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Postharmostomum commutatum (Dietz, 1858), a parasite of the caeca of poultry, has been reported from many different parts of the world. Despite its importance, there are no molecular sequences available and its phylogenetic position is unknown in relation to other members of Brachylaimoidea, a group in which taxonomic confusion reigns. Here, morphological and molecular techniques were used to study digeneans from the caeca of free-range chickens found naturally infected in the municipality of Viçosa, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, between August 2017 and May 2018. The specimens were identified as P. commutatum, with Postharmostomum gallinum Witenberg, 1923 herein considered a junior synonym. Sequences obtained for the 28S, ITS2, and cox-1 genes were compared with sequences available from other species of Brachylaimoidea. Phylogenetic analysis of the three markers indicates P. commutatum formed an isolated lineage from other brachylaimoids, supporting the distinct status of the genus. The topology of phylogenetic trees obtained suggests that the morphology-based classification of families of Brachylaimoidea is artificial and new rearrangements of some genera or creation of new families may be necessary. The sequences newly obtained here will be useful for testing the cosmopolitan distribution of P. commutatum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterakis gallinarum is one of the common parasitic nematodes found in the caecum of poultry. To investigate the genetic diversity and genetic structure of the H. gallinarum population in Sichuan, we amplified and sequenced the complete mitochondrial (mt) cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (cox2) gene of 59 H. gallinarum isolates from seven different geographical regions, then analyzed their genetic polymorphisms. All cox2 genes of the 59 H. gallinarum isolates were 696 bp in length, with an average A + T content of 67.1%. Fifty-nine sequences contained 34 variable sites, and were classified into 23 haplotypes (HS1-HS23). The values of haplotype diversity (Hd) and nucleotide diversity (π) were 0.688 and 0.00288, respectively. Based on values of FST and Nm (FST = 0.01929, Nm = 12.71), there was a frequent gene flow but no significant genetic differentiation observed among the populations. The network map showed that the most prominent haplotype was HS1, and the other haplotypes (HS2-HS23) were centered on HS1 with a star-like topology, indicating that H. gallinarum had previously experienced a population expansion. To our knowledge, this is the first research on the population genetics of H. gallinarum based on mitochondrial cox2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study was conducted to determine the performance, egg quality, and liver lipid reserves of laying hens exposed to ranges contaminated with Ascaridia galli. Sixteen-week-old Lohmann Brown laying hens (n = 200) were divided into 4 treatments with 5 replicates containing 10 hens per pen. Hens of treatment 1 [negative control (NC)] ranged on a decontaminated area, and hens of treatments 2 (low infection) and 3 (medium infection) ranged on areas previously contaminated by hens artificially infected with 250 and 1,000 embryonated A. galli eggs, respectively. The hens of treatment 4 [positive control (PC)] ranged on areas previously contaminated by hens artificially infected with 2,500 embryonated A. galli eggs, and in addition these hens were orally inoculated with 1,000 embryonated eggs. Results indicated that hens of the medium infection group had a higher number of intestinal A. galli worms and A. galli eggs in the coprodeum excreta (43.9 ± 4.0 and 3,437 ± 459 eggs/g) compared to hens of the low infection group (23.8 ± 4.0 and 1,820 ± 450 eggs/g) (P < 0.01) and similar worm counts to PC hens (34.4 ± 4.0 and 2,918 ± 474) (P > 0.05). Egg production, egg mass, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were not affected by A. galli infection (P > 0.05). Egg quality parameters (egg weight, shell reflectivity, shell weight, shell thickness, shell percentage, shell breaking strength, deformation, albumen height, Haugh unit, and yolk score) were not affected by A. galli infection (P > 0.05). Highly infected hens had lower liver lipid content (2.72 ± 0.51 g) compared to uninfected hens (4.46 ± 0.58 g, P < 0.01). The results indicate that exposure to ranges contaminated with A. galli resulted in infection of the ranging hens, but this did not affect egg production or egg quality. Infection with A. galli lowered the liver lipid reserves of the host significantly, suggesting infected hens use more energy reserves for maintenance and production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eimeria necatrix is one of the most pathogenic parasites causing high mortality in chicken older than 8 weeks. Eimeria spp. possess a coccidian lifecycle including both sexual and asexual stages. Sexual differentiation and development occupies a central place in the life cycle of the Eimeria parasite. However, our knowledge of the sexual differentiation and gametocyte development of Eimeria is very limited. Here using RNA sequencing, we conducted a comparative transcriptome analysis between third-generation merozoites (MZ-3) and gametocytes (GAM) of E. necatrix to identify genes with functions related to sexual differentiation and gametocyte development. Approximately 4267 genes were differentially expressed between MZ-3 and GAM. Compared with MZ-3, 2789 genes were upregulated and 1478 genes were downregulated in GAM. Approximately 329 genes in MZ-3 and 1289 genes in GAM were further analyzed in the evaluation of stage-specific genes. Gene Ontology (GO) classification and KEGG analysis revealed that 953 upregulated gametocyte genes were annotated with 170 GO assignments, and 405 upregulated genes were associated with 231 signaling pathways. We also predicted a further 83 upregulated gametocyte genes, of which 53 were involved in the biosynthesis of the oocyst wall, and 30 were involved in microgametocyte development. This information offers insights into the mechanisms governing the sexual development of E. necatrix and may potentially allow the identification of targets for blocking parasite transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dermanyssus gallinae, the poultry red mite, is a growing threat to chickens in poultry farms. This nocturnal hematophagous ectoparasite has a rapid rate of proliferation with a negative impact on the bird's health, welfare and productivity resulting in severe economic consequences for poultry farmers. A study was performed with fluralaner, a novel systemic ectoparasiticide, to evaluate its effect on mite vitality and reproduction after oral administration to laying hens. Methods: Sixteen healthy hens were randomly allocated to two study groups (n = 8). One group was orally treated with fluralaner by gavage at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg bodyweight twice 7 days apart. The negative control group received no treatment. Hens in each group were repeatedly infested with approximately 200 unfed adult D. gallinae at 1, 5, 8, 12, 15, 19, 22 and 26 days after the initial administration. After infestation and feeding for 2.5 h, 25 engorged mites per hen were collected and incubated in tubes. Mites were assessed for vitality (dead/live) at 4, 8, 12 and 24 h after each infestation. Tubes containing eggs and/or living mites were incubated another 8 days for assessment of mite reproductive capacity. Results: Fluralaner demonstrated a fast speed of kill in mites within 4 h post-infestation for 12 days after treatment initiation. An efficacy (mite mortality) of 98.7-100% was achieved. At 15 days after treatment initiation, 100% efficacy was achieved within 24 h post-infestation and no mite oviposition occurred during this period. Nineteen days after treatment initiation, the mite's ability to generate nymphs was reduced by 90.8%, which decreased to < 24.1% at later infestations. Conclusions: Fluralaner administered orally to hens twice, 7 days apart, provides efficacy against experimental poultry red mite infestation for at least 2 weeks. The demonstrated rapid speed of kill results in substantial depletion of the mite's oviposition and suggests that fluralaner can be an effective tool in the control of D. gallinae, one of the most urgent problems in poultry farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consuming raw and undercooked meat is known to enhance the risk of human toxocariasis because Toxocara species have a wide range of paratenic hosts, including chickens. The aim of this study was to identify species of Toxocara in naturally infected broiler chickens using molecular approaches. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method was used for the differentiation of Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati larvae recovered from tissues and organs, and identified by microscopic observations. Thirty-three 35- to 47-day-old broiler chickens were used for examination of Toxocara larvae. The duodenum, liver, lungs, heart, kidneys, skeletal muscles and brain of each chicken were examined using the pepsin method, and DNA from each tissue was extracted as the template for PCR assay. The findings revealed that 5 of 33 (15.2%) broiler chickens were infected with Toxocara larvae. Larvae were recovered from the liver (n = 19), duodenum (n = 8), skeletal muscles (n = 8) and brain (n = 2) of broiler chickens naturally infected with Toxocara spp. The results showed that the frequencies of the species in the chickens were T. canis larvae (n = 5, 83.3%) and T. cati larvae (n = 1, 16.7%). Our data from the present study demonstrated the importance of broiler chickens as a paratenic host for the parasite's life cycle in the environment. The implementation of DNA amplification as a routine diagnostic technique is a specific and alternative method for identification of Toxocara larvae, and allowed the observation of specific species under field conditions within the locations where broiler chickens are typically raised and exposed to Toxocara spp. eggs or larvae. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Eimeria is a common genus of apicomplexan parasites that infect diverse vertebrates, most notably poultry, causing serious disease and economic losses. Eimeria species have complex life-cycles consisting of three developmental stages. However, the molecular basis of the Eimeria reproductive mode switch remains an enigma. Methods: Total RNA extracted from second- (MZ-2) and third-generation merozoites (MZ-3) of Eimeria necatrix was subjected to transcriptome analysis using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) followed by qRT-PCR validation. Results: A total of 6977 and 6901 unigenes were obtained from MZ-2 and MZ-3, respectively. Approximately 2053 genes were differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between MZ-2 and MZ-3. Compared with MZ-2, 837 genes were upregulated and 1216 genes were downregulated in MZ-3. Approximately 95 genes in MZ-2 and 48 genes in MZ-3 were further identified to have stage-specific expression. Gene ontology category and KEGG analysis suggested that 216 upregulated genes in MZ-2 were annotated by 70 GO assignments, 242 upregulated genes were associated with 188 signal pathways, while 321 upregulated genes in MZ-3 were annotated by 56 GO assignments, 322 upregulated genes were associated with 168 signal pathways. The molecular functions of upregulated genes in MZ-2 were mainly enriched for protein degradation and amino acid metabolism. The molecular functions of upregulated genes in MZ-3 were mainly enriched for transcriptional activity, cell proliferation and cell differentiation. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first RNA-seq data study of the MZ-2 and MZ-3 stages of E. necatrix; it demonstrates a high number of differentially expressed genes between the MZ-2 and MZ-3 of E. necatrix. This study forms a basis for deciphering the molecular mechanisms underlying the shift from the second to third generation schizogony in Eimeria. It also provides valuable resources for future studies on Eimeria, and provides insight into the understanding of reproductive mode plasticity in different Eimeria species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide protozoan parasite of felids which can infect almost all warmblooded animals, including humans. Free-roaming chickens are good indicators of environmental contamination with T. gondii oocysts because they feed from the ground. Previous research has demonstrated a high seroprevalence of T. gondii in domestic animals on St. Kitts but little is known about the genotypes circulating in the environment. Methods: Hearts and brains from 81 free-roaming chickens in St. Kitts were digested and inoculated into 243 Swiss Webster mice in a bioassay. DNA was extracted from digested chicken tissues and the brains of all mice, and screened for T. gondii. Positive samples were genotyped using restriction fragment length polymorphism. Chicken sera were also screened for T. gondii antibodies using a modified agglutination test (MAT). Results: Overall, 41% (33 out of 81) of chickens were positive for T. gondii either by serology and/or by PCR. Antibodies to T. gondii were detected by MAT in 32% (26 out of 81) of chickens, and T. gondii DNA was detected in mouse brains representing 26% (21 out of 81) of chickens. Genotyping of 21 DNA isolates, using polymorphisms at 10 loci, including SAG1, SAG2 (5'-3' SAG2 and alt.SAG2), SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1 and Apico, revealed that 7 were ToxoDB genotype #141, 6 were #1 (Type II), 3 were #13, 3 were #265, one was #264 and one was #2 (Type III). Genotypes #13 and #141 appear to be more virulent. Conclusions: The results of this study highlight the greater genetic diversity of T. gondii circulating in the Caribbean region, with potentially different degrees of virulence to humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of the present cross-sectional study were to isolate and genotype Toxoplasma gondii in free-range chickens from Grenada, West Indies. Using the modified agglutination test, antibodies to T. gondii were found in 39 (26.9%) of 145 free-range chickens with titers of 25 in 7 chickens, 50 in 6 chickens, 100 in 2 chickens, and 200 or higher in 24 chickens. The hearts of the 39 seropositive chickens were bioassayed in mice; viable T. gondii was isolated from 20 and further propagated in cell culture. Genotyping of T. gondii DNA extracted from cell-cultured tachyzoites using the 10 PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) markers SAG1, SAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, and Apico revealed 4 genotypes, including ToxoDB PCR-RFLP no. 2 (Type III), no. 7, no. 13, and no. 259 (new). These results indicated that T. gondii population genetics in free-range chickens seems to be moderately diverse with ToxoDB no. 2 (Type III) as the most frequent (15/20 = 75%) compared to other genotypes in Grenada. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chicken mite affects egg-laying hens in many parts of the world, including Europe, Japan, China, and the United States. Although Dermanyssus gallinae affects birds in many regions, it is most prevalent in European countries, where egg industry losses are estimated at $177 million per year. It is a known vector for the St. Louis encephalitis virus, as well as other illnesses, such as fowl pox virus, Newcastle virus, and fowl cholera. In the United States, Dermanyssus gallinae is rarely found in caged-layer operations and is more commonly found in breeder farms. This 3-page fact sheet was written by Ethan Carter and Jennifer L. Gillett-Kaufman, and published by the UF Department of Entomology and Nematology, December 2014. (Photo credit: Lyle J. Buss, University of Florida) EENY611/IN1070: Chicken Mite (Other Common Names: Poultry Red Mite, Roost Mite) Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer) (Arachnida: Acari: Dermanyssidae) (ufl.edu)

Background: The wide spread mosquito Culex pipiens pipiens have two forms molestus and pipiens which frequently hybridize. The two forms have behavioural and physiological differences affecting habitat requirements and host selection, which may affect the transmission dynamic of Cx. p. pipiens-borne diseases. Methods: During 2013, blood engorged Cx. p. pipiens mosquitoes were captured in urban, rural and natural areas from Southern Spain. In 120 mosquitoes, we identified the blood meal origin at vertebrate species/genus level and the mosquito form. The presence and molecular lineage identity of avian malaria parasites in the head-thorax of each mosquito was also analysed. Results: Mosquitoes of the form pipiens were more frequently found in natural than in urban areas. The proportion of Cx. pipiens form molestus and hybrids of the two forms did not differ between habitat categories. Any significant difference in the proportion of blood meals on birds between forms was found. Birds were the most common feeding source for the two forms and their hybrids. Among mammals, dogs and humans were the most common hosts. Two Plasmodium and one Haemoproteus lineages were found in mosquitoes, with non-significant differences between forms. Conclusion: This study supports a differential distribution of Cx. p. pipiens form pipiens between urban and natural areas. Probably due to the similar feeding sources of both mosquito forms and their hybrids here, all of them may frequently interact with avian malaria parasites playing a role in the transmission of Plasmodium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pest management by conventional pesticides has become progressively hindered by developing pest resistance and increase in consumers demand for safe and residue-free foodstuffs. This will create a considerable market opportunity for alternative products, including botanical pesticides. The present study was conducted to assess the combination of carvacrol and thymol, their repellent activity, and residual toxicity against Dermanyssus gallinae with the aim of designing a new strategy relying on natural compounds for the control of D. gallinae. Different ratios of carvacrol-thymol, 5:0, 4:1, 3:2, 2:3, 1:4, and 0:5 based on LD50 values, were tested for their toxicity on D. gallinae. For residual toxicity assay, mortality rate of mites recorded after being exposed to the surfaces 1, 3, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days post spraying by carvacrol-thymol preparation. In combination toxicity, carvacrol-thymol in 4:1 ratio showed the highest efficacy against D. gallinae. The highest repellent activity was observed in carvacrol-thymol 5:0 combination. Addition of thymol to carvacrol resulted in a decrease in repellent activity of carvacrol as was seen in carvacrol-thymol 3:2, 2:3, and 1:4 ratios ( p < 0.05). Carvacrol-thymol in 4:1 ratio at 2 % concentration displayed good residual toxicity and was effective against D. gallinae till 14 days post spraying ( p < 0.05). The present study showed that the combination of carvacrol-thymol particularly with a 4:1 ratio displayed improved acaricidal activity and good residual toxicity. However, combining the application of carvacrol and thymol did not show any synergistic effect on repellent activity. Overall, carvacrol-thymol can be suggested as an alternative strategy for the control of D. gallinae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To study the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance due to extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli in samples collected from the ceca of healthy broilers of poultry sale outlets (PSOs) Jabalpur. Materials and Methods: A total of 400 cecal swab samples were taken randomly from freshly slaughtered poultry of 39 PSOs located at four different zones or areas of Jabalpur and were screened for the presence of ESBL-producing E. coli using standard methods. Further they were characterized phenotypically by standard methods. Results: All the 400 samples were screened for E. coli producing ESBL enzyme. Among the samples positive for E. coli 135 were positive for ESBL E. coli giving an overall prevalence of 33.5%. Conclusion: This study related to the prevalence of ESBL-producing E. coli in healthy broilers in Jabalpur is indicative of antibiotic resistance prevalent in the healthy birds which are used for human consumption as well. It also signifies resistance prevalent against beta-lactam antibiotics including third and fourth generations of cephalosporins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histomonas meleagridis (H. meleagridis) is a protozoan parasite that may cause histomoniasis, a disease of special importance to the poultry industry and public health. The molecular characterization of H. meleagridis in China has not been established. The 5.8S and flanking ITS regions were amplified by polymerase chain reaction from 15 liver samples of chickens which were preliminarily diagnosed with H. meleagridis infection by observing clinical symptoms and macroscopic changes in the organs in Eastern China between 2012 and 2013. The obtained sequences were aligned and compared with other known sequences of H. meleagridis and related protozoan species based on ITS1-5.8S rRNA-ITS2 or 5.8S rRNA region alone. Out of the 15 obtained sequences, 8 sequences were identified as H. meleagridis and were grouped into five clades, suggesting the possibility of multiple genotypes within the samples. Among the remaining 7 sequences, 4 sequences were more related to Trichomonas and 3 sequences were more related to Tetratrichomonas, which suggests the possibility of misdiagnosis or coinfection with other protozoans. Therefore, there is obvious genetic diversity of H. meleagridis based on the 5.8S and flanking ITS regions, which suggests the presence of different genotypes in chickens from Eastern China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poultry red mite (PRM) Dermanyssus gallinae causes high economic losses and is among the most important parasites in poultry farming worldwide. Different chemical, physical, and biological strategies try to control the expansion of PRM. However, effective solutions to this problem still have to be found. Here, we present a method for the development of an immunological control strategy, based on the identification of mite protein antigens which elicit antibodies with anti-mite activity in the immunized chicken. Hens were immunized with different PRM protein extracts formulated with two different adjuvants, and IgY-antibodies were isolated from the eggs. A PRM in vitro feeding assay which used chicken blood spiked with these IgY-preparations was used to detect antibodies which caused PRM mortality. In vitro feeding of mites with IgY isolated from hens immunized with PRM extract formulated with one of the adjuvants showed a statistically significant increase in the mortality as compared to control mites. After the separation of total PRM extracts in two-dimensional gels, several protein spots were recognized by such IgY preparations. Ten protein spots were subjected to mass spectrometry (MS/MS) for the identification of the corresponding proteins. Complete protein sequences were deduced from genomic and transcriptomic assemblies derived from high throughput sequencing of total PRM DNA and RNA. The results may contribute to the development of an immunological control strategy of D. gallinae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excretion frequencies of cecal and intestinal droppings of Chinese Lingnan yellow chickens were observed for 10 consecutive days. The chickens were then orally inoculated with a precocious line of Eimeria necatrix , and the oocysts present in the cecal and intestinal droppings were separately collected and monitored using the McMaster method. The results showed that the excretion frequency of cecal droppings was significantly lower than that of intestinal droppings, and the oocysts of E . necatrix were distributed primarily in the cecal droppings. This distribution affects the homogeneity of the second and third generation of oocysts ingested by the chickens and therefore affects the immune effect observed during E . necatrix immunization. To artificially strengthen the immunologic homogeneity against E . necatrix , a method of artificially strengthening the second immunization was applied, and the immune effect was evaluated based on oocyst excretion, body weight gain, fecal scores, intestinal lesion scores and survival percentages. The results showed that no significant intestinal damage was caused by immunization reactions in the chickens. In addition, the number of excreted oocysts in the immunized chicken groups could be significantly increased, and the immunologic homogeneity of the immunized chickens could be improved by artificially strengthening the second immunization, which could in turn improve the immune protective effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The mite Allopsoroptoides galli has recently been identified parasitizing commercial chickens, São Paulo State/Brasil, causing severe dermatitis on all parts of the animal's body and a significant decline in productivity, particularly in egg production. The aim of the present study in A. galli infestation was to investigate the impact on laying hens' performance and egg quality. A total of 100 56-week-old Hy-line white laying hens were used. The birds were divided into 2 groups, with 10 replicates of 5 birds in each group. The experimental groups consisted of a non-infested group (hens free of the A. galli) and an infested group (hens presenting A. galli). The infestation with A. galli did not significantly influence feed intake but caused a significant reduction in the body weight of the hens and caused a decrease in egg production, therefore promoting worse feed conversion. The egg weight was reduced; however, the infestation did not significantly affect the internal quality of the eggs, which was measured according to the yolk color, albumen height, and Haugh units, or the quality of the shell, based on its percentage, thickness, and strength. It can be concluded that an A. galli infestation promotes a reduction in body weight, egg production, and egg weight in laying hens, therefore worsening feed conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research was to examine the efficiency of carbaryl under laboratory conditions, based on field populations of poultry red mites from throughout the Republic of Serbia and Montenegro over a period of 6 years (2001-2006). In 2001 samples, an excellent efficiency level of 95.7% at 0.1% carbaryl concentration after 30-minute exposure was found. The total pharmacological profile of carbaryl in relation to D. gallinae mites resulted in adequate control. However, by 2003 a significant decline in carbaryl's efficiency was apparent. By 2005, a population of D. gallinae was discovered which showed no apparent susceptibility to carbaryl. Poultry red mite populations had by then developed extreme resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten numbers of twenty five weeks old breeder Japanese quail carcasses were presented to the Department of Veterinary Pathology with a history of drop in egg production, diarrhoea and sporadic mortality upto 10 per cent. Postmortem examination revealed severe emaciation and the intestinal lumen of all the carcasses was severely occluded with whitish tape worms. These worms and faecal samples were collected and confirmed as Choanotaenia infundibulum by morphometry study. Farm visit was made to collect the faecal samples which also showed heavy egg load of Choanotaenia infundibulum. Histopathologically, intestine revealed desquamation of epithelium, necrosis and haemorrhage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Campylobacter is an emerging zoonotic pathogen and one of the leading cause of foodborne infection worldwide and it has been isolated from a variety of animal species.The aim of this study was to identify Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli from dogs, calves, and poultry using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Methodology: A total of 104 number of samples comprising cloacal swab from poultry (38), a rectal swab from dogs (40), and calves (26) were collected for the isolation of thermophilic Campylobacters using conventional culture method. PCR was used for identification of mapA gene for C.jejuni and ceuE for C.coli. Results: The overall presence of Campylobacter was found to be 67(64.42%) from the samples, out of which 6 isolates belongs to C. jejuni species, were 5(18.51%) from chicken and 1(4.17%) from dog was recorded and about 17 isolates belongs to C. coli species were 9(33.33%), 6 (25%), and 1(9.09%) from chicken, dog and calves was recorded. Conclusion: Results suggested that Campylobacter reservoirs chicken, calves and pet dogs can play a role as the source of infection to human beings and PCR can be an ideal tool for molecular confirmation at the species level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species of the family Prosthogonimidae are considered the most pathogenic poultry trematodes worldwide, affecting particularly low intensity farming in rural areas. Adults of Prosthogonimus occur mainly in the bursa of Fabricius, oviduct and cloaca of ducks, geese, fowl and other birds feeding at least occasionally on dragonflies or damselflies (Odonata). We analyzed the central European species of the Prosthogonimidae, namely Prosthogonimus cuneatus , Prosthogonimus ovatus , Prosthogonimus pellucidus and Prosthogonimus rarus . We sequenced three nuclear (ITS2) and mitochondrial (CO1, ND1) DNA loci of four species isolated from Anas clypeata , Anas strepera , Anas platyrhynchos , Aythya ferina , Passer domesticus and Turdus merula . Intra- and inter-specific sequence variability revealed that all four species represent distinct well-defined entities. Our data, combined with previously published studies, suggest the return of the name Prosthogonimus rarus Braun, 1901 for Schistogonimus rarus (Braun, 1901). The genus name Schistogonimus Lühe, 1909 is considered a junior synonym of Prosthogonimus Lühe, 1899. We identified the existence of two clades, one represented by P. cuneatus and P. pellucidus , and another one formed by P. ovatus and P. rarus . We also provide comparative measurements of these four central European prosthogonimids, and address their tissue specificity, host-specific prevalence (based on the extensive bird cohort examined in years 1962–2014), and for some bird hosts we address also differences in the prevalence of Prosthogonimus spp. in natural and near-natural wetlands in comparison with fishponds utilized for intense carp production. We provide an updated key to European Prosthogonimus spp. based on their morphological characters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

E. maxima is one of the seven species of Eimeria that infects chicken. Until now, only a few antigenic genes of E. maxima have been reported. In the present study, the immune protective effects against E. maxima challenge of recombinant protein and DNA vaccine encoding EmMIC2 were evaluated. Two-week-old chickens were randomly divided into five groups. The experimental group of chickens was immunized with 100 μg DNA vaccine pVAX1-MIC2 or 200 μg rEmMIC2 protein while the control group of chickens was injected with pVAX1 plasmid or sterile PBS. The results showed that the anti-EmMIC2 antibody titers of both rEmMIC2 protein and pVAX1-MIC2 groups were significantly higher as compared to PBS and pVAX1 control ( P < 0.05). The splenocytes from both vaccinated groups of chickens displayed significantly greater proliferation compared with the controls ( P < 0.05). Serum from chickens immunized with pVAX1-MIC2 and rEmMIC2 protein displayed significantly high levels of IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-17, TGF-β and IL-4 ( P < 0.05) compared to those of negative controls. The challenge experiment results showed that both the recombinant protein and the DNA vaccine could obviously alleviate jejunum lesions, body weight loss, increase oocyst, decrease ratio and provide ACIs of more than 165. All the above results suggested that immunization with EmMIC2 was effective in imparting partial protection against E. maxima challenge and it could be an effective antigen candidate for the development of new vaccines against E. maxima . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Eimeria species are highly pathogenic parasites of chickens. Research aimed at reducing their impact is hindered by a lack of non-subjective, quantitative, tools to measure parasite replication in the host. The time-consuming, and often time-sensitive, nature of existing approaches precludes their use in large-scale genetic, epidemiological, and evolutionary analyses. We have used quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) to accurately quantify Eimeria tenella in chicken tissue and shown this to be more efficient and sensitive than traditional methodologies. We tested four chicken-specific reference qPCR assays and found beta-actin ( actb ) to be optimal for sample normalisation. In an experimental setting, chickens were inoculated with 500, 1500, or 4500 E. tenella oocysts and parasite replication and the impact of infection measured by i) qPCR analysis of DNA extracted from caecal tissues collected at five and eight days post-infection (dpi), ii) faecal oocyst counts (FOCs) on samples taken from six to eight dpi, and iii) lesion scoring on caeca collected post-mortem at five and eight dpi. Quantitative real-time PCR test results indicated a significant dose-dependent increase in parasite numbers among study groups for samples collected five dpi (i.e., prior to gametogony) ( R 2 = 0.994) ( p < 0.002) but not in those from day eight (after most oocyst shedding) ( R 2 = 0.006) ( p > 0.379). A strong dose-dependent increase in parasite replication and severity of infection was also revealed by FOC ( R 2 = 0.997) and lesion scoring. Importantly, qPCR offers substantial improvements for animal welfare via improved statistical power and reduced group sizes in experimental studies. The described qPCR method overcomes subjective limitations of coproscopic quantification, allows reproducible medium- to high-throughput examination of tissues, faeces, and oocysts, and is a valuable tool for determining the impact of Eimeria infections in both experimental and field settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This histopathological study was carried out in order to investigate the cellular response in the jejunum to Ascaridia galli during the first 7 weeks of infection. Fourty-two ISA Brown chickens (7 weeks old) were infected orally with 500 embryonated A. galli eggs each while 28 chickens were left as uninfected controls. Six infected and four control chickens were necropsied at each time point 3, 7, 10, 14, 21, 28 and 42 days post-infection (dpi). Samples for histopathology were taken from three sites of the jejunoileum. Significantly higher eosinophil counts were seen in infected chickens compared to uninfected at 3, 7, 10, 14 and 28 dpi ( P < 0.01). In both groups, the initial number of mast cells was high, but this high level of mast cells remained for a longer period in the infected group compared to the control group. Significantly higher counts were thus found in the infected group at 21 ( P < 0.001), 28 ( P < 0.01) and 42 dpi ( P < 0.05). A. galli infection induced changes in the mucosal thickness as reduced villi length at 7, 10, 14, 21 and 28 dpi and in the degree of general cellular infiltration in the lamina propria of the mucosal layer. No adult worms were seen during the experiment; therefore, A. galli larvae have elicited a moderate cellular response in the lamina propria, mainly consisting of eosinophils in the early phase and later of mast cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work evaluates the anthelminitic activity of ginger and curcumin on the cestode Raillietina cesticillus. Live parasites were collected from intestine of naturally infected chickens in PBS 0.9 % and then incubated at 37 °C in media containing ginger extract at three different concentrations (125, 250, and 500 mg); every concentration was dissolved in 10 ml media. The curcumin extract was used at three different concentrations (250, 500, and 1000 mg); each was dissolved in 10 ml media. Praziquantel at a concentration of 600 mg was added to 10 ml media. A control one without extract was reported. Regression of worms increased gradually in all concentrations. At 500 mg ginger (50 ± 0 %), worms were regressed at 48 h post-exposure (h.p.e.). Also (50 ± 1.8 %), worms were regressed at 1000 mg curcumin at the same time. On the other hand, praziquantel showed the highest regression (65 ± 2.3 %). The extract efficacy was exhibit as concentration-time-dependent mainly at higher concentrations used after 48 h. In vivo effects of ginger and curcumin were lower than those in vitro. [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 do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo is the property of Instituto de Medicina Tropical de Sao Paulo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The poultry roundworm Ascaridia galli is re-emerging in laying hens in many European countries due to the increase in non-caged housing. A series of in vitro experiments was carried out to study the in ovo larval development (embryonation) under different environmental conditions. Between 83% and 96% of the eggs developed to L 3 within 7–21 days of incubation in water between 20 and 30 °C. Twenty-six percent completed development at 33 °C and 4% at 35 °C after 31 days. At 15 °C parasite egg development was low with 8% L 3 after 56 days. In another trial larval development occurred, when parasite eggs were exposed to freeze–thaw cycle (30′ to 12 h) followed by incubation for 2 weeks at 25 °C. Alkaline and acidic conditions in the range of pH 2.5–12.5 had no adverse effect on development. Oxygen and relative humidity above 70% were necessary for development to occur. Thus, some A. galli eggs may complete development at conditions prevailing in poultry barns in temperate climate zones throughout the year. Although exposure to a 1% or 2% dilution of the broad-spectrum disinfectant chlorocresol for 4 h or longer was ovicidal, further work is required to improve the method of application in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Avian Diseases is the property of American Association of Avian Pathologists, Inc. 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.)

Immune mapped protein-1 (IMP1) is a new protective protein in apicomplexan parasites, and exits in Eimeria tenella . Cloning and sequence analysis has predicted the antigen to be a novel membrane protein of apicomplexan parasites. In order to assess the immunogenicity of EtIMP1, a C-terminal derivative of EtIMP1 was expressed in a bacterial host system and was used to immunize chickens. The protective efficacy against a homologous challenge was evaluated by body weight gains, lesion scores and fecal oocyst shedding. The results showed that the subunit vaccine can improve weight gains, reduced cecal pathology and lower oocyst fecal shedding compared with non immunized controls. The results suggested that the C-terminal derivative of EtIMP1 might be considered as a candidate in the development of subunit vaccines against Eimeria infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coccidiosis is a disease caused by apicomplexan parasites of the genus Eimeria , which has a significant economic impact on poultry production. Multiple species infecting the turkey have been described; however, due to the general lack of unambiguous description, their identification and taxonomy is debatable. In this work, a systematic approach was taken to isolate, characterise and compare coccidian species in the turkey. Individual species were tracked according to their unique 18S ribosomal DNA sequence. The single-oocyst isolation technique and passaging of mixed species field isolates in selectively immunised birds enabled the derivation of pure species. Six distinct strains representing five eimerian species that infect the turkey were obtained. It appears highly probable that these species represent all species described in the past with the exception of Eimeria subrotunda . The species were analysed using both traditional methods and DNA sequencing. For each strain the oocyst morphology, prepatent period, gross pathology, pathogenicity, host specificity and endogenous cycle were studied. Antigenic similarity was investigated in multiple cross-immunity experiments. For identification and quantification of each individual species or strain, quantitative real-time PCR markers were also developed. Parallel characterisation of pure strains allowed comprehensive comparison with the original descriptions and assignment of correct species names. The species Eimeria meleagridis , Eimeria dispersa , Eimeria gallopavonis , Eimeria meleagrimitis and Eimeria innocua were identified. Comparison of our data with those of previous studies indicates that Eimeria adenoeides is most probably a synonym for either E. meleagridis or E. gallopavonis , or a description based on a mixture of these species, and thus nomen dubium. The species E. dispersa and E. innocua were also found to infect Bobwhite Quail. Phylogenetic reconstruction based on 18S rDNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (COI) sequences showed that these two species form a distinct clade unrelated to other turkey coccidia and point to a polyphyletic origin of the species infecting the turkey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic farming of poultry has increased in recent years as the prophylactic use of antibiotics has come into disfavor. This study was conducted to explore the antiparasitic effect of a methanolic extract of Peganum harmala in broilers challenged with coccidiosis. For this purpose, 200 1-week-old broiler chicks were divided into five treatments: negative control (basal diet, Ph-0/NC), positive control (basal diet with coccidiosis challenge, Ph-0/C), and three groups challenged with coccidiosis and supplemented with P. harmala at the rate of 200 mg L (Ph-200), 250 mg L (Ph-250), and 300 mg L (Ph-300) drinking water. Each group had three replicates of ten chicks each. Challenge with standard dose of the larvae of coccidiosis and supplementation of P. harmala were initiated on day 14 until 35 days of age. As expected, the results revealed that weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were depressed significantly in Ph-0 group with significant mortality percentage. Weight gain, total body weight, and FCR increased linearly with increasing dose of P. harmala with the exception of feed intake. The growth and feed efficiency of Ph-0/NC was better in Ph-0/NC compared to that in Ph-0/C and comparable to that in P. harmala-treated birds. Similarly, mean ooccytes per gram (OPG) decreased linearly ( P < 0.05) in supplemented groups compared to that in Ph-0/C. Histological evidences showed that cecal lesion and leucocyte infiltration decreased markedly in supplemented groups of P. harmala specifically the Ph-300 group compared to those in Ph-0/C. From the present experiment, we concluded the anticoccidial effect of P. harmala in broiler chicks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation performed on a 31 hens effective (27 laying hens and 4 cocks) reared and maintained in traditional system during May-June 2014, concerning the anatomo-clinical, hystopathological, prophylactic and therapeutic picture in a cnemiodocopte scabie outbreak of legs, emphasizes an incidence of the parasitosis with different values function of production category, 14.8% in laying hens and 75.5% in cocks. The anatomo-clinical examination revealed poultry within different stages of disease evolution, from incipient forms, less expressive (3 cases-43.0%) to serious foms, with productive dermatoses high prurigenous in the tarso-metatarso-phalangeal area (4 cases- 57.0%). The hystopathological sections performed from pathological material, collected from the tarso-metatarsian area with serious cnemiodocopte scabie lesions in hen, emphasize at epidermis level lesions of acanthosis with hyperkeratosis, and spongiosis lesions in the cells of the spinous layer, and around parasites appears a limiting thick layer, keratinic. In deep dermis is presented an infiltrate preponderantly perivascular, with mononucleates and hetherophils (lesions of perivascularite). According to applied therapeutic protocol (Ivermectin, 0.5 ml s.c. inoculation in axilar area) it was reported a progressive improvement of the anatomoclinical picture, visible from the 7th post-therapeutic day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae, poses a significant threat to poultry production and hen health in many parts of the world. With D. gallinae increasingly suspected of being a disease vector, and reports indicating that attacks on alternative hosts, including humans, are becoming more common, the economic importance of this pest has increased greatly. As poultry production moves away from conventional cage systems in many parts of the world, D. gallinae is likely to become more abundant and difficult to control. Control remains dominated by the use of synthetic acaricides, although resistance and treatment failure are widely reported. Alternative control measures are emerging from research devoted to D. gallinae and its management. These alternative control measures are beginning to penetrate the market, although many remain at the precommercial stage. This review compiles the expanding body of research on D. gallinae and assesses options for its current and future control. We conclude that significant advances in D. gallinae control are most likely to come through an integrated approach adopting recent research into existing and novel control strategies; this is being combined with improved monitoring and modeling to better inform treatment interventions. [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.)

Background: The worldwide distributed hematophagous poultry red mite Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer, 1778) is one of the most important pests of poultry. Even though 35 acaricide compounds are available, control of D. gallinae remains difficult due to acaricide resistances as well as food safety regulations. The current study was carried out to identify putative excretory/secretory (pES) proteins of D. gallinae since these proteins play an important role in the host-parasite interaction and therefore represent potential targets for the development of novel intervention strategies. Additionally, putative transmembrane proteins (pTM) of D. gallinae were analyzed as representatives of this protein group also serve as promising targets for new control strategies. Methods: D. gallinae pES and pTM protein prediction was based on putative protein sequences of whole transcriptome data which was parsed to different bioinformatical servers (SignalP, SecretomeP, TMHMM and TargetP). Subsequently, pES and pTM protein sequences were functionally annotated by different computational tools. Results: Computational analysis of the D. gallinae proteins identified 3,091 pES (5.6%) and 7,361 pTM proteins (13.4%). A significant proportion of pES proteins are considered to be involved in blood feeding and digestion such as salivary proteins, proteases, lipases and carbohydrases. The cysteine proteases cathepsin D and L as well as legumain, enzymes that cleave hemoglobin during blood digestion of the near related ticks, represented 6 of the top-30 BLASTP matches of the poultry red mite's secretome. Identified pTM proteins may be involved in many important biological processes including cell signaling, transport of membrane-impermeable molecules and cell recognition. Ninjurin-like proteins, whose functions in mites are still unknown, represent the most frequently occurring pTM. Conclusion: The current study is the first providing a mite's secretome as well as transmembranome and provides valuable insights into D. gallinae pES and pTM proteins operating in different metabolic pathways. Identifying a variety of molecules putatively involved in blood feeding may significantly contribute to the development of new therapeutic targets or vaccines against this poultry pest [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was evaluate the effectiveness of three new use insecticides for Cuban poultry in order to control Alphitobius diaperinus, which is an intermediate host of helminths affecting birds. The study was done at Poultry Diagnosis and Research Laboratory belonging to Poultry Research Institute. Five hundred individuals were employed and 5 treatments were designed: Clorpiriphos, Diclorvos, Lambda Cihalothrine and Cipermethrine (as positive control) and a water treated control group. Insects were introduced in each solution during 1 minute. At 24 and 48 hours after applying the treatments, samplings were carried out in order to determine insect mortality. The tree insecticides caused mortality in 100% of the insects treated. Cipermethrine had similar behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Keratinolytic proteases find extensive applications both in environmental biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. An extracellular keratinolytic protease was purified and characterized from the fungus, Aspergillus parasiticus, isolated from poultry soil. The enzyme was purified to homogeneity by acetone and ammonium sulfate precipitations followed by CM-Sepharose column chromatography. The molecular mass of the enzyme was 36kDa as judged by SDS–PAGE. The purified keratinase had a pH optimum of 7.0 and temperature optimum of 50 oC. The enzyme hydrolyzed the substrate azocasein and the K m and V max of the purified keratinase were found to be 1.04mg/ml and 3463.34Units/min/mg protein, respectively. The enzyme showed increased activity in the presence of reducing agents. The enzyme was found to be glycosylated. According to the inhibition profiles obtained with the various protease inhibitors, it was confirmed that the purified keratinase belongs to the serine protease type. The purified enzyme activity was enhanced by calcium, magnesium and manganese ions and partially inhibited by cadmium, copper and zinc ions. The purified enzyme showed increased activity with nonionic detergents and urea. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The fowl tick, Argas persicus (Oken), is of veterinary importance as a parasite of poultry and wild birds. The antitick efficacy, in vitro and in vivo, of peracetic acid (PAA) and deltamethrin (DMT) was tested separately against A. persicus through the dipping technique. PAA (0.5 %) was highly efficient against soft tick larvae ( A. persicus), resulting in 100 % mortality after 2 min. The lethal concentrations LC and LC were 0.310 and 0.503 %, respectively. The lethal time values LT and LT were 5.34 and 40.00 min, respectively, after treatment with PAA (0.25 %). Two minutes after exposure to DMT, LC and LC values were 0.033 and 0.052 % (33.204 and 51.527 mg/L), respectively. The LT and LT values were 27.03 and 305.46 min, respectively, after treatment with 0.025 % DMT (25 mg/L). After dipping in PAA (0.5 %), the chickens did not show respiratory signs or inflammation on the eyes and/or skin. By contrast, temporary coughing, sneezing, and ocular inflammations without dermatitis were observed in chickens dipped in DMT (0.05 % or 50 mg /L). Seven days posttreatment (PT), the reduction in the percentages of A. persicus infesting laying hens were 99.15 and 63.42 % after dipping in PAA and DMT, respectively. However, complete elimination of the number of ticks occurred after 28 days PT with DMT. PAA inhibits molting effectively (28 %) when compared with that of DMT (52 %). Results indicated that PAA is a more potent and promising acaricide against A. persicus (in vitro and in vivo) than DMT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thomas K. Jeffers has made many significant contributions to our understanding of the biology of the parasite Eimeria, the cause of coccidiosis in poultry. His work has had direct practical application for the control of this widespread disease. Topics discussed include Jeffers’ pioneering work concerned with genetics of the host response to infection, the nature of biological and immunological intraspecific variation, drug resistance and discovery, field surveys of resistance, and his most recognized achievement—the demonstration that the lifecycle of coccidia may be altered by artificial selection. Parasites so modified are attenuated but retain their immunogenicity, a discovery that has led to the development of live vaccines that are inherently non-pathogenic. This article provides a brief biography and describes the contributions that Jeffers has made to our knowledge of coccidiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Abstract: This study investigated whether a precise and repeatable quantification of Heterakis gallinarum egg excretion, which considerably reflects the actual worm burdens, can be achieved based on collection of the daily total amount of faeces from chickens. Three-week-old birds (N =64) were infected with 200 embryonated eggs of H. gallinarum, and placed into individual cages 3wk after infection for 5wk to collect daily faeces (N =2240). The total daily faeces was mixed and a randomly taken sample per bird was analyzed to estimate the numbers of eggs per gram of faeces (EPG) and total number of eggs excreted within 24h (EPD). A total of 235 daily faecal collections were randomly selected and further examined to determine between and within sample variations of EPG counts as a measure of precision. For this, two random faecal samples were taken from the daily produced faeces by a bird, and the EPG was determined for each of the samples (EPG1 and EPG2). The second faecal sample was analyzed once more to determine a parallel EPG2 count (EPG2a) of the suspended sample. Precision of an EPG count was defined as its relative closeness to the average of two EPG counts using a relative asymmetry index (IndexEPG). At an age of 11wk, i.e. 8wk p.i. the birds were slaughtered and their worm burdens were determined. There were no significant differences between EPG1 and EPG2 (P =0.764) nor between EPG2 and EPG2a (P =0.700), suggesting that the differences between or within the samples were not different from zero. Correlations between EPG counts, as between and within sample coherences, were r =0.85 and r =0.86, respectively. Precision of EPG counts, as measured by IndexEPG, was not influenced by consistency (P =0.870) and total amount of faeces (P =0.088). However, concentration of eggs in faeces (mean EPG) had a significant effect on the precision of the EPG counts (P <0.001). Similar results were also observed for the within sample precision (IndexEPG2). A segmented regression analysis indicated an abrupt change in the precision of EPG counts as the response to changing egg concentration in the examined faecal samples. The precision of analyses remarkably heightened up to a breakpoint with an EPG count of ≤617. A similar breakpoint was also determined for within sample precision (EPG2≤621). Moderate repeatabilities (R =0.49) for EPG and EPD were estimated in the first week of egg excretion, whereas the estimates were higher (R =0.67–0.84) in the following weeks. Correlations between number of female worms with daily measured EPG and EPD increased to an almost constant level (r ≥0.70; P <0.05) in a few days after the nematode excreted eggs and predominantly remained so for the rest of the sampling period. It is concluded that mixing daily total faeces provides samples with random homogenous distribution of H. gallinarum eggs. Precision of the EPG counts increases as the egg concentration in faecal sample increases. Egg excretion of H. gallinarum, quantified either as EPG or EPD, is highly repeatable and closely correlated with the actual worm burden of birds starting as early as in 5thwk of infection. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The avian haemosporidian parasites (phylum Apicomplexa) are taxonomically diverse and cosmopolitan in distribution; infecting most bird families. Sources of concern are reports of clinical haemosporidian infections in birds kept as part of zoo and aviary collections. Recently, severe and acute mortality episodes have been reported in masked bobwhite quail (Colinus virginianus ridgwayi), an endangered subspecies from the American Southwest. Two hundred and five eggs of the captive flock held in Arivaca, Arizona, were hatched at a zoo in the American Southwest. Thirty-four sub-adult or adult animals had lesions associated with tissue phases of haemoparasites, especially vasculitis, ventricular leiomyositis and ulcerative pododermatitis. Molecular techniques applied to blood collected from the zoo''s last twelve remaining animals resulted in the detection of a Plasmodium juxtanucleare-like and Haemoproteus sp. parasites. A Raven (Corvus corax), in a contiguous exhibit, was positive for the same P. juxtanucleare-like parasite, but remained asymptomatic for three years following detection. These findings indicate that other birds in the exhibit within the zoo premises could act as reservoirs. We conclude that haemosporidian infections could be a factor in the demise of the captive masked bobwhite quails housed at the zoo. We suggest that active surveillance for haemoporidian parasites should be incorporated as a precaution to ex situ conservation efforts of susceptible endangered species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Samples of Dermanyssus gallinae (DeGeer) (Acari: Dermanyssidae) from more than 49 Norwegian and Swedish laying poultry farms, and additional samples collected from Scottish, Finnish, Danish and Dutch layer farms, were compared genetically. Analysis of partial mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences of mites from Norway and Sweden revealed 32 haplotypes. Only single haplotypes were found on most farms, which suggests that infections are recycled within farms and that transmission routes are few. Both Norwegian and Swedish isolates were found in the two major haplogroups, but no haplotypes were shared between Norway and Sweden, indicating little or no recent exchange of mites between these countries. There appears to be no link between haplotypes and geographical location as identical haplotypes were found in both the northern and southern Swedish locations, and haplotypes were scattered in locations between these extremes. The current data suggest that wild birds in Sweden are not a reservoir for D. gallinae infection of layer farms as their mites were genetically distinct from D. gallinae of farm layer birds. Transmission of the poultry red mite in Scandinavia is thus likely to depend on synantropic factors such as the exchange of contaminated material or infested birds between farms or facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effectiveness of diatomaceous earth (DE) as a treatment against parasites and to increase feed efficiency and egg production of organically raised free-range layer hens was evaluated in 2 breeds of commercial egg layers [Bovan Brown (BB) and Lowmann Brown (LB)] that differ in their resistance to internal parasitic infections. Half the hens of each breed were fed diets supplemented with DE (2%). Their internal parasite loads were assessed by biweekly fecal egg counts (FEC) and by postmortem examination of the gastrointestinal tract. Supplementing DE in diets of LB hens, the more parasite-resistant breed, did not significantly affect their FEC and adult parasite load. However, BB hens treated with dietary DE had significantly lower Capillaria FEC, slightly lower Eimeria FEC, fewer birds infected with Heterakis, and significantly lower Heterakis worm burden than control BB hens. Both BB and LB hens fed the diet containing DE were significantly heavier, laid more eggs, and consumed more feed than hens fed the control diet, but feed efficiency did not differ between the 2 dietary treatments. Additionally, BB hens consuming the DE diet laid larger eggs containing more albumen and yolk than hens consuming the control diet. In a subsequent experiment, the effectiveness of DE to treat a Northern fowl mite (Ornithonyssus sylviarum) infestation was tested. Relative to controls, both breeds of hens that were dusted with DE had reduced number of mites. The results of this study indicate the DE has the potential to be an effective treatment to help control parasites and improve production of organically raised, free-range layer hens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cross sectional study was conducted from Nov. 2008 to April 2009 to identify and estimate prevalence of ectoparisites of poultry in intensive and backyard chicken farm at Wolayta Soddo town southern nation nationalities and peoples region of Ethiopia. Three hundred eighty four chickens were selected using systematic random sampling technique. Ectoparasites were collected from different parts of the body including skin scraping from shank. Concomitantly age, sex as well as other risk factors recorded. The study result showed that four genus (lice, flea, mite and tick) and six species of ectoparasites recovered in back yard and none in intensive production system. The prevalence of external parasite infestation in backyard production system were 88% lice, 16.5% flea, 8.1% mite and 9.2% tick. Menopon gallinae 49 (139/284) the most prevalent ectoparasite species followed by Cuclotogaster heterographus 40%(115/284) while Cnemidocoptes mutans 8.1%(23/284) was the least identified. The finding in age group showed that there was a significant difference in prevalence of lice infestation between young and adult chicken (P< 0.05) with odds ratio of 5.2. Where young age group are 5.2 times more likely to be infested with lice than adult ones, where as mite prevalence was significantly different between age group with OR of 2.8, where adult group are 2.8 times more likely to be infested than young. On the other hand, flea and tick weren't significantly different (P>0.05) in both age and sex groups but it needs further study to find plausible explanation. The study indicated that external parasites are highly prevalent in backyard chicken, which is associated with poor hygienic system. There is a need to improve hygiene to increase chicken productivity in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper describes two experiments conducted to examine the acaricidal potential of spinosad against the poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae (De Geer), a serious ectoparasitic pest of laying hens. Spinosad is a natural product derived from the fermentation of the micro-organism Saccharopolyspora spinosa. In vitro testing confirmed that, when applied to a galvanised metal plate to the point of run-off, spinosad was toxic to adult female D. gallinae and suggested that at an application rate of 3.88g/L a significant residual toxicity of spinosad could be achieved for up to 21 days. A subsequent in vivo experiment in a conventional cage housing system for laying hens demonstrated the acaricidal activity and residual toxicity to D. gallinae of a single application of spinosad when applied at either 1.94 or 3.88g/L. Residual toxicity of spinosad at both of these application rates was maintained throughout the course of the 28 day post-spray study period, with a peak in product efficacy seen 14 days after spraying. The results suggest that the greater the D. gallinae population the greater will be the toxic effect of spinosad. Although the exact reasons for this are unclear, it can be speculated that conspecifics spread the product between each other more efficiently at higher mite population densities. However, further study is warranted to confirm this possibility. Application of spinosad in vivo had no effect on hen bodyweight or egg production parameters (number and weight), suggesting that this product could be used to effectively control D. gallinae infestations whilst birds are in lay. This paper also describes a novel method for effectively and efficiently achieving replication of treatments in a single poultry house, previously unpopulated with D. gallinae. Individual groups of conventional cages were stocked with hens, seeded with D. gallinae and used as replicates. Independence of replicates was achieved by isolating cage groups from one another using a non-drying glue barrier to minimise D. gallinae migration. Creating isolated populations (replicates) of D. gallinae within a single poultry house thus represents a novel and efficient means of screening other potential acaricides under field conditions. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Coccidosis is one of the most commonly prevalent and economically important parasitic diseases of poultry worldwide. Chicken coccidia are protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria. This study aimed at analysing the molecular prevalence of seven species of Eimeria infecting chickens in Tamil Nadu, India. Tissue samples (caecum, rectum and upper and mid intestines) collected from chickens exhibiting symptoms of coccidiosis were used for DNA extraction, followed by amplification of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of Eimeria genome with genus-specific primers and speciation in nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) with species-specific primers. Of 43 tissue samples examined, 25 were positive in ITS PCR and all the seven species could be identified. However, the prevalence of each species varied. In broilers, Eimeria necatrix was present in all infected chickens with Eimeria brunetti, Eimeria tenella, Eimeria maxima and Eimeria acervulina present in more than 50% of infected chickens, while Eimeria praecox and Eimeria mitis were only present in 11% to 16%. Although only 7 samples were positive among layers, the prevalence was largely similar, but with a higher prevalence of E. praecox and E. mitis and a lower prevalence of E. tenella. Multiple infections were most common, with 2–6 Eimeria species infecting the same chickens. In order to estimate the preponderance of each infecting species of Eimeria, a random cloning technique was adopted. The genus-specific ITS PCR product was cloned in a TA vector and ten clones were randomly picked and used as template for amplification of all the seven genera of Eimeria. If the specific species of Eimeria is preponderant, then the frequency of the clones showing that species-specific PCR amplification would be higher. Using this method, the most preponderant species present in the rectum, mid and upper intestines of layers was assessed to be E. acervulina, E. brunetti and E. necatrix. E. acervulina was present in 60–90%, E. necatrix in 10–30% and E. brunetti in 10–20% of the clones screened, indicating that these species could be the most preponderant Eimeria species. Intervention strategies should aim at these species. This new method of estimating preponderance of infecting Eimeria species could be used to assess the relative importance of each species at the farm or region level instead of relying only on prevalence estimates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a study which compiled and analyzed information about samples from 156 German turkey, chicken and peacock flocks with suspected histomonosis that were sent to the Institute for Poultry Diseases of the Free University Berlin in Germany between 2004 and 2008. Using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), researchers detected histomonal DNA in 108 samples from 65 flocks. They also found Tetratrichomonas gallinarum DNA in 5.3 percent of samples from flocks infected with Histomonas meleagridis and in 27.4 percent of samples from flocks that were not infected with H. meleagridis.