As a 3rd generation Southern Italian, the 'catfish' sign is known by us as "the maloikees." It's not a curse, but merely a defensive position against the Evil Eye. If someone gives you the Evil Eye, or admires your baby without saying "God Bless her/him" then you give them the maloikees to counteract the Evil Eye. BTW a small charm representing the maloikees is a popular thing to wear around your neck, to constantly protect you against the Devil (or Balor, ha ha) and his Evil Eye. As for the Mudcat handshake, there's always the blinking oscillating knarleys! Not many people know about them...

--Mbo