Parasitism by the endoparasitoid wasp Pteromalus puparum causes alterations in the plasma proteins of Pieris rapae. Analysis of plasma proteins using a proteomic approach showed that seven proteins were differentially...Parasitism by the endoparasitoid wasp Pteromalus puparum causes alterations in the plasma proteins of Pieris rapae. Analysis of plasma proteins using a proteomic approach showed that seven proteins were differentially expressed in the host pupae after 24-h parasitism. They were masquerade-like serine proteinase homolog (MSPH), enolase (Eno), bilin-binding protein (BBP), imaginal disc growth factor (IDGF), ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), cellular retinoic acid binding protein (CRABP), and one unknown function protein. The full length cDNA sequences of MSPH, Eno, and BBP were successfully cloned using rapid amplification of cDNA ends-polymerase chain reaction (RACE-PCR). Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis indicated that the transcript levels of MSPH and BBP in the fat bodies of host pupae were inducible in response to the parasitism and their variations were consistent with translational changes of these genes after parasitism, while the transcript levels of Eno and IDGF were not affected by parasitism. This study will contribute to the better understanding of the molecular bases of parasitoid-induced host alterations associated with innate immune responses, detoxification, and energy metabolism.展开更多
Brood parasites,such as the Common Cuckoo(Cuculus canorus),rely on manipulating hosts from other species to raise their offspring.Selection should favor individuals that are able to identify and choose host nests that...Brood parasites,such as the Common Cuckoo(Cuculus canorus),rely on manipulating hosts from other species to raise their offspring.Selection should favor individuals that are able to identify and choose host nests that closely match the incubation stage of their own eggs.While intuitive,and supported by the findings of numerous longterm monitoring studies,experimental evidence of this remains sparse.By using video monitoring,we used three experimental groups to explore whether Common Cuckoos preferentially choose host Oriental Reed Warbler(Acrocephalus orientalis)nests that are early in their laying cycle.We found that Common Cuckoos preferentially parasitize nests of the host Oriental Reed Warbler that are earlier in their laying(less vs.more eggs)or nesting cycle(eggs vs.chicks),and videos of our experiments provide direct insights into their decision making process.Our results provide strong experimental evidence that Common Cuckoos are able to assess nesting stage and strategically choose nests that increase the likelihood of successful parasitism.展开更多
Background:Thrush species are rarely parasitized by cuckoos,but many have a strong egg recognition ability.To date,there is a limited understanding of the relationship between host egg rejection and cuckoo parasitism ...Background:Thrush species are rarely parasitized by cuckoos,but many have a strong egg recognition ability.To date,there is a limited understanding of the relationship between host egg rejection and cuckoo parasitism rate.Methods:By using egg experiments in the field,we compared egg rejection between two non‑parasitized potential host species and two parasitized hosts of cuckoos in the same region.Results:The White‑bellied Redstart(Luscinia phoenicuroides),a host of the Common Cuckoo(Cuculus canorus),rejected 66.6%of blue model eggs;the Elliot’s Laughingthrush(Trochalopteron elliotii),a host of the Large Hawk Cuckoo(Hierococcyx sparverioides),rejected 25%of blue model eggs and 46.1%of white model eggs;and the Chestnut Thrush(Turdus rubrocanus)and the Chinese Thrush(T.mupinensis),in which cuckoo parasitism has not been recorded,rejected 41.1 and 83.3%of blue model eggs,respectively.There were no significant differences in the egg rejection among them,although the Chinese Thrush showed the highest rate of egg rejection.Conclusions:This study indicates that the egg recognition ability of cuckoo hosts has no correlation with the actual parasitism rate of cuckoos.We suggest that the egg recognition ability of the two potential host species may have been retained from a parasitic history with the cuckoo,while the two common host species have developed their egg rejection abilities due to current parasitism pressure.In addition,our study highlights the importance of the multicuckoo parasite system for better understanding the selection pressure of parasitism on the evolution of host egg recognition abilities.展开更多
Haloxylon ammodendron （C. A. Mey.） Bunge is a host for the holoparasitic plant Cistanche deserticola Y. C. Ma, the original source of medicinal material known as Herba Cistanchis. The inter-simple sequence repeat ma...Haloxylon ammodendron （C. A. Mey.） Bunge is a host for the holoparasitic plant Cistanche deserticola Y. C. Ma, the original source of medicinal material known as Herba Cistanchis. The inter-simple sequence repeat marker was used to assess the genetic variations and relationships among six accessions ofH. ammodendron with a total of 120 individuals collected from three localities in the Alxa Desert, Inner Mongolia, China. At each locality, individuals both parasitized （PP） by C. deserticola and non-parasitized （NP） were sampled. The results showed that Nei＇s gene diversity and Shannon＇s index of PP accessions were higher, but were not significantly different, from those of NP accessions. An unweighted pair-group method arithmetic average dendrogram showed two clusters, one that included all PP accessions, and the other the NP accessions. Genetic differentiation therefore existed between PP and NP accessions, which might be attributed to low gene flow between the NP and PP groups （Nm〈 1）. However, the relationship between genetic distance and geographic distance within each group, although not statistically significant in this study, might be associated with high gene flow in both the NP and PP groups.展开更多
Root-knot nematodes being omnipresent in agricultural and horticultural soils are tallied among the most important economic pathogens around the world.For successful parasitism,these nematodes use various strategies t...Root-knot nematodes being omnipresent in agricultural and horticultural soils are tallied among the most important economic pathogens around the world.For successful parasitism,these nematodes use various strategies to control and manipulate the host plant’s cell machinery.These strategies include the mole-cular mimicry of some host genes by some nematode secreted effector proteins,secretion of cell wall digesting enzymes and other effector proteins that are responsible for the suppression of defence by the host plant.All these secretions which are released through the stylet,contribute to the formation of specialized feeding sites or giant cells.The effector proteins interfere with the normal physiology,cytology and biochemistry of the host plant.The present review brings novel insights by summarizing some novel effectors that have been discovered recently like MgPDI,MiMIF,MiIDL1,MiISE6,Mg16820,etc.It also discusses some novel mechanisms through which these effector proteins target different pathways of host plants and thus facilitate nematode parasitism.展开更多
The mitogenome is a double strand molecule that has become an extensively studied molecular marker used in the study of the phylogeny of insects.A recent study investigated the mitogenomes of Planococcus citri(Risso,1...The mitogenome is a double strand molecule that has become an extensively studied molecular marker used in the study of the phylogeny of insects.A recent study investigated the mitogenomes of Planococcus citri(Risso,1813)and Unaspis yanonensis(Kuwana,1923)published by PeerJ(Liu et al.2020).In our study,we determine that the putative“P.citri and U.yanonensis”mitogenomes did not originate from Coccoidea but from parasitic wasps in the Chalcidoidea.These results are based on the genetic distances of the barcoding sequences of cytochrome c oxidase I(COI)and on molecular identifications performed against the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool(BLAST)in NCBI.展开更多
Cadra(Ephestia)cautella(Walker)is a moth that attacks dates from ripening stages while on tree,throughout storage,and until consumption,causing enormous qualitative and quantitative damages,resulting in economic losse...Cadra(Ephestia)cautella(Walker)is a moth that attacks dates from ripening stages while on tree,throughout storage,and until consumption,causing enormous qualitative and quantitative damages,resulting in economic losses.Image-processing algorithms were developed for detecting and differentiating between three Cadra egg categories based on the success of Trichogramma bourarachae(Pintureau and Babaul)parasitization.These categories were parasitized(black and dark red),unparasitized fertile unhatched(yellow),and unparasitized hatched(white)eggs.Color,light intensity,and shape information was used to develop detection algorithms.Two image processing methods were developed based on three randomly selected images and were tested on a larger validation image set of 40 images:(i)segmentation and extractions of color and morphological features followed by Watershed delineation,and is referred to as Algorithm 1(ALGO1),(ii)finding circular objects by Hough Transformation followed by convolution filtering,and is referred to as Algorithm 2(ALGO2).ALGO1 and ALGO2 achieved correct classification rates(CCRs)for parasitized eggs of 92%and 96%,respectively.Their CCRs for unhatched eggs were 48%and 94%,and for hatched eggs were 42%and 73%,respectively.Regarding parasitized eggs,both methods performed satisfactorily,but,in general,ALGO2 outperformed ALGO1.These results ensure automatic evaluation of the efficiency of biological control of Cadra cautella by the egg parasitoid Trichogramma bourarachae by quantifying the rate of parasitization.The developed detection methods can be used by producers of biocontrol agents for online monitoring of Trichogramma and similar insect natural enemies during mass production and before release against crop pests.Moreover,with few adjustments these methods can be used in similar applications such as detecting plant diseases.展开更多
BACKGROUND Transfusion transmissible infections(TTIs)are illnesses spread through contaminated blood or blood products.In India,screening for TTIs such as hepatitis B virus(HBV),hepatitis C virus(HCV),human immunodefi...BACKGROUND Transfusion transmissible infections(TTIs)are illnesses spread through contaminated blood or blood products.In India,screening for TTIs such as hepatitis B virus(HBV),hepatitis C virus(HCV),human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)-I/II,malaria,and syphilis is mandatory before blood transfusions.Worldwide,HCV,HBV,and HIV are the leading viruses causing mortality,affecting millions of people globally,including those with co-infections of HIV/HCV and HIV/HBV.Studies highlight the impact of TTIs on life expectancy and health risks,such as liver cirrhosis,cancer,and other diseases in individuals with chronic HBV.Globally,millions of blood donations take place annually,emphasizing the importance of maintaining blood safety.AIM To study the prevalence of TTIs,viz.,HBV,HCV,HIV I/II,syphilis,and malaria parasite(MP),among different blood donor groups.METHODS The study assessed the prevalence of TTIs among different blood donor groups in Delhi,India.Groups included total donors,in-house donors,total camp donors,institutional camp donors,and community camp donors.Tests for HIV,HBV,and HCV were done using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,while syphilis was tested with rapid plasma reagins and MP rapid card methods.The prevalence of HBV,HCV,HIV,and syphilis,expressed as percentages.Differences in infection rates between the groups were analyzed usingχ²tests and P-values(less than 0.05).RESULTS The study evaluated TTIs among 42158 blood donors in Delhi.The overall cumulative frequency of TTIs in total blood donors was 2.071%,and the frequencies of HBV,HCV,HIV-I/II,venereal disease research laboratory,and MP were 1.048%,0.425%,0.221%,0.377%,and 0.0024%,respectively.In-house donors,representing 37656 donors,had the highest transfusion transmissible infection(TTI)prevalence at 2.167%.Among total camp donors(4502 donors),TTIs were identified in 1.266%of donors,while community camp donors(2439 donors)exhibited a prevalence of 1.558%.Institutional camp donors(2063 donors)had the lowest TTI prevalence at 0.921%.Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in overall TTI prevalence,with total and in-house donors exhibiting higher rates compared to camp donors.CONCLUSION Ongoing monitoring and effective screening programs are essential for minimizing TTIs.Customizing blood safety measures for different donor groups and studying socio-economic-health factors is essential to improving blood safety.展开更多
Parasites have coexisted with humans throughout history,forming either symbiotic relationships or causing significant morbidity and mortality.The liver is particularly vulnerable to parasitic infections,which can resi...Parasites have coexisted with humans throughout history,forming either symbiotic relationships or causing significant morbidity and mortality.The liver is particularly vulnerable to parasitic infections,which can reside in,pass through,or be transported to the liver,leading to severe damage.This editorial explores various parasites that infect the liver,their clinical implications,and diagnostic considerations,as discussed in the article“Parasites of the liver:A global problem?”.Parasites reach the liver primarily through oral ingestion,mucosal penetration,or the bloodstream,with some larvae even penetrating the skin.Hepatic parasites such as cestodes(Echinococcus),trematodes(Clonorchis,Opisthorchis),nematodes(Ascaris),and protozoa(Entamoeba histolytica)can also cause systemic infections like visceral leishmaniasis,malaria,cryptosporidiosis,and toxoplasmosis.Chronic infections like clonorchiasis and opisthorchiasis are linked to persistent hepatobiliary inflammation,potentially progressing to cholangiocarcinoma,a fatal bile duct cancer,particularly prevalent in Southeast Asia.The global nature of liver parasite infestations is alarming,with hundreds of millions affected worldwide.However,control over treatment quality remains suboptimal.Given the significant public health threat posed by these parasites,international medical organizations must prioritize improved diagnosis,treatment,and preventive measures.Strengthening educational efforts and enhancing healthcare provider training are critical steps toward mitigating the global impact of parasitic liver diseases.展开更多
The energy production system must be completely transformed to reach net zero emissions by 2050,and advanced battery technologies will play a pivotal role in helping downstream sectors transition to sustainable energy...The energy production system must be completely transformed to reach net zero emissions by 2050,and advanced battery technologies will play a pivotal role in helping downstream sectors transition to sustainable energy sources.Li-air batteries(LABs)provide a fascinating“beyond Li-ion”option because of their ultrahigh theoretical energy density,which far surpasses conventional lithium-ion batteries.However,LABs face significant hurdles in practical implementation,including electrolyte instability,irreversible electrodes,poor cycling performance,and low-rate capability.This review provides a detailed analysis of recent progress in LAB systems,highlighting innovative approaches such as electrolyte stabilization,electrode modification,and interfacial engineering to address these challenges.It evaluates current strategies for overcoming these problems and outlines targeted research directions aimed at resolving the remaining obstacles in LAB technology.The progress made so far indicates a way to realize practical LABs with a specific energy density potentially comparable to gasoline,which could revolutionize electric transportation.展开更多
With the ongoing acceleration of global urbanization, an increasingly larger proportion of natural habitats are being transformed and utilized by humans. Urbanization has a substantial impact on animal populations, ex...With the ongoing acceleration of global urbanization, an increasingly larger proportion of natural habitats are being transformed and utilized by humans. Urbanization has a substantial impact on animal populations, exposing them to greater risks, but also presenting new opportunities and resources. Although the effects of urbanization and brood parasitism on the population dynamics and behavior of host birds have received considerable attention, there has been comparatively little research on how urbanization might affect the risk of brood parasitism on host birds. From April to August in 2023 and 2024, we investigated the risk of brood parasitism on Azure-winged Magpies (Cyanopica cyanus) breeding in the urban center, outskirt, and rural areas of Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The results revealed significant differences in the risk of brood parasitism among Azure-winged Magpies in the three regions, with the proportion of magpies parasitized by the Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus) being found to be significantly lower in the city center (0%) than that in outskirt (3.8%) and rural (11.4%) areas. Our results are consistent with the idea that cities can act as refuges that reduce the risk of brood parasitism experienced by host Azure-winged Magpies. Accordingly, breeding in cities enables Azure-winged Magpies to escape brood parasitism by the Asian Koel.展开更多
Hepatobiliary fascioliasis is a neglected but re-emerging parasitic disease caused by Fasciola hepatica.Humans become infected by consuming contaminated water or aquatic plants,allowing the parasite to enter the diges...Hepatobiliary fascioliasis is a neglected but re-emerging parasitic disease caused by Fasciola hepatica.Humans become infected by consuming contaminated water or aquatic plants,allowing the parasite to enter the digestive tract.From there,immature flukes penetrate the intestinal wall and migrate through the liver,triggering inflammation,fibrosis,and biliary complications.Over time,this can lead to cholangitis,biliary obstruction,and long-term liver damage.Due to its vague clinical symptoms and the limitations of current diagnostic methods,fascioliasis could be easily missed.Stool analysis is still used to detect eggs in diagnosis.However,this method is unreliable due to the inconsistency of the egg shedding.Also,serological tests are often linked to false positives due to the cross-reactions with other parasites.Imaging techniques such as ultrasound,computed tomography,and magnetic resonance imaging can reveal its complications,especially in the biliary phase,yet this is not specific.Molecular tests like polymerase chain reaction(PCR)have higher sensitivity and specificity and allow earlier diagnosis,but they are still not widely available,especially in low-resource settings.Triclabendazole is the only recommended medical treatment,yet it is not widely available.In addition,the emerging reports of resistance represent a potential threat in managing this infection.Other modalities could be needed in addition to triclabendazole,such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with biliary complications.All the previously mentioned challenges necessitate the urgent need to make the newly developed diagnostic methods,such as PCR,available,especially in areas where fascioliasis is endemic.Additionally,new medical treatments and therapeutic options should be considered to provide a second line of management,particularly in light of emerging reports of resistance.展开更多
Folate(FA)is an essential micronutrient of vitamin B group for growth,development,and reproduction through participating in the nucleotide synthesis and methyl donation reactions.The changes of FA level have been link...Folate(FA)is an essential micronutrient of vitamin B group for growth,development,and reproduction through participating in the nucleotide synthesis and methyl donation reactions.The changes of FA level have been linked to dietary insufficiency(e.g.,poor diet,etc.)malabsorption(e.g.,FA-associated gene mutation,etc.),increased demand(e.g.,pregnancy,etc).or medication(e.g.,antifolates drugs),or bad habits(e.g.,smoking,alcoholism,etc.).Recently,epidemiological data showed that the levels of the host FA typically changed in patients with infectious diseases.Interactions between pathogens,including bacteria,parasites and viruses,and their hosts are complex,in particular,pathogenic infection-mediated changes of the host FA levels can affect the utilization and uptake of limited FA resources of the host.Therefore,FA supplementation or the use of antifolate agents may be a potential antimicrobial strategy for managing infectious diseases.Furthermore,given that the gut microbiota is a primary source of FA in the human body,the association between gut microbiota and pathogenic infections warrants investigation.To date,little is known about how FA status and its biochemistry function affect the course of infectious diseases.In this review,we focus on the roles of FA in the interaction between the host and microbe,and briefly discuss the potential of FA and antifolates agents in the treatment of infectious diseases.展开更多
Eosinophilic myocarditis(EM)is a rare inflammatory condition of the heart,often associated with eosinophilic infiltration.While its causes range from allergies to autoimmune and infectious diseases,parasitic infection...Eosinophilic myocarditis(EM)is a rare inflammatory condition of the heart,often associated with eosinophilic infiltration.While its causes range from allergies to autoimmune and infectious diseases,parasitic infections are an uncommon but critical etiology.This mini-review focuses on a case of EM in a 47-year-old male from Vietnam,linked to Schistosoma spp.,Strongyloides stercoralis,and Toxocara spp.infections.The patient presented with severe chest pain and recovered fully after treatment with corticosteroids and albendazole.Drawing insights from this case and existing literature,we discuss the pathophysiology,diagnostic approaches,and therapeutic strategies for parasite-induced EM.Early diagnosis and tailored treatment are essential to improve clinical outcomes,especially in endemic para-sitic areas.展开更多
Objective:To consolidate the scarce and scattered evidence on oral cysticercosis,a rare and often overlooked manifestation of Taenia solium infection.Methods:A comprehensive literature search was conducted in three ma...Objective:To consolidate the scarce and scattered evidence on oral cysticercosis,a rare and often overlooked manifestation of Taenia solium infection.Methods:A comprehensive literature search was conducted in three major databases:PubMed,Scopus,and Embase.A total of 75 records were initially identified(PubMed:n=23;Scopus:n=29;Embase:n=23).After screening and eligibility assessment,22 studies meeting inclusion criteria were selected for final analysis.Results:Oral cysticercosis primarily involved the tongue,typically presenting as a painless swelling.The majority of reported cases were from India.Clinically,it was most often misdiagnosed as a mucocele or fibroma,with cysticercosis rarely considered due to its uncommon occurrence.Among the muscles affected,the masseter,mentalis,and buccinator were most frequently involved.Diagnosis was primarily made through histopathological examination.Treatment commonly included surgical excision,and albendazole was the most frequently used antiparasitic medication.Recurrence was uncommon,except in cases with disseminated or deep muscular involvement.Conclusions:Oral cysticercosis should be considered a potential differential diagnosis,particularly in regions where pork consumption is common.Given that most reported cases originated from India,pathologists in this region should maintain a high index of suspicion.Oral pathologists,in particular,should be well-acquainted with its histopathological features to ensure accurate diagnosis and avoid diagnostic pitfalls.展开更多
Acridid populations have increased significantly in recent years, causing damage to crops. Having biocontrol tools is important as it will help reduce the use of insecticides. This study reports the presence of Parago...Acridid populations have increased significantly in recent years, causing damage to crops. Having biocontrol tools is important as it will help reduce the use of insecticides. This study reports the presence of Paragordius varius in grasshoppers for the first time in Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico. Samples were taken from the grass around a water pond. A total of 1,225 grasshoppers were dissected to observe the presence of the worm. Seven species of grasshoppers were identified, with the most abundant species being Melanoplus differentialis. The parasitoid Paragordius varius, a nematomorph, parasitized male M. differentialis in greater numbers. This work is the first record of this parasitoid in Mexico and contributes to the knowledge of the biological control of acridids in Mexico.展开更多
Avian alarm calls mediate defenses against brood parasites and predators. These calls facilitate communication among adults and alert nestlings to potential danger. While heterospecific call recognition has been exten...Avian alarm calls mediate defenses against brood parasites and predators. These calls facilitate communication among adults and alert nestlings to potential danger. While heterospecific call recognition has been extensively studied in adult birds, nestlings—lacking direct predation experience and heterospecific alarm exposure—represent an ideal system to investigate the response to interspecific warning cues. This study explored the recognition capabilities of 5–6-day-old nestlings in Oriental Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus orientalis), a common host of the Common Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus). We exposed the nestlings to playbacks of alarm calls directed at parasites and raptors from conspecific, Vinous-throated Parrotbill (Sinosuthora webbiana, sympatric species), Isabelline Shrike (Lanius isabellinus, allopatric species) and Common Tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius, allopatric species) adults. Results indicated that there was no significant difference in the responses of nestlings to the alarm calls of conspecific and allopatric adults directed at cuckoos and sparrowhawks. In addition, interestingly, nestlings significantly reduced their begging in response to conspecific and unfamiliar allopatric Isabelline Shrike and Common Tailorbird alarm calls but exhibited a weak response to the sympatric Vinous-throated Parrotbill. Whether older warbler nestlings with more social experience exhibit stronger responses to the alarm calls of Vinous-throated Parrotbill adults requires further investigation.展开更多
Parasites,such as flatworms,nematodes,and pentastomes,are commonly found inhabiting reptiles.In this study,we examined parasite infection status in 10 squamate species,including 5 snake species and 5 lizard species.We...Parasites,such as flatworms,nematodes,and pentastomes,are commonly found inhabiting reptiles.In this study,we examined parasite infection status in 10 squamate species,including 5 snake species and 5 lizard species.We identified one genuslevel and nine species-level parasites in these hosts,which belong to the phyla Platyhelminthes,Nemathelminthes,and Arthropoda.The overall infection rate was 45%,with significant differences in infection rates between lizard and snake species.Parasites in snakes included the Kalicephalus sp.,Ophidascaris filaria,Ophiotaenia bungari,Raillietiella orientalis and Spirometra erinaceieuropaei,and parasitic parasites in lizards were mainly composed of Meteterakis japonica,Plagiorchis koreanus,Spauligodon carbonelli,Spauligodon saxicolae and Strongyluris calotis,respectively.There were significant differences in infection rates among different species and regions,and even among different tissues of the same species.The overall investigation of squamate parasites in China will provide some basic information for public health safety.展开更多
The brood-parasitic brown-headed cowbird(Molothrus ater)has one of the shortest incubation periods of any bird.Brown-headed cowbird eggs,and those of other avian brood parasites,tend to be more spherical due to their ...The brood-parasitic brown-headed cowbird(Molothrus ater)has one of the shortest incubation periods of any bird.Brown-headed cowbird eggs,and those of other avian brood parasites,tend to be more spherical due to their greater relative width.The traditional explanation for this egg shape is that it,combined with the thicker eggshells,resists host puncture-ejection.However,very few North American hosts of the brownheaded cowbird actually engage in puncture-ejection and therefore wider eggs may instead provide greater contact with a host’s brood patch during incubation,especially in large host nests.We tested whether greater egg width increased mean temperature and reduced temperature variation in brown-headed cowbirds by inserting temperature probes into brown-headed cowbird and house sparrow(Passer domesticus)eggs and placing them into red-winged blackbird(Agelaius phoeniceus)nests.House sparrow eggs are similar in appearance and in length to cowbird eggs,but are not as wide.We found no signifcant relationship between brown-headed cowbird egg width and mean incubation temperature.However,brown-headed cowbird eggs experienced less temperature variation than house sparrow eggs,and within brown-headed cowbird eggs,more spherical eggs experienced less temperature variation when accounting for differences in width.These results suggest that brownheaded cowbirds may have short incubation periods in part because their eggs exhibit less temperature variation over the course of incubation.The brown-headed cowbird’s egg shape may contribute to its accelerated embryonic development rate relative to host eggs of similar size,which explains its ability to hatch in a variety of host nests.展开更多
基金supported by the National Basic Research Program (973) of China (No. 2006CB102005)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 30571251 and 30971959)+1 种基金the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China (No. Z3090191)and the Program for New Century Excellent Talents in University of the Ministry of Education of China (No. NCET-05-0513)
文摘Parasitism by the endoparasitoid wasp Pteromalus puparum causes alterations in the plasma proteins of Pieris rapae. Analysis of plasma proteins using a proteomic approach showed that seven proteins were differentially expressed in the host pupae after 24-h parasitism. They were masquerade-like serine proteinase homolog (MSPH), enolase (Eno), bilin-binding protein (BBP), imaginal disc growth factor (IDGF), ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), cellular retinoic acid binding protein (CRABP), and one unknown function protein. The full length cDNA sequences of MSPH, Eno, and BBP were successfully cloned using rapid amplification of cDNA ends-polymerase chain reaction (RACE-PCR). Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis indicated that the transcript levels of MSPH and BBP in the fat bodies of host pupae were inducible in response to the parasitism and their variations were consistent with translational changes of these genes after parasitism, while the transcript levels of Eno and IDGF were not affected by parasitism. This study will contribute to the better understanding of the molecular bases of parasitoid-induced host alterations associated with innate immune responses, detoxification, and energy metabolism.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.31960105 to LW,and 31970427 to WL)the specific research fund of the Innovation Platform for Academicians of Hainan Provincefunded by the Guizhou Natural Science Foundation(No.ZK[2022]-316)。
文摘Brood parasites,such as the Common Cuckoo(Cuculus canorus),rely on manipulating hosts from other species to raise their offspring.Selection should favor individuals that are able to identify and choose host nests that closely match the incubation stage of their own eggs.While intuitive,and supported by the findings of numerous longterm monitoring studies,experimental evidence of this remains sparse.By using video monitoring,we used three experimental groups to explore whether Common Cuckoos preferentially choose host Oriental Reed Warbler(Acrocephalus orientalis)nests that are early in their laying cycle.We found that Common Cuckoos preferentially parasitize nests of the host Oriental Reed Warbler that are earlier in their laying(less vs.more eggs)or nesting cycle(eggs vs.chicks),and videos of our experiments provide direct insights into their decision making process.Our results provide strong experimental evidence that Common Cuckoos are able to assess nesting stage and strategically choose nests that increase the likelihood of successful parasitism.
基金This work was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.31772453 and 31970427 to WL and 31472012 to Y‑HS).
文摘Background:Thrush species are rarely parasitized by cuckoos,but many have a strong egg recognition ability.To date,there is a limited understanding of the relationship between host egg rejection and cuckoo parasitism rate.Methods:By using egg experiments in the field,we compared egg rejection between two non‑parasitized potential host species and two parasitized hosts of cuckoos in the same region.Results:The White‑bellied Redstart(Luscinia phoenicuroides),a host of the Common Cuckoo(Cuculus canorus),rejected 66.6%of blue model eggs;the Elliot’s Laughingthrush(Trochalopteron elliotii),a host of the Large Hawk Cuckoo(Hierococcyx sparverioides),rejected 25%of blue model eggs and 46.1%of white model eggs;and the Chestnut Thrush(Turdus rubrocanus)and the Chinese Thrush(T.mupinensis),in which cuckoo parasitism has not been recorded,rejected 41.1 and 83.3%of blue model eggs,respectively.There were no significant differences in the egg rejection among them,although the Chinese Thrush showed the highest rate of egg rejection.Conclusions:This study indicates that the egg recognition ability of cuckoo hosts has no correlation with the actual parasitism rate of cuckoos.We suggest that the egg recognition ability of the two potential host species may have been retained from a parasitic history with the cuckoo,while the two common host species have developed their egg rejection abilities due to current parasitism pressure.In addition,our study highlights the importance of the multicuckoo parasite system for better understanding the selection pressure of parasitism on the evolution of host egg recognition abilities.
基金supported by theSpecial Program for Key Basic Research of the Ministry of Science and Technology, China, Grant No.2004CCA01200
文摘Haloxylon ammodendron （C. A. Mey.） Bunge is a host for the holoparasitic plant Cistanche deserticola Y. C. Ma, the original source of medicinal material known as Herba Cistanchis. The inter-simple sequence repeat marker was used to assess the genetic variations and relationships among six accessions ofH. ammodendron with a total of 120 individuals collected from three localities in the Alxa Desert, Inner Mongolia, China. At each locality, individuals both parasitized （PP） by C. deserticola and non-parasitized （NP） were sampled. The results showed that Nei＇s gene diversity and Shannon＇s index of PP accessions were higher, but were not significantly different, from those of NP accessions. An unweighted pair-group method arithmetic average dendrogram showed two clusters, one that included all PP accessions, and the other the NP accessions. Genetic differentiation therefore existed between PP and NP accessions, which might be attributed to low gene flow between the NP and PP groups （Nm〈 1）. However, the relationship between genetic distance and geographic distance within each group, although not statistically significant in this study, might be associated with high gene flow in both the NP and PP groups.
文摘Root-knot nematodes being omnipresent in agricultural and horticultural soils are tallied among the most important economic pathogens around the world.For successful parasitism,these nematodes use various strategies to control and manipulate the host plant’s cell machinery.These strategies include the mole-cular mimicry of some host genes by some nematode secreted effector proteins,secretion of cell wall digesting enzymes and other effector proteins that are responsible for the suppression of defence by the host plant.All these secretions which are released through the stylet,contribute to the formation of specialized feeding sites or giant cells.The effector proteins interfere with the normal physiology,cytology and biochemistry of the host plant.The present review brings novel insights by summarizing some novel effectors that have been discovered recently like MgPDI,MiMIF,MiIDL1,MiISE6,Mg16820,etc.It also discusses some novel mechanisms through which these effector proteins target different pathways of host plants and thus facilitate nematode parasitism.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(31772488)。
文摘The mitogenome is a double strand molecule that has become an extensively studied molecular marker used in the study of the phylogeny of insects.A recent study investigated the mitogenomes of Planococcus citri(Risso,1813)and Unaspis yanonensis(Kuwana,1923)published by PeerJ(Liu et al.2020).In our study,we determine that the putative“P.citri and U.yanonensis”mitogenomes did not originate from Coccoidea but from parasitic wasps in the Chalcidoidea.These results are based on the genetic distances of the barcoding sequences of cytochrome c oxidase I(COI)and on molecular identifications performed against the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool(BLAST)in NCBI.
基金supported by a grant from NIH(R01AI132695)to RM。
文摘Chronic wasting disease—a prion disease affecting cervids:Many neurological conditions,including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases,amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,frontotemporal dementias,among others,are caused by the accumulation of misfolded proteins in the brain.These diseases affect not only humans,but also animals.
文摘Cadra(Ephestia)cautella(Walker)is a moth that attacks dates from ripening stages while on tree,throughout storage,and until consumption,causing enormous qualitative and quantitative damages,resulting in economic losses.Image-processing algorithms were developed for detecting and differentiating between three Cadra egg categories based on the success of Trichogramma bourarachae(Pintureau and Babaul)parasitization.These categories were parasitized(black and dark red),unparasitized fertile unhatched(yellow),and unparasitized hatched(white)eggs.Color,light intensity,and shape information was used to develop detection algorithms.Two image processing methods were developed based on three randomly selected images and were tested on a larger validation image set of 40 images:(i)segmentation and extractions of color and morphological features followed by Watershed delineation,and is referred to as Algorithm 1(ALGO1),(ii)finding circular objects by Hough Transformation followed by convolution filtering,and is referred to as Algorithm 2(ALGO2).ALGO1 and ALGO2 achieved correct classification rates(CCRs)for parasitized eggs of 92%and 96%,respectively.Their CCRs for unhatched eggs were 48%and 94%,and for hatched eggs were 42%and 73%,respectively.Regarding parasitized eggs,both methods performed satisfactorily,but,in general,ALGO2 outperformed ALGO1.These results ensure automatic evaluation of the efficiency of biological control of Cadra cautella by the egg parasitoid Trichogramma bourarachae by quantifying the rate of parasitization.The developed detection methods can be used by producers of biocontrol agents for online monitoring of Trichogramma and similar insect natural enemies during mass production and before release against crop pests.Moreover,with few adjustments these methods can be used in similar applications such as detecting plant diseases.
文摘BACKGROUND Transfusion transmissible infections(TTIs)are illnesses spread through contaminated blood or blood products.In India,screening for TTIs such as hepatitis B virus(HBV),hepatitis C virus(HCV),human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)-I/II,malaria,and syphilis is mandatory before blood transfusions.Worldwide,HCV,HBV,and HIV are the leading viruses causing mortality,affecting millions of people globally,including those with co-infections of HIV/HCV and HIV/HBV.Studies highlight the impact of TTIs on life expectancy and health risks,such as liver cirrhosis,cancer,and other diseases in individuals with chronic HBV.Globally,millions of blood donations take place annually,emphasizing the importance of maintaining blood safety.AIM To study the prevalence of TTIs,viz.,HBV,HCV,HIV I/II,syphilis,and malaria parasite(MP),among different blood donor groups.METHODS The study assessed the prevalence of TTIs among different blood donor groups in Delhi,India.Groups included total donors,in-house donors,total camp donors,institutional camp donors,and community camp donors.Tests for HIV,HBV,and HCV were done using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay,while syphilis was tested with rapid plasma reagins and MP rapid card methods.The prevalence of HBV,HCV,HIV,and syphilis,expressed as percentages.Differences in infection rates between the groups were analyzed usingχ²tests and P-values(less than 0.05).RESULTS The study evaluated TTIs among 42158 blood donors in Delhi.The overall cumulative frequency of TTIs in total blood donors was 2.071%,and the frequencies of HBV,HCV,HIV-I/II,venereal disease research laboratory,and MP were 1.048%,0.425%,0.221%,0.377%,and 0.0024%,respectively.In-house donors,representing 37656 donors,had the highest transfusion transmissible infection(TTI)prevalence at 2.167%.Among total camp donors(4502 donors),TTIs were identified in 1.266%of donors,while community camp donors(2439 donors)exhibited a prevalence of 1.558%.Institutional camp donors(2063 donors)had the lowest TTI prevalence at 0.921%.Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in overall TTI prevalence,with total and in-house donors exhibiting higher rates compared to camp donors.CONCLUSION Ongoing monitoring and effective screening programs are essential for minimizing TTIs.Customizing blood safety measures for different donor groups and studying socio-economic-health factors is essential to improving blood safety.
文摘Parasites have coexisted with humans throughout history,forming either symbiotic relationships or causing significant morbidity and mortality.The liver is particularly vulnerable to parasitic infections,which can reside in,pass through,or be transported to the liver,leading to severe damage.This editorial explores various parasites that infect the liver,their clinical implications,and diagnostic considerations,as discussed in the article“Parasites of the liver:A global problem?”.Parasites reach the liver primarily through oral ingestion,mucosal penetration,or the bloodstream,with some larvae even penetrating the skin.Hepatic parasites such as cestodes(Echinococcus),trematodes(Clonorchis,Opisthorchis),nematodes(Ascaris),and protozoa(Entamoeba histolytica)can also cause systemic infections like visceral leishmaniasis,malaria,cryptosporidiosis,and toxoplasmosis.Chronic infections like clonorchiasis and opisthorchiasis are linked to persistent hepatobiliary inflammation,potentially progressing to cholangiocarcinoma,a fatal bile duct cancer,particularly prevalent in Southeast Asia.The global nature of liver parasite infestations is alarming,with hundreds of millions affected worldwide.However,control over treatment quality remains suboptimal.Given the significant public health threat posed by these parasites,international medical organizations must prioritize improved diagnosis,treatment,and preventive measures.Strengthening educational efforts and enhancing healthcare provider training are critical steps toward mitigating the global impact of parasitic liver diseases.
文摘The energy production system must be completely transformed to reach net zero emissions by 2050,and advanced battery technologies will play a pivotal role in helping downstream sectors transition to sustainable energy sources.Li-air batteries(LABs)provide a fascinating“beyond Li-ion”option because of their ultrahigh theoretical energy density,which far surpasses conventional lithium-ion batteries.However,LABs face significant hurdles in practical implementation,including electrolyte instability,irreversible electrodes,poor cycling performance,and low-rate capability.This review provides a detailed analysis of recent progress in LAB systems,highlighting innovative approaches such as electrolyte stabilization,electrode modification,and interfacial engineering to address these challenges.It evaluates current strategies for overcoming these problems and outlines targeted research directions aimed at resolving the remaining obstacles in LAB technology.The progress made so far indicates a way to realize practical LABs with a specific energy density potentially comparable to gasoline,which could revolutionize electric transportation.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2023YFF1304600)supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32160242 to JL,32470513 and 32270526 to WL)supported by the 2023 Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Youth Science and Technology Support Talent Training Project.
文摘With the ongoing acceleration of global urbanization, an increasingly larger proportion of natural habitats are being transformed and utilized by humans. Urbanization has a substantial impact on animal populations, exposing them to greater risks, but also presenting new opportunities and resources. Although the effects of urbanization and brood parasitism on the population dynamics and behavior of host birds have received considerable attention, there has been comparatively little research on how urbanization might affect the risk of brood parasitism on host birds. From April to August in 2023 and 2024, we investigated the risk of brood parasitism on Azure-winged Magpies (Cyanopica cyanus) breeding in the urban center, outskirt, and rural areas of Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China. The results revealed significant differences in the risk of brood parasitism among Azure-winged Magpies in the three regions, with the proportion of magpies parasitized by the Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus) being found to be significantly lower in the city center (0%) than that in outskirt (3.8%) and rural (11.4%) areas. Our results are consistent with the idea that cities can act as refuges that reduce the risk of brood parasitism experienced by host Azure-winged Magpies. Accordingly, breeding in cities enables Azure-winged Magpies to escape brood parasitism by the Asian Koel.
文摘Hepatobiliary fascioliasis is a neglected but re-emerging parasitic disease caused by Fasciola hepatica.Humans become infected by consuming contaminated water or aquatic plants,allowing the parasite to enter the digestive tract.From there,immature flukes penetrate the intestinal wall and migrate through the liver,triggering inflammation,fibrosis,and biliary complications.Over time,this can lead to cholangitis,biliary obstruction,and long-term liver damage.Due to its vague clinical symptoms and the limitations of current diagnostic methods,fascioliasis could be easily missed.Stool analysis is still used to detect eggs in diagnosis.However,this method is unreliable due to the inconsistency of the egg shedding.Also,serological tests are often linked to false positives due to the cross-reactions with other parasites.Imaging techniques such as ultrasound,computed tomography,and magnetic resonance imaging can reveal its complications,especially in the biliary phase,yet this is not specific.Molecular tests like polymerase chain reaction(PCR)have higher sensitivity and specificity and allow earlier diagnosis,but they are still not widely available,especially in low-resource settings.Triclabendazole is the only recommended medical treatment,yet it is not widely available.In addition,the emerging reports of resistance represent a potential threat in managing this infection.Other modalities could be needed in addition to triclabendazole,such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography in patients with biliary complications.All the previously mentioned challenges necessitate the urgent need to make the newly developed diagnostic methods,such as PCR,available,especially in areas where fascioliasis is endemic.Additionally,new medical treatments and therapeutic options should be considered to provide a second line of management,particularly in light of emerging reports of resistance.
基金supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province,China(2025J01761 to J.W.)Open Subjects for Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Anhui Higher Education Institutes,Bengbu Medical University(I&I-2024-K03 to J.W.)+2 种基金The Middle-aged and Young Teachers’Educational Research Project of Fujian Province(JAT241032 to J.W.)The Research Foundation for Advanced Talents from Bengbu Medical University(bsqd2024011 to D.C.)High-Level Hospital Construction Project of Nanjing Stomatological Hospital,Affiliated Hospital of Medical School,Institute of Stomatology,Nanjing University(0224C041 to Y.Q.).
文摘Folate(FA)is an essential micronutrient of vitamin B group for growth,development,and reproduction through participating in the nucleotide synthesis and methyl donation reactions.The changes of FA level have been linked to dietary insufficiency(e.g.,poor diet,etc.)malabsorption(e.g.,FA-associated gene mutation,etc.),increased demand(e.g.,pregnancy,etc).or medication(e.g.,antifolates drugs),or bad habits(e.g.,smoking,alcoholism,etc.).Recently,epidemiological data showed that the levels of the host FA typically changed in patients with infectious diseases.Interactions between pathogens,including bacteria,parasites and viruses,and their hosts are complex,in particular,pathogenic infection-mediated changes of the host FA levels can affect the utilization and uptake of limited FA resources of the host.Therefore,FA supplementation or the use of antifolate agents may be a potential antimicrobial strategy for managing infectious diseases.Furthermore,given that the gut microbiota is a primary source of FA in the human body,the association between gut microbiota and pathogenic infections warrants investigation.To date,little is known about how FA status and its biochemistry function affect the course of infectious diseases.In this review,we focus on the roles of FA in the interaction between the host and microbe,and briefly discuss the potential of FA and antifolates agents in the treatment of infectious diseases.
文摘Eosinophilic myocarditis(EM)is a rare inflammatory condition of the heart,often associated with eosinophilic infiltration.While its causes range from allergies to autoimmune and infectious diseases,parasitic infections are an uncommon but critical etiology.This mini-review focuses on a case of EM in a 47-year-old male from Vietnam,linked to Schistosoma spp.,Strongyloides stercoralis,and Toxocara spp.infections.The patient presented with severe chest pain and recovered fully after treatment with corticosteroids and albendazole.Drawing insights from this case and existing literature,we discuss the pathophysiology,diagnostic approaches,and therapeutic strategies for parasite-induced EM.Early diagnosis and tailored treatment are essential to improve clinical outcomes,especially in endemic para-sitic areas.
文摘Objective:To consolidate the scarce and scattered evidence on oral cysticercosis,a rare and often overlooked manifestation of Taenia solium infection.Methods:A comprehensive literature search was conducted in three major databases:PubMed,Scopus,and Embase.A total of 75 records were initially identified(PubMed:n=23;Scopus:n=29;Embase:n=23).After screening and eligibility assessment,22 studies meeting inclusion criteria were selected for final analysis.Results:Oral cysticercosis primarily involved the tongue,typically presenting as a painless swelling.The majority of reported cases were from India.Clinically,it was most often misdiagnosed as a mucocele or fibroma,with cysticercosis rarely considered due to its uncommon occurrence.Among the muscles affected,the masseter,mentalis,and buccinator were most frequently involved.Diagnosis was primarily made through histopathological examination.Treatment commonly included surgical excision,and albendazole was the most frequently used antiparasitic medication.Recurrence was uncommon,except in cases with disseminated or deep muscular involvement.Conclusions:Oral cysticercosis should be considered a potential differential diagnosis,particularly in regions where pork consumption is common.Given that most reported cases originated from India,pathologists in this region should maintain a high index of suspicion.Oral pathologists,in particular,should be well-acquainted with its histopathological features to ensure accurate diagnosis and avoid diagnostic pitfalls.
文摘Acridid populations have increased significantly in recent years, causing damage to crops. Having biocontrol tools is important as it will help reduce the use of insecticides. This study reports the presence of Paragordius varius in grasshoppers for the first time in Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico. Samples were taken from the grass around a water pond. A total of 1,225 grasshoppers were dissected to observe the presence of the worm. Seven species of grasshoppers were identified, with the most abundant species being Melanoplus differentialis. The parasitoid Paragordius varius, a nematomorph, parasitized male M. differentialis in greater numbers. This work is the first record of this parasitoid in Mexico and contributes to the knowledge of the biological control of acridids in Mexico.
基金funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 32301295 to JW, 32101242 to LM, and 32260253 to LW)High-Level Talents Research Start-Up Project of Hebei University (No. 521100222044 to JW)
文摘Avian alarm calls mediate defenses against brood parasites and predators. These calls facilitate communication among adults and alert nestlings to potential danger. While heterospecific call recognition has been extensively studied in adult birds, nestlings—lacking direct predation experience and heterospecific alarm exposure—represent an ideal system to investigate the response to interspecific warning cues. This study explored the recognition capabilities of 5–6-day-old nestlings in Oriental Reed Warbler (Acrocephalus orientalis), a common host of the Common Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus). We exposed the nestlings to playbacks of alarm calls directed at parasites and raptors from conspecific, Vinous-throated Parrotbill (Sinosuthora webbiana, sympatric species), Isabelline Shrike (Lanius isabellinus, allopatric species) and Common Tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius, allopatric species) adults. Results indicated that there was no significant difference in the responses of nestlings to the alarm calls of conspecific and allopatric adults directed at cuckoos and sparrowhawks. In addition, interestingly, nestlings significantly reduced their begging in response to conspecific and unfamiliar allopatric Isabelline Shrike and Common Tailorbird alarm calls but exhibited a weak response to the sympatric Vinous-throated Parrotbill. Whether older warbler nestlings with more social experience exhibit stronger responses to the alarm calls of Vinous-throated Parrotbill adults requires further investigation.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (32171498 and 32171495)the Finance Science and Technology Project of Hainan Province (ZDYF2018219)the Hainan Key Program of Science and Technology (ZDXM20110008)。
文摘Parasites,such as flatworms,nematodes,and pentastomes,are commonly found inhabiting reptiles.In this study,we examined parasite infection status in 10 squamate species,including 5 snake species and 5 lizard species.We identified one genuslevel and nine species-level parasites in these hosts,which belong to the phyla Platyhelminthes,Nemathelminthes,and Arthropoda.The overall infection rate was 45%,with significant differences in infection rates between lizard and snake species.Parasites in snakes included the Kalicephalus sp.,Ophidascaris filaria,Ophiotaenia bungari,Raillietiella orientalis and Spirometra erinaceieuropaei,and parasitic parasites in lizards were mainly composed of Meteterakis japonica,Plagiorchis koreanus,Spauligodon carbonelli,Spauligodon saxicolae and Strongyluris calotis,respectively.There were significant differences in infection rates among different species and regions,and even among different tissues of the same species.The overall investigation of squamate parasites in China will provide some basic information for public health safety.
文摘The brood-parasitic brown-headed cowbird(Molothrus ater)has one of the shortest incubation periods of any bird.Brown-headed cowbird eggs,and those of other avian brood parasites,tend to be more spherical due to their greater relative width.The traditional explanation for this egg shape is that it,combined with the thicker eggshells,resists host puncture-ejection.However,very few North American hosts of the brownheaded cowbird actually engage in puncture-ejection and therefore wider eggs may instead provide greater contact with a host’s brood patch during incubation,especially in large host nests.We tested whether greater egg width increased mean temperature and reduced temperature variation in brown-headed cowbirds by inserting temperature probes into brown-headed cowbird and house sparrow(Passer domesticus)eggs and placing them into red-winged blackbird(Agelaius phoeniceus)nests.House sparrow eggs are similar in appearance and in length to cowbird eggs,but are not as wide.We found no signifcant relationship between brown-headed cowbird egg width and mean incubation temperature.However,brown-headed cowbird eggs experienced less temperature variation than house sparrow eggs,and within brown-headed cowbird eggs,more spherical eggs experienced less temperature variation when accounting for differences in width.These results suggest that brownheaded cowbirds may have short incubation periods in part because their eggs exhibit less temperature variation over the course of incubation.The brown-headed cowbird’s egg shape may contribute to its accelerated embryonic development rate relative to host eggs of similar size,which explains its ability to hatch in a variety of host nests.
