Lernaeid parasites prevalence in commercial freshwater fish species at various fish farms in Pakistan

Abstract Reports abound on Lernaea parasitizing the brood stock, fingerlings, and marketable-sized culturable freshwater fish species in various parts of the world. We investigated seven small-scale aquaculture farms and how the prevailing Lernaea is impacting them. Randomly seven fish farms were selected to determine the prevalence percentage of lernaeid ectoparasites. Relevant information of the fishponds to estimate the various aspects such as effects of water source and quality, feed, stocking density, treatment used, and weight and length of fish, concerned with Lernaea infestation and prevalence was gathered. The results indicated that Catla catla (F. Hamilton, 1822) showed highest prevalence (41.7%) among the seven fish species, whereas Oreochromis niloticus showed zero. Other five fish species Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix showed 13.2%, 8.1%, 7.7%, 7.4%, 0.9% prevalence, respectively. In Royal Fish Farm 84.3% lernaeid infestation was observed, while no parasite was observed in the Vicents Chunnian fish farm. The water source, quality, feed, fertilizers, stocking density, water temperature, and potential treatment options displayed varying tendencies among fish farms and prevalence. Depending on the weight and length, the highest prevalence (56.7%, and 66.7%) was observed in 3501-4000 g and 81-90 cm groups. The infestation rate varied in various fish body parts with the dorsal fin the most vulnerable organ and showed 2.3% overall prevalence (while 18.4% contribution within total 12.6% infestation). Out of 147 infected fish samples, 45 were extensively contaminated by Lernaea spread. In conclusion, our findings confirm that Lernaea could pose a considerable threat to marketable fish, and various treatment options should be educated to the farmers to help mitigate the spread and potential losses. Furthermore, Catla catla is more vulnerable to Lernaea infestation (41.7%), so are the fish species being cultured at higher stocking densities.

Resumo Abundam os relatórios sobre Lernaea parasitando o estoque de cria, alevinos e espécies de peixes de água doce cultiváveis de tamanho comercial em várias partes do mundo. Investigamos sete fazendas de aquicultura de pequena escala e de que maneira a Lernaea predominante está impactando-as. Aleatoriamente, sete fazendas de peixes foram selecionadas para determinar a porcentagem de prevalência de ectoparasitas de Lernaea. Foram recolhidas informações relevantes sobre os viveiros de peixes para estimar os vários aspectos, tais como efeitos da fonte e qualidade da água, alimentação, densidade de povoamento, tratamento utilizado e peso e comprimento dos peixes, relacionados com a infestação e prevalência de Lernaea. Os resultados indicaram que Catla catla (F. Hamilton, 1822) apresentou maior prevalência (41,7%) entre as sete espécies de peixes, enquanto Oreochromis niloticus apresentou zero. Outras cinco espécies de peixes Ctenopharyngodon idella, Cirrhinus cirrhosis, Cyprinus carpio, Labeo rohita e Hypophthalmichthys molitrix apresentaram 13,2%, 8,1%, 7,7%, 7,4%, 0,9% de prevalência, respectivamente. Em Royal Fish Farm, 84,3% de infestação de Lernaea foi observada, enquanto não se observou nenhum parasita na fazenda de peixes Chunnian de Vicent. A fonte de água, qualidade, ração, fertilizantes, densidade de estocagem, temperatura da água e opções de tratamento potenciais exibiram tendências variadas entre as fazendas de peixes e prevalência. Dependendo do peso e comprimento, a maior prevalência (56,7% e 66,7%) foi observada nos grupos de 3501-4000 g e 81-90 cm. A taxa de infestação variou em várias partes do corpo dos peixes, sendo a nadadeira dorsal o órgão mais vulnerável e apresentou 2,3% de prevalência geral (enquanto 18,4% de contribuição dentro do total de 12,6% de infestação). Das 147 amostras de peixes infectados, 45 estavam amplamente contaminadas pela propagação de Lernaea. Em conclusão, nossos resultados confirmam que Lernaea pode representar uma ameaça considerável para peixes comercializáveis, e várias opções de tratamento devem ser educadas para os agricultores para ajudar a mitigar a propagação e as perdas potenciais. Além disso, Catla catla é mais vulnerável à infestação por Lernaea (41,7%), assim como as espécies de peixes sendo cultivadas em densidades de estocagem mais altas.

Epidemiological aspects of pediculosis by Pediculus humanus capitis (Phthiraptera: Pediculidae) in Minas Gerais: a systematic review / Aspectos epidemiológicos da pediculose por Pediculus humanus capitis (Phthiraptera: Pediculidae) em Minas Gerais: uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Background Head lice, or head pediculosis, is a parasitosis considered a serious public health problem that affects mainly resource-limited countries. Objective To describe epidemiological aspects of the pediculosis capitis in Minas Gerais, in Brazil. Method This systematic review was conducted through the standards established by the Preferred Reporting Items in Systematic Reviews and Metanalyses (PRISMA). PubMed, LILACS, and SciELO databases, as well as the gray literature, were searched. Results Nine of 1,167 studies were included, published between 1988 and 2019. These studies reported a total prevalence of parasitosis that ranged from 1.4% to 57.4%. The prevalence of head lice ranged from 0.0% to 66.7% for males and 2.3% to 57.4% for females, thus being higher in black-skinned people (1.4% to 40.3%). Regarding age, the highest prevalence was 10-12 years old (45.3%). As for the characteristics of the hair, there was a greater infestation in people with long (16.0% to 79.5%), wavy (0.0% to 44.7%), dark (0.0% to 36.6%), with low capillary density (35.4%), and thick hair (39.2%). Conclusion Head pediculosis affects both sexes, different ages, and races, representing an important health problem in Minas Gerais, not only due to the presence of ectoparasite but also to the secondary complications that can be generated from this parasitism.

Resumo Introdução A pediculose de cabeça é uma parasitose considerada um sério problema de saúde pública, afetando principalmente países com recursos limitados. Objetivo Descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos da pediculose de cabeça em Minas Gerais, Brasil. Método Revisão sistemática conduzida por meio dos padrões estabelecidos pelo Preferred Reporting Items in Systematic Reviews and Metanalyses (PRISMA). Foram pesquisadas as bases de dados PubMed, LILACS e SciELO, bem como a literatura cinza. Resultados Nove de 1.167 estudos foram incluídos, publicados entre 1988 e 2019. Relatou-se uma prevalência total da parasitose que variou de 1,4% a 57,4%. Ela variou de 0,0% a 66,7% para homens e 2,3% a 57,4% para mulheres, sendo maior em pessoas de cor negra (1,4% a 40,3%). Em relação à idade, a maior prevalência foi de 10 a 12 anos (45,3%). Quanto às características dos cabelos, houve maior infestação em pessoas com cabelos longos (16,0% a 79,5%), ondulados (0,0% a 44,7%), escuros (0,0% a 36,6%), com baixa densidade capilar (35,4%) e fios grossos (39,2%). Conclusão A pediculose atinge ambos os sexos, diferentes idades e raças, representando um importante problema de saúde em Minas Gerais, não só pela presença do ectoparasita, mas também pelas complicações secundárias que podem ser geradas desse parasitismo.

The plague: a case of delusional infestation with folie à deux / A praga: um caso de delírio de infestação com folie à deux

Folie à deux or Shared psychotic disorder (SPD) is a rare condition characterized by shared psychotic symptoms between two or more individuals. Delusional parasitosis (DP) is an uncommon psychiatric illness in that patients believe they are infested by insects, without evidence to support this belief. DP occurs in 5­15% of SPD. We report a case of cutaneous DP with SPD between an elderly mother and a daughter that lived together and withdrew from other social contacts for the last three years. We aim to highlight the relationship between SPD and DP, its prognosis, and clinical implications.

Folie à deux ou Perturbação Psicótica Compartilhada (PPC) é uma condição rara caracterizada por sintomas psicóticos compartilhados entre dois ou mais indivíduos. O delírio parasitário (DP) é uma doença psiquiátrica incomum em que os pacientes acreditam estar infestados por insetos, sem evidências que sustentem essa crença. O DP ocorre em 5 a 15% das PPC. Relatamos um caso de um DP cutâneo com PPC entre uma mãe idosa e uma filha que viviam juntas e afastadas de outros contatos sociais nos últimos três anos. O nosso objetivo é destacar a relação entre PPC e o DP, o seu prognóstico e implicações clínicas

Variabilidad climática y su influencia en la aparición del dengue en provincia Guantánamo

Introducción: El dengue es considerada una de las enfermedades más devastadoras a nivel mundial con un 40 % de la población viviendo en zonas de transmisión y de las más relacionadas con el clima. Objetivo: Determinar la incidencia de la variabilidad climática sobre la infestación por mosquito Aedes aegypti y la aparición del dengue en provincia Guantánamo en el periodo 2017-2019. Método: Se realizó una investigación descriptiva longitudinal, retrospectiva, donde el universo estuvo conformado por 9 municipios y 10 221 casos sospechosos de dengue. Se estudiaron las variables: infestación en depósitos por mosquitos Aedes aegypti según temporada climática, tasa de riesgo de arbovirosis según estratos, casos de dengue, temperatura y precipitación. Los datos fueron obtenidos de los registros meteorológicos mensuales y del departamento de Estadística del Centro Provincial de Higiene, Epidemiología y Microbiología. Se utilizaron frecuencias absolutas y relativas, la media, desviación estándar y coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Resultados: La temperatura media anual varió 1 °C, los valores medios de humedad relativa y precipitación disminuyeron e impactaron en todos los estratos. La infestación ascendió con la mayor tasa de riesgo de dengue en el estrato de clima tropical de sabana, razón de tasa 0,63 (IC 95 %: 0,59-0,67) P=0,000. La temperatura y precipitación guardaron la mayor relación de asociación lineal con infestación y tasa de riesgo de dengue con coeficiente de correlación lineal R2=0,9 y R2=0,8. Conclusiones: La variabilidad climática ejerce efectos favorecedores sobre la infestación por Aedes aegypti y la transmisión de dengue durante la temporada climática húmeda, con correlación significativa en todos los estratos.

Introduction: Dengue virus is considered one of the most devastating diseases worldwide with 40% of the population living in transmission areas and one of the most climate-related diseases. Objective: To determine the incidence rate of climate variability on Aedes aegypti mosquito infestation and dengue virus appearing in Guantanamo province, period time 2017-2019. Method: A retrospective, longitudinal, descriptive research was carried out, in which 9 municipalities and 10,221 suspected cases of dengue fever were selected (as universe). The variables studied were as follows: infestation in reservoirs by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes according to climatic season, arboviroses risk rate according to stratum, dengue cases, temperature and precipitation. Data were obtained from monthly meteorological records and from the Statistics Department of Centro Provincial de Higiene, Epidemiología y Microbiología. It was used the absolute and relative frequencies, mean frequency, the standard deviation and the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: Mean annual temperature varied by 1 °C, mean values of relative humidity and precipitation decreased and impacted all stratums. Infestation ascended with the highest dengue risk rate in the tropical savanna climate stratum, rate ratio 0.63 (95 % CI: 0.59-0.67) P=0.000. Temperature and precipitation had the strongest linear association with Aedes aegypti mosquito infestation and dengue risk rate with the linear correlation coefficient of R2=0.9 and R2=0.8. Conclusions: Climatic variability has a favorable effect on Aedes aegypti infestation and dengue transmission during the wet season, with a significant correlation in all stratums.

Introdução: A dengue é considerada uma das doenças mais devastadoras em todo o mundo com 40% da população vivendo em áreas de transmissão e uma das mais relacionadas ao clima. Objetivo: Determinar a incidência da variabilidade climática na infestação pelo mosquito Aedes aegypti e o aparecimento da dengue na província de Guantánamo no período 2017-2019. Método: Realizou-se uma investigação descritiva retrospectiva longitudinal, onde o universo foi constituído por 9 municípios e 10.221 casos suspeitos de dengue. As variáveis estudadas foram: infestação em armazéns por mosquitos Aedes aegypti de acordo com a estação climática, taxa de risco de arbovirose de acordo com estratos, casos de dengue, temperatura e precipitação. Os dados foram obtidos dos registos meteorológicos mensais e do Departamento de Estatística do Centro Provincial de Higiene, Epidemiología y Microbiología. Foram utilizadas frequências absolutas e relativas, média, desvio padrão e coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. Resultados: A temperatura média anual variou 1°C, os valores médios de umidade relativa e precipitação diminuíram e impactaram todos os estratos. A infestação aumentou com a maior taxa de risco de dengue no estrato climático de savana tropical, razão de taxa 0,63 (IC 95%: 0,59-0,67) P=0,000. Temperatura e precipitação tiveram a maior relação de associação linear com infestação de dengue e taxa de risco com coeficiente de correlação linear R2=0,9 e R2=0,8. Conclusões: A variabilidade climática exerce efeitos favoráveis na infestação por Aedes aegypti e na transmissão da dengue durante a estação chuvosa, com correlação significativa em todos os estratos.

A case on novel treatment protocol for difficult to treat foot myiasis

Foot myiasis is a rare condition, with only a few reported cases and no treatment consensus. We proposeda conservative and unique treatment approach with VAC dressing method. The patient administered in the hospital with presentation of deep tissue injury from a sharp stone, from 3 months back which was maggot infested. The patient had approached local physicians before been admitted in our facility. The wound was severe with maggot infestation. The patient was non diabetic with no other comorbid conditions. We had the aim of infection free wound with faster rate of healing, which was fulfilled by the noveltreatment protocol using vacuum-assisted closure (VAC®) dressing method. Culture sensitivity tests ruled out infection and maggot infestation. The wound was closed surgically after healthy uninfected granulation tissue confirmed with culture sensitivity report. No recurrence of maggot or any other infection were found. The protocol performed was safe and effective in critical case of myiasis.

Human otoacariasis in a 40-year old Filipino male: A case report

@#A 40-year old male, Filipino, farmer, from Bakun, Benguet, presented with a 9 months history of itchiness of right ear. He reported that he was able to collect 4-5 insects every time he cleans his ear. Consult was done with an Ears, Nose and Throat specialist and video-otoscopic examination revealed multi pie animate foreign body (mites) at different stages of development. The patient underwent 5 sessions of ear flushing with warm water at intervals of 2 weeks for 3 months. Collected insects were referred to an entomologist and were identified as Suadasia pontifica Oudemans, belonging to family: Acaridae. Follow up consult after 5 sessions of ear flushing revealed complete removal of mite infestation of his right ear. Patient was instructed to do ear flushing twice daily using warm water mixed with 70% isopropyl alcohol to eradicate any eggs left behind. No other medications were given. Based on Philippine Journal of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Health Research and Development Information Network, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, this is the first reported case of human otoacariasis in the Philippines.

First record of Trichodina heterodentata (Ciliophora: Trichodinidae) in banded knifefish Gymnotus carapo (Gymnotidae) cultured in Brazil / Primeiro registro de Trichodina heterodentata (Ciliophora: Trichodinidae) em tuvira Gymnotus carapo (Gymnotidae), cultivado no Brasil

The aim of this study was to report the first record of Trichodina heterodentata in banded knifefish Gymnotus carapo. Banded knifefish cultivated in the municipality of Jataí, state of Goiás, in the central western region of Brazil, experienced fish mortality rates of 3-4% per tank. Macroscopic analysis found that fish had lesions on their skin and gills. Smears of the integument and gills were confectioned and air-dried at room temperature and impregnated with silver nitrate to identify the Trichodinidae species causing the lesions. The trichodinid were identified as T. heterodentata, and their characteristics were compared to those from T. heterodentata recorded from other species of host fish. It was observed that the presence of T. heterodentata was associated with inadequate fish management, low water quality, high rates of stocking density, and inadequate nutritional management.

O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o primeiro registro de Trichodina heterodentata em tuviras Gymnotus carapo. Um cultivo de tuviras no município de Jataí, estado de Goiás, na região Centro-Oeste do Brasil, apresentou taxas de mortalidade de peixes de 3-4% por tanque. A análise macroscópica constatou que os peixes tinham lesões na pele e brânquias. Raspados do tegumento e brânquias foram confeccionadas e secas ao ar à temperatura ambiente e impregnadas com nitrato de prata para identificar as espécies de Trichodinidae causadoras das lesões. Os tricodinídeos foram identificados como T. heterodentata, e suas características foram comparadas com as de T. heterodentata registradas para outras espécies de peixes hospedeiros. Observou-se que a presença de T. heterodentata estava associada ao manejo inadequado dos peixes, baixa qualidade da água, altas taxas de densidade de estocagem e manejo nutricional inadequado.

First record of Trichodina heterodentata (Ciliophora: Trichodinidae) in banded knifefish Gymnotus carapo (Gymnotidae) cultured in Brazil / Primeiro registro de Trichodina heterodentata (Ciliophora: Trichodinidae) em tuvira Gymnotus carapo (Gymnotidae), cultivado no Brasil

The aim of this study was to report the first record of Trichodina heterodentata in banded knifefish Gymnotus carapo. Banded knifefish cultivated in the municipality of Jataí, state of Goiás, in the central western region of Brazil, experienced fish mortality rates of 3-4% per tank. Macroscopic analysis found that fish had lesions on their skin and gills. Smears of the integument and gills were confectioned and air-dried at room temperature and impregnated with silver nitrate to identify the Trichodinidae species causing the lesions. The trichodinid were identified as T. heterodentata, and their characteristics were compared to those from T. heterodentata recorded from other species of host fish. It was observed that the presence of T. heterodentata was associated with inadequate fish management, low water quality, high rates of stocking density, and inadequate nutritional management.

O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o primeiro registro de Trichodina heterodentata em tuviras Gymnotus carapo. Um cultivo de tuviras no município de Jataí, estado de Goiás, na região Centro-Oeste do Brasil, apresentou taxas de mortalidade de peixes de 3-4% por tanque. A análise macroscópica constatou que os peixes tinham lesões na pele e brânquias. Raspados do tegumento e brânquias foram confeccionadas e secas ao ar à temperatura ambiente e impregnadas com nitrato de prata para identificar as espécies de Trichodinidae causadoras das lesões. Os tricodinídeos foram identificados como T. heterodentata, e suas características foram comparadas com as de T. heterodentata registradas para outras espécies de peixes hospedeiros. Observou-se que a presença de T. heterodentata estava associada ao manejo inadequado dos peixes, baixa qualidade da água, altas taxas de densidade de estocagem e manejo nutricional inadequado.

First record of Trichodina heterodentata (Ciliophora: Trichodinidae) in banded knifefish Gymnotus carapo (Gymnotidae) cultured in Brazil

Abstract The aim of this study was to report the first record of Trichodina heterodentata in banded knifefish Gymnotus carapo. Banded knifefish cultivated in the municipality of Jataí, state of Goiás, in the central western region of Brazil, experienced fish mortality rates of 3-4% per tank. Macroscopic analysis found that fish had lesions on their skin and gills. Smears of the integument and gills were confectioned and air-dried at room temperature and impregnated with silver nitrate to identify the Trichodinidae species causing the lesions. The trichodinid were identified as T. heterodentata, and their characteristics were compared to those from T. heterodentata recorded from other species of host fish. It was observed that the presence of T. heterodentata was associated with inadequate fish management, low water quality, high rates of stocking density, and inadequate nutritional management.

Resumo O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar o primeiro registro de Trichodina heterodentata em tuviras Gymnotus carapo. Um cultivo de tuviras no município de Jataí, estado de Goiás, na região Centro-Oeste do Brasil, apresentou taxas de mortalidade de peixes de 3-4% por tanque. A análise macroscópica constatou que os peixes tinham lesões na pele e brânquias. Raspados do tegumento e brânquias foram confeccionadas e secas ao ar à temperatura ambiente e impregnadas com nitrato de prata para identificar as espécies de Trichodinidae causadoras das lesões. Os tricodinídeos foram identificados como T. heterodentata, e suas características foram comparadas com as de T. heterodentata registradas para outras espécies de peixes hospedeiros. Observou-se que a presença de T. heterodentata estava associada ao manejo inadequado dos peixes, baixa qualidade da água, altas taxas de densidade de estocagem e manejo nutricional inadequado.

Regla de predicción para determinar infestación canina por Echinococcus granulosus / Prediction rule to determine canine infestation by Echinococcus granulosus

Nuestro objetivo fue determinar un score que ayude a predecir la probabilidad de infestación canina por Echinococcus en una zona endémica en hidatidosis. Se realizó un estudio longitudinal en 3 anexos de la provincia de Concepción ubicado en los andes centrales de Perú. La infección canina por Echinococcus granulosus fue definido por la presencia de antígeno identificado en la muestra de heces. El modelo predictivo se obtuvo mediante un análisis de regresión logística basado en los parámetros sociodemográficos, esta regla fue internamente validada por remuestreo de tipo bootstrap. Resultados: De 152 canes que se sometieron al estudio de heces, 76 tuvieron infección por Echinococcus confirmada por antígeno reactivo. Se identificaron 4 factores ponderados dentro de la regla de predicción que, en suma, dieron el puntaje: El can que duerme fuera de casa (3 puntos), alimentar con vísceras crudas al can (3 puntos) y sacrificar al ganado dentro de la casa (2 puntos) y el can se alimenta con croquetas (-2 puntos). Se encontró que esta regla de predicción tuvo valor del área bajo la curva ROC 0,78; (IC 95%: 0,70 ­ 0,86). Estos parámetros de predicción con un puntaje ≥ 3 tenía una sensibilidad del 75% y especificidad del 65,8%, con un valor predictivo positivo del 85,3%. Esta regla ayudará al personal de la salud a identificar a los canes infestados por Echinococcus granulosus, para su intervención anti parasitaria y preventiva en sus dueños(AU)

Cystic hydatidosis is an endemic disease in Andean regions, our objective was to determine a score that helps to predict canine Echinococcus infestation in an endemic area with hydatidosis. A longitudinal study was carried out in 3 annexes of the province of Concepción located in the central Andes of Peru. Canine echinococcosis infection was defined by the presence of E. granulosus antigen identified in the stool sample. The predictive model was obtained through a logistic regression analysis based on the sociodemographic parameters, this rule was internally validated by bootstrap type resampling. Results: Of 152 dogs that underwent the stool study, 76 had an Echinococcus infection confirmed by reactive antigen. Four weighted factors were identified within the prediction rule that, in sum, gave the score: The dog that sleeps outside the home (3 points), feeding raw viscera to the dog (3 points), slaughtering the cattle inside the house (2 points) and the dog is fed with croquettes (-2 points). This prediction rule was found to have a value of the area under the ROC curve 0.78 (95% CI: 0.70 - 0.86). At a cutoff point of ≥ 3 points, the prediction rule was found to have a sensitivity of 75% and a specificity of 65.8%, with a positive predictive value of 85.3%. This rule will help health personnel to identify canes infested by Echinococcus granulosus, for their anti-parasitic and preventive intervention in their owners(AU)

Assessment Of Knowledge And Practice Of Personal Hygiene Among School Children In A Government School In Liluah,Howrah: A Cross Sectional Observational Study

Background:Children who possess a goodknowledge and practice of personal hygiene measures such as hand washing have lower incidence of communicable diseases. This study was done to assess the status of personal hygiene and the morbidity pattern among the children of a government school.Material & Methods:A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 3rd and 6th standard students of a government school situated at Liluah, Howrah district of West Bengal, India over a period of 2 weeks in August, 2017with the help of a questionnaire. Results of the study wereanalysed with relevant statisticalmethods.Results:The importance of hand washingwith soap after defecation and before meals was known to 100% and 98% students respectively, however was practised by 98% and 76% students respectively. There is significant association between knowledge and practice of hand washingwith soap after meals (P value 0.04146). Brushingteeth, washing feet and taking daily bath (80.77%) are the most common practices. Most common morbidities were fever with cough (17.3%), worm infestation (13.5%) and dental caries.Conclusion:Personal hygiene practices like hand washing, trimming nails regularly, etc can reduce the incidence of many preventable diseases among children, leading them to a healthy life.

Assessment Of Knowledge And Practice Of Personal Hygiene Among School Children In A Government School In Liluah,Howrah: A Cross Sectional Observational Study

Background:Children who possess a goodknowledge and practice of personal hygiene measures such as hand washing have lower incidence of communicable diseases. This study was done to assess the status of personal hygiene and the morbidity pattern among the children of a government school.Material & Methods:A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 3rd and 6th standard students of a government school situated at Liluah, Howrah district of West Bengal, India over a period of 2 weeks in August, 2017with the help of a questionnaire. Results of the study wereanalysed with relevant statisticalmethods.Results:The importance of hand washingwith soap after defecation and before meals was known to 100% and 98% students respectively, however was practised by 98% and 76% students respectively. There is significant association between knowledge and practice of hand washingwith soap after meals (P value 0.04146). Brushingteeth, washing feet and taking daily bath (80.77%) are the most common practices. Most common morbidities were feverwith cough (17.3%), worm infestation (13.5%) and dental caries.Conclusion:Personal hygiene practices like hand washing, trimming nails regularly, etc can reduce the incidence of many preventable diseases among children, leading them to a healthy life.

Urban infestation by Triatoma infestans (Hemiptera: Reduviidae), an overlooked phenomena for Chagas disease in Argentina

Vector-borne transmission of Chagas disease in urban areas of Argentina has been an overlooked phenomena. We conducted the first comprehensive cross-sectional study of domestic infestation with Triatoma infestans and vector infection with Trypanosoma cruzi in a metropolitan area of San Juan, Argentina. Our results document the occurrence of T. infestans infected with T. cruzi in human sleeping quarters. In this urban setting, we also show that infestation was associated with construction materials, the presence of chickens, cats and a large number of dogs that can provide blood meals for the vector. Our findings reveal new challenges for vectorial control agencies.

Parasitism by Amblyomma humerale (Acari: Ixodidae) on Chelonoidis denticulatus (Testudines: Testudinidae) in the Atlantic Forest / Parasitismo de Chelonoidis denticulatus (Testudines: Testudinidae) por Amblyomma humerale (Acari: Ixodidae) na Mata Atlântica

Abstract The present study reports on patterns of parasitism by Amblyomma humerale on yellow-footed tortoise, Chelonoidis denticulatus, in the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil. The tortoises were sampled occasionally, from July 2005 to January 2020. We collected 81 adult ticks from seven tortoises (mean = 11.57 ± 6.90 ticks/host), of which 72 were males (88.9%) and nine females (11.1%), resulting in an 8:1 sex ratio (males:females). Males were found in clusters, attached to the carapace. Females occurred mainly isolated, attached to coriaceous integumental areas (n = 7; 77.8%), especially the engorged females (100%). We suggest that the difference between attachment sites is a strategy used by fertilized females to avoid mechanical removal from their host through friction with elements of the environment. Because they undergo a considerable increase of volume when engorged, they move to more sheltered places on their host's surface. The parasitism patterns by A. humerale on C. denticulatus were compatible with those observed in the Amazon region and in the Cerrado-Amazonia transition. The present work provides information about the life history and host-parasite interface of the two species and contributes to understanding the parasitism patterns by A. humerale on C. denticulatus in the Atlantic Forest of southeastern Brazil.

Resumo O presente estudo relata os padrões de parasitismo de Amblyomma humerale em jabuti-tinga, Chelonoidis denticulatus, na Mata Atlântica do Sudeste do Brasil. Os jabutis foram amostrados de forma ocasional, entre julho de 2005 e janeiro de 2020. Foram amostrados sete jabutis e coletados 81 carrapatos adultos (media = 11,57 ± 6,90 carrapatos/hospedeiro), sendo 72 machos (88,9%) e nove fêmeas (11,1%), resultando em uma razão sexual de 8:1 (machos:fêmeas). Os machos encontravam-se agrupados e aderidos à carapaça. As fêmeas ocorreram principalmente isoladas e fixadas a áreas de tegumento coriáceo (n = 7; 77,8%), especialmente as fêmeas ingurgitadas (100%). Sugere-se que a diferença entre os locais de fixação seja uma estratégia das fêmeas fecundadas, para evitar a remoção mecânica por atrito com o ambiente, uma vez que aumentam consideravelmente seu volume quando ingurgitadas, deslocando-se para locais mais abrigados na superfície do hospedeiro. Os padrões de parasitismo de C. denticulatus por A. humerale foram compatíveis com aqueles observados na Amazônia e na transição Amazônia-Cerrado. O presente trabalho contribui com informações acerca da história de vida e da relação parasito-hospedeiro entre as duas espécies, contribuindo para o entendimento dos padrões de parasitismo de A. humerale em C. denticulatus na Mata Atlântica do sudeste do Brasil.

Temporal variation and spatial distribution of the pest insect Edessa meditabunda in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) as an alternative host plant

ABSTRACT Cotton is an alternative host for Edessa meditabunda (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), especially after the soybean harvest in surrounding areas, when large numbers of insects invade cotton fields and damage reproductive structures such as flowers and developing bolls. However, no studies on its occurrence and spatial distribution have been conducted in cotton. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the temporal variation and spatial distribution of E. meditabunda in the alternative host plant, Gossypium hirsutum. The study was carried out in an area of 1.1 ha planted with cotton that was divided in 64 plots of 169 m2 each, where entire cotton plants were examined weekly and E. meditabunda nymphs and adults were counted. Dispersion rates and theoretical frequency distributions were calculated and analyzed with significance level at 5%. Assessments were carried out from seedling emergence until the appearance of bolls, but E. meditabunda was present only during the reproductive stage of cotton plants. This study detected the dispersal of this stink bug from late-cycle soybean fields to cotton, indicating cotton's potential as an alternative host plant, providing shelter and food. Based on aggregation indices, the spatial distribution of nymphs and adults in cotton was aggregated at the beginning of the infestation, but tended toward randomness as bolls reached maturity. The occurrence of E. meditabunda in cotton was best described by the Poisson distribution with significance level at 5%.

Prevaléncia de tremátodos y algunos factores de riesgo en vacas lecheras en Paipa, Boyacá (Colombia) / Prevalence of trematodes and some risk factors in dairy cows in Paipa Boyacá (Colombia)

RESUMEN Este estudio se llevó a cabo para establecer la prevalencia e identificar los factores de riesgo asociados con las infestaciones por trematodos en ganado lechero Holstein en el valle de Paipa, Boyacá. Las muestras fecales recogidas de 100 bovinos seleccionados aleatoriamente se examinaron utilizando una técnica de sedimentación simple para el recuento diferencial de huevos de trematodos. Se buscaron huevos de tres grupos de trematodos: Fasciola hepatica, Paramphistomum spp., y Cotylophorum spp. La prevalencia específica de trematodos para cada grupo fue del 12, 9 y 4%, respectivamente. Se observó una superposición sustancial en el recuento de F. hepatica y Paramphistomum spp. La prevalencia de los tres trematodos identificados en este estudio se asoció significativamente (P < 0,05) con la condición corporal y la raza, mientras que la prevalencia de Fasciola hepatica y Paramphistomum spp., se asoció con la edad. La prevalencia de los tres principales trematodos de importancia para la salud animal con una alta tasa de infestación mixta junto con una mala condición corporal, sugiere una pérdida económica sustancial incurrida debido a la reducción de la productividad del ganado en el área de estudio.

ABSTRACT This study was carried out to establish the prevalence and identify the risk factors associated with trematode infestations in Holstein dairy cattle in the Paipa-Boyacá valley. Fecal samples collected from 100 randomly selected cattle were examined using a simple sedimentation technique for differential trematode egg count. Eggs were sought from three groups of trematodes: Fasciola hepatica, Paramphistomum spp., and Cotylophorum spp. The specific prevalence was 12, 9 and 4%, respectively. Substantial overlap was observed in the count of F. hepatica and Paramphistomum spp. The prevalence of the three flukes identified in this study was significantly associated (P < 0.05) with body condition and race, while the prevalence of Fasciola hepatica and Paramphistomum spp., was associated with age. The prevalence of the three main trematodes of importance for animal health with a high rate of mixed infestation together with a poor body condition, suggests a substantial economic loss incurred due to the reduction of livestock productivity in the study area.

Effect of oviposition by Bactrocera dorsalis on the antioxidant activity of orange juice / Efeito da oviposição de Bactrocera dorsalis na atividade antioxidante do suco de laranja

Abstract Among fruits and fruit products, oranges and orange juice are the most widely consumed worldwide. However, the effects of pest infestation of oranges on the quality of orange juice are not yet known. To evaluate the effect of the oriental fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis on the antioxidant activity of orange juice, we measured changes in the vitamin C (Vc) concentration, total phenol content, and antioxidant activity of orange juice after the introduction of fruit fly eggs. Ten days after the eggs were introduced (larvae removed), the concentration of Vc in orange juice was 18.65 µg/mL, which was 9.16 µg/mL lower than that measured in healthy orange juice. In addition, the total phenol content decreased by 46.519 mg Gallic Acid Equivalents (GAE)/g to 9.748 mg GAE/g. Furthermore, the free-radical scavenging activity decreased from 22.297% to 5.393%. Correlation analysis indicated significant correlations between Vc concentration, total phenol content, and antioxidant activity of orange juice after B. dorsalis infestation. The decrease in Vc concentration, total phenol content and free-radical scavenging activity indicated that B. dorsalis changed the quality of orange juice by affecting the antioxidant activity of the juice after the oranges were infested.

Resumo Entre frutas e produtos de frutas, as laranjas e suco de laranja são os mais consumidos em todo o mundo. No entanto, os efeitos da infestação de laranjas sobre a qualidade do suco de laranja ainda não são conhecidos. Para avaliar o efeito da mosca-das-frutas oriental, Bactrocera dorsalis, sobre a atividade antioxidante do suco de laranja, foram medidas as mudanças na concentração de vitamina C (Vc), no teor de fenol total e na atividade antioxidante do suco de laranja após a introdução de ovos da mosca-das-frutas oriental. Dez dias após a introdução dos ovos (larvas removidas), a concentração de Vc no suco de laranja foi de 18,65 µg/mL, que foi 9,16 µg/mL menor do que a medida em suco de laranja saudável. Além disso, o teor total de fenol diminuiu de 46,519 mg em equivalente de ácido gípico (GAE)/g para 9,748 mg de GAE/g. Ademais, a atividade de eliminação de radicais livres diminuiu de 22,297% para 5,393%. A análise de correlação indicou correlações significativas dentre a concentração de Vc, o conteúdo total de fenol e a atividade antioxidante do suco de laranja após a infestação por B. dorsalis. A diminuição na concentração de Vc, o conteúdo total de fenol e a atividade sequestradora de radicais livres indicaram que B. dorsalis alterou a qualidade do suco de laranja, afetando a atividade antioxidante do suco após a infestação das laranjas.

Hard ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) from Colombia, a review to its knowledge in the country / Garrapatas duras (acari: ixodidae) de colombia, una revisión a su conocimiento en el país

RESUMEN Las garrapatas son artrópodos de gran impacto sobre la economía pecuaria y la salud humana debido a las pérdidas generadas en la producción, y a su capacidad de transmitir microorganismos. Pese a la evidencia de circulación de una gran diversidad de garrapatas en Colombia, no se cuenta con compilaciones actualizadas de la variedad de especies presentes, por lo cual los autores presentan una revisión de literatura sobre las garrapatas de la familia Ixodidae reportadas en Colombia incluyendo su distribución geográfica, sus hospederos y los microorganismos reportados en aquellas especies registradas en este país. En la recopilación se evidenció la presencia en Colombia de diferentes especies de garrapatas de los géneros Amblyomma, Ixodes, Haemaphysalis, Rhipicephalus y Dermacentor. El género con mayor variedad fue Amblyomma con 29 especies, seguido de Ixodes con 11 especies, y de los géneros Dermacentor, Haemaphysalis y Rhipicephalus se reportaron dos especies para cada uno. Las especies se distribuyeron en la mayoría de los departamentos de Colombia y en una amplia diversidad de hospederos entre los cuales se incluyen animales domésticos, sinantrópicos y silvestres. Adicionalmente se encontró que algunas garrapatas reportadas podrían jugar un papel como vectores potenciales de diversos microorganismos que pueden afectar a la salud publica y veterinaria. Esperamos que este trabajo sea un aporte para apoyar la investigación en garrapatas y el estudio de los agentes transmitidos por estas en Colombia.

ABSTRACT Ticks are arthropods with significant impact on the economy of livestock and public health, due to losses generated in production, and their ability to transmit microorganisms. Despite the evidence of circulation of different tick species in the country, there are no updates concerning the variety of existing species, therefore, the authors of this manuscript offer a literature review on ticks from the Ixodidae family reported in Colombia including their geographical distribution, their hosts and the microorganisms they carry and might transmit in Colombia. In this manuscript, we described the presence in the country of different species of ticks of the genera Amblyomma, Ixodes, Haemaphysalis, Rhipicephalus, and Dermacentor. The genus with the greatest variety was Amblyomma with 29 species, followed by Ixodes with 11 species, and of the genus Dermacentor, Haemaphysalis and Rhipicephalus two species were reported for each. These species are distributed in most departments and a wide variety of hosts, including domestic, synanthropic and wild animals. Additionally, it was found that some reported ticks could play a role as potential vectors of various microorganisms that could affect public and veterinary health. We expect that this work will be a contribution to support tick research and the study of tick-borne agents in Colombia.

Occurrence of Caligus asperimanus Pearse, 1951 (Copepoda: Caligidae) parasitic Lutjanus spp. (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) in the western South Atlantic / Ocorrência de Caligus asperimanus Pearse, 1951 (Copepoda: Caligidae) parasitos de Lutjanus spp. (Perciformes: Lutjanidae) no Atlântico Sul ocidental

Abstract Sea lice are widespread copepods in marine teleost around the world. In this paper the first record of Caligus asperimanus Pearse, 1951 in the Western South Atlantic is documented parasitizing Lutjanus jocu and Lutjanus vivanus caught from coastal zones of Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro State, respectively.

Resumo Os piolhos marinhos são copépodes abrangentemente relatados em teleósteos marinhos ao redor do mundo. Neste estudo, é documentado o primeiro registro de Caligus asperimanus Pearse, 1951, no Atlântico Sul Ocidental, parasitando Lutjanus jocu e Lutjanus vivanus capturados nas zonas costeiras do Espírito Santo e Rio de Janeiro, respectivamente.

Crustacean parasites of Leporinus affinis, an Anostomidae fish from the Brazilian Amazon / Crustáceos parasitos de Leporinus affinis, um Anostomidae da Amazônia brasileira

Abstract This study investigated the fauna of ectoparasitic crustaceans in Leporinus affinis from Reservoir Coaracy Nunes, in eastern Amazon (Brazil), as well as the parasite-host interactions. The mouth, gills and tegument of 50.9% of the fish examined were parasitized by Argulus chicomendesi, Ergasilus turucuyus and Excorallana berbicensis, and a total of 118 parasites were collected. The dominance was found for E. berbicensis and the higher infestation levels were caused by E. berbicensis on the body surface of the hosts, but E. turucuyus had the highest prevalence on the gills of this host. The cluster analysis revealed higher similarity in the infestations by E. berbicensis and A. chicomendesi in relation to infestation site in hosts. Host sex and relative condition factor (Kn) were not influenced by moderate parasitism, but the abundance of parasites presented negative correlation with weight and Kn of the fish. This is the first study on the parasites of L. affinis showing low species diversity, with moderate prevalence and low parasite abundance.

Resumo Este estudo investigou a fauna de crustáceos parasitos de Leporinus affinis do Reservatório Coaracy Nunes, na Amazônia oriental (Brasil), bem como a interação parasito-hospedeiro. A boca, brânquias e tegumento de 50.9% dos peixes examinados estavam parasitados por Argulus chicomendesi, Ergasilus turucuyus e Excorallana berbicensis, e um total de 118 parasitos foram coletados. A dominância foi de E. berbicensis, e os maiores índices de infestação foram causados por E. berbicensis na superfície corporal dos hospedeiros, mas E. turucuyus teve a maior prevalência nas brânquias. Análises de grupamento evidenciaram maior similaridade no padrão de infestação de E. berbicensis e A. chicomendesi quanto ao sítio de infestação nos hospedeiros. O sexo dos hospedeiros e fator de condição relativo (Kn) não foram influenciados pelo moderado parasitismo, mas a abundância de parasitos apresentou correlação negativa com o peso e Kn dos peixes. Este é o primeiro estudo sobre parasitos de L. affinis, mostrando baixa diversidade de espécies, com moderada prevalência e baixa abundância parasitária.