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Scabies, caused by the Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis mite burrowing into the skin, is a highly contagious disease characterized by intense nocturnal itching. Its global impact is considerable, affecting more than 200 million individuals annually and posing significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. Transmission occurs primarily through direct skin‐to‐skin contact, contributing to its widespread prevalence and emergence as a substantial public health concern affecting large populations. This review presents consensus‐based clinical practice guidelines for diagnosing and managing scabies, developed through the fuzzy Delphi method by dermatology, parasitology, pediatrics, pharmacology, and public health experts. The presence of burrows containing adult female mites, their eggs, and excreta is the diagnostic hallmark of scabies. Definitive diagnosis typically involves direct microscopic examination of skin scrapings obtained from these burrows, although dermoscopy has become a diagnostic tool in clinical practice. Treatment modalities encompass topical agents, such as permethrin, balsam of Peru, precipitated sulfur, and benzyl benzoate. In cases where topical therapy proves inadequate or in instances of crusted scabies, oral ivermectin is recommended as a systemic treatment option. This comprehensive approach addresses the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges associated with scabies, optimizing patient care, and management outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, biotic factors like insect pests and diseases as well as abiotic factors like fire, windstorms, and droughts influence the global forest ecosystem. Wood-boring pests (WBPs) pose a considerable threat to forest ecosystems worldwide owing to their capacity of remaining unnoticed during early stages, resulting in vast and pervasive infestations during later stages, eventually resulting in significant tree death. Therefore, it is crucial to promptly and effectively treat early-stage WBPs by timely detection. The prompt detection of WBPs requires the use of advanced and effective methods, such as remote sensing. This paper provides an overview of the many uses of several remote sensing devices, platforms, and detection algorithms in the context of monitoring WBPs infestations. Modern lightweight sensors such as light detection and ranging (LiDAR), hyperspectral imagers, thermal cameras, and radio detection and ranging (Radar) combined with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with versatile capabilities offer a comprehensive and effective method for gathering data. The purpose of this study is to examine the current capabilities, limits, and potential future advancements in accurately and promptly identifying WBPs.

In 2018, the University of Birmingham, UK, hosted a weekend of events for the Association for Environmental Archaeology (AEA)'s spring conference 'Pests of Society'. The event was organised in collaboration with Historic England – the publicly-funded 'Arms-Length Body' with statutory responsibility for the historic environment in England. During the course of the one day conference and workshop the following day, multiple aspects were covered of how pests have interacted, and continue to interact, with humans and their day-to-day activities, as well as their presence in the wider landscape. This paper outlines and describes the meeting, introducing the range of topics covered, and summarises the papers that have been published in the resulting special issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a rare case of disseminated cysticercosis in a 7‐year‐old Indian girl with recent onset seizures treated with antiepileptics for 2 months. When she presented to dermatology clinic, she had multifocal subcutaneous and submucosal nodules. The subsequent diagnostic workup revealed extensive neurocysticercosis as well as orbital and myocysticercosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a DNA virus that infects 90% of the human population, is responsible for certain cutaneous lymphomas (extranodal NK/T-cell lymhoma, hydroa vacciniforme lymphoproliferative disorder, lymphomatoid granulomatosis, others), and can be associated with a variety of cutaneous manifestations (eg, infectious mononucleosis, severe mosquito bite allergy, chronic active EBV disease, Gianotti-Crosti syndrome). EBV-related skin disorders are frequent in certain populations (South and Cental America, Africa, Asia, and Oceania) and can be diagnostically challenging. The human T-lymphotropic virus type-1 is a retrovirus, which is known to be associated with adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, neurologic disorders, but also cutaneous non-neoplastic manifestations (infective dermatitis, infections, and infestations). We performed an updated revision of the clinical dermatologic and histopathologic findings associated with the cutaneous non-neoplastic and preneoplastic disorders occurring in association with the EBV and human T-lymphotropic virus type-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The clinical diagnosis of scabies relies on the assessment of signs and symptoms and an improved understanding of the distribution of skin lesions may lead to improved diagnostic performance. Objectives To investigate the detailed body distribution of scabies lesions and to explore the accuracy of simplified, focused examination approaches. Methods We did a prospective, cross‐sectional study in the Western Province of Solomon Islands (2019). Consenting individuals of all ages were eligible. The entire skin surface was examined, and the presence and number of typical scabies lesions were recorded at 98 topographic body sites, corresponding to 5 regions and 16 subregions. We compared the distribution at sites, regions and subregions overall, and by age and sex. We also calculated the expected sensitivity of examination of limited body areas. Choropleth maps were generated to provide detailed descriptions of the distribution of lesions. Results A total of 467 individuals were enrolled (median age: 9 years [range: 0–86]; female: 54.6%) of whom 269 (57.6%) participants had typical scabies lesions. The most common sites for scabies lesions were the dorsal fingers (65.7% of participants with scabies lesions), dorsal finger web spaces (62.1%) and dorsal hands (61.7%). Of those less than 2 years old with scabies, eight (30.8%) had lesions at the head and neck region compared to 10.8% of those aged 2–5. Genital lesions were more common in males than females (27.3% vs. 7%, relative risk 3.9, 95% confidence interval: 1.2–2.1). Simplified, focused examinations were estimated have very high sensitivity (hands and wrists only: 93.3%; exposed arms and legs: 99.3%) compared to whole‐body examinations. Conclusion We report highly detailed descriptions of the body distribution of scabies lesions, including differences by age and sex. These data are valuable for training and diagnosis and support the use of simplified, focused examinations for scabies mapping.

Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) are the most important vectors of zoonotic diseases, presenting a high risk of causing diseases in animals and humans. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of ticks and the identification of tick species infesting small ruminants in Southern Romania. The study was undertaken from March 2019 to October 2020, including nine sheep and goats flocks in four Prahova County premises. A total number of 2463 sheep and 1202 goats were examined and 76.53% of sheep and 81.2% of goats respectively were infested. Overall, from the infested animals 2233 ticks were collected and the following species were morphologically identified: Haemaphysalis punctata, with an overall prevalence of 66.5%, followed by Dermacentor marginatus (24.5%) and Ixodes ricinus (9.0%). The annual dynamics of tick infesting small ruminants in the investigated areas showed maximum tick abundance in April, for H. punctata and Dermacentor marginatus, and May for I. ricinus, respectively. To reduce the high prevalence of ticks and their impact on productivity in small ruminants, immediate attention is required as control interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Côte d'Ivoire, the stem borer, Apate terebrans, is one of the three main insect pests of cashew (Anacardium occidentale), an important cash crop. But, the lack of scientific knowledge about its ecology is a real obstacle to the development of efficient control methods. This study aimed to know the seasonal fluctuation of A. terebrans, in relation to the phenological stage of cashew and some climatic factors. The cryptic life of the pest led to the evaluation of its abundance by counting monthly the openings of fresh galleries that it digs in the cashew tree. Systematic sampling was carried out on 1924 cashew trees distributed in 10 orchards in the departments of Bondoukou and Bouna in the North-East of Côte d'Ivoire, from July 2018 to June 2020. Climatic data were recorded over this period. The first individuals of A. terebrans were observed in July in the rainy season; peak numbers were reached in November-December in the dry season, before decreasing considerably in January and becoming nil in March-April. Individuals were significantly more abundant at cashew flowering. Significant differences were observed between the abundances within and between departments and from year to year. Simple regression analyses showed that temperature favours the growth of pest populations, while rainfall and hygrometry are unfavourable. This study contributes to the effective control of A. terebrans, and provides insights into the determinants of the variability of A. terebrans infestations from one orchard to another. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of plantation forests will become more important in the future, along with the increasing demand for wood. However, pest infestation problems may represent significant obstacles to the development of sustainable forest plantations. Bagworms are one of the most important pests in Indonesian plantation forests. Outbreaks of bagworms have occurred in different tree species for wood or non-wood resources. This paper presents the first review of bagworms in Indonesian plantation forests. This review presents the diversity of bagworms, their pest status, and the factors affecting the outbreaks. More than 70 bagworm species were recorded in Indonesia, which is higher than the species richness recorded in neighboring countries. The subfamily Oiketicinae has the highest number of species, followed by Typhoniinae and Taleporiinae. The highest bagworm richness has been recorded in Western Indonesia, except for Papua, where many new species have recently been described. More than 10 species of bagworms have been reported as pests in Indonesian forest trees. Pteroma plagiophleps is currently considered the most important pest in the forestry sector because of the wide range of forest trees used as hosts. Bagworm outbreaks have been reported in forest trees since 1924. The first outbreak occurred only in pines in Sumatra. Currently, outbreaks occur in more host plants and on other islands. Bagworm outbreaks are influenced by multiple factors, such as the biology of the bagworms, their host plants and natural enemies, climate, and silvicultural practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delusions of parasitosis by proxy is an uncommon entity wherein an individual projects a delusional belief onto another person who lacks capacity to hold the same belief. We report a case of delusions of parasitosis by proxy in a mother who believed that she was infested with scabies and projected her fixed, delusional belief of scabies infestation onto her children. She subjected her children to numerous home remedies and medical treatments as well as removing them from school in an effort to cure them of the supposed infestation. Child maltreatment can be a concern in such cases with a low threshold for involving child protective services if harm to the children is suspected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious cutaneous diseases are very common, especially in certain geographic and tropical regions. Sometimes they may simulate other dermatoses, ordering verification of diagnosis with particular investigations. Dermoscopy is among one of the most important tools readily available in the outpatient setting for the dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis. In this up-to date review, literature concerning the various dermoscopic features of parasitic, viral, dermatophytic and bacterial cutaneous infections is composed. In addition artefacts as well as practical issues in dermoscopy usage are discussed; with the aim to empower dermatologists to promptly and non-invasively diagnose and manage cutaneous infections and infestations.

Children are known to disproportionately bear the health impacts of climate change, particularly children living in impoverished areas. Owing to their developing physiology and immature metabolism, distinct exposure behaviors, and reliance on adults for care and protection, children are uniquely susceptible to the adverse effects of our warming planet. Herein, we summarize the known impacts of climate change on pediatric skin health, including its effects on atopic dermatitis, vector-borne and other infectious diseases, nutritional deficiencies, and psychodermatoses.

Background: Dermatological manifestations in children contribute to significant morbidity and psychological distress. Children with dermatological problems constitute a major bulk of the patients presenting to the Outpatient department. The study was conducted with an objective to find out the pattern of skin disease among the various pediatric age group. Method: We analyzed epidemiological data of 612 patients, aged 1 months to 15 years, who were referred to the Dermatology outpatient from the Pediatric outpatient between 2nd Baisakh 2075 to 31 Chaitra 2076. Demographic data and the frequency of the various diagnoses in various age groups were studied. Result: The most common category of diagnosis was infection in 35.78%, followed by allergic reaction in 33.50% and infestations in 14.22%, other dermatosis in 13.07%, while multiple diagnosis was found in 3.43%. Among all diagnostic groups, Scabies was the most common (14.22%) followed by Urticaria (11.92%). Conclusion: Comparison of the common dermatosis with the age group showed a strongly significant effect on occurrence of common dermatosis. Their incidence can be brought down by improving nutrition and personal hygiene of children. Health and wellness of school going children reflects the health status of a community. Our study provides a preliminary baseline data for future epidemiological and clinical research.

Competing Interests: None disclosed.

Scabies is a contagious, parasitic skin disease that adversely affects the quality of life and, can cause systemic complications if it is not properly treated. Sulfur ointment and permethrin cream are among the most used topical agents in the treatment of scabies. In this study, we aimed to compare the efficacy of sulfur ointment and permethrin cream in the treatment of scabies. In this single‐center study, patients who were diagnosed with scabies in the dermatology outpatient clinics of Karabuk University Training and Research Hospital between April, 2021 and September, 2021 were investigated retrospectively. Age, gender, date of diagnosis, topical agent used for scabies treatment, and response to the treatment at the control examination in the second week were recorded. The patients were divided into two groups those receiving 5% permethrin cream or 10% sulfur ointment, and the treatment efficacy of both agents was compared. This study showed that 10% sulfur ointment was significantly more effective in treating scabies than 5% permethrin cream (p < 0.001). Moreover, younger patients with scabies responded better to both treatments. 10% Sulfur ointment can be considered a safe and effective topical option in the treatment of scabies. The resistance to 5% permethrin cream, which is the most commonly used agent for scabies, can be a concern as an unexpected low success rate was obtained in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The skin conditions or disorders that develop due to various environmental or climatic factors are included under environmental dermatoses. A few studies have shown that different environmental factors can cause skin disorders but have not commented on the Quality of Life (QoL) and perception of the illness due to environmental dermatoses. Aim: To assess Illness Perception (IP) and QoL in patients with environmental dermatoses and to evaluate the extent to which IP is associated with the QoL in patients with environmental dermatoses. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 117 patients with environmental dermatoses who had visited the Outpatient Clinic of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Kolar, Karnataka, India, between February 2021-May 2021. All patients were assessed with the help of Dermatological QoL and Brief Illness Perception questionnaires. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 21.0 version. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to see the variances between more than two quantitative variables. Correlations were performed with Spearman correlation coefficient. The p-value

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Introduction: The skin conditions or disorders that develop due to various environmental or climatic factors are included under environmental dermatoses. A few studies have shown that different environmental factors can cause skin disorders but have not commented on the Quality of Life (QoL) and perception of the illness due to environmental dermatoses. Aim: To assess Illness Perception (IP) and QoL in patients with environmental dermatoses and to evaluate the extent to which IP is associated with the QoL in patients with environmental dermatoses. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 117 patients with environmental dermatoses who had visited the Outpatient Clinic of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Kolar, Karnataka, India, between February 2021-May 2021. All patients were assessed with the help of Dermatological QoL and Brief Illness Perception questionnaires. Data was analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 21.0 version. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to see the variances between more than two quantitative variables. Correlations were performed with Spearman correlation coefficient. The p-value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: Out of 117 patients, 54.7% patients were males and 45.3% were females with the mean age of 35.13 years. Infections and infestations (47%) were most commonly encountered which was followed by photodermatoses (25.6%), contact dermatitis (20.5%) and dry skin (6.8%). Dermatological Quality of Life (DQOL) mean score for infections and infestations was 12.63±7.15, contact dermatitis was 10.71±6.81, photodermatoses 9.13±3.94, and dry skin 8.26±4.06. The QoL of overall patients were moderately affected (mean DQOL score of 11). Patients with infections and infestations had more treatment expectations (8.58±1.13), concern (8.40±1.43), strong identity (5.53±3.32), more emotional (7.29±1.80) as compared with other dermatoses which were statistically significant (p<0.05). There were statistically significant positive correlation of QoL with consequences (rs=0.679), timeline (rs=0.196), concern (rs=0.602), and emotional impact (rs=0.583). Conclusion: Present study shows that the patients' QoL with environmental dermatoses is largely affected. Patients' perspective towards the illness directly influences their QoL, so clinicians should be aware of this. Also, if necessary, it is suggested to integrate psychological intervention in the patient management by the clinicians, which will potentially affect the treatment outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a paucity of information surrounding dermatologic care for persons experiencing homelessness (PEH). This scoping review aims to map existing literature and provide a summary of the most common cutaneous manifestations among PEH, risk factors for dermatologic disease, describe any reported interventions, as well as identify research gaps for future studies. Search strategies developed for MEDLINE and hand searching yielded 486 articles. Out of the 486 articles screened, 93 articles met the inclusion criteria. The majority were cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, and case-control studies concentrated in North America and Europe. Excluding the pediatric population, the prevalence of dermatologic conditions ranged from 16.6% to 53.5%. Common skin conditions described in PEH were: acne, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and lichen simplex chronicus. There were no studies comparing the extent or severity of these cutaneous diseases in PEH and the general population. PEH have a higher prevalence of skin infections and non-melanoma skin cancers. This scoping review has direct implications on public health interventions for PEH and highlights the need for evidence-based interventions to provide optimum and safe dermatologic healthcare for PEH. We propose several recommendations for improved care delivery, including addressing upstream factors and comorbidities impacting skin health, providing trauma informed care, reducing barriers to care, preventing and managing skin conditions, as well as including PEH in the planning and implementation of any proposed intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a parasitic infection that can result in scarring, contributing to significant morbidity when a cosmetically sensitive area is involved. We report a case of a 13‐year‐old boy with cutaneous leishmaniasis involving the face and arm. He was treated with a combination of photodynamic therapy as well as topical amphotericin with a cosmetically satisfying outcome. This combination of noninvasive treatment regimens has not been reported to our knowledge and merits further study in the pediatric population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Intestinal parasitic infestations triggered considerable gastrointestinal morbidity, malnutrition, and mortality worldwide. In particular, young children in developing countries affected most. Helminthiasis infestation accounts for 10–20% of prevalence on preschool children worldwide. Unfortunately, small children below 5 years are uniquely susceptible to intestinal parasitic infestations in poor communities. This is because of children’s behavior like playing with soil and putting hand -to- mouth habit. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasitic infestations among preschool children in Sekota town, Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out on 378 preschool children in Sekota town from February 15 – March 10/2019. Stool specimens were collected and examined for intestinal parasites using wet mount and formal ether concentration technique. The risk factors of intestinal parasites were assessed using a pretested structured questionnaire. The data were entered and analyzed using Epi-data version 4.2.0.0 and SPSS-version 23 statistical software respectively. Both bivariable and multivariable analysis was carried out, and potential co-linearity was tested for closely similar variables. Variables with P value less than 0.05 in multivariable analysis was considered as statistically significant and reported with 95% CI and odds ratio. Results The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infestations in Sekota town on wet mount and formal ether concentration techniques was 83(21.9%), (95% CI, 17.7–26.3%) and 113(29.9%), (95% CI, 25.1–34.8%) respectively. In multivariable analysis, not taking medication as periodical deworming (AOR, 95% CI), (2.5, 1.5–4.3), presence of animals in the living room (AOR, 95% CI) (3.1, 1.8–5.3), and being a government employee as an occupation (AOR, 95% CI), (3.4, 1.1–10.0) were increasing the odds of intestinal parasitic infestations. Conclusions The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infestations in Sekota town is high, which is a public health problem. The risk factors that contributed to intestinal parasitic infestations in this study were preventable and modifiable. Therefore, the concerned bodies need to emphasis on periodical deworming and keeping animals in separate room.

We are reporting the case of a nine-month-old Pakistani female with complaint of growth retardation who presented multiple intestinal parasitic infections. Probably because of contamination with fecal matter, the initial microscopic examination of the urinary sample revealed the presence of eggs of Enterobius vermicularis, cysts of Entamoeba coli, and an organism similar to mites. Stool samples were obtained after two weeks and microscopic investigation confirmed the presence of Enterobius vermicularis eggs, cysts of Entamoeba coli, and hookworm eggs. The patient was immediately subjected to mebendazole therapy associated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, to which she responded well. Follow-up stool re-examinations performed 15 and 30 days after the treatment tested negative for all parasitic ova and cysts. This study reflects the importance of considering multiple parasitic infestations in low socio-economic populations and highlights the need of improving poor hygienic conditions to prevent such infections, in particular in children.

Introduction: The parasite-host relationship between bark beetles of the genus Dendroctonus and species of the genus Pinus has been recognized as important threat to coniferous forests because it can cause high tree mortality and therefore a loss of forests. Objectives: We aimed to identify the potential unknown parasite-host relationships among bark beetles and pine trees species, as well as the contribution of environmental conditions as driver of these ecological interactions. Methods: We carried out ecological niche models and ecological network analysis using the spatial datamining platform SPECIES (http://species.conabio.gob.mx/). Our study included seven species of bark beetles, 52 species of the genus Pinus, and 19 bioclimatic variables from Worldclim dataset. Results: We identified 140 potential interactions between Dendroctonus and Pinus species, of which 42 % have not been previously registered. Complex inference network analysis allowed us to characterize ecological parasite-host interactions in generalists and specialists. Regarding the ecological niche analysis, we determined potential bark beetle distributions by combining Pinus species ranges and climatic variables as predictors. We noted that climatic variables contributed negatively to Dendroctonus distribution for the most species, i.e. these abiotic variables are restrictive in almost the entire distribution of the beetles; conversely, biotic variables (i.e. Pinus species) were positive and informative on the most of species ranges. Conclusions: Coexistence patterns of bark beetles and Pinus provide us information on the interactions that are able to establish among these species and that until now can be unknown. In addition, integrating biotic (hosts) and abiotic (climate) factors, allows us to obtain geographic distribution models that characterize the regions with favorable conditions for the presence of bark beetles, as well as the host species with which they could be interacting in those regions. Considering the phytosanitary risk due to bark beetles, our results provide geographic and ecological scenarios where bark beetles infestations may occur, as well as the possible emergence of new parasite-host interactions. These models can be a tool to address future fieldwork efforts to validate and complement our results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Objectives: Efficacy and safety data of scabies treatments in infants are limited. Although topical permethrin is used in the treatment of scabies in adults, it is not approved for use in infants younger than 2 months of age in many parts of the world. This study aimed to describe treatment practices in the management of scabies in infants younger than 2 months. Methods: An online survey was developed and distributed to physicians worldwide through the Society of Pediatric Dermatology and the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance. Data collected included demographics, medication availability, experience using medications, deterrents to medication use, medication administration preferences, perceived and experienced medication side effects, and preferred treatment agent in this population. Results: In total, 57 physicians from seven countries responded. The majority of respondents were board‐certified in pediatric dermatology (48/57, 84.2%) and resided in the United States (44/57, 77.2%). Respondents had experience using permethrin (47/57, 82.5%) and precipitated sulfur (35/57, 61.4%) most frequently. Most (38/57, 66.7%) preferred permethrin as their treatment of choice. Among those who did not use permethrin, potential side effects (8/10, 80%) were most frequently reported as a deterrent from its use. However, only 4.3% (22/47) of those who used permethrin reported side effects, including itching, erythema, and xerosis. Conclusions: Permethrin is frequently used in the treatment of infants younger than 2 months with scabies. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that permethrin is the preferred treatment agent among sampled dermatologists for infants younger than 2 months. Few side effects were reported, and none were serious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infectious cutaneous diseases are very common, especially in certain geographic and tropical regions. Sometimes they may simulate other dermatoses, ordering verification of diagnosis with particular investigations. Dermoscopy is among one of the most important tools readily available in the outpatient setting for the dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis. In this up-to date review, literature concerning the various dermoscopic features of parasitic, viral, dermatophytic and bacterial cutaneous infections is composed. In addition artefacts as well as practical issues in dermoscopy usage are discussed; with the aim to empower dermatologists to promptly and non-invasively diagnose and manage cutaneous infections and infestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

After the examination of horses in various horse breeding farms, including the hippodrome, schools, clubs, private stables and the horses of various ages, sex, and breeds, a wide spread of parasitic diseases was found, most often manifested in the form of helminthic infections and causing horse discomfort, preventing the development of young animals, reducing the working capacity and productivity of the adult population, as well as a number of different deviations. In order to protect animals from the harm caused by mixtinvasions, a hematological and biochemical study of horse blood was carried out. 32 animals infested with helminths were selected for the experiment. Blood was taken from experimental animals and examined in the laboratory. Studies have shown that invasions negatively affect the functional state of animals, while reducing the number of red blood cells, hemoglobin, basophils, platelets, total protein, urea, glucose, micro and macro elements, and increasing white blood cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, alkaline phosphatase, alananaminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and bilirubin. They studied the effectiveness of the drugs Praziver® and Ivermek® for horse helminthiasis. The drug "Praziver®" showed 100% therapeutic efficacy, used by the dose of 0.04 ml/kg against mixtinvasion of horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitis vinifera (L) is a great economically important crop. However, huge loss in fruits due to destructive pests hinders the improvement of its performance. The study of their biochemical profile, ripening dynamics, and defense mechanisms presents a great scientific interest. In this work, phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), tyrosine ammonia lyase (TAL) activities, proteins, sugar and malondialdehyde (MAD) were investigated during ripening of five grape varieties in Loudaya region (Marrakech, Morocco), three of them are allochthonous while two are autochthonous. The Dipterans infestations by Drosophila suzukii and Ceratitis capitata have been highlighted as a factor that stimulates the defense mechanism in ripeness stage of grapes. Sugars, proteins and MDA have shown a gradual increase in grapes maturation in all varieties. TAL activity decrease in the course of the maturation in contrast to the PAL activity increasing in the ripe grapes. High content of PAL, TAL, and MDA compounds were noted in the ripe infested grapes as compared to the healthy ones. A significant difference (P < 0.05) for all biochemical assays according to varieties, maturity and the condition (damaged/undamaged) were found. A PCA analysis highlighted different biochemical behaviours from the grapes concerning the flies' infestations (79.64% of total variation). The variables that have contributed to the discrimination of the grapes according to their stage of maturities were sugar, proteins and TAL. The higher concentrations of PAL (6.64 ± 0.57 EU), TAL (0.93 ± 0.05 EU) and MDA (58.32 ± 2.55 EU) especially in the injured grapes prove that flies infestation triggered a priming defense mechanism, directly activating defense reactions. The results obtained could be crucial in establishing a database of the Moroccan grapes biochemical defense which provides a foundation for new methodologies in the plants behavior against fruit flies stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mirids (Sahbergella singularis and/or Distantiella theobroma) are the major pests of cacao farms in Africa. Cocoa production losses due to these species have been widely documented in West Africa. However, their impact on cocoa production is unknown in Central Africa, especially in Cameroon. Moreover, no data are available on the threshold level of fruits tolerance to mirid attacks. For these reasons, we assessed the effect of S. singularis on the productivity of ten cacao genotypes as well as the threshold number of the lethal feeding punctures to fruits under a randomized experimental design. Observations were made on three categories of fruits (cherelle, immature and mature/ripe). A control trial was also set up per batch. The overall results showed that 68.0% and 0.4% of fruits aborted, respectively, in mirid and control trials. The percentages of aborted fruits were significantly (p < 5%) different between cacao genotypes and ranged from 20 to 100%. Bonferroni test revealed six homogenous groups for cacao genotypes susceptibility to mirid attacks; SNK52 proved to be most tolerant/resistant, whereas two genotypes (UPA138 and SNK67) revealed more sensitive. In contrast, six genotypes (SNK07, IMC60 × SNK417, T60/887 × PA7, T79/501 × SNK479, UPA143 × ICS84, UPA143 × NA33) displayed similar sensitivity to mirid attacks. ANOVA showed that the threshold tolerance of tested fruits, expressed by the mean numbers of lethal feeding punctures, to S. singularis attacks was comparable between cacao genotypes. This new quantitative database improves our knowledge on the (i) threshold tolerance of fruits to S. singularis attacks and (ii) economic impact of this pest on cocoa production in Cameroon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the physiological and biochemical effects of Chitosan nanoparticles on Capsicum annuum plants. The particle size, polydispersity index, composition, and structure of the synthesized chitosan-based nanoparticles (Chitosan (CS), Chitosan-Silver (CSAg), and Chitosan-Copper (CSCu) NPs) were determined by analyzing the zeta potential, FTIR, TEM, and XRD. The seedlings showed improved physiological and biochemical characteristics when 1, 10, and 20 ppm concentrations of nanoparticles (CS, CSAg, and CSCu) were used for 24-h seed priming. The application of nanoparticles in different concentrations (0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 ppm) on the leaves of Capsicum spp. plants resulted in improved physiological traits and protection against thrips by 70–85 %. Furthermore, it enhanced the content of chlorophyll (20–75 %), carotenoids (20–30 %), total phenolics (20–45 %), total flavonoids (40–125 %), reducing sugars (15–40 %), total antioxidant activity (10–82 %), FRAP (10–100 %), DPPH (76-83 mg mL−1) activity, and total capsaicinoids (125–142 %). Therefore, the use of chitosan-based nanoparticles could be considered an environmentally friendly approach to enhance secondary metabolite production, disease resistance, and growth in Capsicum spp. plants for sustainable production. [Display omitted] • Nanoparticles increase seed germination, growth, and biochemicals in Capsicum spp. • Chitosan nanoparticles prevent disease incidence (thrips) under greenhouse settings. • The NPs treated plants displayed upsurge in phenolics and flavonoids considerably. • Substantial increase in ROS activity of leaf was recorded in NPs treated plants. • NPs treatment could able to augment Capsaicinoids content in fruits of Capsicum spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pests are the major cause for decrease in crop productivity, due to infestation and intense feeding pattern. Use of chemical pesticides not only leads to resistance in pests but can also show residual toxicity. Therefore, in the current study lead, nickel and cadmium resistant Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 tested as a strong plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) was repurposed for its inhibitory effects against larvae of Spodoptera litura. Toxicity assessment was studied using leaf bioassay against larvae of S. litura and higher mortality rate of 93.33% was attained at 72nd hours upon augmentation with Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 which was found to be less in B. thuringiensis and pesticide with 83.33 and 53.33% respectively. There was a direct impact with reduction in the feeding of leaves while Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 was treated with larvae as compared to control with a significant statistical difference at p < 0.05. Histopathological analysis and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) micrographs revealed damage in the gut and breakages in brain. Presence of rod shaped bacteria on the gut surface with morphology similar to Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 was observed. Further combined plant-larvae study revealed the efficiency of potent PGPR strain to enhance the plant growth inhibiting the survivability of the targeted larvae. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) enzymatic activities was clearly found higher in plants as compared to larvae. Increased MDA content in larvae inferred the toxic effects of Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3. Similarly the plant infestations and colonization of bacteria was also visualized. Our findings suggests Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 to be an effective and potential substitute for pest control against larvae of S. litura. [Display omitted] • Excellent larvicidal activity observed by Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 against Spodoptera. litura larvae. • Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 altered the food consumption rate. • Complex network of enzymatic machinery like SOD, POD, CAT, APX was also studied. • Bacterial strain Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3 served an excellent biological control in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When children present with features of bed bug bites, many parents are reluctant to accept the diagnosis. Furthermore, standard methods to detect arthropods in or around one's home can be expensive, time‐consuming, and frustrating. We developed a simple, inexpensive way to provide evidence that the lesions are in fact due to arthropod bites. The Modified Onesie Biting Bug Assessment (MOBBA) suit utilizes simple alterations to a full‐body onesie‐type footed pajama, exposing some body surfaces to insect predators while protecting other areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pink Bollworm (PBW) incidence on Bollgard-II (BG II) cotton was not observed so far in North Zone of India. During 2018-19 cotton season, BG II cotton was found infested with Pink Bollworm at one location in Haryana and two locations in Punjab near cotton ginning and oil extraction units. Cotton seeds are being procured from the central and south India by many units where PBW has already acquired resistance against BG II hybrids. Bio-ecological and resistance monitoring studies of larvae collected from the infested location revealed absence of larval diapauses in surviving population and resistance levels equivalent to central/south zone populations. The threat perception of pink bollworm in north zone on BG II cotton due to transport of resistant larvae along with cotton seed is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of guinea pigs is increasing as pet and their domestication necessitates the study of their pathology and emerging diseases. This study aimed to evaluate guinea pigs' capacity to be infested by Ctenocephalides felis felis fleas, as it is a common parasite among pets that causes irritation, stress, and transmission of other pathogens. Seventeen guinea pigs were infested with C. felis felis . After 48 hours, the animals were combed, and the number of fleas was determined. Guinea pigs had a very low recovery (average of 5%), leading us to conclude that they are not good hosts for this species, despite some literature citing it as an accidental host if infested along with dogs or cats., Competing Interests: Conflict of interests: TXAS, GPSA, VECR, DAB and TRC - No conflict of interest

Parasitism and parasitosis constitute serious animal health problems that predispose them to other more serious health conditions. Such conditions can reduce their productivity and marketability, thereby reducing their economic values. A total of 126 livestock comprising 63 goats and 63 cattle from abattoirs in Abakaliki Metropolis were subjected to ectoparasitic and gastrointestinal parasitic examinations, using approved standard diagnostic parasitological techniques. The recovered parasites were identified with standard identification guides. Rhipicephalus sanguineus and R. microplus were the two recovered ectoparasites from both groups of animal. There was no significant difference (p = 0.0859) in the prevalence of the tick species between the animals. Dictyocaulus species was the most abundant gastrointestinal helminth infecting both goats and cattle. There was no complete dominance of parasite species infecting the two groups of animal but the Shannon-Weiner diversity index indicated high parasite diversity for both goats and cattle. Periodic application of efficacious acaricides mixed (sequential) grazing and regular deworming with the use of strategic broad spectrum chemotherapeutic anthelmintics are strongly recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: There is a need for better control of head louse infestations. Abametapir is an inhibitor of metalloproteinases critical for louse survival and egg development. The efficacy of abametapir lotion, 0.74%, was assessed for its ability to clear head louse infestations after a single application. Methods: Two randomized, double‐blind, multicenter, vehicle‐controlled studies were conducted in subjects aged 6 months and older to compare the effectiveness of abametapir lotion versus vehicle control for eliminating head louse infestations without nit combing. Abametapir lotion was applied to dry hair for 10 minutes on day 0 and then rinsed with water. The primary endpoint was the proportion of index subjects (youngest household member with ≥ 3 live lice at screening) in the intent‐to‐treat population who were louse free at all follow‐up visits through day 14. Older household members with one or more live lice at screening were designated as nonindex subjects and treated as per the index subject within their household. Results: In the intent‐to‐treat population (index subjects, N = 216), 81.5% of subjects treated with abametapir lotion were louse free through day 14 after a single treatment, versus 49.1% with vehicle (P < 0.001). For the combined index and nonindex population (N = 704), 85.9% were louse free through day 14 in the abametapir group, versus 61.3% in the vehicle group (P < 0.001). The most frequently reported adverse events were erythema (4.0%), rash (3.2%), and skin burning sensation (2.6%). Conclusion: Abametapir lotion, 0.74%, was effective at clearing active head louse infestations through day 14 in subjects aged 6 months and older. All adverse events (including one serious but unrelated to study drug) resolved uneventfully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Leishmaniasis is a protozoan zoonotic parasitic infection with cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral manifestations. Israel is endemic for cutaneous leishmaniasis, which is a self‐limited disease but is associated with scarring, which is often a source of psychological and social burden for patients. Scars can be especially devastating for children and teenagers. A wide range of physical and medical approaches is used to treat cutaneous leishmaniasis, among which intralesional injections of sodium stibogluconate rank among the most frequently used. Unfortunately, despite being effective, this therapeutic modality can be very painful. Fractional ablative laser creates a controlled mesh‐like pattern of tissue ablation in the skin that promotes dermal remodeling and collagen production while at the same time facilitating enhanced delivery of topically applied medications. Methods: Patients were treated with fractional ablative carbon dioxide laser followed by immediate topical application of sodium stibogluconate. All children were diagnosed with cutaneous leishmaniasis prior to treatment initiation.. Results: Ten children were treated. One leishmania tropica‐positive girl failed to respond. The other nine patients achieved clinical cure and demonstrated good to excellent final cosmesis. Self‐rated patient satisfaction and tolerance were high No adverse effects were observed or reported during treatment. Conclusion: Fractional ablative carbon dioxide laser followed by topical sodium stibogluconate application appears to be a safe and promising treatment for cutaneous leishmaniasis infection in children. Future controlled studies are required to validate these findings and compare this technique with traditional approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Head lice (Pediculus humanus capitis) infestations are not a primary health hazard or a vector for disease, but they are a societal problem with substantial costs. Diagnosis of head lice infestation requires the detection of a living louse. Although pyrethrins and permethrin remain first-line treatments in Canada, isopropyl myristate/ST-cyclomethicone solution and dimeticone can be considered as second- line therapies when there is evidence of treatment failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Les infestations par les poux de tête (Pediculus humanus capitis) ne constituent ni un risque sanitaire primaire ni un vecteur de maladie, mais représentent plutôt un problème de société au coût important. Pour diagnostiquer une infestation, il faut déceler un pou vivant. Même si les pyréthines et la perméthrine demeurent les traitements de première intention au Canada, la solution de myristate d'isopropyle et de ST-cyclométhicone et la diméticone peuvent être envisagées en deuxième intention après un échec thérapeutique démontré. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dermatopathies ectoparasitária origin of key importance in small animal veterinary clinic, because, besides the injury to the health of the animal, many of them have a zoonotic potential. The study objectives were to analyze events involving ectoparasites in animals to species, sex, age and race affected, diagnosed in a veterinary clinical laboratory. The data were obtained from reports of examinations of samples collected from animals treated at a veterinary care or the third seven years of clinical work. Species, breed, sex, age and also the parasites found: data relating to the characteristics of affected animals as were recorded. Of 1,668 tests, 233 were diagnostic of ectoparasites, and of these 96 were positive. Eight different ectoparasites such as Malassezia pachydermatis with 39.58 % (38/96) of occurring, Demodex canis and 31.25% (30/96), dermatophytes 8.33% (8/96), Otodectes cynotis 7 were diagnosed 29 % (7/96), Sarcoptes scabiei 6.25% (6 /96) Lynxacarus radovskyi 3.12% (3/96), Notoedres cati 3.12% (3/96) and Cheyletiella sp. 1.04 % (1/96). Were more frequent in requests for samples from dogs, aged between one and five years old, female and mixed breed. Have the most affected breeds were Poodle, Dachshund, Pinscher and Yorkshire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]