Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic pathogenic protozoan that causes zoonotic toxoplasmosis and is capable of infecting almost all warm-blooded animals, including humans. T. gondii infection is a globally prevalent zoonosis, posing a particularly high risk to immunocompromised populations. It presents a serious threat to public health and animal husbandry due to its complex life cycle and wide host range. Currently, the prevention and treatment of toxoplasmosis rely primarily on drugs, with a combination of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine being the first choice in clinical practice. However, limitations in efficacy, side effects, and drug resistance restrict its widespread use. While some progress has been made in the development of anti-Toxoplasma drugs, no ideal treatment has yet been approved for market release or clinical trials. This paper reviews recent progress on the mechanisms of action and targets of novel anti-Toxoplasma drugs based on relevant studies. It aims to provide new ideas for future drug research and development while highlighting the opportunities and challenges in the field.

Objective To investigate the density, species composition, and seasonal prevalence of domestic rodents in different habitats within Lanzhou garrisons, providing basic information for rodent prevention and control. Methods A total of 12 monitoring sites were sampled across urban, suburban, and rural residential areas from 2014 to 2022. Rodent density was monitored using the night-trapping method in the middle of odd-numbered months. Results From 2014 to 2022, 346 domestic rodents were captured using 122 035 effective traps, with an average domestic rodent density of 0.28%. The highest domestic rodent density was 0.63% in 2016, and the lowest was 0.07% in 2020, showing significant differences across years, with an overall trend of initially decreasing and then increasing (χ²=136.555, P<0.001). The dominant species was Rattus norvegicus, accounting for 83.24% of the total rodents captured. Rattus norvegicus accounted for a relatively high proportion across different years, with a statistically significant difference in species composition (χ²=20.931, P<0.05). Rodent densities and species composition also varied significantly among the monitored habitats (P<0.001), with the highest densities observed in rural residential areas and the lowest in urban areas. Seasonal variation in rodent densities showed a bimodal pattern, with smaller peaks in January or March and a larger peak in July. Conclusions Domestic rodent density in Lanzhou garrisons has shown an upward trend in the past few years. Rodent control measures should focus on barracks in rural residential areas, with targeted interventions to reduce the risk of rodent-borne diseases.

On October 9^th, 2023, the Disease Control and Prevention Center of Donghu High Tech Zone in Wuhan City received a report of a case of imported malaria. The patient was admitted due to intermittent fever that had persisted for 3 days, accompanied by a 1 h consciousness disorder, and the family of the patient reported a recent history of travel to the Democratic Republic of Congo in Africa. Upon admission, the rapid diagnostic method (RDT) was used to test for malarial parasite antigens and peripheral blood smear microscopy was performed to detect the presence of malignant malaria parasites. On the basis of epidemiology, clinical symptoms, and laboratory testing, a diagnosis of severe malignant malaria was made, and immediate standardized anti-malarial treatment was accordingly administered. After 4 days of treatment, peripheral blood smear microscopy revealed no plasmodium parasites observed. After 37 days, the patient was recovered and discharged from the hospital.

Objective To study the current status of parasitic infections in hospitalized patients in Yichang City, we compared and analyzed changes in routine blood tests for parasitic infections. Methods A total of 50 256 fecal samples from hospitalized patients at Yichang Central People′s Hospital were tested using the F280 fully automatic fecal analyzer that analyzed and recorded parasite eggs based on its own internal software, and the inspectors further reviewed and confirmed which types of parasites were causing infections. Using 50 healthy individuals as a control group, we compared and analyzed the changes in routine blood results from patients infected with parasites. Results The parasitic infection rate of hospitalized patients in Yichang City was 2.25%, with hookworms accounting for 60.2%, roundworms accounting for 15.0%, and liver flukes accounting for 8.8%. Other identified parasites included whipworms, fecal roundworms, pinworms, and others. The infection rates of males and females were 2.20% and 2.31%, respectively, with no statistically significant. The highest infection rate was observed in the over-61 age group. Routine blood tests revealed that compared to the control group, there was no significant change in white blood cell count in the parasitic infection group, but the percentage of eosinophils increased, hemoglobin, and hematocrit decreased. Conclusions Parasitic infections among hospitalized patients in Yichang City are more common in middle-aged and elderly populations. Among these, the hookworm infection rate was the highest, and this was followed by roundworms and liver flukes. Parasitic infection leads to an increase in eosinophil count and anemia in patients.

Objective This study aimed to investigate whether Trichinella spiralis Ts87 protein can facilitate immune evasion by degrading the mouse neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Methods First, we used bioinformatics tools to analyze the physicochemical properties of Ts87 and, through sequence homology alignment, confirmed its classification within the nuclease family. Molecular cloning and protein purification techniques were then employed to obtain high-purity Ts87 protein, and its nuclease activity was confirmed. Additionally, we compared the primary sequence of Ts87 with known active sites from human lysosomal DNase IIα and the structurally characterized Burkholderia thailandensis DNase II. This enabled us to predict potential active sites. Ts87 enzymatic mutants were generated using site-directed mutagenesis, and their functions were confirmed through enzymatic activity experiments. The extracellular nucleic acid content of mouse bone marrow neutrophils and the immunofluorescence staining of mouse NETs were assessed in vitro to verify whether the Ts87 protease mutants exhibited a decreased ability to degrade NETs. Finally, after immunizing mice with Ts87, calculated larvae burden and the degradation of NETs in vivo were observed by immunostaining the MPO and CitH3 expression in the intestinal NETs of the mice. Results High-purity Ts87 protein was successfully obtained and confirmed to possess nuclease activity, capable of degrading NETs in vitro. The Ts87 mutants exhibited reduced capacity in degrading NETs. In vivo experiments in mice demonstrated that the production of anti-Ts87 antibodies in immunized mice reduced the degradation of NETs, facilitating NET-mediated attack on the parasites and resulting in decreased larvae burden in the mice. Conclusions Trichinella spiralis can utilize Ts87 nuclease to evade capture by NETs, providing potential vaccine and drug targets for the prevention and treatment of trichinellosis.

Objective To understand the implementation status of “Diagnosis of Ascariasis” (WS/T 565-2017) and provide a scientific basis for promoting, revising, and improving the Standard. Methods Using the convenient sampling method, the investigation targeted professional and technical personnel at the provincial, city, county, and township levels engaged in parasitic disease prevention, control, or diagnosis and treatment in Anhui and Sichuan provinces. No less than 150 individuals were included in each province. The implementation survey of Diagnosis of Ascariasis (WS/T 565-2017) was conducted by the subjects completing a questionnaire by themselves. Results The response rate to the questionnaire was 91.90% (386/420). The awareness and utilization rates of the Standard were 81.87% and 49.22%, respectively and both increased with age (χ² trend = 7.977 and 19.016, respectively, P < 0.01). Respondents with college degrees (90.72%) had a higher awareness rate (χ² = 8.619, P < 0.05). In terms of utilization rate, males (58.38%), those with college degrees (67.01%), staff members of provincial-level units (77.78%), and personnel in medical institutions (71.43%) had higher utilization rates (χ² = 13.486, 17.166, 8.426, and 5.956, respectively, all P < 0.05). The survey indicated that 57.77% of the work units of respondents have conducted promotional activities, and 53.89% of the work units of respondents have sent personnel to participate in training. Moreover, this proportion tended to increase as the unit level decreased (χ²trend = 9.403 and 14.729, P < 0.01). The level of participation in publicity and training by medical institutions (89.29%) was significantly higher than that of disease control institutions (55.31% and 51.12%, respectively, χ² = 12.290 and 15.225, P < 0.01). Furthermore, training participation is a crucial factor in enhancing awareness rates. A total of 368 respondents (95.34%) reported that their work units have conducted testing for ascariasis. Additionally, 378 individuals (97.92%) believe that the Standard is “applicable” or “basically applicable,” while 369 (95.60%) felt that no revisions were needed. Conclusions The results indicated that “Diagnosis of Ascariasis” (WS/T 565-2017) remains applicable to the diagnostic needs of ascariasis and it is recommended to strengthen its promotion and implementation.

This article reports a first case of combined infection with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) and scrub typhus in Dalian City. The patient was admitted to the hospital due to recurrent fever for 7 days and loss of consciousness for 1 day. Pathogen metagenomic sequencing (mNGS), SFTSV quantitative PCR, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) IgM tests were performed, showing positive results for Orientia tsutsugamushi and SFTSV nucleic acids. Based on clinical manifestations and epidemiological history, the patient was diagnosed with combined infections.

Objective To investigate the status of population dynamics and distribution changes of Aedes aegypti in Guangdong Province. Methods Continuous monitoring was conducted from May 2018 to July 2024 in Wushi Town and Qishui Town, Leizhou City, Zhanjiang City, Guangdong Province. Additionally, a survey of the distribution of Ae. aegypti along the Leizhou Peninsula coast was carried out. Results The density of Ae. aegypti in Zhanjiang showed a gradual decline from 2018 to 2024. The last detection of adult Ae. aegypti in Wushi Town was in September 2021, and the last larva was found in October 2023. No Ae. aegypti was detected in Qishui Town during surveys from 2021 to 2024. A survey of 18 coastal villages in the Leizhou Peninsula revealed no detections of Ae. aegypti. Conclusions This study provides a basis for understanding the distribution and population density fluctuations of Ae. aegypti, assessing its invasion risk, and scientifically conducting relevant prevention and control efforts.

Objective The aim of the study is to reveal the polymorphisms of Eustrongylides spp. in Monopterus albus. Methods A total of five Eustrongylides spp. collected from five M. albus in the Yongzhou area were sampled to amplify ribosomal ITS sequence by PCR in vitro, then sequenced after extracting the DNA templates of Eustrongylides. The phylogenetic tree based on the ITS sequence was also constructed to explore the evolutionary history of Eustrongylides. Results The length of the ITS sequence of the five Eustrongylides spp. is approximately 933 bp, and the genetic differences between the isolates are 0.00%-0.90% and the genetic inheritance differences with other nematodes are 15.5%-18.20%, maintaining a certain genetic distance from other families. Conclusions The ITS sequence of Eustrongylides spp. in M. albus will be used as a genetic marker for the molecular identification of Eustrongylides spp. and will provide a basis for the prevention and control of Eustrongylides spp. in the future.

Frontopsylla (Frontopsylla) ochotona sp. nov. is closely related to Frontopsylla (Fr.) adixsterna Liu, Shao et Liu, 1976, but can be distinguished by the following characteristics:1. In males, the immutable processes exhibit a wide, finger-like shape with asymmetrical anterior and posterior edges at their ends. The posterior edge of st. VIII lacks a deep depression, and the distal arm of st. IX is split into two lobes.2. In females, the posterior edge of the st. VII abdominal plate lacks a deep sinus, but the posterior end has a truncated or arc-shaped broad leaf. The posterior edge of t. VIII has a wide sinus, distinguishing it from F. adixsterna and other species in this genus.
   The type specimen was collected in Linzhi City, Xizang Autonomous Region of China, in November 2018, from an agricultural area at an altitude of approximately 3 000 m. The host species include Ochotona sp., Niviventer confucianus, and Pitymys leucurus.

Objective This study aimed to provide an effective scientific basis for prevention and control of cockroaches on aircrafts by identifying cockroach-carried pathogens, and assess the insecticidal efficacy of gel bait mediated cockroach control on aircrafts, to provide technical guidance for aircraft disinsection. Methods Cassette-trapping was used to trap cockroaches, and the carried pathogens were detected using bacterial cultivation techniques. The gel bait mediated killing rate was calculated after 1, 7, and 30 d by field application of gel bait. Results A total of 411 cockroaches were captured, and all were identified as Blattella germanica. 26 strains of pathogenic bacteria were isolated from the trapped cockroaches. The killing rates of cockroaches were 58.8%-96.3% with 1-30 day application of gel bait. Statistically significant differences were observed in cockroach killing rates on different days(χ²=58.95,P＜0.01). Conclusions B. germanica carry a large variety of pathogenic bacteria and opportunistic pathogens and are thus important infectious disease carriers. Gel bait agents have proven to be very effective against cockroaches on aircrafts.

Objective To investigate the population composition, seasonal dynamics, and infestation levels of cockroaches in Lanzhou, China, and to provide information for the scientific development of cockroach control strategies. Methods Monitoring was conducted at three locations using the sticky trap method. Habitats included farm product markets, catering establishments, hotels, hospitals, and residential areas. Results From 2016 to 2023, the average cockroach density was 0.77 insects per board, with an average infestation rate of 10.84%. Blattella germanica was the dominant species. Seasonal density of cockroaches showed an approximately unimodal distribution, peaking in September. The highest average density and infestation rates were observed in farm product markets. Conclusions Cockroach density and infestation levels in Lanzhou remained relatively low. A comprehensive prevention and control strategy focusing on environmental management in key areas should be implemented according to the seasonal fluctuations.

Objective In this preliminary survey, we sought to determine the composition of mosquito species inhabiting the Emeifeng Nature Reserve, Fujian Province, China. Methods Mosquito larvae were collected by straw and spoon trapping, and adult mosquitoes were collected by lamp trapping at selected breeding sites in the reserve. The specimens were initially identified based on morphology, with subsequent verification using molecular biology methods. Results A total of 34 mosquito species in 13 genera were collected, among which, there were 4 species of Anopheles (Genus Anopheles Meigen, 1818), 2 species of Lutzia (Genus Lutzia Theobald, 1903), 15 species of Culex (Genus Culex Linnaeus, 1758), 4 species of Stegomyia (Genus Stegomyia Theobald, 1901), and single species of Hulecoeteomyia (Genus Hulecoeteomyia Theobald, 1904), Luius (Genus Luius Reinert, Harbach et Kitching, 2008), Aedes (Genus Aedes Meigen, 1818), Downsiomyia (Genus Downsiomyia Vargas, 1950), Collessius (Genus Collessius Reinert, Harbach et kitching, 2006), Uranotaenia (Genus Uranotaenia Lynch 1891), Armigeres (Genus Armigeres Theobald, 1901), Toxorhynchites (Genus Toxorhynchites Theobald,1901), and pestle mosquito (Genus Tripteroides Giles,1904). Conclusions The species composition of mosquitoes sampled in the Emeifeng Nature Reserve will provide a basis for further research on mosquito vectors and contribute to measures for local mosquito control.

Objective This research was performed to identify rodent-borne pathogens in Hekou Port, Yunnan Province. Methods Rodents were captured using cages and dissected to collect their lungs, liver, spleen, and other viscera. Eight pathogens, including Yersinia pestis, Leptospira, Bartonella, and Anaplasmataceae, were identified using polymerase chain reaction amplification. Amplified pathogen sequences from positive samples were sequenced, and BLAST homology searches were conducted using GenBank to confirm pathogen identities. A phylogenetic tree of the identified pathogens was constructed using the neighbor joining method. Results The total of 31 rodents, identified as Rattus tanezumi, R. norvegicus, and Mus musculus, were captured. Among these, R. tanezumi was the dominant species, accounting for 64.52% of the total. Two pathogens, Leptospira interrogans and Neoehrlichia mikurensis, were detected, with positivity rates of 9.68% and 29.03%, respectively. No other pathogens were detected. The overall positivity rate for rodent-borne pathogens was 35.48%. Conclusions The single 16S rRNA gene fragment is insufficient for the molecular identification of all Neoehrlichia species. Accurate species identification should be based on a combined analysis of multiple genes. The prevalence of rodent-borne pathogens in Hekou Port indicates the necessity for enhanced surveillance of rodent-borne diseases and implementation of additional prevention and control measures in border ports.

Objective To investigate the effect of programmed death-1 (PD-1) on cell infiltration in muscle tissue and immune response types in mice infected with Trichinella spiralis. Methods C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) and PD-1 deficient (PD-1^-/-) mice were infected with T. spiralis (400 muscle larvae per mouse), and samples were collected on day 35 after infection. The proportions of infiltrating inflammatory cells and fibroblasts around encapsulated larvae were assessed by immunohistochemistry. The expression levels of interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-13, and eotaxin in muscle tissue were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Peripheral blood and spleen were collected at different time points after infection. The percentages of CD4⁺IFN-γ⁺Th1 and CD4⁺IL-4⁺Th2 within CD4⁺ T cells population in peripheral blood and spleen of mice were analyzed using flow cytometry. Results The proportions of eosinophils and fibroblasts among total infiltrating cells around the encapsulated larvae in the muscle of PD-1^-/- mice were significantly lower than those in WT mice after T. spiralis infection (P<0.01). The infected PD-1^-/- mice exhibited higher proportions of macrophages, T cells and B cells in total infiltrating cells than the infected WT mice (P<0.01). The levels of IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and eotaxin in the muscle tissue of infected PD-1^-/- mice were significantly lower than those in infected WT mice (P<0.05). However, IFN-γ levels were not significantly different between the infected WT and PD-1^-/- mice. The proportions of Th2 cells in CD4⁺T cells from peripheral blood and spleen of infected PD-1^-/- mice were significantly lower than those in infected WT mice, whereas the proportion of Th1 cells showed no difference among the infected groups. Conclusions PD-1 deletion results in decreased expression of key chemokines of eosinophils and key cytokines of fibroblast formation, and a corresponding decrease in inflammatory cells in muscle in T. spiralis-infected mice. This effect may be associated with a diminished Th2 immune response caused by PD-1 deletion.

Objective To investigate the infection with key intestinal parasites in the Jinuo-inhabited areas of Yunnan Province in 2023 and provide a scientific basis for preventing and controlling local parasitic diseases. Methods A cluster random sampling method was used to conduct a survey on human intestinal parasitic diseases in Jinuoshan Township, Jinghong City, Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, from October to November 2023. Fecal samples and information on epidemiological factors were collected from permanent residents of the Jinuo ethnic group. Intestinal helminth eggs were detected and counted using the modified Kato-Katz technique (two slides per fecal sample). Intestinal protozoa were identified via iodine-stained smears. Each fecal sample was subjected to hookworm larval culture using the test tube filter paper method for species identification. Additionally, transparent adhesive tape anal swabs were used to detect Enterobius vermicularis eggs in children aged 3-9 years. Results A total of 1 367 individuals was examined, with 11 species of parasites detected, including 5 helminth species and 6 protozoan species. The overall intestinal parasite infection rate was 25.97%, with helminth and protozoan infection rates at 17.63% and 9.07%, respectively. The infection rate of E. vermicularis in children (via anal swabs) was 16.35%. The infection rates of specific parasites were as follows: Ascaris lumbricoides 0.07%, hookworm 13.97%, Trichuris sp. 0.29%, Taenia solium 0.15%, Entamoeba nana 1.68%, Giardia lamblia 1.61%, Entamoeba histolytica 0.07%, Entamoeba coli 0.07%, Iodamolbe butschlii 1.61%, and Blastocystis hominis 4.10%. The degree of Acaris lumbricoides, hookworm, and Trichuris sp. infection was mainly mild. Hookworm species were identified as Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale. No statistically significant differences in infection rates were observed across different village committees, genders, age groups, or occupations (P＞0.05). The infection rates of preschool children and illiterate people were higher at 82.61% and 67.02%, respectively (χ² = 344.798, P < 0.01). The infection rate of the Jinuo people was 32.49%, which is higher than that of other ethnic groups (χ² =109.493, P < 0.01). Conclusions The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among the Jinuo ethnic group in Yunnan Province remains relatively high. Strengthened prevention and control measures targeting relevant populations are urgently needed, with a particular focus on hookworm infections and E. vermicularis infections in children.

Objective West Nile virus (WNV) is one of the most common mosquito-borne zoonotic viruses worldwide, with unique transmission dynamics and varied hosts. Lots of ecological and host factors have been reported to influence the host adaptation and transmission of WNVs, however, general genomic features of WNVs are less focused, except for some exact host-specific genotypes at molecular level. Artificial intelligence that analyzes genome composition characteristics currently shows significant advantages in identifying and predicting viral host adaptability. This research aimed to establish a convolutional neural network (CNN) model to predict the host adaptability of WNVs based on general genomic features. Methods Presently available WNV gene sequences were embedded for their genomic features with an embedding approach of dinucleotide composition representation (DCR). And DCR-based distribution difference of WNV samples among various hosts was performed with unsupervised learning methods. Then a classification model was built with a convolutional neural network (CNN) framework based on genomic DCR to evaluate the adaptation of the WNVs from birds, mammals and mosquitos. Additionally, host-specific amino acids in WNV proteins were inferred via Bayes method. Results DCR features could effectively distinguish host-specific WNVs. The trained CNN model predicted accurately mammalian susceptible WNVs from avian susceptible WNVs, however, much less accurately for mosquito / mammalian WNVs. Such predicted host adaptation was interpreted as host specified significance of biased amino acid distribution on the bayes-inferred sites in WNV proteins, implying a possible high significance of these sites for WNV adaptive phenotypes. Conclusions Genomic compositional features of WNVs are host-specific, and such genomic bias facilitates predicting the adaptation of WNVs to avian or mammalian hosts via deep learning methods. DCR-based decomposition is helpful to recognize the high risk of infecting mammals of WNVs. The present study provides a general knowledge of genomic features contributing to host adaptation to WNVs.

Objective To investigate the species composition, seasonal variation, and virus-carrying status of mosquitoes in the Honghe Wetland of Tengzhou City to better control local mosquito vectors. Methods Seven surveillance sites were established in different scenic spots of the wetland, and ecological monitoring was carried out monthly from April to November each year using the light-trapping method. From June to September 2023, a total of 3 000 Mansonia uniformis mosquitoes were tested for flaviviruses using the nested PCR method. Results From 2022 to 2024, a total of 153 mosquito trap lamp·nights were deployed in the Honghe Wetland, and 20 336 female mosquitoes were captured, with an average density of 132.92 mosquitoes/lamp·night. The mosquitoes were identified as belonging to 19 species across 6 genera. Among them, Lutzia chiangmaiensis was identified for the first time in mainland China, and similarly for Anopheles pullu, Culex inatomii, and Aedes togoi in southern Shandong Province. The dominant species was Ma. uniformis (15 345, 75.46%), followed by Culex tritaeniorhynchus (1824, 8.97%), Coquillettidia ochracea (1408, 6.92%), and Anopheles sinensis (1 026, 5.05%). The peak period of adult mosquito activity was from June to September. The seasonal variations in the density of the different mosquito species differed, with the peak periods of Cq. ochracea, An. sinensis, Ma. uniformis, and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus being in June, June, July, and August, respectively. The density of Cx. pipiens pallens was consistently low, showing an upward trend in October only. The 3 000 Ma. uniformis mosquitoes were negative for the three viruses tested. Conclusions The mosquitoes in the Honghe Wetland of Tengzhou City are rich in species composition and high in density. Because of a possible risk of transmission of Japanese encephalitis and malaria in the period between May and September, comprehensive mosquito control measures need to be strengthened in the Honghe Wetland of Tengzhou City.

Objective Ticks serve as vectors for transmitting Babesia microti. However, the specific mechanism remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of tick autophagy molecules on the proliferation of Babesia microti. Methods An experimental model of infected and uninfected mice was used to collect tick materials for proteomic analysis to identify differentially expressed autophagy-related molecules in Haemaphysalis longicornis. The cloning of the HlATG8 gene, protein expression, and production of polyclonal antibodies were completed. The HlATG8 gene was then knocked down using RNAi interference technology. Results The tick autophagy molecule, HlATG8, was identified and found to be significantly upregulated in ticks infected with Babesia microti. The load of Babesia microti in ticks increased significantly following the knockdown of the HlATG8 gene. Conclusions The tick autophagy molecule in Hae. longicornis, HlATG8, inhibits the proliferation of Babesia.

Objective Understanding the population structure of mosquitoes in the drainage system of Minhang District, Shanghai, and exploring the physical prevention and control technology of mosquito traps with a Vazormosquito repellent film in the drainage system. Methods A 500 mL water spoon was used to assist in visual inspection to investigate the breeding status of mosquito larvae in the drainage system. A carbon dioxide mosquito trap method was used to monitor adult mosquitoes around the ground drainage system, and the artificial hour method was used to monitor adult mosquitoes around the underground drainage system. Mosquito-repellent film was applied at a rate of 1 mL/m² to the drainage system where mosquito larvae or pupae are found, and the breeding situation was observed and recorded. Results The positivity rate of mosquitoes breeding in the ground drainage system was 50%. The mosquito larvae in the drainage channels were primarily Aedes albopictus, whereas Ae. albopictus were primarily noted in the sewage wells. The proportions of Ae. albopictus and Culex pipiens pallens in the rainwater wells were similar, and the dominant mosquito species around the surface drainage system was Ae. Albopictus. The positive rate of mosquito breeding in the underground drainage system was 47%, with the dominant mosquito species being Cx. pipiens pallens (58.39%) followed by Ae. albopictus (41.6%). The dominant adult mosquito species around the drainage system were Cx. pipiens pallens (83%) followed by Ae. albopictus (11%). In terms of the effectiveness of mosquito-repellent water film, the mosquito breeding rates of the ground and underground drainage systems using mosquito-repellent water film decreased to 2.78% and 5% after 1 week of use, respectively, and then rebounded after the 3rd week. After a supplementary dose during the 5th week, the breeding rates returned to normal. No statistically significant differences were observed in the effect compared with the standard control group using 1% bisulfite granules; however, a statistically significant difference was noted compared with the blank control group without special treatment. Conclusions In the drainage system of Minhang District, Shanghai, mosquito breeding is severe, and variations exist in the dominant mosquito species in different environmental drainage facilities. The simultaneous use of mosquito-repellent films can effectively control mosquito breeding in drainage systems.

Human parasitology is an important basic medical learning course for medical students. However, owing to the current decline in parasitic infection rates and the application of traditional teaching methods, students have shown insufficient attention to this course. Micro-video courses have several advantages, including short duration, focused knowledge points, diversified communication, and high participation, which align with the learning preferences and information absorption patterns of Generation Z students. Integrating micro-video courses with bedside teaching patterns can enhance the understanding of students of parasitological life cycles, pathogenic mechanisms, clinical manifestations, therapeutic regimens, and prevention strategies, thereby improving overall teaching quality. Additionally, careful micro-video selection, proper protection of clinical information resources, full preparation of alternative teaching plans for bedside teaching, and biosafety protection in clinical teaching are key success elements in combining micro-video courses with bedside teaching in human parasitology education.

Objective The aim of this study was to characterize the basic molecular and biochemical parameters for a cyclophilin protein in Cryptosporidium parvum called CpCyP1. Methods CpCyP1 expression patterns during the parasite life cycle were evaluated using qRT-PCR with total RNA isolated from different developmental stages of C. parvum. Native CpCyP1 protein in sporozoites was detected using western blot. The localization of CpCyP1 was performed using the immunofluorescence assay, with an affinity-purified rabbit polyclonal antibody against a synthetic peptide. The peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase (PPIase) activity of His-tagged recombinant CpCyP1 was evaluated using absorbance colorimetry, and the effect of cyclosporin A (CsA) on the activity of CpCyP1 was determined. Results CpCyP1 was expressed in all parasite developmental stages, whereas CpCyP1 was present mainly in the cytosol of sporozoites, meronts, and gamonts. CpCyP1 displayed Michaelis-Menten kinetics towards N-succinyl-Ala-Ala-Pro-Phe-p-nitroanilide for its PPIase activity (K_m = 456.4 μmol/L; V_max = 1.981 U). CsA inhibited PPIase activity, showing lower micromolar inhibitory activity and binding affinity (K_d = 5.122 μmol/L; IC₅₀ = 1.004 μmol/L). Conclusions These results imply that CpCyP1 in the parasite may be the target for the previously reported anti-cryptosporidial efficacy of CsA and suggest that C. parvum cyclophilins could be evaluated as candidate drug targets.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and gold chromatographic strip assay (GICA) in diagnosingclonorchiasis through a meta-analysis of diagnostic tests. Methods Relevant databases, including CNKI, the Wan Fang Database, VIP, and PubMed, were searched according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. Literature quality was assessed using RevMan 5.4 and Stata 18, and funnel plots, forest plots, and SROC curves were generated. Results A total of 50 articles met the inclusion criteria. Deeks′funnel plot analysis indicated no significant publication bias among the three methods. The combined effect size analysis revealed that the sensitivity and specificity of ELISA for detecting clonorchiasis were 0.93 (0.89-0.95) and 0.94 (0.92-0.96), respectively, with an area under the SROC curve of 0.98. For PCR, the sensitivity and specificity were 0.93 (0.84-0.97) and 0.92 (0.80-0.97), respectively, yielding an area under the SROC curve of 0.97. The sensitivity and specificity of the GICA method for detecting clonorchiasis were 0.91 (0.83-0.96) and 0.95 (0.87-0.98), respectively, with an area under the SROC curve of 0.97. Conclusions In the diagnosis of clonorchiasis, ELISA, PCR and GICA have high diagnostic value, but their ranges differ from each other.

Objective This study aimed to investigate natural infection of rodents with Ehrlichia and Neoehrlichia at major Chinese land-border ports along the "Belt and Road". Methods In 2022, rodents were monitored in 10 ports in northern and southern China and identified based on diagnostic morphological characteristics. The 16S rRNA genes of Ehrlichia and Neoehrlichia were detected by PCR using universal primers from rodent samples and phylogenetic analysis was performed based on the sequences of the detected positive pathogens. Results A total of 356 rodents were sampled, including 2 orders, 5 families, 15 genera, and 20 species. Predominantly, 73, 61, 56, and 58 were Meriones unguiculatus (20.51%), Rattus norvegicus (17.13%), Apodemus agrarius (15.73%), and Microtus gregalis (16.29%). Only one Microtus fortis from Suifenghe Port was infected with Ehrlichia sp. Moreover, 12 rodents were infected with Neoehrlichia spp. (overall positivity rate: 3.37%). Conclusions Natural infections with Ehrlichia spp. and Neoehrlichia spp. were demonstrated in rodents at important Chinese land-border ports. The positivity rate of Neoehrlichia spp. was high in some ports, indicating that surveillance for ticks and their prevention and control measures should be intensified in these regions.

Objective To establish a rapid, sensitive, and specific multiplex PCR detection method for the simultaneous detection of Cryptosporidium, Eimeria, and bovine parvovirus. Methods Specific primers targeting the SSU rRNA genes of Cryptosporidium and Eimeria, as well as the VP2 gene of bovine parvovirus were designed and the corresponding recombinant plasmid standards were constructed. To establish the multiplex PCR method, the reaction conditions were optimized using temperature gradient PCR and single-variable control methods. The sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility, and clinical application of the protocol were evaluated. Results The optimal annealing temperature was found to be 60.5℃, and the forward and reverse primer concentrations were determined to be 0.2 μmol/L for Eimeria, and 0.4 μmol/L for Cryptosporidium and bovine parvovirus. The assay demonstrated high sensitivity, with detection limits of 243, 260, and 3 110 copies for the recombinant plasmid standards of Cryptosporidium, Eimeria, and bovine parvovirus, respectively. Specificity testing showed no cross-reactivity with ten common bovine pathogens, including Salmonella, bovine viral diarrhea virus, and bovine rotavirus. Consistent intra- and inter-batch results confirmed the strong reproducibility of the method. Clinical application to 81 diarrhea samples from various regions in the Ganzi Prefecture, Sichuan, revealed positivity rates of 18.52% (15/81) for Cryptosporidium, 34.57% (28/81) for Eimeria, and 18.52% (15/81) for bovine parvovirus, with a mixed infection rate of 3.7% (3/81). Conclusions The multiplex PCR method established in this study offers a reliable tool for differential diagnosis and epidemiological investigation of the three common diarrheal pathogens in yaks.

Objective Aedes albopictus is the primary vector of the dengue virus. Screening and the analysis of immune-related genes in DENV2-infected Ae. albopictus provides a scientific basis for further research on blocking the extrinsic incubation period of the dengue virus. Methods Through the approach of literature mining, thirty-three potential immune-related genes were screened from species such as Aedes aegypti and Anopheles gambiae, which have a close genetic relationship with Ae. albopictus. The protein—protein interaction (PPI) analysis is employed to explore the interaction relationship of the proteins encoded by genes. The alterations in mRNA expression levels of the relevant genes in DENV2-infected Ae. albopictus midgut were detected using the qRT-PCR method. Results The PPI results indicates that TLR and Spz of Ae. albopictus; Rel1, Rel2, DefC, Spz, PIWI, Ago2, DOME and HOP of Ae. aegypti; and Rel1, Rel2, CACT, STAT and DOME of An. gambiae exhibit PPI relationships. After Ae. albopictus was infected with DENV2, 10 genes showed significant difference in expression. Ago3 (7.39, P < 0.05), DOMEa (1.63, P < 0.01), DOMEb (21.29, P < 0.001), and TLRb (1.61, P < 0.05) were significantly up-regulated. Rel1 (0.62, P < 0.001), CACTl (0.65, P < 0.001), Rel2a (0.65, P < 0.01), Rel2b (0.24, P < 0.001), GATAa (0.64, P < 0.01) and DefC (0.28, P < 0.05) were significantly down-regulated. Conclusions The concordance of Ae. albopictus with Ae. aegypti was higher than that with An. gambiae. DOMEb, Ago3, Rel2b and DefC, can serve as the preferred target genes for subsequent studies on DENV2 immune blockade.

Objective To evaluate the efficacy of Compound Fipronil Spot-on Solution in repelling canine ticks. Methods A total of 140 dogs infested with ticks were randomly selected from regions in southern and northern China and assigned to four groups: southern test drug group, southern control drug group, northern test drug group, and northern control drug group. Each group comprised 35 dogs. Each dog was administered the prescribed dose.The number of ticks was counted on days 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 following the administration. The negative conversion and average reduction rates of the tick population were then subjected to statistical analyse. Results The mean efficacy of the test drug was 100% in both the southern and northern cohorts, 28 days post-treatment. The control drug showed comparable efficacy, reaching a mean reduction of 100% in both regions by the same time point. No additional clinical manifestations or adverse events were observed across all treated dogs. Conclusions Compound Fipronil Spot-on Solutions effectively treats and prevents ticks in dogs in different regions of China. A single dose remains effective for up to 28 days, thus providing a convenient, effective solution.

Objective The density and species composition of cockroaches in Suzhou, China as well as their seasonal fluctuations were investigated to provide a theoretical basis for their scientific control. Methods The sticking trap method was used to survey the population of cockroaches in the city. The chi-square test was used to compare the rates of adhesion to the sticky sheets, and the Kruskal-Wallis H test was used to compare the density of cockroaches. Results From 2019 to 2023, a total of 27 576 sticky sheet traps were placed in various areas of Suzhou. Of these, 2 248 yielded positive captures of 15 963 cockroaches in total, with an adhesion rate of 8.15% and density of 0.58 insects per sheet. Blattella germanica predominated, accounting for 95.76% of the cockroach species in Suzhou. The adhesion rate and density of cockroaches decreased from 2019 to 2023, with the difference between the years being statistically significant (χ²=96.913, P<0.001). The highest adhesion rate and density (25.89% and 2.36 insects per sheet, respectively) were found in farm product markets. The adhesion rates differed significantly among different habitats (χ²=2 458.309, P < 0.001). Cockroaches were active throughout the year, and the month of peak density differed in different years, with the overall peak density being 0.66 insects per sheet in November. Additionally, the seasonal fluctuation in cockroach density differed significantly among the different years (H=23.976, P<0.001). Conclusions The survey results showed that the adhesion rate and density of cockroaches in Suzhou have been decreasing annually. Cockroaches were active throughout the year, being mainly present in farm product markets. The seasonal fluctuations in cockroach density in different years differed significantly. Therefore, the characteristics of each habitat should be considered to effectively reduce the cockroach population density.

Ticks are medically significant arthropods with a global distribution and the ability to transmit a wide range of pathogens to human and animal. Their medical significance is second only to that of mosquitoes. In recent years, factors such as urbanization, international trade, and climate change have led to a notable increase in both the incidence and emergence of tick-borne diseases. Since different tick species carry or transmit different pathogens, accurate and rapid identification of tick species is essential before implementing strategies to prevent and control ticks and tick-borne diseases. This review summarizes the research progress in molecular identification technologies for tick species, providing a valuable reference for related research.

Hypereosinophilia is the term given to a group of highly heterogeneous diseases that are characterized by an increase in the absolute count of peripheral eosinophils, which can accumulate in one or more organs. Although parasitic infection is one of the common causes of eosinophilia, it is often ignored. So far, no clear diagnostic guideline for hepatic sparganosis exists worldwide, and only scattered cases have been reported. We reported a case of a patient with hypereosinophilia induced by hepatic sparganosis, with multiple organ involvement, and discussed the clinical characteristics and treatment plan. This report will help clinicians better understand the differential diagnosis of hepatic sparganosis and the diagnosis and treatment of hypereosinophilia.