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Abstract: Fasciolosis is an emerging or reemerging human and animal disease in numerous parts of the world. In Galicia (NW, Spain), the wild boar (Sus scrofa) is the main wild ungulate in terms of abundance and distribution. Its population has continuously increased over the past decades and this population growth has been accompanied by a reduction of habitats, so that the wild boar populations encroach more and more frequently onto agricultural lands. The increase of the interface area between livestock and the wild boars frequently involves the sharing of pastures and water sources, so that the circulation of common pathogens is propitiated. This is the first report concerning the importance of the wild boar as a possible reservoir of Fasciola hepatica infection in Spain. Livers from 358 hunted wild boars were analyzed showing that 11.2% were parasitized by F. hepatica, with burdens ranging from 1 to 14 flukes (mean=2.3). Fecal analysis demonstrated that 40.0% of parasitized animals shed F. hepatica eggs with a mean excretion of 6.1 eggs per gram of feces (epg). The presence of coproantigens analyzed by MM3-COPRO ELISA was positive in 62.9% of infected wild boars. After incubation, the percentage of hatched eggs ranged between 41.0% and 90.0% suggesting that the wild boar is very likely to contribute to the environmental contamination with viable parasite eggs. Comparative morphometric data were obtained using a computer image analysis system (CIAS) on the basis of standardized measurements. F. hepatica from cattle, sheep and wild boars from the same geographical area presents a similar body development and gravidity. Our study shows for the first time that the F. hepatica uterus from the wild boar presents an intermediate size between that found in primary reservoir hosts such as cattle and sheep, i.e., the individual potential egg output capacity of the wild boar does not greatly differ from that detected in Galician livestock. These results show that F. hepatica in Galicia has a normal development in wild boars, presenting its own characteristics in shape and size in comparison with other host species. The high prevalence of infection detected in the wild boar, the normal fluke development in the liver, and the possibility of shedding F. hepatica eggs capable of embryonating and giving rise to viable miracidia with the potential to infect intermediate hosts suggest a possible role of this species as a secondary reservoir in this Spanish region. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The aim of this work is to know the prevalence of Fasciola hepatica in 301 roe deer and in 676 beef cattle kept in an endemic area. Detection of antibodies was determined in roe deer using a homemade ELISA with excretory/secretory antigens (FhES) and a recombinant protein (FhrAPS). None of the deer passed eggs by faeces and none flukes in their livers were found. The seroprevalence of F. hepatica was 29% using FhES, with significantly higher values in the oldest ones (36%). Twenty-eight percent of the samples were positive to FhrAPS. Twenty-three percent of the cows eliminated eggs of F. hepatica and the seroprevalence was 67% using FhrAPS. No relationship between the seropositivity values of deer and cattle was demonstrated. The role of wild ruminants as reservoirs of F. hepatica is discussed. We encourage the use of ELISA to know the possibility of exposure to trematodes in wild ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The present report describes the reappearance of Taenia ovis krabbei in a roe deer from Denmark after more than 60 years. The cysticerci were isolated from the thigh muscle of the deer, and the diagnosis was based on histostological analysis, morphology of the rostellar-hooks as well as molecular typing of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I (cox1) gene. The exact definitive host was not revealed in this report, but domestic dogs may play a role of the definitive host in the area. This finding is of concern to hunters and deer meat producers, since the infected meat is usually condemned due to esthetic reasons. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Hares are important game species in Europe and their meat is consumed by humans. Toxoplasmosis is an important cause of mortality in hares in Nordic countries but little is known of Toxoplasma gondii infection in the Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis). Sera from 298 Iberian hares from Navarra (North Spain) were assayed for antibodies against T. gondii by the modified agglutination test. The samples were collected at necropsy during three consecutive years (2009–2011). Titers of 1:25 and higher were found in 34 hares (11.4%; CI95%: 7.8–14.9). Significant differences in seroprevalence were observed among geographical areas, years of sampling and age groups. The highest seroprevalence and the highest titers were observed in 2009, indicating fluctuating rates of transmission. Significantly higher seroprevalence was observed in the juvenile age group compared to the adult hare group. More than 40% of juvenile hares were seropositive the first year of study, seroprevalence drastically decreased in the juvenile animals sampled in the second year and was negligible in those sampled in the third year in this group. No clinical cases were detected in the study area and T. gondii was not detected by PCR in the liver of the 34 seropositive hares tested. These data may indicate that most juvenile seropositive hares did not survive as adults in the consecutive year or that there is a short-term humoral immune response against T. gondii in Iberian hares. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Blood samples and ticks were collected from 100 shepherd dogs, 12 hunting dogs and 14 stray dogs in southern Hungary, in order to screen them for the presence of Hepatozoon spp. by PCR. Out of 126 blood samples, 33 were positive (26%). Significantly more shepherd dogs (31%) were infected, than hunting (8%) and stray dogs (7%). Three genotypes of Hepatozoon canis were identified by sequencing, differing from each other in up to six nucleotides in the amplified portion of their 18S rRNA gene. In Dermacentor marginatus larvae/nymphs and Dermacentor reticulatus nymphs, H. canis was present only if they had been collected from PCR-positive dogs, and the genotypes were identical in the ticks and their hosts. However, two Haemaphysalis concinna nymphs removed from a PCR-negative dog were found positive for H. canis, and the genotype detected in specimens of this tick species differed from that in the blood of their respective hosts. These results indicate that canine hepatozoonosis may be highly prevalent in regions where Rhipicephalus sanguineus is considered to be non-endemic. In addition, H. canis was identified for the first time in Hungary, as well as in D. marginatus, D. reticulatus and Ha. concinna ticks. Canine hepatozoonosis was significantly more prevalent west of the Danube river (where higher densities of red fox and golden jackal populations occur), suggesting a role of wild carnivores in its epidemiology. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Intestinal contents of 218 roe deer hunted in the northwest (NW) of the Iberian Peninsula during the 2008–2009 hunting seasons were examined in order to provide information on the gastrointestinal (GI) nematode prevalence and intensity of infection and the possible influence of some environmental and intrinsic factors such as climatic conditions, age and sex. All the animals studied harboured GI nematodes, and a total of 20 different species belonging to ten genera were identified. Spiculopteragia spiculoptera/Spiculopteragia mathevossiani, Ostertagia leptospicularis/Ostertagia kolchida and Nematodirus filicollis were the most common. This is the first citation for Chabertia ovina, Cooperia pectinata, Cooperia punctata, Cooperia oncophora, Haemonchus contortus, Nematodirus spathiger, Oesophagostomum venulosum, Teladorsagia trifurcata, Trichostrongylus capricola, Trichostrongylus colubriformis, Trichostrongylus vitrinus and Trichuris capreoli in roe deer from the Iberian Peninsula. Prevalence and intensity were significantly higher in the abomasum, where infections with more than one GI nematode species were the most common; in the other intestinal segments infections with only one GI nematode species were the most prevalent. When considering the influence of the different risk factors on the prevalence of GI nematodes, the highest prevalence for most of the genera were observed in roe deer from coastal areas, where climatic conditions are more favourable for the development and survival of third stage larvae in the environment. Regarding the sex of the animals, the prevalence was, in general, higher in males than in females, probably due to behavioural and physiological sex-related differences. On the contrary, no differences were found in relation to the age of the animals. This study reveals that roe deer from the NW of the Iberian Peninsula are widely and intensely infected with gastrointestinal nematodes, which probably affect the health status of these ungulates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The prevalence of piroplasm (order Piroplasmida) infection was assessed in blood and bone marrow samples from 91 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from northern, central and southern Portugal by means of molecular methods. PCR for the 18S rRNA gene of Babesia spp. followed by sequencing revealed 63 foxes positive for the Babesia microti-like piroplasm (syn. Theileria annae) (69.2%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 58.7–78.5%) and one fox positive for Babesia canis (1.1%; 95% CI: 0.0–6.0%). Positivity to the B. microti-like piroplasm or B. canis in 43 blood samples (83.7%) was significantly higher (p <0.001) than in 43 paired bone marrow samples (20.9%). There were no statistically significant differences in the prevalence of infection between genders (p =0.219) or age groups (<2 years vs. ≥2 years) (p =1.0). This is the first report of the B. microti-like piroplasm in foxes from Portugal as well as the first report on detection by PCR and genotyping of B. canis in a red fox worldwide. A natural cycle of the B. microti-like piroplasm is suggested in red fox populations based on the high prevalence of the protozoan. Red foxes might be a reservoir of the B. microti-like piroplasm and a source of infection to dogs. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The sucking louse Haematopinus tuberculatus (Burmeister 1839) is an ectoparasite of buffaloes, cattle, camels, and American bison. Alphacypermethrin (ACYP) is a pyrethroid insecticide commonly used to control arthropods of veterinary and public health interest. Therapeutics, such as antiparasitic compounds, is often administered to buffaloes based on dosage and intervals recommended for cattle because very few drugs have buffalo-specific label indications. A trial was conducted on 20 louse-infested buffaloes at a farm to assess the efficacy and safety of ACYP pour-on, at the manufacturer's recommended dose for cattle, on buffaloes naturally infested by H. tuberculatus. Ten animals were assigned to ACYP-treated group (ACYP-group) and ten to untreated control group (C-group). On day 0, all ACYP-group buffaloes received alphacypermethrin pour-on. Louse counts were performed on days −1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 42, 49, and 56 at eight predilection sites on the skin of each buffalo. ACYP was completely effective (100 %) at day 7, highly effective (99.8 %) at day 14, and completely effective (100 %) from day 21 until the end of the study (day 56 post-treatment). During the trial, ACYP was well tolerated by all animals as there were no observed clinically adverse reactions. The results of this trial suggest that ACYP is an effective, safe, and user-friendly compound suitable for treatment of buffaloes with natural louse infestations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infectious diseases pose one of the greatest threats to endangered species, and a risk of gastrointestinal parasite transmission from humans to wildlife has always been considered as a major concern of tourism. Increased anthropogenic impact on primate populations may result in general changes in communities of their parasites, and also in a direct exchange of parasites between humans and primates. Aims: To evaluate the impact of close contact with humans on the occurrence of potentially zoonotic protists in great apes, we conducted a long-term monitoring of microsporidia, Cryptosporidium and Giardia infections in western lowland gorillas at different stages of the habituation process, humans, and other wildlife in Dzanga-Sangha Protected Areas in the Central African Republic. Results: We detected Encephalitozoon cuniculi genotypes I and II (7.5%), Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotype D and three novel genotypes (gorilla 1–3) (4.0%), Giardia intestinalis subgroup A II (2.0%) and Cryptosporidium bovis (0.5%) in gorillas, whereas in humans we found only G. intestinalis subgroup A II (2.1%). In other wild and domestic animals we recorded E. cuniculi genotypes I and II (2.1%), G. intestinalis assemblage E (0.5%) and C. muris TS03 (0.5%). Conclusion: Due to the non-specificity of E. cuniculi genotypes we conclude that detection of the exact source of E. cuniculi infection is problematic. As Giardia intestinalis was recorded primarily in gorilla groups with closer human contact, we suggest that human-gorilla transmission has occurred. We call attention to a potentially negative impact of habituation on selected pathogens which might occur as a result of the more frequent presence of humans in the vicinity of both gorillas under habituation and habituated gorillas, rather than as a consequence of the close contact with humans, which might be a more traditional assumption. We encourage to observe the sections concerning hygiene from the IUCN best practice guidelines for all sites where increased human-gorilla contact occurs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes a cross-sectional study in buffaloes of district Toba Tek Singh from April, 2009 to March, 2010 which aimed to identify prevalent species of Eimeria (E) and risk factors associated with subclinical coccidiosis. Overall prevalence of Eimeria in buffaloes was 49.6%. Six species of Eimeria were identified in total infected buffaloes. E. bovis was the commonest one among the species identified during survey followed in order by E. zuernii, E. canadensis, E. ellipsoidalis, E. alabamensis and E. cylindrica. Peak prevalence was observed in August. Wet season was found favorable for Eimeria. Odds of finding oocysts were higher in young stock and females (P<0.05) as compared to those of adults and males respectively. Among management and husbandry practices, five variables were found significantly associated with status. These included housing system, feeding system, watering system, floor type and herd size. Open housing system, trough feeding, tap watering, partially cemented floor type and smaller herds showed protective effect against coccidiosis with Odds of detection being higher in closed housing system, ground feeding, pond watering, non-cemented floor type and larger herd size, respectively. Body condition and breed of buffaloes were not found associated with prevalence of Eimeria. Value of feeding in troughs, provision of clean tap water, cementing floor of farms in reducing the extent of infection should be communicated to farmers. Appropriate monitoring and control of the disease is advisable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aphanomyces astaci, the crayfish plague pathogen, first appeared in Europe in the mid-19th century and is still responsible for mass mortalities of native European crayfish. The spread of this parasite across the continent is especially facilitated by invasive North American crayfish species that serve as its reservoir. In France, multiple cases of native crayfish mortalities have been suggested to be connected with the presence of the signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus, which is highly abundant in the country. It shares similar habitats as the native white-clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes and, when infected, the signal crayfish might therefore easily transmit the pathogen to the native species. We investigated the prevalence of A. astaci in French signal crayfish populations to evaluate the danger they represent to local populations of native crayfish. Over 500 individuals of Pacifastacus leniusculus from 45 French populations were analysed, plus several additional individuals of other non-indigenous crayfish species Orconectes limosus, O. immunis and Procambarus clarkii. Altogether, 20% of analysed signal crayfish tested positive for Aphanomyces astaci, and the pathogen was detected in more than half of the studied populations. Local prevalence varied significantly, ranging from 0% up to 80%, but wide confidence intervals suggest that the number of populations infected by A. astaci may be even higher than our results show. Analysis of several individuals of other introduced species revealed infections among two of these, O. immunis and P. clarkii. Our results confirm that the widespread signal crayfish serves as a key reservoir of Aphanomyces astaci in France and therefore represents a serious danger to native crayfish species, especially the white-clawed crayfish. The prevalence in other non-indigenous crayfish should also be investigated as they likely contribute to pathogen transmission in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article deals with a study which conducted morphological and molecular characterization of Explanatum explanatum from cattle and buffaloes in Myanmar. Topics discussed include the morphometric values obtained from morphological measurements, the results of molecular analysis performed on the 55 amphistomes, and information on two additional species of the genus Explanatum.

Hypodermosis is an endemic disease in semi-hilly and mountainous areas of Pakistan. Keeping in view the importance of buffaloes an epidemiological survey was conducted to determine the prevalence of hypodermosis in district Jhelum Punjab, Pakistan, during the year 2010-2011. Out of 1000 buffaloes examined clinically in the study area, 32 (3.2%) found to be positive for the warble fly infestation. The number of nodules in the infested animals ranged from 1-5 (2.7±1.1). There were significant differences (P<0.05) in the prevalence of Hypoderma spp. when the sex, age and different geographic areas were considered. The Prevalence was higher in males and young animals and also in those animals grazing in hilly and semi-hilly areas. The climatic conditions (temperature, humidity, sunshine and wind speed) favoured the warble fly activity and contributed in the onset of disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was undertaken on clinico-biochemical status in healthy and naturally infected buffaloes with fasciolosis and its therapeutic management through different anthelmintic combination. TSP, albumin, globulin and A/G ratio were found to be reduced as compared to healthy, whereas SGOT and SGPT were found to be significantly higher in infected buffaloes. Recovery was observed in different clinico-biochemical parameters on treatment with combination of oxyclozanide and albendazole @ 15 mg/kg.b.wt., followed by oxyclozanide + tetramisole and oxyclozanide alone. It is also revealed that apart from chemotherapy, supportive therapy helped in speedy recovery of different biochemical parameters and in gaining normal health after elimination of parasite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Bovine besnoitiosis, caused by Besnoitia besnoiti, is considered to be emergent in Europe and responsible for severe economic losses due to the chronic and debilitating course of the disease but has not been reported in North America. Besnoitia tarandi is a related species and it has been reported in reindeer and caribou from different locations of the Arctic Pole, including North America. Diagnosis of clinical besnoitiosis is largely based on the recognition of dermal grossly visible tissue cysts of Besnoitia. Nothing is known of cross reactivity between B. besnoiti and B. tarandi species. Here, we evaluated the use of serological tests employed in the diagnosis of bovine besnoitiosis for the detection of Besnoitia spp. infections in different wild ruminant species (caribou, elk, mule-deer, white-tailed deer, moose, muskox and bison) from Canada and investigated cross-reactivity between B. besnoiti and B. tarandi species by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test and Western blot. For this, species-specific antibodies were obtained in rabbits experimentally infected with B. besnoiti and B. tarandi. Marked cross reactivity was found between B. besnoiti and B. tarandi. For the first time, antibodies to Besnoitia spp. infection were found in 16 of 20 caribou (Ranginfer tarandus), seven of 18 muskox (Ovibos moschatus), one of three bison (Bison bison), but not in 20 elk (Cervus canadensis), 20 white tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and 20 moose (Alces alces) in Canada; results were similar using B. besnoiti and B. tarandi as antigen. There was no cross reactivity between the two Besnoitia species, Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii with the cut-offs applied that prevented to observe it. The present study provides evidence that the serological assays can be useful to accomplish large scale prevalence studies in caribou and other wildlife species. Further studies are needed to study sylvatic and domestic cycle of B tarandi and B. besnoiti. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Little is known about gastrointestinal parasite infections in large carnivores in Africa and what is available is largely from East Africa. We collected faecal samples from nine spotted hyaenas (Crocuta crocuta), 15 lions (Panthera leo) and 13 African wild dog (Lycaon pictus) from Luangwa Valley, Zambia. The most common gastrointestinal parasites found were Isospora spp., Spirometra sp., Taeniidae and Sarcosystis spp. Twenty-eight per cent of all samples were co-infected with Spirometra sp. and Taeniidae, with co-infection rates highest among lions (67%). Thirty-three per cent (3/9) of spotted hyaenas were infected with Isospora sp. Ninety-two per cent (12/13) of wild dog were infected with Sarcocystis, similar to results from studies in South Africa. One lion was infected with a parasite whose morphology suggested Strongyloides sp., not previously been reported in lions. Samples from one lion and two spotted hyaenas yielded no gastrointestinal parasites. Overall, parasite species were consistent with those found from studies in other regions of Africa and are likely a result of ingesting infected prey. To our knowledge this study provides the most comprehensive survey of gastrointestinal parasite infection in large carnivores from this region of Africa to date and provides baseline data for future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the safety and efficiency of emamectin benzoate for the treatment of Anguillicoloides crassus infections in American eels. The study used 54 eels which were randomly divided into one group of 24 eels and two groups of 15 eels each to receive varying treatments of emamectin benzoate. Results show that single administration of the chemical is safe for the subjects and is enough to kill A. crassus in the infected eels' swim bladder.

Copyright of Revista de Investigaciones Veterinarias del Peru is the property of Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMSM) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Co-infecting parasite genotypes typically compete for host resources limiting their fitness. The intensity of such competition depends on whether parasites are reproducing in a host, or using it primarily as a transmission vehicle while not multiplying in host tissues (referred to as ‘competition hypothesis’). Alternatively, simultaneous attack and co-infection by several parasite genotypes might facilitate parasite infection because such a diverse attack could present an additional challenge to host immune defence (referred to as ‘facilitation hypothesis’). We tested the competition hypothesis by comparing the production of transmission stages (cercariae) from snails infected with one or two genotypes of the trematode Diplostomum pseudospathaceum. We found that cercarial production did not differ between the two groups of snails, suggesting lower per genotype production in double infections, and competition for host resources. Second, we tested the facilitation hypothesis by comparing parasite infection success on fishes (proportion of parasites establishing in the host) using cercariae originating from single-infected snails, double-infected snails and artificial mixtures of the single genotypes. In both cases, we found higher infection success when fishes were challenged with two parasite genotypes instead of one, supporting the facilitation hypothesis. Our results suggest that constraints defining the success of multiple genotype infections in parasites with multiple host life cycles include both between-genotype resource competition in the host and performance of host immune defences against a diverse parasite challenge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the disease surveillance report of SAC Consulting: Veterinary Services (SAC C VS) for July 2011 in Scotland. It states that the nitrate and copper poisoning were the differential diagnoses on the death of a three-year-old Holstein-Friesian cow. It also says that a group of six-month old Holstein-Friesian was diagnosed with type 1 ostertagiosis parasitic disease. Moreover, it adds the diagnosed systematic mycosis in a four-month-old Belgian blue cross Heifer of Ayr.

Abstract: Taenia tapeworms of Finnish and Swedish wolves (Canis lupus) and Finnish brown bears (Ursus arctos), and muscle cysticerci of Svalbard reindeer (Rangifer tarandus platyrhynchus), Alaskan Grant''s caribou (Rangifer tarandus granti) and Alaskan moose (Alces americanus) were identified on the basis of the nucleotide sequence of a 396bp region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene. Two species were found from wolves: Taenia hydatigena and Taenia krabbei. The cysticerci of reindeer, caribou and one moose also represented T. krabbei. Most of the cysticercal specimens from Alaskan moose, however, belonged to an unknown T. krabbei-like species, which had been reported previously from Eurasian elks (Alces alces) from Finland. Strobilate stages from two bears belonged to this species as well. The present results suggest that this novel Taenia sp. has a Holarctic distribution and uses Alces spp. as intermediate and ursids as final hosts. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In June 2009, 27 guinea pigs kept at an animal petting facility at a zoo in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, were observed to scratch intensely, weaken, and develop lesions. Three sarcoptiform mites were found in skin scrapings taken from affected areas of 2 guinea pigs, and they were identified as Trixacurus caviae by morphological examination. This result confirmed the presence of T. caviae in Japan. For treatment, doses of 13.6-18.75 mg/head of selamectin were administered in a topical preparation applied to a single spot on the skin on the back of the neck, and no side effects were observed. In April 2010, a second outbreak of mange occurred at the zoo, and, following investigation, 2 mite eggs were observed. It was, therefore, thought probable that the mites had survived during the winter within nonclinical carriers. Accordingly, doses of 5.0-7.5 mg/head of selamectin were applied on days 0 and 28, after which clinical symptoms disappeared and general condition improved. This dose of selamectin was thus shown to be a suitable and economical treatment for guinea pigs infested with the mites. Because the mite is not always easily observed in infested guinea pigs and the potential for human infestation exists, clinicians should not hesitate to treat when the clinical presentation suggests infestation, particularly in a setting such as an animal petting facility, where large numbers of children and adults have direct contact with the animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A total of 26,220 foxes that were hunted or found dead in Thuringia, Germany, between 1990 and 2009 were examined for infection with Echinococcus multilocularis, the causative agent of human alveolar echinococcosis, and 6853 animals were found infected. The available data on the foxes including the location (local community; district) and the date of hunting/death were analyzed using a hierarchical Bayesian space–time model. The distribution of the model parameters and their variability was estimated on the basis of the sample size, the number of cases per spatial unit and time interval, and an adjacency matrix of the municipalities using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo simulation technique to assess the spatial and temporal changes in the distribution of the parasite. The model used to evaluate the data is widely applicable and can be applied to analyse data sets with gaps and variable sample sizes per spatial and temporal unit. In the study area, the prevalence of E. multilocularis increased from 11.9% (95% confidence interval 9.9–14.0%) in 1990 to 42.0% (39.1–44.1%) in 2005. While the infection was present in foxes only in the north-western parts of Thuringia in 1990, it had spread over the entire state by 2004. These results demand increased vigilance for human alveolar echinococcosis in Thuringia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Toxoplasmosis is the major parasitic disease affecting sheep. It is important for veterinary medicine, animal science and public health since it causes reproductive and economic losses in the herd, as well as damaging human health due to consumption of contaminated meat and milk, which can facilitate zoonotic transmission. Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in ovine milk and lack of data in the literature describing differentiation between acute and chronic disease for this species stimulated the elaboration of the present research project. To achieve the aim of this study, the animals were allocated to two groups of 20 ewes each, of which group 1 was composed of animals with positive serology and group 2 with negative serology. Acute and chronic stages of the disease were differentiated by modified direct agglutination test (MAT), in which antigens were fixed with formalin (MAT-AF) and methanol (MAT-AM). The parasite was detected in milk by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the molecular identity of the amplified products was confirmed by sequencing. The serological results indicated that sheep had a chronic infection profile. T. gondii DNA was detected in seven milk samples from five seropositive sheep, and twice in milk of two sheep. Sequences of species shared 97–100% identity with T. gondii. These findings allowed the hypothesis that the peripartum period may also lead to the resurgence of tissue T. gondii tachyzoites cysts which can circulate again and be excreted in the milk. This study used sheep naturally infected with T. gondii as a prerequisite for further investigations on the possible participation of this species in toxoplasmosis epidemiology and as a potential transmission route related to consumption of milk from infected sheep. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A study was carried out to determine the point prevalence of various helminths of cattle and buffalo population of district Toba Tek Singh, Pakistan and economic benefits of deworming with oxyclozanide. Out of 540 fecal samples examined, 205 (37.96%) were found infected with helminths. Significantly higher (OR=2.2; P<0.05) prevalence of helminths was recorded in buffaloes (40%; 112/280) as compared to cattle (35.77%; 93/260). Oesophagostomum, Cooperia, Trichostrongylus, Strongyloide, Ostertagia, Fasciola (F.) hepatica, F. gigantica and Haemonchus contortus were the helminth species identified in the study area. Oxyclozanide medicated buffaloes (E=96.66%) and cattle (E=95.64%) showed a significant decrease in fecal egg counts on day 14 post-treatment. An average daily increase of 0.89 and 0.71 liters of milk along with 0.42 and 0.37% more fat per buffalo and cattle, respectively was observed in oxyclozanide medication. The economic value of reduced production of infected animals was estimated as US$ 0.47 (Pak Rupees 40) and US$ 0.41 (Pak Rupees 35) per animal per day for cattle and buffaloes, respectively. It can be concluded that single dose of oxyclozanide is effective against all bovine helminths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Trypanosoma evansi, the causative organism of ‘surra’ expresses its variable surface glycoprotein (VSG) at early, middle and late stages of infection in animals. The variable antigenic nature of VSG caused by switching its expression type favours evasion from the host immune response and leads to chronic and persistent infection. Developing a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic tool targeting the VSG gene is expected to be highly specific and sensitive for diagnosis of surra. Hence, in the present study, we have designed EXP3F/4R primer pair and amplified the 1.4kb of VSG gene of T. evansi and studied the phylogenetic relationship by in silico analysis. The PCR method was standardised using another set of primer, DITRYF/R, and 400bp was amplified from blood and tissue samples of experimentally infected animals. Applying the PCR method, we were able to detect as low as 0.15trypanosomeml−1. Considering the number of parasite-to-DNA concentration, the PCR method has a sensitivity of 0.015pgml−1. The PCR could detect the presence of the parasite as early as 24h post-infection (p.i.) and 72h p.i., respectively, in experimentally infected rats and buffalo. No amplification was observed with DNA of Babesia bigemina and Theileria annulata, indicating the primers are specific for T. evansi. The PCR method could detect the dog, lion and leopard isolates of T. evansi. Similarly, amplifying the DNA from the experimentally infected tissues was also found to be sensitive. Thus, the findings of this study favour the application of PCR over the parasitological methods for the detection of the early and/or chronic stage of surra in domestic and wild animals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The role of horses in the transmission of parasitic zoonoses either as a source of infection to vectors or through contamination of definitive hosts is gaining importance worldwide. For this reason sera from 773 equids including 753 horses, 13 mules and seven ponies in four regions of Greece were investigated by ELISA for the presence of IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma, Leishmania, Echinococcus and Trichinella. Anti-Toxoplasma antibodies were detected in all regions with an overall prevalence of 1.8%. In contrast, antibodies to Leishmania, Echinococcus, and Trichinella were present only in horses from the equestrian centre located in Attica region, but the status of Trichinella could not be confirmed. The seroprevalence of infection was 0.3% for Leishmania, 0.1% for Echinococcus and 0.1% for Trichinella. Only one horse was positive with a mixed infection of Toxoplasma, Leishmania and Trichinella. The following host characteristics were investigated for any significant effects on the prevalence of Toxoplasma infection: gender, age, species, origin of birth, activity, and location. The type of activity (p <0.05) and location (p <0.01) of the animals were found to be significant risk factors for Toxoplasma infection. The relative risk (RR) for Toxoplasma infection comparing the regions of Peloponnese and Thessaly to Attica were 6.92 and 6.78, respectively. Due to the very low prevalence of Echinococcus, Leishmania, and Trichinella infections, the associated risk factors were not analysed. The low seroprevalences observed suggest that the risk of infection from equids to people is very low, especially when consumption of horse meat is uncommon in this country. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background. Asian pangasiids (Actinopterygii: Siluriformes: Pangasiidae), commonly referred to as "panga", have recently became an important item on the European fish markets. The fish are currently imported from south-east Asia but the growing consumers' demand is likely to motivate European fish growers to culture the "panga" locally. This in turn could bring about unforeseeable consequences for the aquatic environment. The presently reported study provides the first record of a pangasiid fish (two specimens) from the European natural waters. We attempted to identify the fish through complex morphometric procedures and to study all their parasites, thus determining their potential threat for the environment. Materials and Methods. Two specimens of pangasiid fish were captured in a pond, in the city of Szczecin, Poland. The fish were examined following procedures commonly accepted in morphological studies yielding detailed measurements. The key structures were described and illustrated (e.g., the shape of dentition on both the vomerine and palatine plates). The measurements were taken with an electronic calliper and a dissecting microscope (Nikon SMZ 1000), coupled with the Lucia Measurement System. Additionally, during necropsy, selected organs were checked for the presence of parasites. Results. One of the fish specimens hosted the monogenoid parasite, Thaparocleidus caecus, that has never been found in Europe. Metric and meristic characters of fish studied, as well as the presence of monogenoid T. caecus suggest that the fish found were representatives of Pangasianodon hypophthalmus, however, some features, especially those related to the ratio between fins and body or total length, differ markedly from the species description. Comparative analysis suggested that the two specimens collected in Szczecin are hybrids, most likely of P. hypophthalmus with other species, of unknown origin, presumably imported from Thailand. Conclusion. The specific identity of pangasiids imported alive to Europe should be monitored in the future. Additional genetic studies are needed. The monogenoid parasite found on the fish studied poses no threat to the native ichthyofauna (because of its very narrow host-specificity). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hookworms are intestinal blood-feeding nematodes that parasitize and cause high levels of mortality in a wide range of mammals, including otariid pinnipeds. Recently, an empirical study showed that inbreeding (assessed by individual measures of multi-locus heterozygosity) is associated with hookworm-related mortality of California sea lions. If inbreeding increases susceptibility to hookworms, effects would expectedly be stronger in small, fragmented populations. We tested this assumption in the New Zealand sea lion, a threatened otariid that has low levels of genetic variability and high hookworm infection rates. Using a panel of 22 microsatellites, we found that average allelic diversity (5.9) and mean heterozygosity (0.72) were higher than expected for a small population with restricted breeding, and we found no evidence of an association between genetic variability and hookworm resistance. However, similar to what was observed for the California sea lion, homozygosity at a single locus explained the occurrence of anaemia and thrombocytopenia in hookworm-infected pups (generalized linear model, F = 11.81, p < 0.001) and the effect was apparently driven by a particular allele (odds ratio = 34.95%; CI: 7.12–162.41; p < 0.00001). Our study offers further evidence that these haematophagus parasites exert selective pressure on otariid blood-clotting processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  This study was conducted to assess the pattern of changes and the relative value of acute phase proteins (haptoglobin (Hp), serum amyloid A (SAA), ceruloplasmin and fibrinogen) in bovine tropical theileriosis. The diseased group comprised 50 dairy Holstein cattle, 2−3 years old, naturally infected with Theileria annulata. Infected animals were divided into four subgroups with different parasitemia rates (5%). As a control group, 20 uninfected cattle were also sampled. Blood samples were collected and all measurements were done using validated methods. There were significant differences in red blood cells (RBCs), packed cell volume (PCV), hemoglobin (Hb) and concentrations of Hp, SAA, ceruloplasmin and fibrinogen between healthy cattle and those infected with T. annulata with different parasitemia rates (P 5.68 μg/ml for SAA, >0.16 g/l for Hp, >0.064 g/l for ceruloplasmin and >4.00 g/l for fibrinogen with corresponding 84% sensitivity and 100% specificity for SAA, 76% sensitivity and 100% specificity for Hp, 84% sensitivity and 80% specificity for ceruloplasmin and 40% sensitivity and 100% specificity for fibrinogen. SAA had the highest sensitivity and specificity and was diagnosed to be a suitable indicator of APPs changes in bovine theileriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract  Utilizing groups of cograzed, naturally infected beef-type heifers, three fecal egg count reduction tests were conducted in the later months of 2007 at the University of Arkansas. Each test was 28 days in length consisting of individual animal fecal nematode egg counts and coprocultures. Both original and generic ivermectin injectable formulations were used in two of the tests at 0.2 mg/kg BW, with FECR percentages never exceeding 90% in either test. Oral fenbendazole was evaluated at 5 and 10 mg/kg BW, with FECR%'s exceeding 90% on all occasions, but with a precipitous drop when recently treated animals were treated at the lower dose. Evaluated in one test, injectable moxidectin given at 0.2 mg/kg BW resulted in egg count reductions of 96–92% (days 7 to 28). Also evaluated in one test, albendazole delivered orally at 10 mg/kg BW was 98% and 97% effective at 17 and 28 days post-treatment. For all tests, coprocultures conducted post-treatment contained only Cooperia spp. larvae (benzimidazole use), relatively unmodified percentages of Cooperia spp. and Haemonchus spp. larvae (ivermectin use), and primarily Cooperia spp. larvae with a small percentage of Haemonchus spp. larvae (moxidectin use). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study that attempts to determine whether paragonimosis is a common problem among boar hunting dogs. Wild boars are usually the paratenic hosts for the parasite Paragonimus westermani which puts boar hunting dogs to be at a high risk of infection by these parasite. The study sample consists of 20 mixed-breed hunting dogs from Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan with 12 males and 8 females ranging from six months to eight years of age. Microscopic examination revealed Paragonimus westermani eggs in fecal specimens in 10 of the dogs, while immunologic tests found 17 of the dogs to be seropositive on enzyme-linked immunosorbent serologic assay (ELISA.) Two dogs died during the research process, one of which acquired bilateral pneumothorax due to the parasitic infection.

Abstract  In the gastrointestinal mucosa, mucus produced by goblet cells plays an important role in the defense against various pathogens. It is well known that some helminth parasites are able to up-regulate goblet cell numbers and alter the mucus components. However, the nature of the interactions between the protozoan parasites and goblet cells is still unclear. To clarify this point, we examined the goblet cell response in the small intestinal epithelium in C57BL/6 mice with Eimeria vermiformis infection. On day 6 post-infection (p.i.), we observed E. vermiformis multiplication followed by their destruction within the epithelium of the crypt. However, this was not observed in the villi. There was no evidence that the parasite destroyed the goblet cells; moreover, the number of goblet cells decreased in association with the development of the endogenous stages of E. vermiformis in the jejunum and ileum, but not in the duodenum. During this time, we observed infiltration into the lamina propria by lymphoid cells, such as plasma cells and lymphocytes with some eosinophils, in addition to villous atrophy. A significant reduction of goblet cell numbers occurred on days 8 and 10 p.i. Starting from day 12 p.i., elimination/termination of E. vermiformis was noted, and there was recovery of the villous epithelium along with regeneration of the crypt and goblet cells. The current study examined the reduction of goblet cells and their possible importance in eimerian infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence of Trichinella infection in wolves (Canis lupus) in a 17,468km2 area in Croatia. Muscle samples were collected from 67 wolves between 1996 and 2007 and analyzed by artificial digestion. Muscle larvae were detected in 21 wolves (31%) and genotyped by multiplex PCR. Trichinella britovi was the predominant species confirmed in 90% (19 wolves) while Trichinella spiralis was detected in 9% (2 wolves). The presence of the so called “domestic”Trichinella species was a surprise since, to date, only T. britovi had been reported in wild animals in this region. The larval burdens in infected animals ranged from 0.3 to 45.9 larvae per gram. The prevalence of infected animals varied by geographic region; infected animals were found in the region of Gorski Kotar (20%) which has very similar environment to the region of Lika, where almost all wolves were found infected. Interestingly, this is the first report of infected wolves in Dalmatia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: No systematic studies of the occurrence of Trichinella in wildlife have been carried out in Northern Ireland (NI) in recent years, and the last reports of trichinellosis in livestock and human outbreaks in NI date back to 1979 and 1945, respectively. In this study, covering the period 2003/2004 and 2007/2008, a total of 443 red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) were collected throughout the country and screened for trichinellosis using a modified muscle digest method. One examined animal was found to be infected with larvae from Trichinella spiralis, indicating a national prevalence in NI of Trichinella in foxes of 0.2%. This prevalence compares well to the findings reported from the bordering Republic of Ireland [Rafter, P., Marucci, G., Brangan, P., Pozio, E., 2005. Rediscovery of Trichinella spiralis in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Ireland after 30 years of oblivion. J. Infect. 50, 61–65] and could be a further indication for a sylvatic Trichinella life cycle existing independently from the domestic cycle. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In South Africa, Trichinella sp. was first discovered in 1966 in the wildlife of the Kruger National Park (KNP). Since then, both Trichinella T8 and Trichinella nelsoni have been detected in the KNP, leading to a debate on the existence of a gene flow between the two taxa. In 2006–2008, four lions were killed in the Manyeleti Game Reserve, the Mthethomusha Nature Reserve, Numbi Gate, and Skukuza, which border the KNP. Larvae were isolated from muscles by artificial digestion. The molecular identification of single larva by multiplex PCR, followed by a specific PCR to distinguish between Trichinella T8 and Trichinella britovi, revealed Trichinella T8 in the lions from Manyeleti and Skukuza, a mixed infection with T. nelsoni and Trichinella T8 in the lion from Mthethomusha, and T. nelsoni in the lion from Numbi. No larva with a hybrid pattern between the two taxa was observed. No hybrid offspring resulted when crossing single males and females of T. nelsoni and Trichinella T8 in both directions, whereas hybrid offspring were obtained when crossing T. britovi and Trichinella T8 in both directions. This is the first report of a mixed infection with two Trichinella taxa in a host from the KNP, where both Trichinella T8 and T. nelsoni circulate among wildlife. Despite the sympatry status of these two taxa, field and laboratory data seem to exclude the possibility of gene flow, confirming their evolutive separation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In present study we examined one individual of red-eared slider (Trachemys scripta elegans) which was obtained from Poznań Zoological Garden, the turtle died for unknown reasons. During a standard parasitological dissection one female ascariid nematode was found in the small intestine. The nematode was determined as Angusticaecum holopterum (Rudolphi, 1819) Baylis, 1920. Our finding is the second report of this parasite from T. s. elegans in Poland. Although both reports concerning turtles obtained from husbandry, our studies indicate potential risk of transmission of this nematode to native fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dogs serve as the vectors of serious parasitic diseases with a zoonotic character. In a one-year-study, we collected and examined 752 faeces of dogs. In these faecal samples, 11 different species of intestinal endoparasites were detected, as follows: Toxocara spp. eggs (21.9 %), eggs from the family Ancylostomatidae (18.4 %), coccidia oocysts (10.4 %), eggs of Trichuris spp. (10.0 %), Toxascaris leonina (7.3 %), Capillaria spp. (5.9 %), Taenia type eggs (3.2 %) and Giardia spp. cysts (1.6 %). Echinococcus multilocularis was detected in one sample. Toxocara spp. eggs were dominant in all dog categories, but in hunting dogs they occurred at the highest rate (45.1 %). Faecal samples of dogs from rural ecosystems showed 66.0 % prevalence of intestinal helminths. Presence of Toxocara spp. eggs was found in 25.0 % of sand samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forty-seven nesting green turtles (Chelonia mydas) were examined for parasitic pathogens. Four species of cardiovascular flukes (Digenea: Spirorchiidae), Learedius learedi, Hapalotrema postorchis, Monticellius indicum and Amphiorchis solus were collected from 39 of 40 of the turtles, and Neospirorchis species were identified in seven of the 47 by histological examination. The pathological changes associated with the spirorchiids and their eggs included aneurysms, arteritis of great vessels with dark nodular thickenings, endocarditis, haemorrhagic lesions, thrombi, vasculitis, and granulomatous reactions in all the turtles. Ozobranchus branchiatus (Hirudinea: Ozobranchidae) leeches were found on the skin of 27 of the 47 turtles and were associated with traumatic purulent and ulcerative dermatitis. Oesophagitis associated with Rameshwarotrema uterocrescens (Digenea: Pronocephalidae) was recorded in 11 of 43 of the turtles. Petechial haemorrhages and unspecific crater-like ulcerated lesions on the gastric mucosa associated with Charaxicephaloides species and Charaxicephalus robustus (Digenea: Pronocephalidae) were observed in four of 40 of the turtles. Cholycystitis and ectasia of mucosal glands associated with Rhytidodoides similis (Digenea: Rhytidodidae) were observed in one of the 47 turtles. Fibropapillomas were observed on the skin of one turtle and fibromas on the skin of two of them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To test the different sensitivity of rodents of the subfamily Murinae and Gerbillinae, Wagner’s gerbils (Gerbillus dasyurus), Tristram’s jirds (Meriones tristrami) and multimammate rats (Mastomys natalensis) were inoculated with Neospora caninum tachyzoites. Clinical signs of neosporosis appeared in all inoculated animals. Histopathological examination confirmed the presence of tachyzoites in brains, lungs, skeletal muscle, myocardium, liver, in serosa of stomach and intestines, and in vesicular accessory genital glands. An examination of brains by PCR revealed presence of N. caninum DNA in all experimentally N. caninum infected rodents. The susceptibility of Wagner’s gerbils and Tristram’s jirds further proved the high sensitivity of gerbiline rodents to the N. caninum infection. The finding of N. caninum tachyzoites in the vesicular accessory genital glands of the infected gerbils suggests the usefulness of the rodent model for demonstration of N. caninum in the male reproductive system. Moreover, the multimammate rat was a susceptible experimental host to be the first immunocompetent rodent of the subfamily Murinae. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a study which discovered a new genus and species of hyponeoid or copepoda from the olfactory sac of a gulper shark off Madagascar. The adult female Greeniedeets buccaneer is distinguished from other hyponeoids by its possession of a genital complex that is horseshoe shaped in dorsal view. An amended family diagnosis for Hyponeoidae and a diagnostic key to hyponeoids based on adult females are provided.

The article presents a study which examines the digenetic trematode community in nesting green sea turtles from Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica. The study showed that 40 percent of these turtles belonging to various species were parasitized by digenetic tremadoes. It was also found that other than trematodes, these turtles are also parasitized by other rare worms.

The article presents a study conducted by the Danish Center for Experimental Parasitology in Denmark which revealed that the prevalence and average worm burden in red foxes were significantly higher in cubs than in older ones and in males than in females. The consistent finding of Toxocara canis larvae in somatic tissues of naturally infected foxes is new. A multiple logistic regression showed that the prevalence was influenced significantly sex, age, location, season and year of collection.

The seroprevalence of trypanosomiasis and the prevalence of current trypanosome infection in water buffaloes from the most important livestock areas of Venezuela were evaluated by IFAT and the microhaematocrit centrifugation technique, respectively. The usefulness of a PCR-based assay for identifying the trypanosome species in the buffaloes was also evaluated. Of the 644 animals investigated, 40 (6.2%) were found infected with trypanosomes by blood centrifugation, and 196 (30.4%) were found positive for anti-trypanosome antibodies, by IFAT. The results of the PCR-based assay indicated that 92.5% of the animals with current infections were infected with Trypanosoma vivax and the rest with T. theileri (the first molecular confirmation of T. theileri in Venezuelan water buffaloes). The national programme to treat and prevent trypanosome infections in the buffaloes does not appear to be meeting with great success, even though it is focused on T. vivax. Although the level of parasitaemia was categorized as low for 28 (70%) of the infections detected (and packed-cell volumes appeared to be unassociated with IFAT result, and uncorrelated, in the infected animals, with level of parasitaemia), the 40 infected buffaloes had a significantly lower mean packed-cell volume than the uninfected animals (P<0.05). Farmers should therefore be made aware of the probability of trypanosome-attributable losses in buffalo productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-three smooth dogfish, Mustelus canis L., and 20 spiny dogfish, Squalus acanthias (Mitchill), were examined for the presence of diseases. Sharks were collected from the north-western Atlantic between April and September 2000. Major organs were sampled for histopathology and bacterial cultures were taken from kidneys. Macroscopic lesions were infrequent and included intestinal cestodiasis and gastric and dermal erosions. Microscopic lesions were common in both shark species. Mustelus canis had numerous degenerative lesions involving the pancreatic ducts, seminiferous tubules and coronary vessels. The most frequent lesions in S. acanthias were parasitic and included pancreatic nematodiasis and biliary myxosporeosis. Additionally, both species had focal meningitis, encephalitis, dermatitis, gastritis, enteritis and glomerulomesangial thickening. Microscopic parasites included intestinal coccidiosis, unclassified gastric and testicular protozoa, skeletal muscle and renal tubular myxosporeans, a branchial trichodinid ciliate, olfactory and branchial trematodes, gastrointestinal cestodes and larval nematodes. Shewanella putrefaciens , Photobacterium sp., Vibrio sp., Pseudomonas sp. and Alteromonas sp. were isolated from kidneys of nine sharks. The role of the above lesions in the natural mortality and morbidity of the two shark species is unknown. The finding that apparently healthy sharks can harbour potentially debilitating lesions warrants the inclusion of histopathological studies in the management and conservation of sharks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current report describes granulomatous pneumonia due to Spirocerca lupi in 2 free-ranging maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus). Both wolves had multiple, white, 1–1.5 cm in diameter, soft, encapsulated granulomas in the caudal lung lobes, which contained centrally placed parasites on cut sections. Microscopically, there was granulomatous inflammation with numerous intralesional sections of spirurid nematodes. Representative complete adult specimens of nematodes derived from these lesions were submitted for parasitological exam and identified as the spirurid S. lupi. To the authors’ knowledge, there have been no published reports of S. lupi in maned wolves. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: Recently, Trichinella nativa was identified in foxes in Germany and Poland, indicating that the geographical distribution of T. nativa is not restricted to areas north of the isotherm −4°C in January. In the European Union, legislation requires that a regular monitoring of the occurrence of Trichinella spp. in indicator animals such as foxes or raccoon dogs be carried out. The Trichinella isolates must also be identified on a species level. The multiplex PCR recommended by the Community Reference Laboratory for Trichinella allows species identification, yet the differentiation of T. nativa and Trichinella britovi, a widespread Trichinella species in the temperate regions of Europe, is unstable. We therefore describe an easy and reliable method for the differentiation of the two species, which can be utilised to monitor a potential spread of T. nativa in Central Europe. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The prevalence of Balantidium coli among donkeys in Lahore and adjoining areas was surveyed and a trial conducted to determine the efficacy of two antiprotozoal drugs: secnidazole (Dysen Forte) and Kalonji (Nigella sativa). Four-hundred donkeys were examined, and 73 (18.3%) were found positive for Balantidium coli. A slight decrease in PCV and an increase in Hb values of infected donkeys were found after antiprotozoal treatment. Secnidazole was 89.5% effective for the treatment of equine balantidiasis compared to 40.0% for Nigella sativa. This is the first report of balantidiasis in equines from Pakistan. It is not known if balantidiasis is an emerging problem in equines or whether it is a newly reported infection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]