The Frequency of Porcine Cysticercosis and Factors Associated with Taenia solium Infection in the Municipality of Tuchín-Córdoba, Colombia.

Taeniasis and cysticercosis are parasitic infections that affect humans and pigs. Their global distribution constitutes a serious public health issue with significant implications for pork production. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the presence of porcine cysticercosis in backyard swine from 42 indigenous communities throughout Tuchín-Córdoba, Colombia. Between December 2020 and March 2021, free-range pigs (n = 442) were assessed using the ELISA cysticercosis Ag test; 85 pigs were examined through sublingual visual evaluation, and 4 slaughtered pig carcasses were subjected to standard operation inspection. The collected cysticercus underwent histological and PCR analysis. Furthermore, 192 surveys of knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) were used to identify the factors that facilitate infection transmission. Serological investigation revealed that 9.7% (46/472) of the animals were positive for cysticerci Ag. Sublingual inspection identified cysticercus in 28.7% (25/87) of the animals, while PCR analysis indicated that cysticercus corresponded to the T. solium American/African genotype. The factors associated with T. solium infection in the pigs in the surveyed areas numbered 14. The majority are associated with factors that promote the active persistence of Taenia solium's life cycle in an area, such as lack of environmental sanitation, a lack of coverage or care for drinking water and wastewater treatment services, and no solid waste disposal.

First isolation of Rickettsia amblyommatis from Amblyomma mixtum in Colombia.

BACKGROUND: Rickettsiae are obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacteria that are the causative agent of rickettsioses and are spread to vertebrate hosts by arthropods. There are no previous reports of isolation of Rickettsia amblyommatis for Colombia. METHODS: A convenience sampling was executed in three departments in Colombia for direct collection of adult ticks on domestic animals or over vegetation. Ticks were screened for the presence of Rickettsia spp. by real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) amplifying the citrate synthase gene (gltA), and the positive sample was processed for isolation and further molecular characterization by conventional PCR. The absolute and relative frequencies were calculated for several tick species variables. All products from conventional PCR were further purified and sequenced by the Sanger technique. Representative sequences of 18 Rickettsia species were downloaded from GenBank. Consensus phylogenetic trees were constructed for the gltA, ompB, ompA, and htrA genes with 1000 replicates, calculating bootstrap values through the maximum likelihood method and the generalized time reversible substitution model in the MEGA 7.0 software program. RESULTS: One female Amblyomma mixtum collected on vegetation was amplified by qPCR (gltA), indicating a frequency of 1.6% (1/61) for Rickettsia spp. INFECTION: Sequence analysis of a rickettsial isolate from this tick in BLASTn showed 100% identity with gltA (340 base pairs [bp]), 99.87% for ompB (782 bp), 98.99% for htrA (497 bp), and 100% for ompA (488 bp) to R. amblyommatis. Concatenated phylogenetic analysis confirmed these findings indicating that the isolate is grouped with other sequences of Amblyomma cajennense complex from Panama and Brazil within the R. amblyommatis clade. CONCLUSIONS: This paper describes the isolation and early molecular identification of a R. amblyommatis strain from A. mixtum in Colombia.

Neglected zoonotic helminthiases in wild canids: new insights from South America.

The global threat of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) constitutes a public health issue in underdeveloped countries. Zoonotic helminthiases are the most common human NTD agents in developing countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and the Americas, causing a global burden of disease that exceeds that of more recognized infectious diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis. Wild canids are well-known mammals that act as natural reservoirs of zoonotic-relevant helminthiasis worldwide, thus playing a pivotal role in their epidemiology and transmission to humans. Here we evaluate the occurrence of zoonotic gastrointestinal helminths in two Neotropical wild canid species from the Amazonian and Andean regions of Colombia, i.e., the bush dog (Speothos venaticus) and the crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous). We recovered tapeworm proglottids from bush dog fecal samples and identified them molecularly as the canine-specific lineage of Dipylidium caninum by using cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) gene sequences. Moreover, examination of a crab-eating fox during necropsy revealed the presence of non-embryonated eggs of the neglected nematode Lagochilascaris cf. minor, in addition to eggs and gravid proglottids of the cestode Spirometra mansoni. These findings represent the first report of zoonotic-relevant cestodes, i.e., D. caninum ("canine genotype"), S. mansoni, and the nematode L. cf. minor, in bush dogs and crab-eating foxes as final hosts. The occurrence of these zoonotic helminthiases in wild canid species calls for regular monitoring programs to better understand the epidemiology and transmission routes of neglected dipylidiasis, lagochilascariosis, and sparganosis in South America.

Occurrence of Eimeria spp. in Wayúu goat herds in the Municipality of Maicao, La Guajira, Colombia.

The department of La Guajira is considered the region with the largest goat population in Colombia. The disease caused by protozoa of the genus Eimeria can result in significant economic losses in goat production, threatening the region's food security. The objective of this study was to identify the occurrence of coccidiosis produced by Eimeria spp. in pools of fecal samples of young and adult goats belonging to 12 indigenous communities in the municipality of Maicao, La Guajira. The results showed the presence of eight different species of Eimeria spp. (E. alijevi, E. ninakohlyakimovae, E. hirci, E. arloingi, E. jolchijevi, E. caprovina, E. aspheronica and E. christenseni) differentiated by their morphological characteristics, in addition to the estimation of the parasite load in each fecal pool. In conclusion, this study is the first to report the occurrence of different species of Eimeria spp. in goats located in the department of La Guajira, Colombia.

Detección y caracterización del virus de la anemia infecciosa aviar en Colombia

RESUMEN Objetivo. identificar el virus de la anemia infecciosa aviar (chicken anemia virus, CAV) en granjas avícolas y aves de traspatio en Antioquia, Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Se tomaron muestras de sangre y plumas de gallinas ponedoras; en cada granja se eligieron tres aves de seis edades diferentes (1, 15, 30, 60, 90 y 120 días de edad). También se obtuvieron muestras de aves de traspatio ubicadas cerca de las granjas estudiadas. Se realizó ELISA y PCR para el análisis de las muestras. Resultados. Mediante PCR, el 84% de las aves resultaron positivas al CAV en sangre total y el 66% en muestras de plumas. El 60% de las aves de traspatio dieron positivo en sangre y el 40% en folículo de pluma. Mediante ELISA, el 22% de las aves de las granjas avícolas presentó títulos de anticuerpos altos y el 19% moderados. En las aves de traspatio, el 43% presentó títulos de anticuerpos altos y 29% moderados. Además, los resultados de la prueba de RFLP y la secuenciación mostraron que el virus circulante encontrado en este estudio era diferente del de la cepa vacunal Cux-1 utilizada en el país. Conclusiones. El CAV está presente en Colombia en aves comerciales como de traspatio. Según los hallazgos, un alto porcentaje de las aves dieron positivo para la detección viral, aunque el número de aves positivas por anticuerpos fue bajo. Se requiere determinar las características del virus circulante para explicar la respuesta de anticuerpos obtenida.

ABSTRACT Objective. identify the presence of chicken anemia virus (CAV) in poultry farms and backyard chickens from Antioquia, Colombia. Materials and Methods. Blood and feather samples were taken from laying chickens; in each farm, three birds of six different ages (1, 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 days old) were chosen randomly. Backyard chicken samples were also obtained near the research farms. We used serology and molecular techniques to analyze the samples. Results. By PCR, the 84% of the birds were positive in whole blood and 66% were positive in feather samples. The 60% of backyard chickens tested were positive in blood and 40% in feather follicle. By serology, the 22% of the poultry farm birds presented high antibody titers and 19% moderate antibody titers. In the backyard chickens, 43% of them presented high antibody titers and 29% moderate antibody titers. In addition, results from the RFLP test and sequencing showed that the circulating virus found in this study was different from the Cux-1 vaccine strain used in Colombia. Conclusions. CAV is present in Colombia in both commercial and backyard chickens. According to the findings, a high percentage of the birds tested positive for viral detection, whereas the number of birds that tested positive for antibodies was low. Thus, the characteristics of the circulating virus need to be determined to explain the antibody response observed in this study.

Multidrug-resistant Salmonella spp. in fecal samples of pigs with suspected salmonellosis in Antioquia, Colombia, 2019-2021.

Objectives: To determine the proportion of Salmonella enterica in fecal samples of live pigs with suspected salmonellosis analyzed at the diagnostic unit of the University of Antioquia, Colombia between 2019 and 2021, and examine the serotypes and antimicrobial resistance patterns. Methods: This was a laboratory-based cross-sectional study of routine data on fecal samples received from pig farms in all nine subregions of Antioquia state, Colombia. Salmonella spp. detection at the university is done using enrichment, selective culture, and polymerase chain reaction. Serotypes were identified using the Kauffmann-White scheme and isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using broth microdilution. Results: Of 653 samples tested, 149 (23%) were positive for S. enterica. Nine serotypes were identified. The most common were Salmonella Typhimurium (56%) and its monophasic variant (35%). Resistance to ampicillin (70%) was most frequently observed, followed by ciprofloxacin (55%), and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (52%). No isolates were resistant to amikacin and gentamicin. Multidrug resistance (resistance to ≥ 3 classes of antibiotics) was observed in 61 (44%) isolates. Multidrug resistance was highest in S. Typhimurium (57%) compared with the other serotypes. Serotype was associated with multidrug resistance (p = 0.01), but age of the pig and sub-region were not. Conclusions: The proportion of Salmonella spp. and the associated high levels of multidrug resistance are of concern and may indicate irrational use of antimicrobials and poor management practices in pig production systems in the region. Strengthened surveillance is needed to monitor and improve farm management practices and the use of antimicrobials in farms in Colombia.

Multidrug-resistant Salmonella spp. in fecal samples of pigs with suspected salmonellosis in Antioquia, Colombia, 2019-2021 / Salmonella spp. multirresistentes en muestras fecales de cerdos con presunta salmonelosis en Antioquia, Colombia, 2019-2021 / Salmonella spp. multirresistente em amostras fecais de suínos com suspeita de salmonelose em Antioquia, Colômbia, 2019-2021

ABSTRACT Objectives. To determine the proportion of Salmonella enterica in fecal samples of live pigs with suspected salmonellosis analyzed at the diagnostic unit of the University of Antioquia, Colombia between 2019 and 2021, and examine the serotypes and antimicrobial resistance patterns. Methods. This was a laboratory-based cross-sectional study of routine data on fecal samples received from pig farms in all nine subregions of Antioquia state, Colombia. Salmonella spp. detection at the university is done using enrichment, selective culture, and polymerase chain reaction. Serotypes were identified using the Kauffmann-White scheme and isolates were tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using broth microdilution. Results. Of 653 samples tested, 149 (23%) were positive for S. enterica. Nine serotypes were identified. The most common were Salmonella Typhimurium (56%) and its monophasic variant (35%). Resistance to ampicillin (70%) was most frequently observed, followed by ciprofloxacin (55%), and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (52%). No isolates were resistant to amikacin and gentamicin. Multidrug resistance (resistance to ≥ 3 classes of antibiotics) was observed in 61 (44%) isolates. Multidrug resistance was highest in S. Typhimurium (57%) compared with the other serotypes. Serotype was associated with multidrug resistance (p = 0.01), but age of the pig and sub-region were not. Conclusions. The proportion of Salmonella spp. and the associated high levels of multidrug resistance are of concern and may indicate irrational use of antimicrobials and poor management practices in pig production systems in the region. Strengthened surveillance is needed to monitor and improve farm management practices and the use of antimicrobials in farms in Colombia.

RESUMEN Objetivos. Determinar la proporción de Salmonella enterica en muestras fecales de cerdos vivos con presunta salmonelosis analizadas en la unidad de diagnóstico de la Universidad de Antioquia (Colombia) entre el 2019 y el 2021, así como examinar los serotipos y los patrones de resistencia a los antimicrobianos. Métodos. Se trata de un estudio transversal de laboratorio sobre datos ordinarios de muestras fecales provenientes de granjas porcinas de las nueve subregiones del departamento de Antioquia (Colombia). La detección de Salmonella spp. en la universidad se realiza mediante el enriquecimiento, el cultivo selectivo y la reacción en cadena de la polimerasa. Se identificaron los serotipos con el esquema de Kauffmann-White y se examinaron las cepas aisladas para determinar la susceptibilidad antimicrobiana mediante microdilución en caldo. Resultados. De las 653 muestras analizadas, 149 (23%) dieron un resultado positivo para S. enterica. Se identificaron nueve serotipos. Los más comunes fueron Salmonella typhimurium (56%) y su variante monofásica (35%). La resistencia a la ampicilina fue la observada con mayor frecuencia (70%), seguida de la resistencia al ciprofloxacino (55%) y al sulfametoxazol-trimetoprima (52%). Ninguna cepa aislada fue resistente a la amikacina y la gentamicina. Se observó resistencia a múltiples fármacos (resistencia a tres o más clases de antibióticos) en 61 cepas (44%). La resistencia a múltiples fármacos fue más elevada en el caso de S. typhimurium (57%) en comparación con los otros serotipos. Se asoció el serotipo con la resistencia a múltiples fármacos (p = 0,01), a diferencia de la edad del cerdo y la subregión. Conclusiones. La proporción de Salmonella spp. y los elevados niveles asociados de resistencia a múltiples fármacos son preocupantes y pueden ser un indicativo de uso irracional de antimicrobianos y malas prácticas de gestión en los sistemas de producción porcina de la región. Es necesario reforzar la vigilancia para dar seguimiento y mejorar las prácticas de gestión agropecuaria y el uso de antimicrobianos en las granjas en Colombia.

RESUMO Objetivos. Determinar a proporção de Salmonella enterica em amostras de fezes de suínos vivos com suspeita de salmonelose analisadas na unidade de diagnóstico da Universidade de Antioquia, Colômbia, entre 2019 e 2021, e examinar seus sorotipos e padrões de resistência a antimicrobianos. Métodos. Estudo transversal, de base laboratorial, utilizando dados de rotina de amostras de fezes recebidas de suinocultores em todas as nove sub-regiões do estado de Antioquia, Colômbia. A detecção de Salmonella spp. na Universidade é feita por enriquecimento, cultura seletiva e reação em cadeia da polimerase. Os sorotipos foram identificados usando o esquema de Kauffmann-White, e os isolados foram testados quanto à suscetibilidade aos antimicrobianos pelo método de microdiluição em caldo. Resultados. Das 653 amostras testadas, 149 (23%) foram positivas para S. enterica. Foram identificados nove sorotipos. Os mais comuns foram Salmonella Typhimurium (56%) e sua variante monofásica (35%). A resistência à ampicilina (70%) foi observada com maior frequência, seguida pela resistência ao ciprofloxacino (55%) e ao sulfametoxazol/trimetoprima (52%). Nenhum isolado apresentou resistência à amicacina ou gentamicina. Multirresistência (resistência a ≥ 3 classes de antibióticos) foi observada em 61 isolados (44%). A multirresistência foi mais comum em S. Typhimurium (57%), em comparação aos outros sorotipos. Foi constatada associação da multirresistência com sorotipos (p = 0,01), mas não com idade do suíno ou sub-região. Conclusões. A proporção de Salmonella spp. e os níveis elevados associados de multirresistência a antimicrobianos aqui constatados são preocupantes, e podem indicar uso irracional de antimicrobianos e práticas inadequadas de manejo nos sistemas de suinocultura da região. É preciso fortalecer a vigilância para monitorar e melhorar as práticas de manejo agrícola e o uso de antimicrobianos em fazendas na Colômbia.

Presence of Spirometra mansoni, Causative Agent of Sparganosis, in South America.

We report molecular identification of an adult Spirometra mansoni tapeworm retrieved from a crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) in Colombia, confirming presence of this parasite in South America. This tapeworm is the causative agent of human sparganosis, commonly reported from Southeast Asia, and represents the second congeneric species with known zoonotic potential in the Americas.

Seroprevalence and Molecular Characterization of Leptospira spp. in Rats Captured near Pig Farms in Colombia.

Gram-negative spirochete Leptospira spp. causes leptospirosis. Leptospirosis is still a neglected disease, even though it can cause potentially fatal infections in a variety of species including humans. The purpose of this study was to determine the seroprevalence of leptospirosis in pig farm captured rodents and characterize the isolated samples. Rats were captured, sampled, and euthanized in the vicinity of pig farms to obtain serum for microagglutination tests (MAT) and kidney tissues for PCR amplification of the 16S rRNA and LipL32 genes. A fraction of the 16S rRNA PCR product was sequenced and phylogenetically analyzed. The results showed a Leptospira seroprevalence of 13.8% (77/555) among the 555 captured rats. PCR positivity for Leptospira spp. reached 31.2% (156/500), and the positivity for pathogenic Leptospira spp. was 4% (22/500). Phylogenetic analysis matched eight samples with L. interrogans serovar icterohaemorrhagiae and two with L. interrogans serovar pyrogenes. Two sequences were located within the pathogenic Leptospira clade but did not match with any specific strain. The seroprevalence found in the rats around swine farms indicates a potential risk of transmission to the pigs. The identification of pathogenic Leptospira outlines the importance of more research as well as updating the current strategies for the diagnosis, control, and prevention of porcine leptospirosis in Colombia.

Nationwide Seroprevalence Survey of Angiostrongylus vasorum-Derived Antigens and Specific Antibodies in Dogs from Colombia.

Angiostrongylus vasorum is a cardiopulmonary nematode, causing several clinical manifestations in dogs, e.g., severe respiratory signs, coagulopathy, and gastrointestinal or neurological signs. In the last decades, this parasite has been described to spread and emerge in Europe and North America. Scant studies on A. vasorum occurrence in South America exist. Recently, A. vasorum was detected in gastropod intermediate hosts in Colombia, where data on definitive host prevalence, e.g., dogs and wild canids, are still limited. Therefore, the sera of 955 dogs, varying in age and breed from seven different departments all over Colombia, were collected and analysed for A. vasorum antigens and parasite-specific antibodies by ELISA. In total, 1.05 % (n = 10; 95 % CI 0.40-1.69) of the samples were antigen-positive and 2.62 % (n = 25; 95 % CI 1.61-3.63) were antibody-positive. These results confirm the presence of A. vasorum in Colombia, although positive results in antigen and antibody reactions in the same dog were not detected. This study is the first large-scale survey on A. vasorum seroprevalences in dogs from Colombia.

High antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli isolates from swine fecal samples submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Colombia

Background: Commensal microflora such as Escherichia coli and Enterococcus spp. are representative indicators of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) as they are part of the normal intestinal microflora and can acquire and disseminate AMR to pathogenic or zoonotic bacteria like Salmonella spp. Objective: To investigate the state of AMR among E. coli and Salmonella spp., potential pathogens in humans, isolated from cecal contents of pigs submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory in Colombia from 2016 to 2019. Methods: Susceptibility testing was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines for antimicrobial zone diameter breakpoints. An E. coli strain (ATCC 25922) was used as the quality control organism. Isolates showing resistance to three or more antimicrobial classes were classified as multidrug-resistant (MDR) as defined by a joint group of the European Centre for Disease prevention and Control and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention of the USA. Results: A total of 112 E. coli and 192 Salmonella spp. colonies were isolated from 557 samples received between 2016 and 2019. In order of decreasing frequency, E. coli was resistant to tetracycline (100%), sulfamethoxazol-trimethoprim (97.5%), amoxicillin (86.4%), enrofloxacin (82.6%), tylosin (82.1%), doxycycline (59%), neomycin (50%), ciprofloxacin (45.5%), ceftiofur (35%), gentamicin (30%), tilmicosin (29%), and fosfomycin (12.5%). When compared with E. coli, Salmonella spp. was generally resistant to the same agents with slightly less resistance (between 10-30%) to eight of the antimicrobials tested. Salmonella spp. showed <20% resistance to three antimicrobials, as follows: neomycin (17%), gentamicin (16%), and fosfomycin (14%). Multi-resistance occurred in 68.7% (77/112) of E. coli and 70.3% (135/192) of Salmonella spp. isolates. Resistance of Salmonella spp. was alarming to all the critically important antimicrobials tested: fluoroquinolones (enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin), ceftiofur (third- generation cephalosporin), and macrolides (tylosin). Conclusions: According to our results, there is a high level of multi- drug resistance (MDR) in E. coli and Salmonella spp. It is necessary to implement a nationwide antimicrobial resistance monitoring program in Colombia, together with proper antimicrobial prescribing guidelines for pigs. The indiscriminate use of antimicrobial growth promoters by the swine industry is generating widespread bacterial resistance and should be discontinued.

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Antecedentes: Flora comensal como espécies de Escherichia coli e Enterococcus são tipicamente escolhidas como indicadores representativos de la resistência antimicrobiana (AMR), pois fazem parte da flora intestinal normal e podem adquirir e disseminar AMR a bactérias patogênicas ou zoonóticas como Salmonella spp. Objetivo: Investigar o estado da AMR entre E. coli e Salmonella spp. isolados do conteúdo cecal de porcos colombianos submetidos ao Laboratório de Diagnóstico Veterinário de 2016 a 2019, ambos sendo patógenos potenciais em humanos. Métodos: O teste de suscetibilidade foi conduzido usando o método de difusão em disco Kirby-Bauer de acordo com as diretrizes do Instituto de Padrões Clínicos e Laboratoriais para pontos de quebra de diâmetro da zona antimicrobiana. A cepa de E. coli (ATCC 25922) foi usada como organismo de controle de qualidade. Os isolados que apresentam resistência a três ou mais classes de antimicrobianos foram classificados como multirresistentes (MDR), conforme definido por um grupo conjunto do Centro Europeu para Prevenção e Controle de Doenças e Centro para Controle e Prevenção de Doenças dos EUA. Resultados: Um total de 112 E. coli e 192 Salmonella spp. foram isolados de 557 amostras submetidas entre 2016 e 2019. Em ordem decrescente de frequência, a resistência a E. coli foi: tetraciclina (100%), sulfametoxazol-trimetoprim (97,5%), amoxicilina (86,4%), enrofloxacina (82,6%), tilosina (82,1%), doxiciclina (59%), neomicina (50%), ciprofloxacina (45,5%), ceftiofur (35%), gentamicina (30%), tilmicosina (29%) e fosfomicina (12,5%). Quando comparada com E. coli, Salmonella spp. foi geralmente resistente aos mesmos agentes com resistência ligeiramente menor (entre 10-30%) a oito dos antimicrobianos. Apenas três antimicrobianos apresentaram resistência a Salmonella spp. abaixo de 20% da seguinte forma: neomicina (17%), gentamicina (16%) e fosfomicina (14%). Multi-resistência ocorreu em 68,7% (77/112) de E. coli e 70,3% (135/192) de Salmonella spp. isolados. Resistência de Salmonella spp. foi alarmante para todos os antimicrobianos criticamente importantes testados: fluoroquinolonas (enrofloxacina, ciprofloxacina), ceftiofur (cefalosporina de terceira geração) e macrolídeos (tilosina). Conclusões: Esses resultados indicam um alto nível de resistência a múltiplos medicamentos (MDR) e que um Programa Nacional de Monitoramento da Resistência Antimicrobiana é necessário para a Colômbia, juntamente com a implementação de diretrizes de prescrição de antimicrobianos para suínos. O uso indiscriminado de antimicrobianos para promoção de crescimento na indústria suína está claramente promovendo resistência generalizada e deve ser interrompido.

Activity of the Giardia intestinalis proteasome during encystation and its connection with the expression of the cyst wall protein 1 (CWP1).

Giardia is a parasite whose life cycle is composed of two stages: replicative trophozoites, responsible for the symptoms of the disease, and infective cysts, resistant to adverse environments outside of hosts. Proteasomes are multicatalytic peptidase complexes responsible for the specific degradation of proteins in eukaryotic cells. This study assessed the proteasome activity in the trophozoite and during encystation. Strong activation of the proteasome was observed during the differentiation of trophozoites into cysts, reaching its maximum level 24 h after the stimulus. We also found that the Giardia proteasome presents unusual characteristics related to higher eukaryotic proteasomes, making it an eventual therapeutic target. Here we tested the effects on the synthesis of a cyst wall protein by chemical inactivation of the proteasome and by overexpression or partial inhibition of the deubiquitinating protein RPN11 in transfected cells. Moreover, an analysis of the intracellular localization of RPN11 (an integral part of the proteasome regulatory particle) revealed major changes associated with the differentiation of trophozoites into cysts. This evidence further supports the important role of the proteasome in Giardia encystation.

The Neglected Angio-Neurotrophic Parasite Gurltia paralysans (Nematoda: Angiostrongylidae): Northernmost South American Distribution, Current Knowledge, and Future Perspectives.

Gurltia paralysans is a rare metastrongyloid nematode in South America that has begun to gain relevance in feline internal medicine as a differential diagnosis of progressive degenerative myelopathy disorders. The parasite life cycle has not been fully elucidated but probably involves invertebrate gastropod fauna as obligate intermediate hosts; thus, G. paralysans remaining an extremely neglected parasitosis. Feline gurltiosis intra vitam diagnosis is highly challenging due to lack of evidence in the excretion of G. paralysans eggs and larvae, neither in feces nor in other body secretions because environmental stages and the transmission route of the parasite remain unknown. Unfortunately, no experimental trials for the treatment of feline gurltiosis have been conducted to date. However, there are some reports of the successfully antiparasitic drugs used with different effectiveness and clinical improvement results in diagnosed cats. Further studies are needed to evaluate the parasite occurrence among domestic cats and the neotropical wild felid species distributed within Colombia in addition to the gastropod fauna that may harbor the developing larvae (L1-L3) stages of this underestimated parasite.

Serosurveillance and risk factors for Neospora caninum infection in water buffaloes (B. bubalis) from central and southern Mexico.

The water buffalo (B. bubalis) is an alternative to cattle ranching in several regions of southern Mexico. Here we report seroprevalence and risk factors associated with the protozoan parasite, Neospora caninum, in water buffaloes in six buffalo production units, in municipalities from central and southern Veracruz, Mexico. Antibodies to N. caninum were assessed in serum samples of 543 buffaloes by a commercial ELISA-kit, and 44.8% (243/543; 95% CI 40.5-49.0) were seropositive. Questionnaires were used to collect epidemiological data and to identify risk factors associated with N. caninum infection. Data analysis indicated that older buffaloes (≥7 year) exhibited the highest seroprevalence for neosporosis 62.3% (38/61; 95% CI 49.7-73.4) (P ≤ 0.05). Buffaloes that were in close contact with cattle had higher seroprevalence 47.6% (168/353; 95% CI 42.3-52.9) (P < 0.01) than those that were not in contact 36.8% (70/190; 95% CI 30.0-44.1). Our findings provide important information to implement preventive measures in the buffalo farms.

Parasites Circulating in Wild Synanthropic Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris): A One Health Approach.

Capybaras (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) are affected by a wide range of protozoan and metazoan-derived parasitic diseases. Among parasites of free-ranging capybaras are soil-, water-, food- and gastropod-borne parasitosis, today considered as opportunistic infections in semiaquatic ecosystems. The overlapping of the capybara's natural ecological habitats with human and domestic animal activities has unfortunately increased in recent decades, thereby enhancing possible cross- or spillover events of zoonotic parasites. Due to this, three synanthropic wild capybara populations in the Orinoco Basin were studied for the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasite infections. A total of forty-six fecal samples were collected from free-ranging capybaras in close proximity to livestock farms. Macroscopical analyses, standard copromicroscopical techniques, coproELISA, PCR, and phylogenetic analysis revealed thirteen parasite taxa. In detail, the study indicates stages of five protozoans, four nematodes, one cestode, and three trematodes. Two zoonotic parasites were identified (i.e., Plagorchis muris, and Neobalantidium coli). The trematode P. muris represents the first report within South America. In addition, this report expands the geographical distribution range of echinocoelosis (Echinocoleus hydrochoeri). Overall, parasitological findings include two new host records (i.e., P. muris, and Entamoeba). The present findings collectively constitute baseline data for future monitoring of wildlife-derived anthropozoonotic parasites and call for future research on the health and the ecological impact of this largest semiaquatic rodent closely linked to humans, domestic and wild animals.

Intestinal Parasites of Neotropical Wild Jaguars, Pumas, Ocelots, and Jaguarundis in Colombia: Old Friends Brought Back from Oblivion and New Insights.

Neotropical wild felids (NWF) are obligate carnivore species present in Central and South America, and some are considered endangered due to constantly decreasing populations. NWF can become infected by a wide range of protozoan and metazoan parasites, some of them affecting their health conditions and others having anthropozoonotic relevance. Parasitological studies on NWF are still very scarce, and most data originated from dead or captive animals. On this account, the current study aimed to characterize gastrointestinal parasites of free-ranging jaguars (Panthera onca), pumas (Puma concolor), ocelots (Leopardus pardalis), and jaguarundis (Herpailurus yagouaroundi), i.e., four out of six NWF species endemic to Colombia. Fecal samples from jaguars (n = 10) and ocelots (n = 4) were collected between 2012 and 2017 as part of the Jaguar Corridor Initiative from six geographic locations in Colombia. In addition, cestode specimens were obtained during puma and jaguarundi necropsies. Scat samples were processed by standardized sodium acetate-acetic acid-formalin (SAF), sedimentation, and flotation techniques and by carbol fuchsin-stained fecal smears. Morphological evaluation of feces showed the presence of one cestode (Spirometra sp.), a nematode (Toxocara cati), an acanthocephalan (Oncicola sp.), and one cyst-forming coccidian (Cystoisospora-like oocysts). Feces oocysts were submitted to a Toxoplasma gondii-specific PCR for species identification, but no product was amplified. The cestodes isolated from a puma and jaguarundi were molecularly characterized by sequencing cytochrome c oxidase subunit I, identifying them as Taenia omissa and as a T. omissa sister lineage, respectively. These results collectively demonstrate the potential role of NWF as natural reservoir hosts for neglected zoonotic parasites (e.g., Spirometra sp., T. cati) and highlight their possible role in parasite transmission to human communities. Due to public health concerns, the occurrence of these parasites should be monitored in the future for appropriate zoonotic management practices in conservation strategies and wild felid health management programs.

Aelurostrongylus abstrusus Infections in Domestic Cats (Felis silvestris catus) from Antioquia, Colombia.

Although Aelurostrongylus abstrusus infections in domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) have sporadically been reported in Colombia, there is still no data available on epidemiology nor on the biology of this neglected lungworm parasite. Thus, this epidemiological study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of patent A. abstrusus infections in domestic cats from the Colombian Federal State of Antioquia. In total, 473 fecal samples of indoor/outdoor domestic cats were collected and analyzed thereafter by the Baermann funnel migration technique for the presence of A. abstrusus first stage larvae 1 (L1). The occurrence of A. abstrusus was confirmed in 0.4% (2/473) of investigated cats. Due to the presence of patent A. abstrusus infections in investigated cats, it is unfailing to include this lungworm within differential diagnoses of feline pulmonary disorders. Despite the fact that the Baermann funnel technique is currently the cheapest and the gold standard diagnostic tool for feline aelurostrongylosis, this technique is still unknown by Colombian veterinary surgeons and rarely utilized in small animal veterinary clinics. The current survey intends to generate awareness on this neglected parasitosis and to be considered as a baseline study for future surveys monitoring feline aelurostrongylosis not only in domestic/stray cats but also in endemic wild felid species of Colombia.

Chicken Coccidiosis: From the Parasite Lifecycle to Control of the Disease.

The poultry industry is one of the main providers of protein for the world's population, but it faces great challenges including coccidiosis, one of the diseases with the most impact on productive performance. Coccidiosis is caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Eimeria, which are a group of monoxenous obligate intracellular parasites. Seven species of this genus can affect chickens (Gallus gallus), each with different pathogenic characteristics and targeting a specific intestinal location. Eimeria alters the function of the intestinal tract, generating deficiencies in the absorption of nutrients and lowering productive performance, leading to economic losses. The objective of this manuscript is to review basic concepts of coccidiosis, the different Eimeria species that infect chickens, their life cycle, and the most sustainable and holistic methods available to control the disease.

Prevalence of Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacterial Isolates from Dogs and Cats in a Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Colombia from 2016-2019.

The susceptibility to antimicrobials of bacterial isolates from dogs (n = 1256) and cats (n = 94) was retrospectively evaluated in a veterinary diagnostic laboratory over a 4-year period (2016-2019). Out of 1316 isolates in dogs, 771 were Staphylococcus spp. distributed as follows: Staph. pseudointermedius (n = 406), Staph. intermedius (n = 160), Staph. aureus (n = 104), and Staph. coagulase-negative (n = 101). In common, all Staphylococcus spp. showed a high prevalence (20-50%) of resistance to ampicillin, cephalosporin, enrofloxacin, gentamicin, tetracycline, and trimethoprim-sulfonamide, but a low prevalence (1-10%) of resistance to amoxicillin-clavulanate. With regards to the other families of bacteria, the number of antimicrobials for which resistance was high (>20%) in dogs was: Enterobacteriaceae (7/12), Enterococcus spp. (10/16), E. coli (11/15), Pseudomonas spp. (10/13), and Streptococcus spp. (4/9). For urinary tract infections caused by E. coli or Enterobacteriaceae (Klebsiella spp., Proteus spp.), amikacin and florfenicol were the only drugs that demonstrated 100% in vitro efficacy. Multi-drug resistance was observed in 18.7% (246/1316) and 22% (21/97) of the isolates from dogs and cats, respectively. Except for Pseudomonas spp., known for intrinsic resistance, resistance in other bacteria was likely attributed to high selection pressure. In conclusion, empirical antimicrobial use cannot be recommended to treat most common infections, and selection should be based on results from susceptibility testing.

Overview of Poultry Eimeria Life Cycle and Host-Parasite Interactions.

Apicomplexan parasites of the genus Eimeria are organisms which invade the intestinal tract, causing coccidiosis, an enteric disease of major economic importance worldwide. The disease causes high morbidity ranging from an acute, bloody enteritis with high mortality, to subclinical disease. However, the presence of intestinal lesions depends on the Eimeria species. The most important poultry Eimeria species are: E. tenella, E. necatrix, E. acervulina, E. maxima, E. brunetti, E. mitis, and E. praecox. Key points to better understanding the behavior of this species are the host-parasite interactions and its life cycle. The present paper reviews the literature available regarding the life cycle and the initial host-parasite interaction. More studies are needed to better understand these interactions in poultry Eimerias, taking into account that almost all the information available was generated from other apicomplexan parasites that generate human disease.