found to be higher than the growth rates of the tubes of other serpulid species, including Spirobranchus sp. 5 sensu Kobayashi & Goto (2021) of the S. kraussii complex, as reported in previous studies. In contrast, the length of the flap in the control group did not differ significantly during the survey period. These results indicate that the flap is more quickly reconstructed after removal compared with growth under normal conditions. Our findings imply that the flap may be of importance for the survival of S. akitsushima. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]