New data in France on the trematode Alaria alata (Goeze, 1792) obtained during Trichinella inspections

The trematode Alaria alata is a cosmopolite parasite found in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), the main definitive host in Europe. In contrast only few data are reported in wild boars (Sus scrofa), a paratenic host. The aim of this paper is to describe the importance and distribution of Alaria alata mesocercariae in wild boars, information is given by findings of these larvae during Trichinella mandatory meat inspection on wild boars’ carcasses aimed for human consumption. More than a hundred cases of mesocercariae positive animals are found every year in the East of France. First investigations on the parasite’s resistance to deep-freezing in meat are presented in this work.

Encapsulation of deoxyribonucleic acid molecules in silica and hybrid organic-silica gels

The encapsulation of small DNA molecules was attempted in pure silica and in hybrid polyvinyl alcohol-silica gels. The materials which were obtained were examined by nitrogen adsorption, and by 29Si and 31P NMR spectroscopy. The extraction of the DNA molecules from the gels was examined in a buffer aqueous solution as well as in an acidic medium. The results suggested that the DNA molecules remained trapped inside the gels due to a permanent bonding to the gel network.