Incidence of gastrointestinal parasites in pigeons with an assessment of the nematocidal activity of chitosan nanoparticles against Ascaridia columbae

Prevalence, molecular characterization, and physiological impacts of Theileria annulata in bovines across three Egyptian governorates

Theileria annulata infection poses a significant threat to livestock health and production worldwide. This study investigated the prevalence, morphological characteristics, molecular identification, and physiological impacts of T. annulata in cattle and buffaloes across three Egyptian governorates: Beni Suef, Faiyum, and Giza. Blood samples from 300 cattle and 250 buffaloes were analyzed using microscopic examination, molecular techniques, and biochemical assays. Giemsa-stained blood smears revealed intraerythrocytic piroplasms and intralymphocytic schizonts. These morphological findings were subsequently confirmed by PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene, which definitively identified T. annulata. Phylogenetic analysis of the 18S rRNA sequences revealed genetic diversity among isolates and their relationships with global strains. The overall prevalence of T. annulata was 25.3 %, with 23.7 % in cattle and 27.2 % in buffaloes. Prevalence varied across governorates: Beni Suef (24.0 % cattle, 27.7 % buffaloes), Faiyum (23.0 % cattle, 27.7 % buffaloes), and Giza (24.0 % cattle, 26.2 % buffaloes). In cattle, infection rates were similar between males and females, while in buffaloes, males showed higher rates than females. Age-wise analysis in cattle revealed an increasing trend with age, while buffaloes exhibited a U-shaped pattern. Seasonal dynamics showed highest infection rates in summer for both species, followed by spring, autumn, and lowest in winter. Oxidative stress markers (SOD, CAT, and MDA) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6) were significantly elevated in infected animals. This multi-faceted approach provides valuable insights into the epidemiology, genetic diversity, and host-parasite interactions of theileriosis in Egypt, highlighting the need for targeted control strategies and further investigation into pathogenesis mechanisms.

Chitosan Nanoparticles: A Dual Approach for Mollusk and Infection Control in Biomphalaria alexandrina Snails

Chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs), derived from crab shells, are eco-friendly and effective molluscicides. Their enhanced bioactivity makes them ideal for controlling disease-carrying mollusks, including freshwater snails that transmit Schistosomiasis. This study evaluates the molluscicidal effects of chitosan nanoparticles on Biomphalaria alexandrina snails, including those infected with Schistosoma mansoni, to assess their potential in schistosomiasis control. Chitosan nanoparticles were synthesized by dissolving 0.6% chitosan in 1% acetic acid, adjusting the pH to 4.7, and adding 0.3% TPP under stirring. Sublethal doses (LC10: 49.78 ppm, LC25: 59.02 ppm) were tested on Biomphalaria alexandrina to evaluate toxicity to B. alexandrina snails, effects on laying eggs and their survival rate, hormonal changes, and histological effects in Schistosoma mansoni-infected snails. Flow cytometry assessed Annexin-V levels, survival, infection rate, lifespan, and cercarial production. Sublethal doses (LC10 and LC25) of chitosan nanoparticles significantly reduced snail fecundity and reproductive rates. Hormone levels (progesterone, 17-β estradiol, estrogen, and testosterone) declined notably after treatment. Histological analysis revealed extensive cellular damage, vacuolation, and degeneration, particularly in the head-foot region at 3 and 21 days post-infection with S. mansoni. The percentage of apoptotic cells increased, with a notable rise in late apoptosis and necrosis in infected snails treated with LC25 ppm. Exposure to chitosan nanoparticles also led to reduced Schistosoma mansoni infection rates and cercarial production at 3 and 21 days post-infection with S. mansoni. This study confirms the potent molluscicidal effects of chitosan nanoparticles on Biomphalaria alexandrina, reducing reproduction, hormonal levels, and infection rates while inducing apoptosis and histological damage. CNPs show promise as an eco-friendly tool for schistosomiasis control.

Intestinal parasites of domestic pigeons (Columba livia Domestica) in Egypt: update on the prevalence and species diversity

Domestic pigeons are a significant protein source in Egypt, and are also used for racing, ornamentation, and exhibition. They are susceptible to various intestinal parasites, resulting in economic losses from disease and mortality, delayed growth, and reduced productivity. There is limited information available on intestinal parasitic infections in domestic pigeons in Egypt, and reports from some governorates, e.g., Dakahlia, are lacking. In the present study, intestines and faecal contents of 782 adult domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica) were examined. These pigeons were clinically ill, i.e., had signs of emaciation, ruffled feathers, and general weakness, and were collected, over one year, from veterinary clinics as well as local bird markets in two Egyptian Nile Delta governorates; Dakahlia (n = 348) and Gharbia (n = 434). Overall, 23.53% of the tested pigeons were infected. Pigeons in Gharbia (28.57%) had a higher statistically significant (p-value < 0.001) prevalence than those in Dakahlia (17.24%). Four parasites were detected with statistically significant (p-value < 0.001) prevalence variations. Eimeria species was the most frequently detected (n = 136; 17.39%), and three species were identified; Eimeria labbeana-like (types A and B), Eimeria columbarum-like, and Eimeria kapotei-like oocysts. The roundworm Ascaridia columbae was detected in 85 (10.87%) pigeons, whereas the tapeworm Raillietina echinobothrida was detected in 24 (3.07%) pigeons. Eggs of Capillaria spp. were only detected in five pigeons (0.64%). Earlier reports on parasitic infections in pigeons from Egypt were reviewed. A brief taxonomic revision on oocysts of various Eimeria species was provided. Oocysts of several Eimeria species from pigeons display minimal differences, and have overlapping morphometrics, causing considerable confusion. Therefore, the classification of Eimeria species of Columbiformes should be thoroughly revised using both morphological and molecular data. This study emphasizes the importance of addressing pigeon parasites from a veterinary perspective in terms of proper diagnosis and control by providing essential data on intestinal parasitic infections in pigeons in Egypt based on current and published data aiming for decreased economic losses.

Alternatives to antibiotics against coccidiosis for poultry production: the relationship between immunity and coccidiosis management – a comprehensive review

Avian coccidiosis is a protozoan infection caused by numerous Eimeria parasitic species and mainly affects the bird’s gastrointestinal tract and results in a reduction of the bird ‘ability to absorb nutrients, slower growth, with a higher mortality rate. According to recent research, immune-based treatments, such as dietary immunomodulating feed additives and recombinant vaccines, can help the hosts protect themselves from intracellular parasites and reduce inflammatory reactions caused by parasites. Coccidiosis control in the post-antiparasitic stage requires thoroughly investigation of the intricate relationships between the parasites, host defense system, enteroendocrine system, and gut microbiome contributing to coccidian infections. To produce a vaccine, it is crucial to explore the defense mechanism of the intestine’s immune machinery and to identify many effector molecules that act against intracellular parasites. Due to the massive usage of chemical anticoccidial drugs, coccidiosis developed resistant against most commonly used anticoccidials; therefore, numerous researches focused on the usage of safe natural anticoccidials such as probiotics, prebiotics, organic acids, and essential oils to counteract such resistance problem. This review describes how host immunity responds to coccidial infection in chickens and the use of some nonantiparasitic safe natural alternative controls to counter the disease. It would throw the light on the possibility of developing effective therapies against Eimeria to alleviate the detrimental effects of avian coccidiosis.

An Investigation into the Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Helminths in Pigeons from Zabol, Iran

It is not uncommon for pigeons kept for entertainment or competition to be infected with a variety of intestinal parasites, including nematodes and cestodes. Infection by these worms is a risk not only to birds but also to native wildlife and humans. The objective of this study is to assess the prevalence of helminth infections in pigeons in Zabol County, Iran, and to develop strategies for the prevention and treatment of these infections. A total of 220 pigeons were examined for the presence of parasites in their gastrointestinal tracts between 2021 and 2022. The pigeons were categorized according to gender, breed, age, medication, and feed type. The digestive tract contents were scraped and washed with warm water in order to collect intestinal helminths. A variety of techniques employed for the isolation, observation, and identification of nematodes and cestodes. Additionally,the parasites around the esophageal tissue were also examined in this study. A total of 96 positive cases of helminth infection (43.63%) were identified in the 220 samples of pigeon gastrointestinal tracts examined. In addition, 52 pigeons exhibited exclusive cestode infections, 14 had nematode infections, and 31 had co-infections. Heterakis gallinarum (H. gallinarum), Eulimdana clava (E. clava), Hadjelia truncate (H. truncate), and Ascaridia columbae (A. columbae) were among the nematodes found. Cestode species identified include Raillietina tetragona (R. tetragona), Raillietina echinobothrida (R. echinobothrida), Raillietina cesticillus (R. cesticillus), Raillietina magninumida (R. magninumida), and Cotugnia digonopora (C. digonopora). A statistical analysis of data revealed a significant correlation between helminth infection and drug consumption (p=0.001). Infection with nematodes and cestodes is also associated with pigeon age (p=0.00001). T Notably, despite the hot and dry conditions, there was a high prevalence of cestode and nematode infestations in pigeons in Zabol, Iran. It is imperative that a comprehensive control program be implemented to prevent parasite transmission to pigeons and the local avian ecosystem.

Prevalence Study of Trichomonas gallinae in Domestic Pigeons in Northeastern Beijing and Experimental Model of Trichomoniasis in White King Squabs Measuring In Situ Apoptosis and Immune Factors in Crop and Esophagus

Trichomonas gallinae (T. gallinae) is a flagellated protozoan and the causative agent of trichomoniasis, or canker, in birds. In the current study, the prevalence of T. gallinae was firstly investigated in five breeds. According to the results of the prevalence study, White King pigeons were selected as the experimental animals. A total of 135 White King squabs at one day of age were randomly divided into two groups and raised in separate isolators. The challenged group (N = 100) was challenged intranasally with 5 × 106 parasites/mL of the T. gallinae strain, and the control group (N = 35) was intranasally administered medium of equivalent volume. At 1, 2, 3 and 5 days post infection (DPIs), the crops and esophagi were collected for RNA extraction and formaldehyde fixation. The results showed that prevalence of T. gallinae in the five breeds ranged from 27.13% (White Carneau) to 43.14% (White King). After the challenge, mild microscopic lesions were observed in both tissues. Apoptosis rates were higher in the challenged group than in the control group at 2 and 5 DPIs in the crop and at 1, 2 and 7 DPIs in the esophagus. For both tissues, relative expression of IL-1β increased dramatically at the beginning and decreased at 5 DPIs, and TGF-β increased stably in the challenged group.

Potential anthelmintic effect of chitosan on Syphacia muris infecting Wistar rats: biochemical, immunological, and histopathological studies

Natural products extracted from animal sources have many biological activities, such as chitosan, which is being researched for its medicinal or therapeutic potential. Syphacia muris is the most well-known intestinal nematode, infecting laboratory rats and influencing their immune systems. In this study, we looked at the anthelminthic activity of chitosan particles against S. muris infection using biochemical, immunological, and histopathological methods. Chitosan particles were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Rats were separated into four groups, each consisting of seven individuals (n = 7). The first group was the control (non-infected), the second group was infected, and both groups received 0.5 ml of 1% glacial acetic acid orally. The third group was the infected group (treated), and the fourth group (normal) received 0.5 ml of 30 mg/kg/day chitosan dissolved in 1% glacial acetic acid for 14 days using gavage. Liver and kidney parameters, oxidative stress markers, serum levels of cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-5, IL-13, IL-33, and IL-10), as well as immunoglobulins (total IgE and IgG), were assessed. Histological examinations of host tissues (intestine, liver, kidney, and spleen) were also performed. Following chitosan treatment, a significant decrease in worm count (P < 0.05) was indicated; this was associated with an enhancement of biochemical and oxidative stress biomarkers, which were altered due to infection. Moreover, immunological analysis revealed a significant drop in INF-γ, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-33 levels and total immunoglobulins (IgE and IgG) as well as an improvement in rat tissues. Conclusively, this study showed the anthelminthic effect of chitosan against S. muris infection.

Coinfection of the gut with protozoal and metazoal parasites in broiler and laying chickens

The chicken business faces substantial economic losses due to the risk of parasitic coinfection. Because the current study aimed to investigate enteric parasitic coinfections problems among the suspected examined chicken farms, samples were collected during the field investigation from suspected freshly dead birds, clinically diseased, apparently healthy, and litter samples for further laboratory parasitological, histopathological, and immunological examinations. Variable mortalities with various clinical indicators, such as ruffled feathers, weight loss, diarrhea of various colors, and a decline in egg production, occurred on the farms under investigation. In addition, the treatment protocols of each of the farms that were evaluated were documented and the m-RNA levels of some cytokines and apoptotic genes among the infected poultry have been assessed. The prevalence rate of parasitic coinfection in the current study was found to be 8/120 (6.66%). Parasitological analysis of the samples revealed that they belonged to distinct species of Eimeria, cestodes, and Ascaridia galli. When deposited, A. galli eggs were nonembryonated and ellipsoidal, but cestodes eggs possessed a thin, translucent membrane that was subspherical. Eimeria spp. oocysts in layer chickens were identified as Eimeria acervulina and Eimeria maxima in broiler chickens. Our findings proved that coinfection significantly upregulated the IL-1β, BAX, and Cas-3 genes. Conversely, the IL-10, BCL-2, and AKT mRNA levels were downregulated, indicating that nematode triggered apoptosis. The existence of parasite coinfection was verified by histological investigation of the various intestinal segments obtained from affected flocks. A. galli and cestodes obstructed the intestinal lumen, causing different histological alternations in the intestinal mucosa. Additionally, the lamina propria revealed different developmental stages of Eimeria spp. It was determined that parasite coinfection poses a significant risk to the poultry industry. It was recommended that stringent sanitary measures management methods, together with appropriate treatment and preventative procedures, be employed in order to resolve such issues.

Sexual behaviour response, testicular development and semen quality of New Zealand white rabbit bucks as influenced by dietary chitosan

The present study was conducted to determine the effects of dietary chitosan supplementation on sexual behaviour responses, testicular development, and semen quality traits of New Zealand White (NZW) rabbit bucks. Twenty-four 5-week-old rabbit bucks were used in this experiment. Animals were grouped into four equal experimental groups: the control group was fed only on a basal diet, whereas the other groups were fed the basal diet supplemented with three levels of chitosan at 0.2, 0.4, or 0.6 g/kg, respectively. Also, bucks that received chitosan at 0.2 and 0.4 g/kg had a significantly earlier time of sexual libido (p ≤ .05) and had significantly higher ejaculate volume and sperm concentration than other groups (p ≤ .001). Furthermore, basic and sexual behaviours were significantly improved in bucks fed chitosan at 0.2 and 0.4 g/kg compared with other groups. Therefore, it could be concluded that using chitosan at 0.2 and 0.4 g/kg enhanced sexual behaviour, improved semen quality, and reproductive efficiency in the NZW rabbit bucks.

Impacts of turmeric and its principal bioactive curcumin on human health: Pharmaceutical, medicinal, and food applications: A comprehensive review

The yellow polyphenolic pigment known as curcumin, originating from the rhizome of the turmeric plant Curcuma longa L., has been utilized for ages in ancient medicine, as well as in cooking and food coloring. Recently, the biological activities of turmeric and curcumin have been thoroughly investigated. The studies mainly focused on their antioxidant, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective impacts. This review seeks to provide an in-depth, detailed discussion of curcumin usage within the food processing industries and its effect on health support and disease prevention. Curcumin's bioavailability, bio-efficacy, and bio-safety characteristics, as well as its side effects and quality standards, are also discussed. Finally, curcumin's multifaceted uses, food appeal enhancement, agro-industrial techniques counteracting its instability and low bioavailability, nanotechnology and focused drug delivery systems to increase its bioavailability, and prospective clinical use tactics are all discussed.

Prevalence of major nematodes and human factors that affect infection in the zebra dove in a closed cage system

Background and Aim:

Roundworms cause infections in the avian population that lead to illness and poor production. The singing zebra dove is an economically important animal in the Indo-Malay region. The prevalence of these parasitic groups in zebra doves is unknown. This study estimated the prevalence and associated human risk factors of gastrointestinal nematode infections in zebra dove farming.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to April 2021. The study was conducted on 184 doves in three zebra dove farms. Fecal samples were collected from pooled zebra dove droppings. Major proportions and infection intensity of gastrointestinal nematodes were morphologically identified and morphometrically investigated. Associated human factors were assessed through the interview surveys among farmers.

Results:

Results showed that 36.96% of the zebra doves were infected. The primary nematodes were Ascaridia galli (34.78%), Heterakis gallinarum (6.52%), Trichostrongylus tenuis (2.17%), Syngamus spp. (4.35%), and Amidostomum spp. (2.17%). The primary human factors that contribute to parasitic infection were poor hygiene, food contamination with parasites, and inappropriate deworming.

Conclusion:

There was a high prevalence of gastrointestinal nematodes in the zebra dove in the close cage system. Human factors played key roles as risk factors, and improves farming management will help reduce parasitic infections. However, these nematodes may contribute to poor health status and poor productivity of zebra doves. Further extensive studies on clinical signs and pathological changes should be conducted.