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		Short report Mitochondrial peroxidase TPx-2 is not essential in the blood and insect stages of Plasmodium berghei Hirono Masuda-Suganuma, Miho Usui, Shinya Fukumoto, Noboru Inoue, Shin-ichiro Kawazu Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:252 (12 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The present findings suggests that mitochondrial Prx TPx-2 is not essential for the asexual and insect developmental stages of the malaria parasite, P. berghei.Image: Targeted disruption of the tpx-2 gene in P. berghei.
		Research Factors affecting deer ked (Lipoptena cervi) prevalence and infestation intensity in moose (Alces alces) in Norway Knut Madslien, Bjørnar Ytrehus, Hildegunn Viljugrein, Erling J Solberg, Kent Bråten, Atle Mysterud Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:251 (12 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Deer ked (Lipoptena cervi), a hematophagous ectoparasite of Cervids, is currently spreading in Scandinavia. We demonstrate infestation prevalence and intensity on moose (Alces alces) and habitat characteristics important for deer ked abundance on moose. Image: Adult deer ked clinging to moose guard hair.
		Research Molecular confirmation of the occurrence in Germany of Anopheles daciae (Diptera, Culicidae) Mandy Kronefeld, Marko Dittmann, Dorothee Zielke, Doreen Werner, Helge Kampen Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:250 (12 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary A molecular survey of the Maculipennis group of the culicid genus Anopheles, which includes former European malaria vectors, revealed the occurrence of Anopheles daciae, a newly described sibling species, in Germany. Image: Blood-fed Anopheles female of the Maculipennis group.
		Research Evidence for genetic differentiation at the microgeographic scale in Phlebotomus papatasi populations from Sudan Noteila M Khalid, Marium A Aboud, Fathi M Alrabba, Dia-Eldin A Elnaiem, Frederic Tripet Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:249 (12 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Microsatellites were used to study the population structure of Phlebotomus papatasi populations in Khartoum State, Sudan. Significant genetic differentiation was revealed among populations which have been attributed to the geographical isolation by the River Nile. Image: Distribution of Phlebotomus papatasi sandfly individuals, collected from different study sites, between two subpopulations (red and green) as predicted by the program STRUCTURE.
		Research Phylogenetic relationship of the Brazilian isolates of the rat lungworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda: Metastrongylidae) employing mitochondrial COI gene sequence data Tainá CC Monte, Raquel O Simões, Ana Paula M Oliveira, Clodoaldo F Novaes, Silvana C Thiengo, Alexandre J Silva, Pedro C Estrela, Arnaldo Júnior Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:248 (6 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary We report the genetic variability and phylogenetic relationship among A. cantonensis isolates from different geographical locations in Brazil using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences. Was observed two distinct haplotypes (ac5 and ac8) based on eight distinct haplotypes from a previous study and the divergent Brazilian haplotype named ac9. Image: Light microscopy of Angiostrongylus cantonensis (caudal bursa).
		Short report Distribution of Aedes albopictus (Diptera, Culicidae) in southwestern Pacific countries, with a first report from the Kingdom of Tonga Laurent Guillaumot, Reynold Ofanoa, Lucien Swillen, Narendra Singh, Hervé C Bossin, Francis Schaffner Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:247 (6 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary After two decades without new expansion in the Pacific region, the dengue and chikungunya mosquito vector Aedes albopictus is spreading again. It is now established in the Kingdom of Tonga. Image: Map of Tonga.
		Research Spatio-temporal occurrence of Culicoides biting midges in the climatic regions of Switzerland, along with large scale species identification by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry Christian Kaufmann, Irene C Steinmann, Daniel Hegglin, Francis Schaffner, Alexander Mathis Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:246 (31 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Biting midges were monitored in the 12 climatic regions of Switzerland over three years, revealing a low annual variation at the locations. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry was used for high throughput identification to species level. Image: Female Culicoides of the Obsoletus group.
		Meeting report Key factors influencing canine heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis, in the United States Heidi E Brown, Laura C Harrington, Phillip E Kaufman, Tanja McKay, Dwight D Bowman, C Nelson, Dongmei Wang, Robert Lund Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:245 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary An examination of the Companion Animal Parasite Council¿s (CAPC) canine heartworm data to clarify the spatial prevalence of heartworm in the United States. Factors thought to influence the spatial risk of disease, as identified in a recent CAPC workshop, are discussed. Image: Spatially smoothed proportions of positive canine heartworm-antigen tests recorded by US veterinarians in 2011.
		Short report Merging species? Evidence for hybridization between the eel parasites Anguillicola crassus and A. novaezelandiae (Nematoda, Anguillicolidea) Daniel S Grabner, Kerstin C Dangel, Bernd Sures Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:244 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The nematodes Anguillicola crassus and A. novaezelandiae are both non-endemic parasites of the European eel. We demonstrated hybridization of both species in a laboratory infection experiment using microsatellite analysis of adults and offspring. Image: European eel.
		Research Detection of dengue group viruses by fluorescence in situ hybridization Vincent Raquin, Martin Wannagat, Karima Zouache, Catherine Legras-Lachuer, Claire Moro, Patrick Mavingui Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:243 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The virus tropism inside the vector is the basis of vectorial competence. Providing useful tools to monitor viruses in vector's cells and organs will help to understand mechanisms leading to disease emergence. Image: Aedes albopictus cells (nuclei in blue) infected by dengue virus (green).
		Research Defining parasite biodiversity at high latitudes of North America: new host and geographic records for Onchocerca cervipedis (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) in moose and caribou Guilherme G Verocai, Manigandan Lejeune, Kimberlee B Beckmen, Cyntia K Kashivakura, Alasdair M Veitch, Richard A Popko, Carmen Fuentealba, Eric P Hoberg, Susan J Kutz Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:242 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Onchocerca cervipedis is a filarial worm of North American wild ungulates. We demonstrated that its geographic range extends into subarctic regions, and it occurs in two new host subspecies. Climate change may affect vector dynamics, and thus, parasite abundance and distribution. Image: Onchocerca cervipedis in leg subcutaneous tissues of moose from Northwest Territories, Canada.
		Research Assessment of the genetic relationship between Dictyocaulus species from Bos taurus and Cervus elaphus using complete mitochondrial genomic datasets Robin B Gasser, Abdul Jabbar, Namitha Mohandas, Johan Höglund, Ross S Hall, D Timothy J Littlewood, Aaron R Jex Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:241 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Complete mitochondrial genomic datasets were used to assess the genetic relationship between Dictyocaulus species from cattle and red deer, and also to predict barcodes for future population genetic and molecular epidemiological studies. Image: Mitochondrial genomes of Dictyocaulus spp. - relationships and sliding window analysis.
		Review The burden of neglected tropical diseases in Ethiopia, and opportunities for integrated control and elimination Kebede Deribe, Kadu Meribo, Teshome Gebre, Asrat Hailu, Ahmed Ali, Abraham Aseffa, Gail Davey Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:240 (24 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are significant public health problems in Ethiopia. Ethiopia stands out for having the largest number of NTD cases following Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sub-Saharan Africa. A third of Ethiopians are infected with ascariasis, one quarter is infected with trichuriasis and one in eight Ethiopians lives with hookworm or is infected with trachoma. To achieve success in integrated control of NTDs, integrated mapping, rapid scale-up of interventions and operational research into co-implementation of intervention packages will be crucial. . Image: Podoconiosis patient.
		Review Where are the parasites in food webs? Michael VK Sukhdeo Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:239 (23 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This review evaluates the techniques used in traditional food web studies (topology-based analyses) and finds that they are not appropriate to the study of parasitism. Alternate approaches from the perspective of parasites are presented, and it is argued that, because energy is the currency of all food web interactions, energetics will play a key role in our understanding. Image: Prevalence of an acanthocephalan parasite in different fish species is related to their feeding on the isopod intermediate host.
		Short report Insecticide susceptibility of Aedes aegypti populations from Senegal and Cape Verde Archipelago Ibrahima Dia, Cheikh Diagne, Yamar Ba, Diawo Diallo, Lassana Konate, Mawlouth Diallo Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:238 (22 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Following two concomitant dengue epidemics, the susceptibility of Aedes aegypti strains from Senegal and Cape Verde archipelago was studied using WHO diagnostic test kits. The two strains were highly resistant to DDT. The Cape Verde strain was susceptible to all other tested insecticides except for propoxur, which needs further investigation. The Dakar strain was susceptible to fenitrothion and permethrin, but displayed reduced susceptibility to deltamethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin and propoxur. Image: Oviposition trap for the collection of aquatic stages of Aedes aegypti.
		Research Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in slaughtered chickens, ducks, and geese in Shenyang, northeastern China Na Yang, Ming-Yang Mu, Hong-Kui Li, Miao Long, Jian-Bin He Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:237 (18 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The seroprevalences of Toxoplasma gondii were 5.8%, 7.8%, and 4.7% in slaughtered chickens, ducks, and geese, respectively, in northeastern China using the modified agglutination test (MAT), which raises public health concerns in this region. Image: Seroprevalence data from chicken, duck, and goose, the intermediate hosts of Toxoplasma gondii.
		Research Vector competence of Culicoides sonorensis (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) to epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus serotype 7 Mark G Ruder, Elizabeth W Howerth, David E Stallknecht, Andrew B Allison, Deborah L Carter, Barbara S Drolet, Eyal Klement, Daniel G Mead Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:236 (17 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The study demonstrates that Culicoides sonorensis, a known vector of epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) in the United States, is a competent vector of a cattle-virulent strain of EHDV-7 that is exotic to the US. Image: Blood fed Culicoides sonorensis (courtesy of Matt Lee).
		Research The effects of oviposition-site deprivation on Anopheles gambiae reproduction Kathryne L Dieter, Diana L Huestis, Tovi Lehmann Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:235 (16 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Even a short dry spell, resulting in oviposition site deprivation for several days, dramatically reduces the fecundity and fertility of the African malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae. Females that take supplemental blood meals regain reproductive success, however, they exacerbate malaria transmission during a short dry spell. Image: Reduction in fecundity and fertility following oviposition-site deprivation in Anopheles gambiae.
		Research Behavioural response of the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae to host plant volatiles and synthetic blends Vincent O Nyasembe, Peter EA Teal, Wolfgang R Mukabana, James H Tumlinson, Baldwyn Torto Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:234 (15 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The malaria vector Anopheles gambiae uses specific odours to locate host plants for nectar feeding. They use both quantitative and qualitative volatile composition to associate and discriminate host plants. Image: Female Anopheles gambiae imbibing on flowers of P. hysterophorus.
		Research The ecology of mosquitoes in an irrigated vegetable farm in Kumasi, Ghana: abundance, productivity and survivorship Yaw A Afrane, Bernard W Lawson, Ruth Brenya, Thomas Kruppa, Guiyun Yan Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:233 (15 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Vegetable farms in the city of Kumasi, Ghana, employ makeshift irrigation and create breeding sites for malaria mosquitoes. The water table in such areas is quite high and water seeps continuously from the ground. Image: Vegetable farming in Kumasi, Ghana creates hotspots for malaria transmission.
		Research Maintaining effective mass drug administration for lymphatic filariasis through in-process monitoring in Sierra Leone Mary H Hodges, Mustapha Sonnie, Hamid Turay, Abdulai Conteh, Florence MacCarthy, Santigie Sesay Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:232 (12 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Effective drug coverage in hard to reach locations was ensured during mass drug administration for lymphatic filariasis implemented outside the normal season of availability for community health volunteers.Image: Rapid urbanization during and since the war has out-grown former community and ethnic demarcations.
		Research Associations of passerine birds, rabbits, and ticks with Borrelia miyamotoi and Borrelia andersonii in Michigan, U.S.A. Sarah A Hamer, Graham J Hickling, Rich Keith, Jennifer L Sidge, Edward D Walker, Jean I Tsao Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:231 (11 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary We found two Borrelia spirochetes of potential emerging public health importance, Borrelia andersonii and Borrelia miyamotoi, in a wild bird and rabbit cryptic cycle maintained by Ixodes dentatus, a non-human biting tick vector. Image: Engorged tick on an eastern cottontail.
		Research Reconsideration of Anopheles rivulorum as a vector of Plasmodium falciparum in western Kenya: some evidence from biting time, blood preference, sporozoite positive rate, and pyrethroid resistance Hitoshi Kawada, Gabriel O Dida, George Sonye, Sammy M Njenga, Charles Mwandawiro, Noboru Minakawa Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:230 (10 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary We investigated the importance of Anopheles rivulorum as a Plasmodium falciparum vector in western Kenya and we strongly advocate reconsideration of the latent ability of this species as an epidemiologically important malaria vector. Image: Larva of Anopheles rivulorum.
		Research Ixodes scapularis saliva mitigates inflammatory cytokine secretion during Anaplasma phagocytophilum stimulation of immune cells Gang Chen, Maiara S Severo, Mohammad Sohail, Olivia S Sakhon, Stephen K Wikel, Michail Kotsyfakis, Joao HF Pedra Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:229 (10 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This study demonstrates that Ixodes scapularis saliva inhibits Toll-like (TLR) and Nod-like receptor (NLR) induced-inflammatory cytokine secretion by mouse and human immune cells. I. scapularis saliva also mitigates the cytokine response by macrophages during challenge with Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Image: Anaplasma phagocytophilum engulfed by macrophages [membranes (green), A. phagocytophilum (red), and nuclei (blue)]. Magnification is 600x4=2400.
		Book review Review of “Host manipulation by parasites ” by David P. Hughes, Jacques Brodeur and Frédéric Thomas Hilary Hurd Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:228 (10 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| Editor’s summary Each of the eleven chapters is followed by an aptly named afterword, almost all written by prominent experts on behavioural ecology rather than parasitology. These illuminating afterwords not only summarise and comment upon the preceding chapter but provide fresh insights into the particular topic. Image: Book cover.

	All
		Short report Mitochondrial peroxidase TPx-2 is not essential in the blood and insect stages of Plasmodium berghei Hirono Masuda-Suganuma, Miho Usui, Shinya Fukumoto, Noboru Inoue, Shin-ichiro Kawazu Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:252 (12 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The present findings suggests that mitochondrial Prx TPx-2 is not essential for the asexual and insect developmental stages of the malaria parasite, P. berghei.Image: Targeted disruption of the tpx-2 gene in P. berghei.
		Research Factors affecting deer ked (Lipoptena cervi) prevalence and infestation intensity in moose (Alces alces) in Norway Knut Madslien, Bjørnar Ytrehus, Hildegunn Viljugrein, Erling J Solberg, Kent Bråten, Atle Mysterud Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:251 (12 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Deer ked (Lipoptena cervi), a hematophagous ectoparasite of Cervids, is currently spreading in Scandinavia. We demonstrate infestation prevalence and intensity on moose (Alces alces) and habitat characteristics important for deer ked abundance on moose. Image: Adult deer ked clinging to moose guard hair.
		Research Molecular confirmation of the occurrence in Germany of Anopheles daciae (Diptera, Culicidae) Mandy Kronefeld, Marko Dittmann, Dorothee Zielke, Doreen Werner, Helge Kampen Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:250 (12 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary A molecular survey of the Maculipennis group of the culicid genus Anopheles, which includes former European malaria vectors, revealed the occurrence of Anopheles daciae, a newly described sibling species, in Germany. Image: Blood-fed Anopheles female of the Maculipennis group.
		Research Evidence for genetic differentiation at the microgeographic scale in Phlebotomus papatasi populations from Sudan Noteila M Khalid, Marium A Aboud, Fathi M Alrabba, Dia-Eldin A Elnaiem, Frederic Tripet Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:249 (12 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Microsatellites were used to study the population structure of Phlebotomus papatasi populations in Khartoum State, Sudan. Significant genetic differentiation was revealed among populations which have been attributed to the geographical isolation by the River Nile. Image: Distribution of Phlebotomus papatasi sandfly individuals, collected from different study sites, between two subpopulations (red and green) as predicted by the program STRUCTURE.
		Research Phylogenetic relationship of the Brazilian isolates of the rat lungworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis (Nematoda: Metastrongylidae) employing mitochondrial COI gene sequence data Tainá CC Monte, Raquel O Simões, Ana Paula M Oliveira, Clodoaldo F Novaes, Silvana C Thiengo, Alexandre J Silva, Pedro C Estrela, Arnaldo Júnior Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:248 (6 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary We report the genetic variability and phylogenetic relationship among A. cantonensis isolates from different geographical locations in Brazil using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences. Was observed two distinct haplotypes (ac5 and ac8) based on eight distinct haplotypes from a previous study and the divergent Brazilian haplotype named ac9. Image: Light microscopy of Angiostrongylus cantonensis (caudal bursa).
		Short report Distribution of Aedes albopictus (Diptera, Culicidae) in southwestern Pacific countries, with a first report from the Kingdom of Tonga Laurent Guillaumot, Reynold Ofanoa, Lucien Swillen, Narendra Singh, Hervé C Bossin, Francis Schaffner Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:247 (6 November 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary After two decades without new expansion in the Pacific region, the dengue and chikungunya mosquito vector Aedes albopictus is spreading again. It is now established in the Kingdom of Tonga. Image: Map of Tonga.
		Research Spatio-temporal occurrence of Culicoides biting midges in the climatic regions of Switzerland, along with large scale species identification by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry Christian Kaufmann, Irene C Steinmann, Daniel Hegglin, Francis Schaffner, Alexander Mathis Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:246 (31 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Biting midges were monitored in the 12 climatic regions of Switzerland over three years, revealing a low annual variation at the locations. MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry was used for high throughput identification to species level. Image: Female Culicoides of the Obsoletus group.
		Meeting report Key factors influencing canine heartworm, Dirofilaria immitis, in the United States Heidi E Brown, Laura C Harrington, Phillip E Kaufman, Tanja McKay, Dwight D Bowman, C Nelson, Dongmei Wang, Robert Lund Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:245 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary An examination of the Companion Animal Parasite Council¿s (CAPC) canine heartworm data to clarify the spatial prevalence of heartworm in the United States. Factors thought to influence the spatial risk of disease, as identified in a recent CAPC workshop, are discussed. Image: Spatially smoothed proportions of positive canine heartworm-antigen tests recorded by US veterinarians in 2011.
		Short report Merging species? Evidence for hybridization between the eel parasites Anguillicola crassus and A. novaezelandiae (Nematoda, Anguillicolidea) Daniel S Grabner, Kerstin C Dangel, Bernd Sures Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:244 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The nematodes Anguillicola crassus and A. novaezelandiae are both non-endemic parasites of the European eel. We demonstrated hybridization of both species in a laboratory infection experiment using microsatellite analysis of adults and offspring. Image: European eel.
		Research Detection of dengue group viruses by fluorescence in situ hybridization Vincent Raquin, Martin Wannagat, Karima Zouache, Catherine Legras-Lachuer, Claire Moro, Patrick Mavingui Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:243 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The virus tropism inside the vector is the basis of vectorial competence. Providing useful tools to monitor viruses in vector's cells and organs will help to understand mechanisms leading to disease emergence. Image: Aedes albopictus cells (nuclei in blue) infected by dengue virus (green).
		Research Defining parasite biodiversity at high latitudes of North America: new host and geographic records for Onchocerca cervipedis (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) in moose and caribou Guilherme G Verocai, Manigandan Lejeune, Kimberlee B Beckmen, Cyntia K Kashivakura, Alasdair M Veitch, Richard A Popko, Carmen Fuentealba, Eric P Hoberg, Susan J Kutz Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:242 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Onchocerca cervipedis is a filarial worm of North American wild ungulates. We demonstrated that its geographic range extends into subarctic regions, and it occurs in two new host subspecies. Climate change may affect vector dynamics, and thus, parasite abundance and distribution. Image: Onchocerca cervipedis in leg subcutaneous tissues of moose from Northwest Territories, Canada.
		Research Assessment of the genetic relationship between Dictyocaulus species from Bos taurus and Cervus elaphus using complete mitochondrial genomic datasets Robin B Gasser, Abdul Jabbar, Namitha Mohandas, Johan Höglund, Ross S Hall, D Timothy J Littlewood, Aaron R Jex Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:241 (30 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Complete mitochondrial genomic datasets were used to assess the genetic relationship between Dictyocaulus species from cattle and red deer, and also to predict barcodes for future population genetic and molecular epidemiological studies. Image: Mitochondrial genomes of Dictyocaulus spp. - relationships and sliding window analysis.
		Review The burden of neglected tropical diseases in Ethiopia, and opportunities for integrated control and elimination Kebede Deribe, Kadu Meribo, Teshome Gebre, Asrat Hailu, Ahmed Ali, Abraham Aseffa, Gail Davey Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:240 (24 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are significant public health problems in Ethiopia. Ethiopia stands out for having the largest number of NTD cases following Nigeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo in Sub-Saharan Africa. A third of Ethiopians are infected with ascariasis, one quarter is infected with trichuriasis and one in eight Ethiopians lives with hookworm or is infected with trachoma. To achieve success in integrated control of NTDs, integrated mapping, rapid scale-up of interventions and operational research into co-implementation of intervention packages will be crucial. . Image: Podoconiosis patient.
		Review Where are the parasites in food webs? Michael VK Sukhdeo Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:239 (23 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary This review evaluates the techniques used in traditional food web studies (topology-based analyses) and finds that they are not appropriate to the study of parasitism. Alternate approaches from the perspective of parasites are presented, and it is argued that, because energy is the currency of all food web interactions, energetics will play a key role in our understanding. Image: Prevalence of an acanthocephalan parasite in different fish species is related to their feeding on the isopod intermediate host.
		Short report Insecticide susceptibility of Aedes aegypti populations from Senegal and Cape Verde Archipelago Ibrahima Dia, Cheikh Diagne, Yamar Ba, Diawo Diallo, Lassana Konate, Mawlouth Diallo Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:238 (22 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Following two concomitant dengue epidemics, the susceptibility of Aedes aegypti strains from Senegal and Cape Verde archipelago was studied using WHO diagnostic test kits. The two strains were highly resistant to DDT. The Cape Verde strain was susceptible to all other tested insecticides except for propoxur, which needs further investigation. The Dakar strain was susceptible to fenitrothion and permethrin, but displayed reduced susceptibility to deltamethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin and propoxur. Image: Oviposition trap for the collection of aquatic stages of Aedes aegypti.
		Research Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in slaughtered chickens, ducks, and geese in Shenyang, northeastern China Na Yang, Ming-Yang Mu, Hong-Kui Li, Miao Long, Jian-Bin He Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:237 (18 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The seroprevalences of Toxoplasma gondii were 5.8%, 7.8%, and 4.7% in slaughtered chickens, ducks, and geese, respectively, in northeastern China using the modified agglutination test (MAT), which raises public health concerns in this region. Image: Seroprevalence data from chicken, duck, and goose, the intermediate hosts of Toxoplasma gondii.
		Research Vector competence of Culicoides sonorensis (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) to epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus serotype 7 Mark G Ruder, Elizabeth W Howerth, David E Stallknecht, Andrew B Allison, Deborah L Carter, Barbara S Drolet, Eyal Klement, Daniel G Mead Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:236 (17 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary The study demonstrates that Culicoides sonorensis, a known vector of epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus (EHDV) in the United States, is a competent vector of a cattle-virulent strain of EHDV-7 that is exotic to the US. Image: Blood fed Culicoides sonorensis (courtesy of Matt Lee).
		Research The effects of oviposition-site deprivation on Anopheles gambiae reproduction Kathryne L Dieter, Diana L Huestis, Tovi Lehmann Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:235 (16 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary Even a short dry spell, resulting in oviposition site deprivation for several days, dramatically reduces the fecundity and fertility of the African malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae. Females that take supplemental blood meals regain reproductive success, however, they exacerbate malaria transmission during a short dry spell. Image: Reduction in fecundity and fertility following oviposition-site deprivation in Anopheles gambiae.
		Research Behavioural response of the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae to host plant volatiles and synthetic blends Vincent O Nyasembe, Peter EA Teal, Wolfgang R Mukabana, James H Tumlinson, Baldwyn Torto Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:234 (15 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary The malaria vector Anopheles gambiae uses specific odours to locate host plants for nectar feeding. They use both quantitative and qualitative volatile composition to associate and discriminate host plants. Image: Female Anopheles gambiae imbibing on flowers of P. hysterophorus.
		Research The ecology of mosquitoes in an irrigated vegetable farm in Kumasi, Ghana: abundance, productivity and survivorship Yaw A Afrane, Bernard W Lawson, Ruth Brenya, Thomas Kruppa, Guiyun Yan Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:233 (15 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Vegetable farms in the city of Kumasi, Ghana, employ makeshift irrigation and create breeding sites for malaria mosquitoes. The water table in such areas is quite high and water seeps continuously from the ground. Image: Vegetable farming in Kumasi, Ghana creates hotspots for malaria transmission.
		Research Maintaining effective mass drug administration for lymphatic filariasis through in-process monitoring in Sierra Leone Mary H Hodges, Mustapha Sonnie, Hamid Turay, Abdulai Conteh, Florence MacCarthy, Santigie Sesay Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:232 (12 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary Effective drug coverage in hard to reach locations was ensured during mass drug administration for lymphatic filariasis implemented outside the normal season of availability for community health volunteers.Image: Rapid urbanization during and since the war has out-grown former community and ethnic demarcations.
		Research Associations of passerine birds, rabbits, and ticks with Borrelia miyamotoi and Borrelia andersonii in Michigan, U.S.A. Sarah A Hamer, Graham J Hickling, Rich Keith, Jennifer L Sidge, Edward D Walker, Jean I Tsao Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:231 (11 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary We found two Borrelia spirochetes of potential emerging public health importance, Borrelia andersonii and Borrelia miyamotoi, in a wild bird and rabbit cryptic cycle maintained by Ixodes dentatus, a non-human biting tick vector. Image: Engorged tick on an eastern cottontail.
		Research Reconsideration of Anopheles rivulorum as a vector of Plasmodium falciparum in western Kenya: some evidence from biting time, blood preference, sporozoite positive rate, and pyrethroid resistance Hitoshi Kawada, Gabriel O Dida, George Sonye, Sammy M Njenga, Charles Mwandawiro, Noboru Minakawa Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:230 (10 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Cited on BioMed Central \| Editor’s summary We investigated the importance of Anopheles rivulorum as a Plasmodium falciparum vector in western Kenya and we strongly advocate reconsideration of the latent ability of this species as an epidemiologically important malaria vector. Image: Larva of Anopheles rivulorum.
		Research Ixodes scapularis saliva mitigates inflammatory cytokine secretion during Anaplasma phagocytophilum stimulation of immune cells Gang Chen, Maiara S Severo, Mohammad Sohail, Olivia S Sakhon, Stephen K Wikel, Michail Kotsyfakis, Joao HF Pedra Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:229 (10 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| PubMed \| Editor’s summary This study demonstrates that Ixodes scapularis saliva inhibits Toll-like (TLR) and Nod-like receptor (NLR) induced-inflammatory cytokine secretion by mouse and human immune cells. I. scapularis saliva also mitigates the cytokine response by macrophages during challenge with Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Image: Anaplasma phagocytophilum engulfed by macrophages [membranes (green), A. phagocytophilum (red), and nuclei (blue)]. Magnification is 600x4=2400.
		Book review Review of “Host manipulation by parasites ” by David P. Hughes, Jacques Brodeur and Frédéric Thomas Hilary Hurd Parasites & Vectors 2012, 5:228 (10 October 2012) Abstract \| Full text \| PDF \| Editor’s summary Each of the eleven chapters is followed by an aptly named afterword, almost all written by prominent experts on behavioural ecology rather than parasitology. These illuminating afterwords not only summarise and comment upon the preceding chapter but provide fresh insights into the particular topic. Image: Book cover.