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A commercial coproantigen ELISA test for fasciolosis, based on the use of MM3 monoclonal antibody for antigen capture, was investigated for possible cross-reactivity with Paramphistomum cervi, a trematode that commonly infects cattle and sheep grazing in fluke-infested pasture in Ireland. Histological sections of adult and immature Fasciola hepatica and P cervi were incubated with MM3 monoclonal antibody, and its binding to tissue-localised coproantigen was subsequently visualised by immunocytochemistry. In a related study, the soluble antigenic fractions derived from homogenates of P cervi adults and Taenia hydatigena metacestodes were tested for cross-reactivity with MM3 monoclonal antibody in an antigen-capture ELISA, using known F hepatica-positive and F hepatica-negative ovine faecal samples as natural controls. It was found that, while intense immunocytochemical labelling was located over the gastrodermis and gut contents of adult and immature F hepatica, sections of adult and immature P cervi were unlabelled. In the ELISA tests, the soluble fractions of F hepatica reacted strongly with MM3 monoclonal antibody, but those of P cervi and T hydatigena gave negative results. These findings support the specificity of the coproantigen ELISA test for fasciolosis in areas where paramphistomosis and cysticercosis are liable to occur singly or as coinfections with F hepatica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is a blood-sucking ectoparasite of cattle that severely impairs livestock production. Studies on tick immunological control address mostly single-antigen vaccines. However, from the commercial standpoint, so far no single-antigen vaccine has afforded appropriate protection against all R. microplus populations. In this context, multi-antigen cocktails have emerged as a way to enhance vaccine efficacy. In this work, a multi-antigenic vaccine against R. microplus was analyzed under field conditions in naturally infested cattle. The vaccine was composed by three tick recombinant proteins from two tick species that in previous single-vaccination reports provided partial protection of confined cattle against R. microplus infestations: vitellin-degrading cysteine endopeptidase (VTDCE) and boophilus yolk pro-cathepsin (BYC) from R. microplus, and glutathione S-transferase from Haemaphysalis longicornis (GST-Hl). Increased antibody levels against three proteins were recorded after immunizations, with a distinct humoral immune response dynamics for each protein. Compared to the control group, a statistically significant lower number of semi-engorged female ticks were observed in vaccinated cattle after two inoculations. This reduction persisted for 3 months, ranging from 35.3 to 61.6%. Furthermore, cattle body weight gain was significantly higher in vaccinated animals when compared to control cattle. Compared to the single-antigen vaccines composed by VTDCE, BYC or GST-Hl, this three-antigen vaccine afforded higher protection levels against R. microplus infestations. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Onchocerca ochengi is a filarial nematode parasite of African cattle and most closely related to Onchocerca volvulus, the causing agent of river blindness. O. ochengi females induce the formation of a nodule in the dermis of the host, in which they remain sedentary in very close association with the host's tissue. Males, which do not adhere to the host's tissue, are also found within the nodules at an average number of about one male per nodule. Young O. ochengi females tend to avoid the immediate proximity of existing nodules. Therefore, O. ochengi nodules are dispersed in the ventral inguinal skin at considerable distances from each other. It has been speculated that males avoid the risk of leaving a female once they have found one and remain in the nodule as territorial males rendering the reproductive strategy of O. ochengi essentially monogamous. We developed a protocol that allows reliable PCR amplification of single copy loci from different developmental stages of O. ochengi including embryos and microfilariae. From 32 O. ochengi nodules, we genotyped the female worms and the 67 adult male worms, found in these nodules, together with a fraction of the progeny from within the uteri of females. In 18 of 32 gravid females progeny derived from multiple males were found. In five nodules, the males isolated from the same nodule as the female were not sufficient to explain the genotypes of the entire progeny. We conclude that frequently O. ochengi females simultaneously produce progeny sired by different males and that most but not all males are still present in the nodule when their offspring is ready to hatch. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a pour-on solution containing moxidectin plus triclabendazole (MOX plus TCBZ) against immature and adult stages of the liver fluke in cattle and compare the efficacy with other commercially available preparations. To this end, 104 male Holstein-Friesian calves aged between 3 and 4 months, were randomly allocated to 13 groups of eight animals each, and infected with approximately 500 Fasciola hepatica metacercariae. One group remained untreated, four groups were treated with MOX plus TCBZ at a dose rate of 0.1mL/kg, four other groups were treated with ivermectin (IVM) plus clorsulon injectable at a dose rate of 0.02mL/kg, and the remaining four groups were treated with IVM plus closantel pour-on at a dose rate of 0.1mL/kg. Each treatment was applied to one of the groups at 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks after the experimental infection. At necropsy (99–102 days after infection), all untreated animals were infected with a minimum of 30 flukes. The MOX plus TCBZ treated animals had significantly (P <0.0001) lower fluke counts compared to the untreated control animals at all time points after treatment. Efficacy against 8-week old and adult flukes was >99.5%. For 6-week old immature fluke, the efficacy was 98.0% and for 4-week old immature fluke the efficacy was 90.9%. The IVM plus closantel pour-on treated animals had significantly lower fluke counts compared to the untreated control animals for adult and 8-week old flukes (P <0.0001), and for 6-week old flukes (P =0.002). The efficacy was 26.8%, 68.2%, 90.6% and 99.3% against 4-week, 6-week and 8-week old immature flukes, and adult flukes respectively. The IVM plus clorsulon treated animals had significantly lower fluke counts compared to the untreated control animals for adult (P <0.0001) and 8-week old (P <0.05) flukes. The efficacy was 29.7%, 43.4%, 53.2% and 99.2% against 4-week, 6-week and 8-week old immature flukes, and adult flukes respectively. For treatments at 4, 6 and 8 weeks after infection, the fluke counts were significantly (P <0.0001) lower for the MOX plus TCBZ treatment than for IVM plus closantel or IVM plus clorsulon. The results confirm the high efficacy (>90%) of the MOX plus TCBZ pour-on combination against 4-week old to adult liver fluke in cattle. The IVM plus closantel pour-on combination was effective (>90%) against 8-week old and adult flukes, but had low efficacy against 4- and 6-week old fluke. The IVM plus clorsulon injectable combination was effective (>90%) against adult fluke only. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Neospora caninum, an apicomplexan protozoan parasite, is recognized as a major cause of abortion in cattle. Surface antigen 1 of N. caninum (NcSAG1) is an important immunodominant candidate for the development of a diagnostic reagent for neosporosis. The present study describes the development and evaluation of a latex agglutination test (LAT) with recombinant NcSAG1 (rNcSAG1) for the detection of antibodies to N. caninum in cattle. The rNcSAG1 gene was cloned in pET-28a and protein was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3). Carboxylated latex particles were coated with rNcSAG1 and the degree of agreement between LAT and a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iscomELISA) was evaluated by using of 164 serum samples. Twenty-two (13.4%) and 23 (14.0%) of samples were positive for antibodies to N. caninum by LAT and ELISA respectively. Eighteen of 23 ELISA-positive samples were positive according to the LAT and a substantial agreement (κ =0.77) was found between the results of LAT and ELISA. The results indicated that the LAT with rNcSAG1 would be a rapid, simple, relatively inexpensive and suitable diagnostic test for detection of specific antibodies in N. caninum infection under field conditions. Improvement in purification of rNcSAG1 can reduce probable false positive reactions and so increase the degree of agreement between the LAT and ELISA. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The major route of transmission of Neospora caninum in cattle is transplacentally from an infected cow to its progeny. Therefore, a vaccine should be able to prevent both the horizontal transmission from contaminated food or water and the vertical transmission. We have previously shown that a chimeric vaccine composed of predicted immunogenic epitopes of NcMIC3, NcMIC1 and NcROP2 (recNcMIC3-1-R) significantly reduced the cerebral infection in BALB/c mice. In this study, mice were first vaccinated, then mated and pregnant mice were challenged with 2×106 N. caninum tachyzoites at day 7–9 of pregnancy. Partial protection was only observed in the mice vaccinated with a tachyzoite crude protein extract but no protection against vertical transmission or cerebral infection in the dams was observed in the group vaccinated with recNcMIC3-1-R. Serological and cytokine analysis showed an overall lower cytokine level in sera associated with a dominant IL-4 expression and high IgG1 titers. Thus, the Th2-type immune response observed in the pregnant mice was not protective against experimental neosporosis, in contrary to the mixed Th1-/Th2-type immune response observed in the non-pregnant mouse model. These results demonstrate that the immunomodulation that occurs during pregnancy was not favorable for the protection against N. caninum infection conferred by vaccination with recNcMIC3-1-R. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The objectives of this study were: (1) to determine the prevalence and factors associated with Rhipicephalus microplus, resistant to cypermethrin and amitraz, from cattle farms in Veracruz, Mexico, and (2) to determine in vitro mortality percentages of field populations of R. rnicroplus exposed to discriminating doses (DD) of cypermethrin and amitraz. Fifty-three populations of R. rnicroplus were tested by bioassays using DD of cypermethrin (0.05%) and amitraz (0.0002%). The prevalence of cattle farms with R. microplus ticks that were resistant to cypermethrin and amitraz, and co-resistant to both acaricides, was 90.6, 54.7, and 47.2%, respectively. The level of cypermethrin resistance, measured as a survival percentage, was higher as compared to amitraz. Cattle farms with <50 animals (odds ratio [OR] = 3.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07-13.70, P = 0.038) and a stocking density of > 1 animal unit per ha (AU/ha) (OR = 4.21, 95% CI = 1.0-17.71, P - 0.050) had a higher probability to develop R. microplus tick populations co- resistant to both acaricides. In conclusion, there is a high prevalence of R. microplus populations on cattle farms in Veracruz, Mexico that are both resistant to cypermethrin and amitraz and co-resistant to both acaricides. The level of cypermethrin resistance is critical, and the exposition variables of -<50 cattle and a stocking density of > 1 AU/ha were factors associated with R. microplus co-resistant to both acaricides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (G1) and Echinococcus ortleppi (G5) are haplotypes of the parasite formerly known as Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato, which in its larval stage causes cystic hydatid disease, endemic in Southern Brazil. Epidemiological and molecular knowledge about the haplotypes occurring in a region is essential to control the spread of the disease. The aim of this work was to analyze the haplotype frequency and fertility of hydatid cysts in cattle from the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Cysts were collected and classified according to their fertility status. DNA was extracted from protoscoleces and germinal layers and then used as template for the amplification of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene by PCR. Amplicons were purified and sequenced, and the sequences were analyzed for haplotype identification. A total of 638 fertile cysts collected in the last ten years were genotyped. On average, G1 (56.6%) was more frequent than G5 (43.4%). In lungs, the G5 haplotype exhibited a higher parasite load (52.8%), whereas in the liver, G1 was more frequent (90.4%). The analysis revealed an increase in the frequency of G5 haplotype cysts during the period of sampling, and an increase in the abundance of fertile cysts has also been observed in the last several years. Most infertile cysts were genotyped as G1. The possible factors involved in the increase in the proportion of E. ortleppi (G5) and the consequences of this increase are discussed. This study suggests that the proportion of E. ortleppi (G5) loads in cattle may be increasing overtime. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Bovine piroplasmosis is caused by tick-borne hemoprotozoans of the genera Babesia and Theileria and is the most prevalent in tropical and subtropical countries, causing a major economic impact worldwide. In the current study, a total of 405 cattle of different ages, sexes, and breeds were randomly sampled for surveying and diagnosis of babesiosis and theileriosis using three methods: direct microscopy (blood smears), indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Giemsa-stained blood smears revealed that, out of 405 examined cattle, 33 (8.15 %) were infected with Babesia sp. and 65 (16.05 %) with Theileria sp. (total number of infected cattle was 98). Mixed infection was seen in 11 (2.72 %) animals. Moreover, application of the three diagnostic assays on 158 randomly sampled cattle indicated that 17 (10.76 %) and 33 (20.89 %) were positive for Babesia and Theileria spp. by the direct smear technique, 25 (15.82 %) and 33 (20.89 %) by IFAT (fluorescence was greenish yellow for Babesia and yellowish for Theileria), and 20 (12.66 %) and 38 (24.05 %) by PCR. Using primers specific for Babesia and Theileria spp., we found that diagnostic bands appeared at ~350 and ~370 bp, respectively indicating the presence of these piroplasms. Statistically, there was a non-significant difference of the positivity in response to the three techniques; thus, any of these methods can be described as useful for diagnosing blood parasites in both domesticated animals and birds. On the basis of the obtained results, it could be concluded that direct microscopy can be used in acute infections, whereas IFAT and PCR are useful in chronicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was undertaken to estimate the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in calves in western Serbia. Throughout 2011 faecal samples were collected from 600 calves aged up to 180 days, samples were examined with the flotation method and a modified McMaster technique. The parasitizing helminth species were identified and the level of infection compared between different age groups. As many as 64.17% animals were found to be infected. The following parasite species were diagnosed: Moniezia spp. (3.17%), Toxocara vitulorum (35.00%), Strongyloides papillosus (34.50%), gastrointestinal strongyles (4.50%) and Trichuris discolor (2.17%). The majority of calves were infected with two, fewer with three or one helminth species, and the smollest number of calves harboured four parasite species. The prevalence of established helminth infections varied depending on the calves' age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evaluation of the efficacy of three commonly used acaricides viz. cypermethrin, deltamethrin (0.05, 0.1 and 0.2% concentrations) and amitraz (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3% concentrations) was conducted against the cattle tick Boophilus microplus. Three in vitro methods viz. Tea bag method, filter paper impregnation method and immersion method were used to evaluate the efficacy of the acaricides. Adult immersion test with discriminating doses was also done to know the resistance development if present. Comparison of different in vitro methods was done based on the efficacy against larval stages of the ticks. Among the three acaricides amitraz fared better with no indication of resistance development against B. microplus. Cypermethrin showed 30% and deltamethrin showed 10% resistance against B. microplus. Among different in vitro methods, the immersion method fared better in efficacy followed by tea bag method and filter paper method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study evaluated the presence of Neospora caninum in ovarian follicle aspirates and uterine flushes obtained from N. caninum seropositive dairy cows. Ninety-two cows that aborted within the previous 90 days were sampled to determine the presence of antibodies against N. caninum. Thirteen seropositive cows were chosen for collection of blood leukocytes, uterine flushes (UF; n =12) and follicular aspirates (OPU; n =13). Samples were centrifuged and the cellular sediment from the follicular fluid, uterine flushes and blood leukocytes were used for DNA extraction and PCR. Follicular aspirates had the highest frequency of DNA amplification for N. caninum (p <0.05, 92.3%; 12/13). Whereas uterine (4/12) and blood leukocyte (5/13) samples had similar (p >0.05) rate of positive results. Nonetheless, there was no agreement between blood leukocytes and follicular samples taken from the same animal (Cohen Kappa=−0.16). Similarly, blood leukocytes and uterine results had moderate agreement between them (Cohen Kappa=0.47). This study indicates that N. caninum is present in the ovarian follicle and uterus of seropositive cows, suggesting a possible risk of neosporosis transmission between females during oocyte and embryo collection and transfer. Hence, precautions should be taken to minimize the risk of N. caninum transmission. Furthermore, the high incidence of positive results in follicle samples, that exceeded that of their paired blood leukocytes, suggests a possible tropism of N. caninum for the ovarian follicle. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The study reports the frequency of infestation and the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens in feeding adult ticks detached from cattle in two climatic zones of the Black Sea region of Turkey. A total of 2160 adult ticks were collected during 2007–2008. Of these, 1062 were randomly selected, divided into 224 pools, and tested for the presence of bovine Theileria, Babesia, and Anaplasma species. Eleven tick species were recognized on cattle in the study. Hyalomma marginatum was widely disrubuted in the semi-arid bioclimatic zone, but few specimens were collected in the humid bioclimatic zone. The most prevalent tick species in the humid climatic zone was Ixodes ricinus. Infection rates were calculated as the maximum likelihood estimation with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Overall, 4% (CI 2.87–5.44) of 224 tick pools were found to be positive for the pathoges by Reverse line blot. Maximum likelihood estimation of the infection rate varied among tick species, ranging from 2.68% (CI 0.16–12.68) in Haemaphysalis sulcata to 10.49% (CI 4.07–23.66) in Rhipicephalus bursa. The most prevalent tick-borne pathogen was Anaplasma phagocytophilum at 6.78% (CI 3.41–12.18) followed by A. centrale (6.56%, CI 0.42–31.47), Anaplasma/Ehrlichia spp. (3.61%, CI 1.99–6.06), Babesia spp. (3.33%, CI 1.65–6.03), and T. buffeli/orientalis (2.71%, CI 0.73–7.18). Sequencing results indicated that Babesia spp. shared 99% to 100% similarity with the unnamed Babesia sp. Kashi 1 and 2, Babesia sp. Kayseri 1 and Babesia sp.CS58. Anaplasma/Ehrlichia spp. were 98% and 100% identical to Ehrlichia canis and Ehrlichia sp. Omatjenne strain, respectively. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Sixty blood smears from cattle and sixty blood smears from sheep were collected from various regions in Mosul city during October 2010 till October 2011. These were examined for parasites (Eperythrozoon, Haemobartonella, and Trypanosoma) and some clinical signs were observed on the affected animals. The percentage of infections in cattle were 28.33%, 10% and 3.33% for Eperythrozoon wenyoni, Haemobartonella bovis and Trypanosoma congolense respectively. Mixed infection with E. wenyori and H. bovis was 18.33%. Percentage of infection with E. ovis was 40% with the mean parasitaemia of 2.29% in sheep. This study is the first report in Mosul city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A total of 207 bovine blood samples were collected from clinically healthy cattle bred in central region of Syria and examined by Giemsa-stained blood smears, nested PCR, ELISA, and IFAT to determine the molecular and serological prevalence of Babesia bovis and B. bigemina. All samples were negative to Babesia spp. by microscopic examination of blood smears. On the other hand, the overall prevalence of B. bovis and B. bigemina was 9.18% and 15.46% by nPCR, 15.46% and 18.84% by ELISA, and 18.36% and 21.74% by IFAT, respectively. Mixed infections were detected in a total of 5 samples (2.4%) by nPCR, 16 (7.73%) by ELISA and 27 (13.04%) by IFAT. Statistically significant differences in the prevalence of the two infections were observed on the basis of age and location. These data provide valuable information regarding the occurrence and epidemiology of B. bovis and B. bigemina infections in Syrian cattle, which can be employed in developing rational strategies for disease control and management. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A 4-year study on the free-living stages of cattle gastrointestinal nematodes was conducted to determine (a) the development time from egg to infective larvae (L3) inside the faecal pats, (b) the pasture infectivity levels over time, and (c) the survival of L3 on pasture. Naturally infected calves were allowed to contaminate 16 plots on monthly basis. Weekly monitoring of eggs per gram of faeces (epg) values and faecal cultures from these animals provided data for the contamination patterns and the relative nematode population composition. At the same time, faecal pats were shaped and deposited monthly onto herbage and sampled weekly to determine the development time from egg to L3. Herbage samples were collected fortnightly over a 16-month period after deposition to evaluate the pasture larval infectivity and survival of L3 over time. The development time from egg to L3 was 1–2 weeks in summer, 3–5 weeks in autumn, 4–6 weeks in winter, and 1–4 weeks in spring. The levels of contamination and pasture infectivity showed a clear seasonality during autumn–winter and spring, whilst a high mortality of larvae on pasture occurred in summer. Ostertagia spp., Cooperia spp. and Trichostrongylus spp. were predominant and a survival of L3 on pasture over a 1-year period was recorded in this study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: In order to investigate the genetic variation between Tritrichomonas foetus from bovine and feline origins, cysteine protease 8 (CP8) coding sequence was selected as the polymorphic DNA marker. Direct sequencing of CP8 coding sequence of T. foetus from four feline isolates and two bovine isolates with polymerase chain reaction successfully revealed conserved nucleotide polymorphisms between feline and bovine isolates. These results provide useful information for CP8-based molecular differentiation of T. foetus genotypes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The cattle tick, Rhipicephalus microplus, is arguably the world’s most economically important external parasite of cattle. Sustainable cattle tick control strategies are required to maximise the productivity of cattle in both large production operations and small family farms. Commercially available synthetic acaricides are commonly used in control and eradication programs, but indiscriminate practices in their application have resulted in the rapid evolution of resistance among populations in tropical and subtropical regions where the invasive R. microplus thrives. The need for novel technologies that could be used alone or in combination with commercially available synthetic acaricides is driving a resurgence of cattle tick vaccine discovery research efforts by various groups globally. The aim is to deliver a next-generation vaccine that has an improved efficacy profile over the existing Bm86-based cattle tick vaccine product. We present a short review of these projects and offer our opinion on what constitutes a good target antigen and vaccine, and what might influence the market success of candidate vaccines. The previous experience with Bm86-based vaccines offers perspective on marketing and producer acceptance aspects that a next-generation cattle tick vaccine product must meet for successful commercialisation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: On two dairy farms it was attempted to eradicate lungworm, Dictyocaulus viviparus, by means of a single mass-treatment of all cattle that had been grazed the previous year(s), before turnout in the spring. Both farms experienced two years of lungworm outbreaks in the adult dairy herd prior to this study. Following confirmation that both herds contained lungworm carriers, all animals older than approximately 6 months were treated with eprinomectin in March 2007. One week after treatment none of the animals were shedding lungworm larvae. Subsequently, animals were pastured according to normal farm routine. From August to November all first-calving heifers were coprologically and serologically monitored for lungworm infection. During 2007 both farms remained lungworm-negative and did not report any clinical sign indicative for a lungworm infection. The following year, on one of the farms replacements grazing on cow pastures, started showing signs of parasitic bronchitis which was serologically confirmed. The other herd remained free of parasitic bronchitis until at least the fourth year after the mass treatment, although some coughing was noticed in 2008 among first-lactation heifers. It was concluded that a single mass-treatment before the grazing season may be useful to break a series of annual lungworm outbreaks. However, it is not a secure method to prevent parasitic bronchitis for more than one year. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: There are very few studies on the diversity and public health significance of Cryptosporidium species in zebu cattle and water buffaloes in developing countries. In this study, PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism and DNA sequence analyses of the small-subunit (SSU) rRNA gene were used to genotype Cryptosporidium specimens from 12 zebu cattle calves, 16 water buffalo calves, and four swamp deer (Cervus duvaucelii) collected from the buffer zone of the Chitwan National Park, Nepal. All Cryptosporidium specimens from cattle and buffaloes belonged to Cryptosporidium ryanae, whereas those from deer belonged to Cryptosporidium ubiquitum. Comparison of the SSU rRNA gene sequences obtained with those from earlier studies has identified a nucleotide substitution unique to all C. ryanae isolates from Nepal, in addition to some sequence heterogeneity among different copies of the gene. The finding of the dominance of a unique C. ryanae variant in both zebu cattle and water buffaloes in Nepal indicates that there is unique cryptosporidiosis transmission in bovine animals in the study area, and cross-species transmission of some Cryptosporidium spp. can occur between related animal species sharing the same habitats. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The protozoan parasite Tritrichomonas foetus is well known as an important causative agent of infertility and abortion in cattle (bovine trichomonosis). This World Organisation for Animal Health (O.I.E.) notifiable disease is thought to be under control in many countries including Switzerland. In recent studies, however, T. foetus has also been identified as an intestinal parasite that causes chronic large-bowel diarrhoea in cats. Since the feline isolates were considered indistinguishable from bovine isolates, the possibility and risk of parasite transmission from cats to cattle and vice versa has been intensively discussed in current literature. Therefore, we investigated if cat and cattle isolates are genetically distinct from each other or in fact represent identical genotypes. For this purpose, two independent genetic loci were selected that turned out to be well-suited for a PCR sequencing-based genotyping of trichomonad isolates: (i) previously published internal transcribed spacer region 2 (ITS-2) and (ii) a semi-conserved sequence stretch of the elongation factor-1 alpha (EF-1α) gene used for the first time in the present study. Respective comparative analyses revealed that both loci were sufficiently variable to allow unambiguous genetic discrimination between different trichomonad species. Comparison of both genetic loci confirmed that T. suis and T. mobilensis are phylogenetically very close to T. foetus. Moreover, these two genetic markers were suited to define host-specific genotypes of T. foetus. Both loci showed single base differences between cat and cattle isolates but showed full sequence identity within strains from either cat or cattle isolates. Furthermore, an additional PCR with a forward primer designed to specifically amplify the bovine sequence of EF-1α was able to discriminate bovine isolates of T. foetus from feline isolates and also from other trichomonads. The implications these minor genetic differences may have on the biological properties of the distinct isolates remain to be investigated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The present study aimed to assess antioxidant status and oxidative stress in sheep naturally infected with Babesia ovis. Red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, packed cell volume (PCV), piroplasm parasitemia percentage, malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) activities and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were determined in 52 sheep naturally infected with B. ovis as well as same number of healthy sheep in West-Azerbaijan province, Iran. Microscopic examination of Giemsa-stained peripheral blood smears revealed B. ovis infection. The parasitological diagnosis was confirmed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis by amplifying a partial small subunit ribosomal RNA (ssu rRNA) gene sequence of B. ovis of 52 diseased sheep, 18 (34.61%), 11 (21.15%), 16 (30.76%) and 7 (13.48%) had <1%, 1–2%, 2–3% and >3% parasitemia, respectively. Compared to controls, the activities of erythrocyte GSH-Px, SOD, TAC and CAT showed a significant decrease, whereas the concentration of MDA in erythrocytes of infected sheep increased significantly. Parasitemia rate was positively correlated with MDA and negatively correlated with PCV, SOD, CAT, GSH-Px and TAC. Also, MDA was negatively correlated with PCV, SOD, catalase, GSH-Px and TAC. The study demonstrated that B. ovis plays an important role in the occurrence of oxidative damage to RBCs and anemia in ovine babesiosis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Between May 2006 and January 2007, blood samples and ticks were randomly collected from 220 nomadic animals from Filtu and Dollo Odo districts, Libaan zone, in the Somali Region of Ethiopia. Overall, 81.5% cattle, 98.2% camels, 53.4% goats and 61.1% sheep were infested by ixodid ticks. Collected ticks (n = 1,036) were identified as Rhipicephalus pulchellus (40.1%), R. pravus (25.8%), Amblyomma gemma (9.4%), Hyalomma rufipes (13.3%), H. truncatum (2.8%), H. impeltatum (1.2%) and H. dromedarii (0.5%); immature stages (6.1%) belonged to the genera Rhipicephalus and Amblyomma. Tick infestation burden was evaluated by the Tick Abundance Score method on 57 animals from Dollo Odo in August 2006, and it was significantly higher in cattle and camels than in small ruminants ( p < 0.001). Reverse Line Blot Hybridisation was applied to detect Theileria, Babesia, Ehrlichia and Anaplasma spp. Five out of 50 blood samples from Filtu, four from cattle and, surprisingly, one from a camel, were positive for Theileria mutans and two from cattle for T. velifera. Adult ticks (n = 104) from both districts were tested and A. gemma from cattle were positive to T. velifera (1) and Ehrlichia ruminantium (5 samples). Positive E. ruminantium samples were also tested by PCR targeting pCS20 and 16S rRNA genes and submitted to DNA sequencing. The phylogenetic reconstruction of pCS20 fragment showed the presence of the Somali region sequences in the East-South African group. Our results are the first available on ticks and selected tick-borne diseases from the Somali region of Ethiopia and could be used as preliminary information for planning sustainable control strategies for tick and tick-borne pathogens in the study area and in neighbouring areas with similar socio-ecological features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Endectocides (avermectins/mibemycins) are today one of the most important anthelmintic families for the control in livestock nematodes and their use is increasing in goats because of the high frequency of benzimidazole resistance. Goat has specific pharmacological parameters for endectocides compared to sheep or cattle (absorption and elimination). The behaviour of the drug in the organism, represented by pharmacokinetic parameters, is affected through several ways including the route of administration and drug formulation, and the host animal (nutrition, parasitism, physiological status, amount of fat tissue). For each species, the determination of specific dose rates is needed to insure an optimal activity against nematodes (particularly those inhabiting the small intestine). This scientific knowledge is a prerequisite to a better use of the different anthelmintic families in goats. An important objective in the chemical control of nematodes is to define the best deworming practices that reduce the risk of nematode resistance occurrence through a decrease of selection pressure on nematode populations. The main points of a rational use of anthelmintics include the dose rate, the route of administration, the annual frequency and the period of treatment, the alternative use of families and the selective treatment of high excreting animals. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The aim of this study was to detect the occurrence of parasites in fish in Armand River, Chaharmahal va Bakhtyari Province regarding the importance of native fish population in the river. Methods: The occurrence of parasites was investigated in 6 native fish (Capoeta capoeta, C. damascina, C. aculeta, Barbus barbulus, B. grypus and Glyptothorax silviae) collected from the current main channel of the river from autumn 2009 to summer 2010. Results: 63.7 % of the studied fishes were infected with 19 parasite species including Ichthyophthirius multifiliis, Myxobolus musayevi, Dactylogyrus lenkorani, D. gracilis, D. pulcher, D. chramuli, D. akaraicus, D. skrjabiensis, two species of Gyrodactylus, Paradiplozoon sp., Lamproglena compacta, Copepodid of Lernaea cyprinacea, Ergasilus sp., Allocreadium isoporum, Allocreadium pseudaspii, Kawia sp., Bothriocephalus gowkongensis and Rhabdochona denudata. The infection rate was significantly higher (P<0.05) in C.aculeata while the maximum parasite diversity was found in C.damascina. The infection rate was also significantly different in four seasons (P<0.05) but no significant differences were found among fishes with different weight and length. Conclusion: High prevalence of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis and Rhabdochona denudata may affect native fish population. Monogenean parasites Dactylogyrus akaraicus and D. skrjabiensis collected from B. barbulus and C. capoeta are reported for the first time in Iran. B. barbulus is also reported as a new host for aforementioned parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe here a rapid and efficient method for the targeted isolation of specific members of gene families without the need for cloning. Using this strategy we isolated full length cDNAs for eight putative G-protein coupled neurotransmitter receptors (GPCnR) from the cattle tick Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus. Gene specific degenerate primers were designed using aligned amino acid sequences of similar receptor types from several insect and arachnid species. These primers were used to amplify and sequence a section of the target gene. Rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) PCR was used to generate full length cDNA sequences. Phylogenetic analysis placed 7 of these sequences into Class A Gprotein coupled receptors (GPCR) (Rm•α2AOR, Rm•β2AOR, Rm•Dop1R, Rm•Dop2R, Rm•INDR, Rm•5-HT7R and Rm•mAchR), and one into Class C GPCR (Rm•GABABR). Of the 7 Class A sequences, only Rm•mAchR is not a member of the biogenic amine receptor family. The isolation of these putative receptor sequences provides an opportunity to gain an understanding of acaricide resistance mechanisms such as amitraz resistance and might suggest possibilities for the development of new acaricides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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.)

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.)

Cryptosporidium is an intestinal protozoan parasite prevalent in a wide range of mammals. Although it has been recorded in many hosts, its impact on endangered species is poorly understood. Here we present a preliminary study of four populations of the highly threatened spotted souslik ( Spermophilus suslicus), living in the westernmost part of the species range. The populations inhabit fragmented habitats and suffer from loss of genetic variation. An IFA test revealed that 35.9% of sampled animals (41/114) was infected with Cryptosporidium and none with Giardia. The prevalence and infection intensity differed among the populations. In areas grazed by cattle it was about 3 folds higher, which suggests a possible transmission route. To the authors best knowledge the present study is the first report of Cryptosporidium infections in S. suslicus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In May and July 2010 and in March 2011, the presence of multiple bleeding nodules at the level of the neck, shoulders, withers, back and rump in five cattle from three herds in north-central Italy were observed. A diagnosis of parafilariosis was made. Fragments of adult females of Parafilaria bovicola could be identified from the derma of three to five bioptic extirpates. Larvated eggs and free larvae were observed in serohemorrhagic exudates. This paper is the first report of the occurrence of parafilariosis in Italy and subsequent to the various outbreaks reported, it can now be said that bovine parafilariosis is also currently present in Italy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study was carried out to compare different diagnostic techniques to reveal the presence of piroplasms in asymptomatic cattle kept at pasture. Nineteen blood samples were collected from animals of two different areas of Emilia Romagna Region of Italy and processed for microscopic observation, PCR, serological test (IFAT) for Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina antibodies and in vitro cultivation. The cultures were performed on both bovine and ovine erythrocytes. Seventeen blood smears (89%) were positive for piroplasms, while PCR was positive on 18 samples (95%). DNA sequencing of 18S rRNA identified the piroplasms as Theileria spp. In vitro cultures were successful for 6 samples (32%) cultured on bovine blood and subsequent identified these as Babesia major by PCR. On IFAT analyses of 16 samples, 36.8% resulted positive for B. bovis and 31.6% positive for B. bigemina. These results show, in the same animals, the co-infection with Babesia spp. and Theileria spp.; the detection of B. major was possible only using the in vitro cultures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Cooperia spp. have become the most prevalent parasites in United States cow/calf operations as observed in the USDA NAHMS (National Animal Health Monitoring System) Beef Cow/Calf survey in 2008. This is at least in part due to the widespread use of macrocyclic lactones that have recently been shown to have a reduced activity against these parasites. The effects of Cooperia spp. on cattle productivity are largely unknown. This study was conducted to assess their effect upon cattle housed under conditions found in American feedlots. Two hundred yearling calves (average weight 460lb/209kg) were acquired from northwestern Arkansas and northeastern Oklahoma and were vaccinated and dewormed upon arrival at the feedlot. Animals were comingled and preconditioned for approximately one month, and were fed a standard growing ration throughout the study. Calves were randomly divided into two groups (n =80, infected and control) and each group was further divided into two replicate pens (n =40). Calves from the two infected pens were orally inoculated with a gavage of 1×105 and 0.825×105 infective larvae of a recent isolate of Cooperia punctata on day 0 and 14, respectively, with the two control pens receiving a similar volume of tap water. Data collected included biweekly fecal egg counts, daily individual feed consumption and weight gain over the 60-day test period. The presence of C. punctata (>99% of recovered worms) was confirmed by necropsy and recovery from the small intestine on days 35 and 60 post infection (PI) in a subset of animals. Egg counts were positive by day 14 PI and remained at numbers similar to values seen in field studies. The control group gained weight 7.5% more rapidly (p =0.02) than infected animals (3.24lb/1.47kg per day vs. 3.0lb/1.36kg per day, respectively). The Cooperia-infected calves also consumed 1.5lb (0.68kg) less dry feed per day than the control animals (p =0.02). These data suggest that C. punctata has a deleterious effect on both appetite and nutrient uptake or utilization. At necropsy (days 35 and 60), the draining mesenteric lymph nodes of infected animals were increased in size and the small intestinal mucosa was thickened and covered with a thick layer of mucus in the infected animals. The most prominent histological changes in the Cooperia- infected animals included a moderate increase in the number of intraepithelial lymphocytes and globule leukocytes, as well as aggregates of eosinophils within the lower lamina propria. The only significant difference was an increase in the goblet cell density at day 60. Anthelmintic sensitivity/resistance of the Cooperia isolate used was determined by treatment of one pen of infected calves with a macrocyclic lactone and the other pen with a benzimidazole at the completion of the study. The macrocyclic lactone treatment (n =40) did not remove the parasites (FECRT=8.8%), while treatment with a benzimidazole was very effective (FECRT=98.1%). This study demonstrated that C. punctata has a significant effect on cattle productivity, both reduced weight gain and decreased feed intake compared to controls. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In order to identify and differentiate Theileria orientalis in cattle which may be infected with Theileria annulata simultaneously, a semi-nested PCR was performed. Thus, 160 blood samples were collected from apparently healthy native cattle in Golestan province of northern Iran, during 2009 to 2011. The Tbs-S/Tbs-A primer set derived from the 18S rRNA encoding gene was used for first PCR amplification, and the amplified sequence weight by this primer set for Theileria sp. was 426-430 bp. Then, DNA solution from purified PCR product was used for the semi-nested PCR analysis. The first PCR product amplified using T. orientalis primer set (To-S/Tbs-A) derived from the 18SrRNA encoding gene, and this specific primer weight was 235 bp. Also, the first PCR product amplified using T. annulata primer set (Ta-S/Tbs-A) derived from the 18SrRNA encoding gene and this specific primer weight was 193 bp. Having extracted DNA of each sample, using Tbs-S/Tbs-A primer set for PCR and analyzing the PCR products on the 2% agarose gel electrophoresis, 13 out of 160 blood samples (8.12%) were positive for Theileria sp. Meanwhile, performing semi-nested PCR with T. orientalis-specific primers, 9 out of 13 blood samples (5.62%) were positive and performing semi-nested PCR with T. annulata-specific primers, 12 out of 13 blood samples (7.5%) were also positive. This molecular assay approves the presence of T. orientalis in the native cattle of northern parts of Iran for the first time. In addition, this procedure will detect the concurrent infection of T. orientalis and T. annulata in the cattle too. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In the present study, samples representing Bunostomum trigonocephalum and Bunostomum phlebotomum from sheep and cattle in Heilongjiang Province, China, were characterized and grouped genetically by the first (ITS-1) and second (ITS-2) internal transcribed spacers (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA). The rDNA region including the ITS-1, 5.8S, ITS-2, and flanking 18S and 28S rDNA sequences was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), then sequenced and compared with that of other members of the hookworms available in GenBank™, and phylogenetic relationships between them were reconstructed using the Maximum-Parsimony method. The ITS-1, 5.8S, and ITS-2 sequences of the sheep hookworm were 381, 153, and 231bp in length, respectively, and the corresponding sequences of the cattle hookworm were 392, 153, and 240bp in length. The identity of ITS sequences of B. trigonocephalum and B. phlebotomum from sheep and cattle was 87.4%. A PCR-linked restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) assay using restriction endonuclease Nde I was established for the unequivocal differentiation of the two hookworm species. Phylogenetic analyses based on the ITS sequences revealed that B. trigonocephalum and B. phlebotomum were closely related, but they represent two different species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The virulence of three Trypanosoma evansi isolates in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao water buffaloes was compared determining the mortality rate, parasitemia level, clinical signs, and lesions on mice. A total of 51 inbred Balb/c mice (5–6weeks old) were used and divided into two sets. Set A had three groups corresponding to three trypanosomes isolates (Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao) with seven mice each whose parasitemia level, clinical signs, and lesions were noted at necropsy. Set B had three groups corresponding to the three isolates with ten mice each whose mortality was monitored. Each infected mouse was inoculated with 0.2ml of T. evansi intraperitoneally and blood was examined under high power magnification. Their parasitemia level was determined using “Rapid Matching Method”. Dead mice were subjected to necropsy and the lungs, liver, spleen, brain and heart were subjected to histopathological processing. Results showed that the mortality rate was highest at Day 3 for the Visayas isolates (70%), while at Day 5 for Luzon (90%) and Mindanao (70%) isolates. The parasitemia level of Visayas isolates (1×108.7) reached the earliest peak at Day 4 while Luzon isolates (1×109) at Day 6 and Mindanao isolates (1×108.7) at Day 8. Statistical analysis using Least significant difference (LSD) revealed significant difference among treatment means at Days 2 and 4. All of the affected mice showed rough hair coat, decreased body weight, and decreased packed cell volume. The most obvious gross lesions observed were pale liver with petechiations and pale muscles. Histopathological examination revealed depletion of the red pulp and extramedullary hematopoiesis in the spleen. Congestion, intralesional trypanosomes in blood vessel and extramedullary hematopoiesis were observed in the liver. In the lungs non-specific lesions observed were pulmonary edema, congestion and hemosiderosis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The article presents a study on the comparison for the techniwues used for detection of blood parasite Theileria annulata in cattle in Pakistan. The authors carry out the study to investigate the prevalence of Theileria annulata in cattle from the Peshawar and Kohat districts in the province of Khyber Pukhtoon Khwa. They compare the parasite detection techniques PCR amplification and Giesma stainining, and found out the PCR amplification is a much more sensitive tool. They state that no significant risk factors observed associated with the spread of the disease.

The article presents a study on the molecular identification of Fasciola spp. in the cattle from Khan Hoa province in Vietnam. The authors collected Fasciola spp. from infected cattle in Vietnam which are used for morphological and genetic investigations. They state that there is a possible pathogenetic reproduction of the flukes, identified during microscopic examination. They state that sequences revealed 13 isolates from Fasciola gigantica, as well as from the Fasciola hepatica species of the parasite.

The aim of the present study was to determine the identity, seasonal activity and distribution of tick species of cattle in the West Aegean region of Turkey between June 2006 and May 2008. Nine villages within three provinces, viz . Manisa, Izmir and Aydin, were included in the study and a total of 75 animal barns were visited monthly for a period of 24 months and 443 cattle were examined for the presence of ticks. It was determined that 23% of cattle were infested with ticks. A total of 19,679 adult ticks were collected. The most abundant tick species was Hyalomma marginatum (33.5%) and H. excavatum (16.9%) in the study area. Seasonal appearance of the adult ticks varied among species. Adult ticks of the Hyalomma genus were present throughout the year, although in smaller numbers during the winter. Species of Rhipicephalus were detected in all seasons except autumn. Rhipicephalus ( Boophilus) annulatus was identified in July and August, Haemaphysalis parva was detected during the autumn. Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor marginatus were identified during spring, autumn and winter. The study demonstrated the presence of I. ricinus, D. marginatus, Hyalomma rufipes and Hae. parva for the first time in the West Aegean region of Turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The survival of the bovine lungworm Dictyocaulus viviparus, one of the most important parasites in cattle, inside the host is ensured by arrested development during adverse environmental conditions, commonly referred to as hypobiosis. In the present study, a subtractive hybridization approach was used to compare the transcription profiles of hypobiotic and non-hypobiotic larvae (L5hyp and L5, respectively). Thereby, 75 L5hyp-enriched and 58 L5-enriched representative ESTs (rESTs) were identified. Subsequent sequence similarity search revealed that 28 L5hyp-rESTs and 11 L5-rESTs were homologous to known transcripts, whereas 47 L5hyp-rESTs and 47 L5-rESTs showed no homologies with published sequences, thus possibly representing parasitic or even Dictyocaulus-specific genes. The differential transcripts were predicted to be involved in nucleic acid synthesis, DNA binding, metabolic pathways and signal transduction. Overall, data presented in this paper provide a first basis for further characterization and analysis of genes driving normal as well as arrested (hypobiotic) parasite development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NADIS is currently providing animal health knowledge transfer to farmers delivered by local veterinary practices in seven of the eight RDA regions in England. KT programmes are also running in Scotland and Wales Using detailed Met Office data, NADIS produces a monthly Parasite Forecast highlighting parasite challenge in the different regions of the UK, along with regional reports from practicing veterinary surgeons. NADIS aim is to promote animal health and welfare through better disease control and prevention delivered by veterinary health planning. NADIS would like to acknowledge its sponsors for making this service to the livestock industry possible, BPEX, EBLEX, HCC, QMS and Merial Animal Health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Development of resistance to anthelmintic drugs has motivated the search for diagnostic methods to identify animals for targeted selective treatments. We compared three methods for the diagnosis of nematode infection in relation to milk production in a fully grazing dairy herd of 150 cows in the humid Pampa (Argentina). Animals had feces, blood and milk sampled during the first postpartum month for EPG, pepsinogen and anti-Ostertagia antibody determination, respectively. With the results obtained two groups of cows, divided in high and low parasite burden, were conformed for each method, and milk production was then compared between groups. When cows were separated by the EPG method (EPG=0 (N =106) vs. EPG>0 (N =44)) a difference of nearly 800l of milk per cow per lactation was found (P <0.05). On the other hand, milk production between groups separated by Pepsinogen (mUtyr≤1000 vs. mUtyr>1000) or by anti-Ostertagia (ODR≤0.5 vs. ODR>0.5) results did not differ. Interestingly, proportion of cows in each group differed between methods (P <0.0001), and the anti-Ostertagia method yielded significantly more cows in the high index group compared to results using the EPG or Pepsinogen method. No correlations were found between parasite indexes determined by the different methods. High parasite burden estimation found may be ascribed to the production system, fully grazing all year round, and to the sampling time, at the beginning of lactation with cows in negative energy balance and depressed immunity. The fact that the cows were born and reared outside, on pasture with continuous nematode larvae exposure, may also account for the results obtained. In conclusion, EPG counting during the first postpartum month may be a useful tool for the diagnosis of production impairment induced by high nematode burden in adult grazing dairy cows. The anthelmintic treatment of only the EPG-positive recently calved cows would improve milk production, while reducing selective pressure on nematode population for the development of resistance. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The use of natural plant anthelmintics was suggested as a possible alternative control of gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) in ruminants. Direct anthelmintic effects of tannin-containing plants have already been shown in sheep and goat GIN. These anthelmintic properties are mainly associated with condensed tannins. In the present study, we evaluated possible in vitro effects of three tannin-containing plants against bovine GIN. Effects of Onobrychis viciifolia, Lotus pedunculatus and Lotus corniculatus condensed tannin (CT) extracts on Cooperia oncophora and Ostertagia ostertagi were determined by a larval feeding inhibition assay (LFIA) and a larval exsheathment assay (LEA). In the LFIA, all three plant extracts significantly inhibited larval feeding behaviour of both C. oncophora and O. ostertagi first stage larvae in a dose-dependent manner. The L. pedunculatus extract, based on EC50 (effective concentration for 50% inhibition), was the most effective against both nematodes, followed by O. viciifolia and L. corniculatus. The effect of CT extracts upon larval feeding behaviour correlates with CT content and procyanidin/prodelphidin ratio. Larval exsheathment of C. oncophora and O. ostertagi L3 larvae (third stage larvae) was also affected by CT extracts from all three plants. In both in vitro assays, extracts with added polyvinylpolypyrrolidone, an inhibitor of tannins, generated almost the same values as the negative control; this confirms the role of CT in the anthelmintic effect of these plant extracts. Our results, therefore, indicated that tannin-containing plants could act against cattle nematodes. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: At the abattoir on study in Miyazaki, Japan, 9537 imported cattle from Australia in average were slaughtered annually in the last 5years (2006 to 2010) and hydatid cysts were constantly detected in about 1.8% of the cattle. In order to assess the risk of Echinococcus granulosus delivered to Japan by imported cattle, 250 cysts found in 103 cattle at the abattoir were examined for their biological characteristics and genotypes. The cattle slaughtered were imported from Australia at an age of 10–12months old and fattened for 17–18months in Japan. The cysts showed their size ranging from 4 to 108mm and were mainly found in the lung. Mature protoscoleces were detected in the three largest cysts, all were of the G1 genotype. Most of the other cysts contained clear cyst fluid and had thin laminated layer with no protoscoleces. The finding implies a potential risk of E. granulosus being established in Japan, thus strict and proper meat inspection and consequent offal condemnation are requisite at abattoirs that deal with imported cattle. Genotyping based on partial fragments of mitochondrial cox1, rrnS and nad1 genes were performed on the 66 cysts, showing that most of the cysts were G1 genotype (common sheep strain). However, two and four cysts were considered as G2 (Tasmanian sheep strain) and G3 (buffalo strain) genotypes, respectively. Since it has been widely recognized that G1 is the only genotype distributing in mainland Australia and that G2 genotype has been eradicated from Tasmania, the finding of those genotypes from Australian cattle indicated that certain genotypes other than G1 genotype are distributing in mainland Australia. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of antibody to Neospora caninum in healthy and aborted dairy cattle in Tabriz, capital of East-Azarbaijan in northwest of Iran. Methods: In this cross-sectional study serum samples were collected from 266 healthy and aborted Holestein-Feriesisnc cows from September 2008 to August 2009. The sera were analyzed to detect of antibody against N. caninum using the commercially ELISA kit. Results: Seroprevalence of antibody to N. caninum was 10.5% in Tabriz dairy cattle. Also the abortion rate in all cattle sampled was 33.6% but percentage of seropositive aborted cattle was 18.4%. Conclusion: Neosporosis could be one of the possible causes of abortion in dairy cattle in Tabriz and regarding the distribution in dogs as definitive host for the parasite, further studies in dog and cattle are recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 19,679 adult ticks were collected from 443 cattle in 9 villages in the West Aegean region of Turkey over 2 years (June 2006-May 2008). Thirteen out of the 19,679 adult ticks were identified as Hyalomma rufipes (12 adult males and 1 female). The ticks were identified according to their characteristic dark coloured conscutum and scutum along with the presence of small to medium but uniform and numerous punctations. Dimensions (length and width) of male and female H. rufipes ticks were 3075 and 1880 µm and 3213 and 2181 µm, respectively. The present study not only confirms previous observations demonstrating the presence of H. rufipes in cattle in Turkey, but also demonstrates for the first time its existence in the West Aegean region of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: The selection, development and dissemination of anthelmintic resistance in cattle nematodes, particularly in Cooperia oncophora, is an area of concern with increasing reports from within the UK. Chronic Cooperia infections have the potential to lead to production losses in young animals. With these facts in mind it is important to consider nematodes and treatment inefficacy when assessing ill thrift, diarrhoea and/or lower productivity than expected in young animals. With no new anthelmintic class likely to emerge onto the cattle market in the near future it is essential to maintain the efficacy of current compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Quantitative Real-Time PCR (qRT-PCR) is a widely used tool to study host responses against parasites. A crucial step in the gene quantification process is the normalization of the expression data against stable housekeeping genes (HKGs). However, in recent years, several reports have showed that the transcriptional levels of such HKGs can change dramatically, especially when cellular changes appear in the tissues investigated. The aim of the current study was to assess the variability of 11 putative HKGs in bovine abomasal tissue during an infection with the parasitic nematode Ostertagia ostertagi. Gene transcription levels of selected potential HKGs were measured by qRT-PCR and the expression stabilities evaluated using geNorm, NormFinder, and The Mann–Whitney-U test. The analysis showed that all the putative HKGs considered in this study, including the ones selected by geNorm and NormFinder, were found to be significantly upregulated in infected animals compared to the controls, clearly suggesting that none of these genes can actually be used as a HKG. The greatest alterations in gene transcription levels appeared at 24 dpi, which might be due to the dramatic changes in cell populations occurring in the abomasal tissue at this infection time point. To demonstrate the effect of normalizing target gene transcription levels with unstable HKGs, IL4 transcription levels were assessed using different normalization procedures. Our findings clearly showed that gene expression levels determined using HKGs differed significantly from those determined without normalization. The potential for HKG selection to impact candidate transcript levels is therefore an important consideration for studies of parasite infected tissue. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nuclear ribosomal DNA sequence of the second internal transcribed spacer (ITS-2) has been used efficiently to identify the liver fluke species collected from different hosts and various geographic regions. ITS-2 sequences of 19 Fasciola samples collected from Korean native cattle were determined and compared. Sequence comparison including ITS-2 sequences of isolates from this study and reference sequences from Fasciola hepatica and Fasciola gigantica and intermediate Fasciola in Genbank revealed seven identical variable sites of investigated isolates. Among 19 samples, 12 individuals had ITS-2 sequences completely identical to that of pure F. hepatica, five possessed the sequences identical to F. gigantica type, whereas two shared the sequence of both F. hepatica and F. gigantica. No variations in length and nucleotide composition of ITS-2 sequence were observed within isolates that belonged to F. hepatica or F. gigantica. At the position of 218, five Fasciola containing a single-base substitution (C>T) formed a distinct branch inside the F. gigantica-type group which was similar to those of Asian-origin isolates. The phylogenetic tree of the Fasciola spp. based on complete ITS-2 sequences from this study and other representative isolates in different locations clearly showed that pure F. hepatica, F. gigantica type and intermediate Fasciola were observed. The result also provided additional genetic evidence for the existence of three forms of Fasciola isolated from native cattle in Korea by genetic approach using ITS-2 sequence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, we describe the first survey in Thailand of Trypanosoma theileri, a widespread and prevalent parasite of cattle that is transmitted by tabanid flies. Investigation of 210 bovine blood samples of Thai cattle from six farms by hematocrit centrifuge technique (HCT) revealed 14 samples with trypanosomes morphologically compatible to T. theileri. Additional animals were positive for T. theileri by PCR based on the Cathepsin L-like sequence (TthCATL-PCR) despite negative by HCT, indicating cryptic infections. Results revealed a prevalence of 26±15% (95% CI) of T. theileri infection. Additionally, 12 samples positive for T. theileri were detected in cattle from other 11 farms. From a total of 30 blood samples positive by HCT and/or PCR from 17 farms, seven were characterized to evaluate the genetic polymorphism of T. theileri through sequence analysis of PCR-amplified CATL DNA sequences. All CATL sequences of T. theileri from Thai cattle clustered with sequences of the previously described phylogenetic lineages TthI and TthII, supporting only two major lineages of T. theileri in cattle around the world. However, 11 of the 29 CATL sequences analyzed showed to be different, disclosing an unexpectedly large polymorphic genetic repertoire, with multiple genotypes of T. theileri not previously described in other countries circulating in Thai cattle. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Ivermectin (IVM) resistance is an emerging problem for the control of gastrointestinal nematodes of cattle such as Cooperia oncophora and Ostertagia ostertagi. Although there is still a poor understanding of the molecular basis of macrocyclic lactone (ML)-resistance, it is clear that IVM exerts its activity by binding to glutamate-gated chloride (GluCl) channels within the parasite’s neuromuscular system. One of the GluCl genes (avr-14) encodes, via alternative splicing, two subunits, AVR-14A and AVR-14B; the latter is suggested to be the main target for IVM. The genomic DNA (gDNA) sequence of avr-14 in C. oncophora contains 21 exons separated by 20 introns and spans approximately 10kb of gDNA. Intron 13 contains a sequence with high homology to a mammalian mariner transposase. The L256F polymorphism in the avr-14 gene, which was shown to be associated with IVM resistance in a UK isolate of C. oncophora, was not found in the IVM-resistant C. oncophora and O. ostertagi isolates investigated in this study. However, genetic analyses on C. oncophora indicated a loss in allelic diversity of the avr-14 gene in the resistant isolates compared with the susceptible isolate. This suggests that the avr-14 gene, or another genetically linked locus, is under selection in these Belgian C. oncophora isolates. Comparison of the full-length avr-14B coding sequence in the susceptible and resistant C. oncophora isolates did not show any polymorphisms specifically linked to IVM resistance, although a decrease in the number of avr-14B isoforms was observed in the resistant isolates compared with the susceptible one. Measuring the transcription levels of avr-14B in adult male and female C. oncophora and O. ostertagi worms showed significantly lower levels in resistant worms compared with susceptible ones. Whether the down-regulation of this IVM target actually contributes to the resistance mechanism in these worms remains unclear. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]