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ABSTRACT: Arboviruses are viruses that maintain their life cycle in the wild and are transmitted to vertebrate hosts by hematophagous diptera. They are zoonotic and can establish an enzootic cycle in the urban areas; in humans, the infection can manifest from being encephalitogenic to hemorrhagic. This study aimed to report the occurrence of arboviruses in mammals of the order Didelphimorphia and Rodentia, captured from the Amazon. Serum samples were subjected to hemagglutination inhibition test using a viral panel of 19 species of arboviruses that are known to occur in the Amazon. Altogether, 14 wild mammals, 12 of Philander opossum, 1 of Didelphis marsupialis, and 1 of Nectomys rattus were captured. Eight of these were reported to be seropositive for arboviruses (57.14%) with monotypic seroprevalence for the Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (n=1), the Ilheus Virus (n=2), and the Catu virus (n=4); 4 heterotypic responses were observed for Flavivirus and Orthobunyavirus. In conclusion, several arbovirus species are in active circulation and maintenance, exhibiting enzootic characteristics in the wild mammals of the Amazon region; these animals prove to be potential hosts in the transmission of diseases to humans.

This study evaluated species richness and rickettsial infection in ticks infesting non-volant small mammals in a preserved area of the Cerrado biome, located in the region of the Araguaia Valley, Midwestern Brazil. Between 2017 and 2018, 116 wild mammals (102 rodents and 14 marsupials) were captured and 75 ticks were collected and tested for rickettsial infection. Four species of ticks [(Amblyomma auricularium, Amblyomma cajennense sensu stricto (s.s.), Amblyomma coelebs, and Ornithodoros guaporensis)] were identified with new tick-host association for small mammals as follows: nymphs of A. cajennense s.s. and A. auricularium parasitizing Thrichomys pachyurus rodents. Our results expand the distributional range of O. guaporensis into the Cerrado Biome and point the occurrence of Rickettsia amblyommatis and Rickettsia bellii in A. auricularium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arboviruses are viruses that maintain their life cycle in the wild and are transmitted to vertebrate hosts by hematophagous diptera. They are zoonotic and can establish an enzootic cycle in the urban areas; in humans, the infection can manifest from being encephalitogenic to hemorrhagic. This study aimed to report the occurrence of arboviruses in mammals of the order Didelphimorphia and Rodentia, captured from the Amazon. Serum samples were subjected to hemagglutination inhibition test using a viral panel of 19 species of arboviruses that are known to occur in the Amazon. Altogether, 14 wild mammals, 12 of Philander opossum, 1 of Didelphis marsupialis, and 1 of Nectomys rattus were captured. Eight of these were reported to be seropositive for arboviruses (57.14%) with monotypic seroprevalence for the Eastern Equine Encephalitis Virus (n=1), the Ilheus Virus (n=2), and the Catu virus (n=4); 4 heterotypic responses were observed for Flavivirus and Orthobunyavirus. In conclusion, several arbovirus species are in active circulation and maintenance, exhibiting enzootic characteristics in the wild mammals of the Amazon region; these animals prove to be potential hosts in the transmission of diseases to humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nature, parasitic infections must be addressed as complex systems involving parasite-host relationships on a temporal and spatial scale. Since the parasites cover a great biological diversity, we can expect that wildlife are exposed simultaneously to different parasites. In this sense, the objective of this work was to determine the relationships between free-living mammals and their associated hemoparasites in the Brazilian Pantanal. We used the data published during 2017 and 2018 by de Sousa et al. regarding the detection of vector-borne pathogens (VBP), namely Anaplasma, Babesia, Bartonella, Cytauxzoon, Ehrlichia, Hepatozoon, Mycoplasma, and Theileria, in nine species of free-living mammals belonging to orders Carnivora, Rodentia, and Didelphimorphia. We assume as infected an individual positive on any of parasitological, molecular, and/or serological tests. We observed a strong association between the wild felid Leopardus pardalis with Cytauxzoon, the wild canid Cerdocyon thous with Hepatozoon, the small rodent Thrichomys fosteri with Bartonella, and the procyonid Nasua nasua with Mycoplasma and Theileria. Therefore, N. nasua, C. thous, T. fosteri, and the small rodent Oecomys mamorae can be considered key species for the maintenance of selected VBP in the Pantanal region, because they showed a high number of single and coinfections. Together, our results highlighted the importance of coinfection as a common phenomenon in nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovarian response of collared peccaries (Pecari tajacu), after hormonal stimulation with gonadotropin association (eCG/hCG), was accessed by both gene expression and follicular development. Thus, collared peccaries (n = 8) were treated with the dose used for sows (swine dose, SWD) or with dose adjusted for peccary's weight (allometric dose, ALD). The gene expression of receptors was evaluated for both gonadotropins (FSHR and LHCGR) and growth factors (proteins codified by TGFβR‐1, BMPR1‐A and BMPR2 genes) in antral follicles, cortex and corpora haemorrhagica (CH). Five days after gonadotropin injection, all females presented CH. The ovulation rate was similar (p >.05) between SWD (4.00 ± 1.17) and ALD (2.50 ± 0.43) group. The total number of follicles per animal and amounts of small (<3 mm), medium (3–5 mm) and large (>5 mm) follicles was similar among groups. However, SWD produced large follicles heavier than ALD group, as accessed by weight of follicular wall biopsies. Ovarian follicles expressed both gonadotropin and growth factor receptors at levels which are independent from gonadotropin dose. In conclusion, the two gonadotropin doses (SWD and ALD) can be used for ovarian stimulation of collared peccary. Additionally, FSH and growth factors (TGFβR‐1, BMPR1‐A and BMPR2) receptors are more expressed in the early follicle development, while LH receptor seems to be more important in the final of follicular growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

French Guiana, located in the Guiana Shield, is a natural reservoir for many zoonotic pathogens that are of considerable medical or veterinary importance. Until now, there has been limited data available on the description of parasites circulating in this area, especially on protozoan belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa; conversely, the neighbouring countries describe a high parasitic prevalence in animals and humans. Epidemiological surveillance is necessary, as new potentially virulent strains may emerge from these forest ecosystems, such as Amazonian toxoplasmosis. However, there is no standard tool for detecting protozoa in wildlife. In this study, we developed Meat-Borne-Parasite, a high-throughput meta-barcoding workflow for detecting Apicomplexa based on the Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing platform using the 18S gene of 14 Apicomplexa positive samples collected in French Guiana. Sequencing reads were then analysed with MetONTIIME pipeline. Thanks to a scoring rule, we were able to classify 10 samples out of 14 as Apicomplexa positive and reveal the presence of co-carriages. The same samples were also sequenced with the Illumina platform for validation purposes. For samples identified as Apicomplexa positive by both platforms, a strong positive correlation at up to the genus level was reported. Overall, the presented workflow represents a reliable method for Apicomplexa detection, which may pave the way for more comprehensive biomonitoring of zoonotic pathogens.

Background and Aim: Wild mammals are among the most threatened species of the world in large part due to human activity. In this work, we used the method of partial least squares-path modeling associated with a geographic information system to analyze the impact of anthropogenic pressures on the mortality of wild mammals. Materials and Methods: We collected the data related to the cause of death of native wild mammals admitted to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre of Parque Biológico de Gaia in Northern Portugal, during 10 years (2008-2017). Results: A total of 359 animals from 42 municipalities (rural and urban areas) were included in the study. The main cause of death was of traumatic origin. From the anthropogenic pressures included in the study, water reservoirs, small companies, and residential buildings were the ones that contributed the most to increase the mortality of traumatic and nontraumatic origin. This relation of cause-effect (mortality-anthropogenic pressures) was supported by the high coefficients of determination obtained (R2?0.8). Conclusion: The present results allow a general view on the reality of mammal's mortality in Northern Portugal. Furthermore, it could also constitute a valuable tool for the conservation of wild mammals in those areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross-sectional, coprological survey of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites of wild mammals in four major National Parks in Sri Lanka: Wilpattu, Udawalawe, Wasgamuwa, and Horton Plains was carried out during November 2016 to August 2017. Fresh fecal samples were collected and analyzed using sedimentation technique, iodine & saline smears, and Sheather's sucrose flotation for morphological identification parasite eggs, cysts, and larvae. A modified salt flotation was carried out for egg counts. Seventy samples from 10 mammal species: Asian Elephant, Spotted Deer, Water Buffalo, Sambar, Indian Hare, Asian Palm Civet, Sloth Bear, Wild Boar, Grey Langur, Leopard, and four unknown mammals (two carnivores, one herbivore and one omnivore) were analyzed. Most were infected (94.3%) with more than one GI parasites. The highest prevalence of infection was recorded in Horton Plains (100%), followed by Wasgamuwa (92.8%), Wilpattu (90.4%) and Udawalawe (75.0%) with a significant difference among four parks (Chi square test; χ2=35.435; df=3; p<0.001). Nineteen species of GI parasites were recorded, of which Entamoeba, Isospora, Balantidium, Fasciola, Moniezia, Dipylidium, strongyles, Toxocara, Trichiurus and hookworms were the most common. Strongyles (62.1%) and Entamoeba (80.3%) were the most prevalent helminth and protozoan infections, respectively. Overall, there was no difference in the prevalence of protozoans (84.3%) and helminths (87.1%; χ2=1.0; df=1; p=0.317). In carnivores, Entamoeba, Balantidium, Moniezia, strongyles and Strongyloides were common and in herbivores, Entamoeba, strongyles, Strongyloides and Toxocara were common. The quantitative analysis showed strongyles (17.639 EPG) and Isospora (18,743 OPG) having the highest infection intensity among helminthes and protozoans, respectively. This study provides baseline information of GI parasites and their distribution in wild mammals in the four national parks. Although the prevalence of GI infections was high, their intensity shows that they could be incidental infections. When the prevalence of an infection is high but the intensity is low, it is unlikely to be a major health problem leading to the endangerment of a species. Parasitic diseases can not only affect conservation efforts, but they are also natural selection agents and drive biological diversification, through influencing host reproductive isolation and speciation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim was to evaluate the influence of conservation [refrigeration at 5°C and vitrification] on somatic tissues derived from collared peccaries. The experiment was divided into two stages. In the first step, fragments were refrigerated for 24 (R-24) and 48 h (R-48) and compared with non-refrigerated samples (C). In the second step, fragments were refrigerated for 24 (RV-24) and 48 h (RV-48) followed by vitrification and compared with vitrified fragments (V). In the first step, although the thickness of the epidermis was not affected by refrigeration for 48 h, the thickness of the dermis was reduced in both the 24 h and 48 h periods. Moreover, while a reduction in dermal fibroblasts was only evident in the group R-48, the increase in perinuclear halos of the epidermis was observed in all groups. In the second step, both the thickness of the epidermis, the dermis and the total were affected by vitrification after refrigeration for 48 h. Additionally, while a reduction in dermal fibroblasts was only evident in the group RV-48, an increase in perinuclear halos of the epidermis was observed in all vitrified groups. Thus, regardless of the storage period, refrigeration affected the quality of the somatic tissues of collared peccaries, these effects being accentuated when the fragments were refrigerated for 48 h and vitrified. Therefore, it is suggested, when necessary, the 24 h refrigeration period for somatic samples derived from collared peccaries that will still be vitrified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Biobanking of cell lines is a promising tool of support for wildlife conservation. In particular, the ability to preserve fibroblast cell lines derived from collared peccaries is of significance as these wild mammals are unique to the Americas and play a large role in maintaining the ecosystem. We identified collared peccary fibroblasts by immunofluorescence and evaluated their morphology, growth and adherence capacity. Further, we monitored the viability and metabolic activity of the fibroblasts to determine the effects of passage number and cryopreservation on establishment of cell lines. Methods Skin biopsies were collected from the peripheral ear region from five adult animals in captivity. Initially, cells were isolated from fragments and cultured in the Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and 2% antibiotic–antimycotic solution under a controlled atmosphere (38.5 °C, 5% CO2). We evaluated the maintenance of primary cells for morphology, adherence capacity of explants, explants in subconfluence, cell growth and absence of contamination. Moreover, we identified the fibroblast cells by immunofluorescence. Additionally, to evaluate the influence of the number of passages (first, third and tenth passage) and cryopreservation on establishment of cell lines, fibroblasts were analysed for the viability, metabolic activity, population doubling time (PDT), levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Results All explants (20/20) adhered to the dish in 2.4 days ± 0.5 with growth around the explants in 4.6 days ± 0.7, and subconfluence was observed within 7.8 days ± 1.0. Moreover, by morphology and immunocytochemistry analyses, cells were identified as fibroblasts which presented oval nuclei, a fusiform shape and positive vimentin staining. No contamination was observed after culture without antibiotics and antifungals for 30 days. While there was no difference observed for cell viability after the passages (first vs. third: P = 0.98; first vs. tenth: P = 0.76; third vs. tenth: P = 0.85), metabolic activity was found to be reduced in the tenth passage (23.2 ± 12.1%) when compared to that in the first and third passage (100.0 ± 24.4%, P = 0.006). Moreover, the cryopreservation did not influence the viability (P = 0.11), metabolic activity (P = 0.77), or PDT (P = 0.11). Nevertheless, a greater ΔΨm (P = 0.0001) was observed for the cryopreserved cells (2.12 ± 0.14) when compared to that in the non-cryopreserved cells (1.00 ± 0.05). Additionally, the cryopreserved cells showed greater levels of intracellular ROS after thawing (1.69 ± 0.38 vs. 1.00 ± 0.22, P = 0.04). Conclusions This study is the first report on isolation, characterization and cryopreservation of fibroblasts from collared peccaries. We showed that adherent cultures were efficient for obtaining fibroblasts, which can be used as donor cells for nuclei for species cloning and other applications.

Trypanosomatids are ancient parasitic eukaryotes that still maintain prokaryotic characteristics. Trypanosoma cruzi, a primarily wild mammal parasite, infected humans already long before European colonization of the Americas. T. cruzi heterogeneity remains an unsolved question, and until now, it has still not been possible to associate T. cruzi genotypes with any biological or epidemiological feature. One of the first biochemical attempts to cluster the T. cruzi subpopulations recognized three main subpopulations (zymodemes) that have been associated with the transmission cycles in the wild (Z1; Z3) and in the domestic environment (Z2). The description of wild mammal species harboring Z2 two decades later challenged this assemblage attempt. Currently, the genotypes of T. cruzi are assembled in seven discrete typing units (DTUs). The biology of T. cruzi still shows novelties such as the description of epimastigotes multiplying and differentiating to metacyclic trypomastigotes in the lumen of the scent glands of Didelphis spp. and the capacity of the true meiosis in parallel to clonal reproduction. The study of the transmission cycle among wild animals has broken paradigms and raised new questions: (i) the interaction of the T. cruzi DTUs with each of its mammalian host species displays peculiarities; (ii) the impact of mixed genotypes and species on the transmissibility of one or another species or on pathogenesis is still unknown; (iii) independent T. cruzi transmission cycles may occur in the same forest fragment; (iv) the capacity to act as a reservoir depends on the peculiarities of the host species and the parasite genotype; and (v) faunistic composition is a defining trait of the T. cruzi transmission cycle profile. The development of models of environmental variables that determine the spatial distribution of the elements that make up T. cruzi transmission by spatial analysis, followed by map algebra and networking, are the next steps toward interpreting and dealing with the new profile of Chagas disease with its many peculiarities. There is no way to solve this neglected disease once and for all if not through a multidisciplinary look that takes into account all kinds of human and animal activities in parallel to environmental variations.

ABSTRACT: The occurrence of antibodies against canine distemper virus (CDV), parvovirus and Ehrlichia spp. in wild captive carnivores was evaluated in a zoological park in midwestern Brazil. Serum samples were collected between 2007 and 2014 from 45 carnivores. Antibodies were evaluated by virus neutralization assay for CDV, hemagglutination inhibition test for parvovirus, indirect immunofluorescent and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for Ehrlichia spp. Antibodies against CDV and parvovirus were detected in 75% of Canidae and Felidae. Procyonidae were negative for CDV, although one Mustelidae was positive. TwoCanidae presented antibodies reactive to E. canis antigens. The high antibodies rates to CDV and parvovirus suggest the contact with both pathogens, however since no clinical history of disease are registered in the Zoo-UFMT, we can presume that carnivores have responded satisfactorily against the antigens. The low serological rates observed against Ehrlichia spp. may be resulted to the low occurrence of ticks among carnivores.

The study of the seminal plasma help us to understand the mechanisms by which reactive oxygen species (ROS) affect the sperm. The antioxidant enzymes, as the superoxide dismutase - SOD and catalase - CAT, are capable of removing the oxidative agents before they produce injuries. The aim of the current study was to investigate the activity of antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT in seminal plasma, and their association with sperm quality in collared peccaries. Study was conducted during the dry period (August and September) on a region characterized by a semiarid climate, with an average annual temperature of 27°C and irregular rainfall (Mossoro, RN, Brazil; 5°10´S and 37°10´W). Nine ejaculates were obtained from sexually mature males (1 sample per animal) by electroejaculation. Semen was evaluated for microscopic parameters and the activity of SOD and CAT was measured by spectrophotometry. All ejaculates were white in color. Mean values for concentration were of 207 ± 160 x106 sperm/mL, motility of 83.0 ± 20.9% and viability of 72.5 ± 10.4%. In regards to the enzymatic activity, none was observed for the CAT enzyme. Trace levels of SOD (0.034 ± 0.049 AU/mgP) were detected in the ejaculates of all individuals; however, no correlation was observed between SOD levels and the sperm motility (R = 0.35; P = 0.931), vigor (R = 0.29; P = 0.133), viability (R = 0.16; P = 0.29), functional membrane (R = 0.04; P = 0.617) or morphology (R = 0.03; P = 0.637). In conclusion, we demonstrated the first description of antioxidant enzyme activity in seminal plasma of fresh ejaculates obtained from collared peccaries. SOD antioxidant activity was evident during the dry period of a semi-arid region, but no relationship between SOD and semen parameters was observed.

Investigations on mammal species implicated in crop damage and control techniques used to protect fields was carried out in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve (OWR). The aim of this study was to identify mammal species causing damages on crops, the growth stages affected, the frequency and severity of damage in the fields and control techniques used. Data were collected in six villages using a standard questionnaire form translated in the main local languages (Swahili and Lingala), between 02–29 June and 07–31 August 2010. A probabilistic survey and structured interview have been used to collect data. Farmers of 7 main tribes were interviewed (a total of 210 farmers) who are living in OWR. The study shows that Primates (Cercocebus galeritus agilis, Papio anubis) and elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis) cause considerable damage during maturation and fructification of maize, cassava and bananas in the fields. Farmers keep their fields under guard to drive away animals and prevent crop damage.

This study investigated the effects of BMP‐15 on the in vitro development of preantral follicles of collared peccaries. Ovarian fragments were cultured for 1 or 6 days in Tissue Culture Medium 199 (TCM199+) supplemented with BMP‐15 at rates of 0, 1, 25 or 50 ng/ml. The fragments were analysed histologically by evaluating follicular morphology, activation and growth as well as the potential for proliferation of granulosa cells. Our results show the addition of 25 ng/ml BMP‐15 in the medium provided the greatest percentage of normal follicles (79.67% ± 0.69) when compared to other treatments (p <.05); however, this result is similar to 1 ng/ml BMP‐15 (74.00% ± 1.90, p >.05). Moreover, 25 and 50 ng/ml of BMP‐15 promoted follicular activation. BMP‐15 supplements did not affect oocyte and follicular growth. All concentrations of BMP‐15 increased the number of nucleolus organizer regions (NORs) after 1 day of culture when compared to fresh fragments or the control samples (p <.05). However, at the end of the experiment, the number of NORs in follicles cultured in all treatments was higher than that observed in the fresh control (sample taken prior to culturing) (p >.05). In summary, the addition of 25 ng/ml BMP‐15 to the culture medium of collared peccary preantral follicles maintained a high number of morphologically healthy follicles and stimulated the activation of primordial follicles after 6 days in culture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biobanking of cell lines is a promising tool of support for wildlife conservation. In particular, the ability to preserve fibroblast cell lines derived from collared peccaries is of significance as these wild mammals are unique to the Americas and play a large role in maintaining the ecosystem. We identified collared peccary fibroblasts by immunofluorescence and evaluated their morphology, growth and adherence capacity. Further, we monitored the viability and metabolic activity of the fibroblasts to determine the effects of passage number and cryopreservation on establishment of cell lines. Methods: Skin biopsies were collected from the peripheral ear region from five adult animals in captivity. Initially, cells were isolated from fragments and cultured in the Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and 2% antibiotic–antimycotic solution under a controlled atmosphere (38.5 ±C, 5% CO2). We evaluated the maintenance of primary cells for morphology, adherence capacity of explants, explants in subconfluence, cell growth and absence of contamination. Moreover, we identified the fibroblast cells by immunofluorescence. Additionally, to evaluate the influence of the number of passages (first, third and tenth passage) and cryopreservation on establishment of cell lines, fibroblasts were analysed for the viability, metabolic activity, population doubling time (PDT), levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Results: All explants (20/20) adhered to the dish in 2.4 days ± 0.5 with growth around the explants in 4.6 days ± 0.7, and subconfluence was observed within 7.8 days ± 1.0. Moreover, by morphology and immunocytochemistry analyses, cells were identified as fibroblasts which presented oval nuclei, a fusiform shape and positive vimentin staining. No contamination was observed after culture without antibiotics and antifungals for 30 days. While there was no difference observed for cell viability after the passages (first vs. third: P = 0.98; first vs. tenth: P = 0.76; third vs. tenth: P = 0.85), metabolic activity was found to be reduced in the tenth passage (23.2 ± 12.1%) when compared to that in the first and third passage (100.0 ± 24.4%, P = 0.006). Moreover, the cryopreservation did not influence the viability Background: Biobanking of cell lines is a promising tool of support for wildlife conservation. In particular, the ability to preserve fibroblast cell lines derived from collared peccaries is of significance as these wild mammals are unique to the Americas and play a large role in maintaining the ecosystem. We identified collared peccary fibroblasts by immunofluorescence and evaluated their morphology, growth and adherence capacity. Further, we monitored the viability and metabolic activity of the fibroblasts to determine the effects of passage number and cryopreservation on establishment of cell lines. Methods: Skin biopsies were collected from the peripheral ear region from five adult animals in captivity. Initially, cells were isolated from fragments and cultured in the Dulbecco's modified Eagle medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and 2% antibiotic–antimycotic solution under a controlled atmosphere (38.5 ±C, 5% CO2). We evaluated the maintenance of primary cells for morphology, adherence capacity of explants, explants in subconfluence, cell growth and absence of contamination. Moreover, we identified the fibroblast cells by immunofluorescence. Additionally, to evaluate the influence of the number of passages (first, third and tenth passage) and cryopreservation on establishment of cell lines, fibroblasts were analysed for the viability, metabolic activity, population doubling time (PDT), levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Results: All explants (20/20) adhered to the dish in 2.4 days ± 0. 5 with growth around the explants in 4.6 days ± 0.7, and subconfluence was observed within 7.8 days ± 1.0. Moreover, by morphology and immunocytochemistry analyses, cells were identified as fibroblasts which presented oval nuclei, a fusiform shape and positive vimentin staining. No contamination was observed after culture without antibiotics and antifungals for 30 days. While there was no difference observed for cell viability after the passages (first vs. third: P = 0.98; first vs. tenth: P = 0.76; third vs. tenth: P = 0.85), metabolic activity was found to be reduced in the tenth passage (23.2 ± 12.1%) when compared to that in the first and third passage (100.0 ± 24.4%, P = 0.006). Moreover, the cryopreservation did not influence the viability [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flea distribution in northern region of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR) and fluctuations of the annual fleas index in Alataw Pass were investigated. During a 4-year (2015–2018) study, 5789 fleas were collected directly from 15 mammals at eight counties in northern XUAR of northwestern China. Nineteen flea species, belonging to sixteen genera and seven families, were further confirmed by four genetic markers (18S rDNA , 28S rDNA , COI and COII) after morphological observation. Pulex irritans and Paraceras crispum parasitizing Asian badgers (Meles leucurus) were recorded for the first time. In addition, the fluctuations of the annual fleas index in Alataw Pass were surveyed. Xenopsylla gerbilli minax , Xenopsylla conformis conformis and Nosopsyllus laeviceps laeviceps were highly detected in the warm season while Paradoxopsyllus repandus , Ctenophthalmus dolichus dolichus and Coptopsylla lamellifer ardua were only found in the cold season. These findings extend our knowledge of flea species, distribution and annual fluctuations especially in China-Kazakhstan border. In this work, we report the flea distribution in northern region of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR) and fluctuations of the annual fleas index in Alataw Pass were investigated. Pulex irritans and Paraceras crispum parasitizing Asian badgers (Meles leucurus) are recorded for the first time. In addition, the fluctuations of the annual fleas index in Alataw Pass were surveyed. Image 1 • During a 4-year (2015–2018) study, 5789 fleas were collected directly from 15 mammals at eight counties in northern XUAR. • Pulex irritans and Paraceras crispum parasitizing Asian badgers (Meles leucurus) are recorded for the first time. • the fluctuations of the annual host-loyalty index of fleas in Alataw Pass were surveyed. • These findings extends our knowledge of flea species, distribution and annual fluctuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trypanosomatids are ancient parasitic eukaryotes that still maintain prokaryotic characteristics. Trypanosoma cruzi , a primarily wild mammal parasite, infected humans already long before European colonization of the Americas. T. cruzi heterogeneity remains an unsolved question, and until now, it has still not been possible to associate T. cruzi genotypes with any biological or epidemiological feature. One of the first biochemical attempts to cluster the T. cruzi subpopulations recognized three main subpopulations (zymodemes) that have been associated with the transmission cycles in the wild (Z1; Z3) and in the domestic environment (Z2). The description of wild mammal species harboring Z2 two decades later challenged this assemblage attempt. Currently, the genotypes of T. cruzi are assembled in seven discrete typing units (DTUs). The biology of T. cruzi still shows novelties such as the description of epimastigotes multiplying and differentiating to metacyclic trypomastigotes in the lumen of the scent glands of Didelphis spp. and the capacity of the true meiosis in parallel to clonal reproduction. The study of the transmission cycle among wild animals has broken paradigms and raised new questions: (i) the interaction of the T. cruzi DTUs with each of its mammalian host species displays peculiarities; (ii) the impact of mixed genotypes and species on the transmissibility of one or another species or on pathogenesis is still unknown; (iii) independent T. cruzi transmission cycles may occur in the same forest fragment; (iv) the capacity to act as a reservoir depends on the peculiarities of the host species and the parasite genotype; and (v) faunistic composition is a defining trait of the T. cruzi transmission cycle profile. The development of models of environmental variables that determine the spatial distribution of the elements that make up T. cruzi transmission by spatial analysis, followed by map algebra and networking, are the next steps toward interpreting and dealing with the new profile of Chagas disease with its many peculiarities. There is no way to solve this neglected disease once and for all if not through a multidisciplinary look that takes into account all kinds of human and animal activities in parallel to environmental variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The active role of ticks Ixodes persulcatus in the reservation and transmission of many dangerous diseases for humans and animals requires knowledge of the relationship of adults of this type of parasite with animals that feed tick populations in a specific area. The objective of the research was to study the composition of the hosts of adult Ixodes persulcatus living in the Northern Urals of Russia and to determine their significance in the life of these parasites. The study was carried out from April to October throughout 2001 to 2015 in subtaiga and forest-steppe climatic zones of the Northern Urals of Russia. During the observation period, 5416 heads of animals were examined, including 5218 farm animals, 157 domestic animals, and 41 representatives of the wild fauna which had 14,010 adult ticks removed therefrom, 6,708 of which are Ixodes persulcatus. It has been established that interspecific relations of ixodid ticks are close with all animals living in their biomes. In the taiga-forest zone, where I. persulcatus prevails, all large animals participate in its feeding, and a particularly close interaction is established with wild animals living throughout their habitat: the dominance of the taiga tick in some animals reaches 100%. Farm animals are also involved in the feeding of I. persulcatus, but since their grazing sites, for the most part, are confined to natural pastures, these animals actively feed the ticks of the genus Dermacentor. In the forest-steppe zone, the species ratio of adult ixodid ticks depends on the ethology and location of the food supply of animals participating in feeding. Thus, cattle, which prevails among the animals examined by us and whose food base is located on dry pastures, feeds a significant amount of ixodids, while I. persulcatus (ID - 43.9%) is just subdominant, giving way to ticks of the genus Dermacentor. Wild animals in this zone are most closely associated with the taiga tick I. persulcatus, which is explained by the coincidence of their preferences in settlement, although such domestic animals as dogs and horses also actively feed the adult taiga tick, which perhaps relates to their behavior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The establishment of livestock ranchlands adjacent to protected areas in savanna ecosystems is believed to threaten wild animals. Intensive competition for vegetative resources, water and poaching are considered to be immediate factors that reduce the capacity of protected areas to sustain wild mammals. The coexistence of wild mammals and ranchlands is common in Southern Africa but has rarely been suggested as a viable conservation option in East Africa. To assess the importance of ranchlands in conserving wild mammals, 36 plots of 20 × 20 m dimension were positioned along a 7240 m stretch from the boundary in Lake Mburo National Park (LMNP) and 36 plots of similar dimension were set within the ranchlands adjacent to the Park. The dung counts of different species recorded in the plots were used as a relative index of mammal abundance in the ranchlands and in LMNP. The results reveal 18 wild mammal species recorded in both sampled areas, 12 within LMNP and 17 in the adjacent ranchlands. The topi Damaliscus lunatus was only found in the park. Total dung count estimated in both ranchlands and LMNP was 2,586 with LMNP accounting for 29% and ranchlands 71%. In terms of wild mammal dung, ranchlands had a higher wild mammal dung count than LMNP (30% higher). The study points to the compatibility of the two land uses in conserving wild mammals and biodiversity in general, negating the common belief of competition and exclusion. Future research is needed on the compatibility of ranchlands with protected areas on biodiversity status of other species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article was to determine the role of wild animals in the economy of a historical city on the basis of archaeological and cultural layers of medieval and early modern Wrocław from the 11th to the 17th century. Archaeozoological analyses were applied, mainly encompassing the percentage share of particular animal species and the research of material culture, i.e., items manufactured from bones, antlers and hides of wild animals. The collected data were compared with written sources. As a result of the following analysis, a low but stable frequency of bone remains in urban layers and is evidence for occasional breaching of the medieval hunting laws by burghers, possibly driven by the opportunity to sell meat and other wild animal products on the markets. Moreover, the relatively low amounts of items made from bones, antlers and wild animal leather may indicate low availability or seasonality (shed antler) of the materials, which might have indirectly raised the product price. Additionally, the area around Wrocław did not feature large forest complexes, which are habitats of wild game, thus explaining the low frequency of wild animal remains in the archaeozoological material.

This research paper aimed at modeling the relations between mammal wildlife species, which spread around Burdur Lake Basin, with environmental factors and getting habitat suitability maps on the basis of native species by generalizing acquired models. Field survey was carried out on 328 sample plots and 3280 sub-sample plots. Traces, feces and signs belonging to wild boar (Sus scrofa), european hare (Lepus europaeus), beech marten (Martes foina) and red fox (Vulpes vulpes) were identified using the transect counts in the Basin. Data from these species was tested through Jacknife Method by being analyzed with Maximum Entropy (Maxent) method. Base maps belonging to 20 different environmental variances were used for wildlife suitability modeling. Habitat suitability maps were prepared for wild boar (0.77;0,71), brown hare (0.80; 0.74), beech marten (0.86; 0,80), and red fox (0.87; 0.77) by taking into account of obtained models' education data set and test data set ROC values. According to obtained models' results; the relation between wildlife animal species on the study area and topography, distance to forest village road, elevation, bedrock, smoothness, solar lightening index, distance to settlement, distance to lake, distance to runnel and radiation index was detected. In this study, habitat suitability maps based on relation between wild animals and environmental factors were created. These maps will be important bases for mammals species to protect and hunting plans preperation.

Abstract Trypanosoma spp. infection in wild mammals is detected mainly through parasitological tests that usually display low sensitivity. We propose the use of DNA extracted directly from blood clots (BC), which are neglected sources of DNA for diagnosis and identification of Trypanosoma spp. This approach followed by nested PCR targeting the 18S SSU rDNA demonstrated to be sensitive and suitable to evaluate the diversity of trypanosomes infecting sylvatic mammals, including subpatent and mixed infections. Infection was detected in 95/120 (79.2%) samples from bats, carnivores and marsupials that included negative serological and hemoculture testing mammals. Thirteen Trypanosoma spp. or Molecular Operational Taxonomic Units (MOTUs) were identified, including two new MOTUs. The high diversity of trypanosomes species and MOTUs infecting bats and marsupials showed that these hosts can be considered as bio-accumulators of Trypanosoma spp., with specimens of Didelphis spp. displaying the highest trypanosome diversity. The use of blood clots allowed direct access to non-culturable parasites, mixed infections, besides bypassing the selective pressure on the parasites inherent to cultivation procedures. Trypanosoma cruzi was the species found infecting the highest number of individuals, followed by T. lainsoni. Positive PCR for T. cruzi was observed in 16 seronegative individuals and 30 individuals with negative hemocultures. Also, T. lainsoni , previously found only in rodents, showed to be capable of infecting bats and marsupials. This finding makes it clear that some species of Trypanosoma are more generalist than previously thought. Molecular diagnosis using nested PCR from DNA extracted from BC allowed the increase of the knowledge about host-spectrum and distribution of Trypanosoma spp. and allowed the identification of new MOTUs. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Blood clots are suitable as DNA source for Trypanosoma spp. identification. • Detection of T. cruzi infection in seronegative wild mammals by PCR of blood clots. • Trypanosoma spp. identified in individuals with negative hemoculture. • T. dionisii , T. cascavelli and T. lainsoni have a broader host spectrum. • Two new MOTUs were identified in Didelphis sp. and Carollia sp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coxiella burnetii is a multi‐host bacterium that causes Q fever in humans, a zoonosis that is emerging worldwide. The ecology of C. burnetii in wildlife is still poorly understood and the influence of host, environmental and pathogen factors is almost unknown. This study gathers current published information on different aspects of C. burnetii infection in wildlife, even in species with high reservoir potential and a high rate of interaction with livestock and humans, in order to partially fill the existing gap and highlight future needs. Exposure and/or infection by C. burnetii has, to date, been reported in 109 wild mammal species. The limited sample size of most of the existing studies could suggest an undervalued prevalence of C. burnetii infection. Knowledge on the clinical outcome of C. burnetii infection in wildlife is also very limited, but currently includes reproductive failure in waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus), roan antelope (Hippotragus niger), dama gazelle (Nanger dama) and water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and placentitis in the Pacific harbor seal (Phoca vitulina richardsi), Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus) and red deer (Cervus elaphus). The currently available serological tests need to be optimised and validated for each wildlife species. Finally, there is a huge gap in the research on C. burnetii control in wildlife, despite of the increasing evidence that wildlife is a source of C. burnetii for both livestock and humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hedgehogs (Mammalia: Erinaceidae) are omnivorous nocturnal animals typically living in anthropogenic areas. They may be suitable as sentinels for a wide range of zoonotic infections. Only a few studies have investigated hedgehogs (and then as representative wildlife species) to establish their role in the life cycle of such tissue parasites with zoonotic potential as Toxoplasma gondii or Trichinella spp. Working with frozen hedgehog cadavers, we tested for these parasites using T. gondii DNA-specific magnetic capture isolation plus polymerase chain reaction and Trichinella spp. digestion assay. All of 50 examined hedgehogs were negative for Trichinella spp. larvae in their muscles, but brain tissue from 5 out of 26 Erinaceus europaeus (19.2%) and 4 out of 24 E. roumanicus (16.6%) tested positive for T. gondii DNA. Frequency of T. gondii for both hedgehog species was equal, as was distribution between males and females and across age categories. Although a few studies have suggested the possibility of Trichinella spp. infection in hedgehogs, the zero prevalence in the tested hedgehogs is not surprising in view of the generally low prevalence of Trichinella spp. in Central Europe. Our results show that hedgehogs are susceptible to infection by T. gondii and can be used as indicator wildlife animal species in anthropogenic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study reports the first case of infection by Pterygodermatites affinis in Lycalopex gymnocercus, and the first report of this nematode in Argentina. Examining 80 foxes from Buenos Aires province, specimens of this species were recovered from 21.25 % of the small intestines and eggs were found in 7.5 % of the fecal samples.

The parasites of the genus Spirometra belong to one of the twelve genera of the family Diphyllobothriidae, with several species of zoonotic importance whose definitive hosts are carnivorous mammals. In Argentina, few reports have described these parasites in wild carnivores. Morphological studies of the adult stage obtained from necropsy allow the distinction between Diphyllobothrium and Spirometra. A less invasive method of identification is the analysis of the parasite eggs; however, the morphometric similarities between close genera and species and alterations in egg preservation affect the identification. In Argentina, molecular tools have been used as a non-invasive and accurate method to increase the information about Spirometra and to improve its identification. In the present study, DNA was extracted from Spirometra eggs from Pampas foxes and a 450-bp fragment of the mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene was sequenced. The sequence obtained, which is the first Spirometra DNA sequence from Argentina, was deposited at GenBank. Comparison by BLASTN analysis between the sequence obtained and the sequences from GenBank showed 93 % identity with S. proliferum and 89% with S. erinaceieuropaei.

Background: We aimed to focus on the ixodid ticks parasitizing wild mammals and reptiles from Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Western Ghat, southern India. Methods: The taxonomic identification of ticks collected from wild mammals and reptiles was performed based on the morphology of adults. Results: We revealed eight species of ticks including, Amblyomma integrum, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus, Haemaphysalis (Kaiseriana) spinigera, H. (K.) shimoga, H. (K.) bispinosa, H. (Rhipistoma) indica, Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides and R. sanguineus s.l. collected from nine species of wild mammals while four tick species Ablyomma kraneveldi, A. pattoni, A. gervaisi and A. javanense parasitizing on four species of reptiles. The highest host rich­ness was shown by H. (K.) bispinosa and R. haemaphysaloides parasitizing six and five different host species, re­spectively. Reports of R. (B.) annulatus on sambar deer, A. javanense and A. kraneveldi on python as well as A. pat­toni on Indian rat snake are the new host records from this region. Conclusion: Eight species of ticks parasitizing on nine species of wild mammals and four species of parasitizing on four species of reptiles were identified. The highest host richness was shown by H. (K.) bispinosa and R. haemaphy­saloides. H. spinigera as the vector of KFD was also identified in this study.

Toxoplasmosis stands out as a global disease that has felines as definitive hosts. In the municipality of Natal, Rio Grande do Norte State, Brazil, two parks are notable for their ecological and social importance. This study aimed to investigate the presence of Toxoplasma gondii in short hair cats, bats and small non-volant mammals in these two ecological reserves. Altogether, biological samples were obtained from 154 mammals, 92 wild animals from both areas and 62 domestic cats of the Parque da Cidade. In total, 22 (53.7%) non-volant wild mammals, 11 (21.5%) bats and 28 (52.8%) cats were positive for IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies using the Modified Agglutination Test (≥ 25). It was possible to detect the presence of T. gondii DNA, by means of a molecular amplification of a B1 gene fragment (155bp), in 92 tissue samples from wild animals, including Didelphis albiventris, Monodelphis domestica, Artibeus lituratus, Carollia perspicillata and Glossophaga soricina. Of the 62 cats examined by the same molecular method, T. gondii DNA could be detected in 4 cats. In this study, it was observed the circulation of T. gondii in wild species and domestic cats, demonstrating the involvement of wild and domestic animals in the cycle of T. gondii.

The definition of a reservoir has changed significantly in the last century, making it necessary to study zoonosis from a broader perspective. One important example is that of Leishmania, zoonotic multi-host parasites maintained by several mammal species in nature. The magnitude of the health problem represented by leishmaniasis combined with the complexity of its epidemiology make it necessary to clarify all of the links in transmission net, including non-human mammalian hosts, to develop effective control strategies. Although some studies have described dozens of species infected with these parasites, only a minority have related their findings to the ecological scenario to indicate a possible role of that host in parasite maintenance and transmission. Currently, it is accepted that a reservoir may be one or a complex of species responsible for maintaining the parasite in nature. A reservoir system should be considered unique on a given spatiotemporal scale. In fact, the transmission of Leishmania species in the wild still represents an complex enzootic “puzzle”, as several links have not been identified. This review presents the mammalian species known to be infected with Leishmania spp. in the Americas, highlighting those that are able to maintain and act as a source of the parasite in nature (and are thus considered potential reservoirs). These host/reservoirs are presented separately in each of seven mammal orders – Marsupialia, Cingulata, Pilosa, Rodentia, Primata, Carnivora, and Chiroptera – responsible for maintaining Leishmania species in the wild.

Highlights • We have studied the spread of the antibiotic resistance phenomenon in wild mammals. • Wildlife plays an important role in the ecology of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. • Wildlife can be regarded as environmental health indicators. Abstract Antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria are a threat to global health. Epidemiological studies are necessary to gain a more detailed understanding of the transmission modality of resistant bacteria to wild animals and their diffusion into the environment to ensure a broader evaluation of the epidemiological role of wildlife. The study aimed to identify little-known epidemiological aspects by focusing on the isolation of Enterobacteriaceae in order to bring knowledge on the bacterial flora of wild mammals living in the National Park of Aspromonte (Calabria, Italy). Two hundred twenty-five faecal samples of wild mammals were collected and submitted to standard bacteriological examination for Enterobacteriaceae detection. Isolates were identified by mass spectrometry MALDI-TOF (matrix assisted laser desorption/ionisation - time of fligt mass spectrometry). The 30 isolates showing the highest number of resistances were screened for Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL) production. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of the bacterial isolates was performed by the disk diffusion method. Two hundred sixty-three strains were isolated. The most frequently recovered bacterial species were Hafnia alvei , Escherichia coli and Citrobacter spp.. Potentially pathogenic species including Salmonella spp., Yersinia enterocolitica and Serratia marcescens have also been identified. Isolates displayed significant frequencies of antibiotic resistance. The resistance to amoxicillin (71.4%) was the most frequent, followed by amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (55.5%), ampicillin (49.8%), streptomycin (35.7%), doxycycline (16.3%), tobramycin (15.2%), tetracycline (13.3%) and gentamicin (10.6%). Nine strains showed resistance to imipenem and 1 to meropenem. All isolates were negative for the presence of ESBL-encoding genes. Wild animals can be regarded as sentinel species and used as environmental health indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lagochilascariosis is an emerging parasitic disease limited to the American continent, caused by nematodes of the genus Lagochilascaris. Its life cycle is heteroxenous, involving natural definitive hosts (wild carnivores), accidental hosts (domestic carnivores and humans), and intermediate hosts (rodents). Here we report, for the first time, the occurrence of Lagochilascaris major in female of a Pampas fox (Lycalopex gymnocercus) which was found in the Mar Chiquita basin, Buenos Aires province, Argentina. At necropsy, multiple Lagochilascaris larvae and several adults (1 female and 5 male) were observed inserted in the mucosa of the trachea and a male was also collected in the stomach. The diagnosis was made by observing the different stages with optical microscopy, by scanning electron microscopy of adult males and coproparasitological analysis. Although cases of lagochilascariosis have been reported in wildlife in different countries of the American continent, in Argentina, cases are really rare and were only found in domestic cats.ᅟLagochilascariosis is an emerging parasitic disease limited to the American continent. In Argentina, sporadic cases of Lagochilascariosis were reported in domestic cats but this work represents the first record in a wild carnivore (L. gymnocercus) naturally infected with L. major. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to focus on the ixodid ticks parasitizing wild mammals and reptiles from Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Western Ghat, southern India. Methods: The taxonomic identification of ticks collected from wild mammals and reptiles was performed based on the morphology of adults. Results: We revealed eight species of ticks including, Amblyomma integrum, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus, Haemaphysalis (Kaiseriana) spinigera, H. (K.) shimoga, H. (K.) bispinosa, H. (Rhipistoma) indica, Rhipicephalus haemaphysaloides and R. sanguineus s.l. collected from nine species of wild mammals while four tick species Ablyomma kraneveldi, A. pattoni, A. gervaisi and A. javanense parasitizing on four species of reptiles. The highest host richness was shown by H. (K.) bispinosa and R. haemaphysaloides parasitizing six and five different host species, respectively. Reports of R. (B.) annulatus on sambar deer, A. javanense and A. kraneveldi on python as well as A. pattoni on Indian rat snake are the new host records from this region. Conclusion: Eight species of ticks parasitizing on nine species of wild mammals and four species of parasitizing on four species of reptiles were identified. The highest host richness was shown by H. (K.) bispinosa and R. haemaphysaloides. H. spinigera as the vector of KFD was also identified in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Pesquisa Veterinaria Brasileira is the property of Colegio Brasileiro de Patologia Animal - CBPA 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.)

Copyright of Pesquisa Veterinaria Brasileira is the property of Colegio Brasileiro de Patologia Animal - CBPA 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.)

Animal cloning is a promising technology for biodiversity conservation, and its success depends on the recovery of nucleus donor cells. Specifically for collared peccaries, found sometimes in regions that are difficult to access, the storage at 4-6°C of skin tissues would be an alternative for the conservation of genetic material. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate different storage periods and the presence of a nutrient medium at 4-6°C on the recovery of somatic cells from the skin of collared peccaries. To analyze cell recovery rates, ear explants were distributed in non-refrigerated samples and samples refrigerated for 10, 30, and 50 d in the absence or presence of nutrient medium. All explants were analyzed by histologically and cultured. Only the fragments stored for 50 d without medium showed an increase in the total thickness of skin. Moreover, increased storage period, regardless of the presence of medium, increased the halo number and reduced the metabolic activity. After culture, only the fragments stored without medium for 50 d did not yield any somatic cells. Cells recovered from explants stored for 10 d showed similar characteristics to these recovered from non-refrigerated explants, regardless of the presence of medium, including the day at which explants achieved attachment and the total time to reach subconfluence. In conclusion, viable cells can be recovered from somatic tissues of collared peccaries stored for up to 50 d in the presence of medium, and tissues refrigerated for up to 10 d in the presence of medium yielded more viable cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Serological surveys have shown that wild raccoons are exposed to influenza A viruses (IAVs); however, no genetic evidence for this IAV infection has been found. In the present study, we first detected IAV genes in wild raccoons captured during periods other than the wintering season of migratory waterfowl and epidemic season of influenza in Japan. Viral matrix (M) and nucleoprotein (NP) genes were detected by a conventional reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assay from three suckling siblings and one juvenile without any noticeable clinical signs, although the NP gene could not be detected from one sibling. The sequences of M gene fragments detected from the rectal swabs of three suckling siblings were comparable with each other but different from those detected from the nasal swab of the juvenile raccoon caught from a different site. The sequences of NP gene fragments detected from two suckling siblings were also comparable. These genetic evidences suggest that IAV is maintained among raccoon populations in the northern part of Japan. Further genetic and virological investigation of IAV infection in wild raccoons is needed to better understand the IAV ecology in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During our study around the marsh of Reghaia. we carried out a trip every fortnight from February 21 to May 2, 2016 and 58 droppings were collected in the surrounding area of Jebel, 22 feces for the red fox Vulpes vulpes and Wild boar Sus scrofa each and 14 droppings for the common jackal Canis aureus. The flotation method of 58 samples allowed us to identify 19 species belonging to the 4 phylums, 6 classes, 9 orders and 14 families. We were able to identify 12 species of parasites in red fox droppings. 10 genera for common jackals and 15 parasites in wild boar and with common species. The total number of parasites identified is 19 genera. The results obtained for red fox Vulpes vulpes show a dominance of Strongyloides sp. with a rate of 31.82% followed by Uncinaria with 22.73%. Ancylostoma and Eimeria with 22.73% for each. Concerning the common jackal Canis aureus, the nematod Strongyloides occupies the first place with 21.43% followed by Ancylostoma sp., Ascaridia sp. and Teania sp. with 14.29% the rest of the parasitic species occupies the same rank with a prevalence rate equal to 7.14%. As for wild boars Sus scrofa, we noted after examinations of 22 excreta that 54.5% are infested by Strongyloides sp. followed by Ancylostoma sp. with an infestation rate of 50% followed by Eimeria sp. with a rate of 45.5% followed by Ascaris sp. with a percentage equal to 27.3%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin vitrification is a promising and alternative tool for the conservation of biodiversity, especially for wild mammals, such as collared peccaries. Several factors can affect the success of this procedure, such as the cryoprotectant solution used. Therefore, this study was carried out to compare the efficiency of various vitrification solutions for recovery of viable cells after in vitro culture of cryopreserved skin tissues derived from the collared peccary, aiming to study the application in biobanking, where cellular use is not immediately required. Then, Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM) composed of 2.2 g/L sodium bicarbonate and 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) was supplemented with 3.0 M ethylene glycol (EG) or 3.0 M dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or 1.5 M EG plus 1.5 M DMSO with or without sucrose (SUC; 0.25 M) to produce six solutions for solid-surface vitrification. After warming, skin tissues were cultured in vitro and recovered cells were analyzed for morphology, adhesion, subconfluence, and proliferative activity for developing the growth curve and determining the population doubling time (PDT), and viability by Trypan Blue. The vitrification did not alter the ability of the tissues to adhere to the culture dish, as well as the day of all explants with cell growth, subconfluence samples, subconfluence total time, and PDT (p > 0.05). Moreover, independent of the cryoprotectant solution used, the vitrification altered the day of all attached explants (p < 0.05). Nevertheless, for viability after the first passage, only the EG-SUC (86.9%) and DMSO-SUC (91.4%) groups maintained viable cell recovery similar to the nonvitrified group (96.3%, p > 0.05). Additionally, for viability after the third passage, only the EG-SUC group maintained the cell quality (88.3%), when compared with the nonvitrified (97.8%, p > 0.05). In conclusion, DMEM with 10% FBS, 3.0 M EG, and 0.25 M sucrose was the most efficient solution for vitrifying collared peccary skin tissues, leading to the in vitro culture of viable cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Outbreaks of Vaccinia virus (VACV) affecting cattle and humans have been reported in Brazil in the last 15 years, but the origin of outbreaks remains unknown. Although VACV DNA have been already detected in mice (Mus musculus), opossums (Didelphis albiventris) and dogs during VACV zoonotic outbreaks, no transmission to cattle or humans from any of these were reported during Brazilian outbreaks. In this work, we assessed the PCR positivity to VACV in blood samples of cows and other domestic mammals, wild rodents and other wild mammals, and humans from areas with or without VACV infection reports. Our results show the detection of VACV DNA in blood samples of cows, horse and opossums, raising important questions about VACV spread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The city of Novgorod the Great in north-west Russia has been subjected to extensive excavation of its superbly preserved medieval anaerobic deposits for many decades. Situated on the River Volkhov near Lake Ilmen and surrounded by mixed boreal and deciduous woodland and seasonally flooded meadowlands, Novgorod was well-placed for the exploitation of local wild fauna and flora. It was also the focus for international trade in furs obtained from a much broader catchment area. Although its inhabitants relied heavily on domestic animals and crops for their food, evidence for the acquisition of wild resources is also provided by animal bones, plant macrofossils, birch-bark documents and other archaeological finds. Pollen analysis has also provided information about landscape history of its hinterland. Even from a limited programme of sieved sampling, it is clear that a very large number of fish bones were present in the deposits. The main taxa are cyprinids, pike and zander, whereas birch-bark documents, largely concerned with tribute, mention salmonids and sturgeon, rare amongst the excavated remains. The wild bird assemblage is dominated by various species of ducks. Other waterfowl were utilised as well as large game birds such as capercaillie. Birds of prey are also present and other remains such as jackdaws reveal the local bird life in town. Wild mammals contributed little to the Novgorodian diet: bones of hare, beaver and elk being the most frequently found. Very few bones of fur-bearing mammals were recovered. The few remains include bear claws and bones of squirrel, marten, otter, and fox, in addition to beaver. Their paucity can be explained by the fact that most would have arrived from the hunting grounds to the north as prepared pelts without bones. Evidence for the hunting for these species is provided on sites deep within the forest zone such as Minino. Most of the wild animals eaten in Novgorod itself were obtained from the land and waters of its near hinterland. The paper discusses the character of the local forest based on pollen and other evidence. Models are being developed to provide a more detailed understanding of the changes in the composition of the forest during the medieval period and the consequences this had for wildlife. The paper demonstrates the benefits of developing a multi-disciplinary approach comparing urban assemblages with contemporary sites in its hinterland and further afield, to understand more fully how wild species were exploited in complex societies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Pesquisa Veterinaria Brasileira is the property of Colegio Brasileiro de Patologia Animal - CBPA 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.)