Influence of environmental factors on the occurrence of gastrointestinal and cardiopulmonary nematodes in the red fox in the semi-arid Mediterranean areas of the Iberian Peninsula.

Human-induced ecosystem fragmentation is one of the drivers causing wildlife migration from their natural habitats to urban areas, among other reasons. The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is the most abundant wild canid in the semi-arid Mediterranean areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Water scarcity may result in areas shared by synanthropic fox populations and domestic animals becoming hotspots for parasite transmission. This study describes the gastrointestinal and cardiopulmonary nematode species affecting fox populations in these semi-arid areas and the influence of environmental variables on parasite abundance. A total of 167 foxes collected from 2015 to 2021 in the Region of Murcia (SE Spain) were analysed. Parasite abundance and spatial distribution were evaluated using environmental variables and host characteristics with a Generalised Linear Model and the Moran index. Eleven species (seven from the gastrointestinal tract and four from the cardiopulmonary tract) were described. The influence of biotic and abiotic variables was studied for Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, Uncinaria stenocephala, Toxocara canis and Toxascaris leonina. Temperature, humidity and areas of forest or agricultural land influenced the abundance of these parasites, providing optimal conditions for free-living stages of the direct life cycle nematodes and intermediate hosts. Absolute abundance distribution maps showed defined locations for C. vulpis, T. canis and T. leonina. The results for U. stenocephala, T. canis and T. leonina were particularly important as their higher abundance levels were found close to anthropized areas, which need to be carefully evaluated to prevent transmission of these nematodes between domestic and wild canids and human health.

Serological and molecular survey of canine distemper virus in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes): Exploring cut-off values and the use of protein A in ELISA tests.

The wide distribution and ecological plasticity of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) make it a potential reservoir for many infectious diseases shared with domestic and wild carnivores. One of such diseases is canine distemper, which is caused by an RNA virus and its main domestic reservoir is the dog. However, other carnivores can also participate in its maintenance, as shown by the recent upsurge of reported cases in wildlife in many parts of the world, and by the fact that red foxes may act as true reservoirs for canine distemper virus (CDV). The lack of validated serological tests for wildlife or other non-target species may be a handicap for monitoring this virus. In this study, serological assays were compared in 147 red fox sera using a commercial ELISA validated for its use in dogs and a non-specific modified ELISA with Protein A peroxidase conjugate to detect bound antibodies. In addition, the presence of CDV RNA in brain, spleen, lung, and liver samples from 144 foxes was investigated by a RT-qPCR. Through the comparison of the results of both ELISAs and the use of a finite mixture model of the optical density values obtained by both techniques, we adjusted the cut-off point of the commercial ELISA to obtain the seroprevalence in foxes. The overall seroprevalence detected was 53.7% (79/147) and 57.1% (84/147) by the commercial and modified ELISA, respectively, with a moderate agreement according to Cohen's Kappa statistic (κ = 0.491, z = 5.97, p < 0.0001). CDV RNA was detected in 30 out of 144 foxes, which resulted in 20.8% of CDV-infected foxes. At individual level, the results obtained by relating the serological status and the presence/absence of RNA in different organs were explained in terms of the pathogenesis of the infection. Our results highlight the convenience of adjusting the cut-off point when using an ELISA assay developed in domestic dogs for its use in foxes. Moreover, Protein A is confirmed to be a good alternative to be used in red foxes, presenting a good reactivity towards its IgG.

First report of Metathelazia capsulata in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in Europe and new contributions to its identification.

Metathelazia capsulata is a lungworm that inhabit in the bronchi and bronchioles from mammal carnivore species, which life cycle is unknown. M. capsulata-like spirurid nematodes were isolated at necropsy from the respiratory tract of red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from the Region of Murcia (SE Spain). The main objective of this study was to describe in detail the morphometric features of these nematodes, as well as to report some molecular markers. The principal morphometric difference compared to previous M. capsulata descriptions was the shorter total length for both males and females (6.6 mm and 7.4 mm, respectively). In addition, the mean values of buccal cavity depth and distance between the excretory pore and the anterior end of the nematode were also lower than those previously reported. On the other hand, sequence data of the mitochondrial (COI) and nuclear (rDNA) genes of M. capsulata were described, being the first time that molecular markers are reported for the genus Metathelazia and also for the entire family Pneumospiruridae. Based on data available from GenBank, these results indicate that M. capsulata sequences are closely related to the family Rhabdochonidae, which is assumed to belong to superfamily Thelazioidea, a superfamily including the family Pneumospiruridae, but also suggest the distant relations with the family Thelaziidae. This is the first time that M. capsulata is reported in red fox from Europe. This study provides valuable information for future phylogenetic studies on Metathelazia spp. nematodes and, in general, on species of the family Pneumospiruridae.

Flying across Europe: the case of the spread of Chaunocephalus ferox on a black stork (Ciconia nigra).

The annual migration of birds involves a very large number of inter-continental and intra-continental movements in which thousands of bird species participate. These migrations have been associated with the spread of pathogens worldwide, including bacteria, viruses and parasites. This study describes the case of a black stork (Ciconia nigra) that was ringed at the nest in Latvia and died five months later in the south-east of the Iberian Peninsula. Post-mortem examination revealed that the cause of death was electrocution. In addition, a massive infection by the trematode Chaunocephalus ferox (Digenea: Echinostomatidae) causing severe granulomatous lesions throughout the small intestine was detected. This is the first report of C. ferox infection in a black stork in the Iberian Peninsula, a trematode that, due to the severe lesions it causes, can affect the health of C. ferox-infected wild birds, particularly in severely infected long-distance migrants. The dispersal of platyhelminths associated with migratory birds is discussed. After the ringing at the nest, the black stork was sighted in Central Europe one month before its capture, and the trematodes found by necropsy were mostly mature adults. Consequently, we estimate that this juvenile animal acquired the infection during its migration in a European area other than the Iberian Peninsula, evidencing a long-distance parasite spread through its migratory host. Our study highlights that bird ringing can be used to understand the epidemiological implications that bird migratory behaviour may have on the dispersal of parasites.

Pearsonema plica in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) from semi-arid areas of the Iberian Peninsula.

The nematode Pearsonema plica is a parasite infecting the urinary bladder of carnivores, with a described prevalence ranging from 1 to 90%. This parasite needs earthworms as intermediate host to complete its life cycle, being the red fox (Vulpes vulpes) a definitive host. The objective of this study was to analyse the prevalence and intensity of P. plica in the red fox population from the Region of Murcia (SE Spain), an area with semi-arid Mediterranean climate. The urinary bladder, kidneys and ureters of 167 red foxes were collected at necropsy, opened and observed to detect adult parasites. The influence of host variables (sex, age and body condition using Kidney Fat Index) and environmental variables (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, Normalized Difference Moisture Index, Bare Soil Index, temperature, radiation, evapotranspiration, precipitation, Corine Land Cover categories and distance to urban areas) were evaluated using a Generalised Linear Model. Moran index was used to evaluate the parasite spatial aggregation. The prevalence found was very low (2.4%; median abundance 0 nematodes per fox; median intensity 7.5 nematodes per parasitized fox), which contrast with those described in other red fox populations in Europe. Environmental variables had a significant influence on the occurrence of P. plica, being NDMI, mean summer precipitation, percentage of forest and agricultural areas positively associated with P. plica abundance. The south-eastern Iberian Peninsula has a semi-arid climate that hinders the development of the life cycle of this nematode, which justifies its occurrence in specific areas where there are the suitable environmental conditions for the presence of earthworms. However, although semi-arid Mediterranean areas do not seem to be favourable carnivores to be parasitized by P. plica, we cannot underestimate the risk that exists in those areas where, either naturally or by human activity, there are environmental factors that favor the presence of this nematode.

First report of a hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) parasitized by Harpirhynchus nidulans in the Iberian Peninsula.

Some avian Harpirhynchidae mites live under the skin and develop cutaneous cysts. Despite the obvious lesions that these parasites can produce, little is currently known about the behavioural disturbances that cyst-forming mites may cause in infected wild birds. We report an infection by Harpirhynchidae mites in a hawfinch (Coccothraustes coccothraustes) in southeast Spain. The bird was easily captured due to its inability to fly. During clinical examination it was found to have multiple severe traumatic injuries, possibly due to a blow or a fall, as result of which the bird was euthanized. At necropsy, the hawfinch was found to be in good body condition. Two yellowish and friable mite-filled cysts were detected in the subalar region of both wings. Mites were morphologically identified as Harpirhynchus nidulans, and histological analysis of the cystic lesions was also performed. This is the first time that the occurrence of a hawfinch infected by H. nidulans in the Iberian Peninsula has been reported.

Density assessment and reporting for Phlebotomus perniciosus and other sand fly species in periurban residential estates in Spain.

Green periurban residential areas in Mediterranean countries have flourished in the last decades and become foci for leishmaniasis. To remedy the absence of information on vector ecology in these environments, we examined phlebotomine sand fly distribution in 29 sites in Murcia City over a 3-year period, including the plots of 20 detached houses and nine non-urbanized sites nearby. We collected 5,066 specimens from five species using "sticky" interception and light attraction traps. The relative frequency of the main Leishmania infantum vector Phlebotomus perniciosus in these traps was 32% and 63%, respectively. Sand fly density was widely variable spatially and temporally and greatest in non-urbanized sites, particularly in caves and abandoned buildings close to domestic animal holdings. Phlebotomus perniciosus density in house plots was positively correlated with those in non-urbanized sites, greatest in larger properties with extensive vegetation and non-permanently lived, but not associated to dog presence or a history of canine leishmaniasis. Within house plots, sand fly density was highest in traps closest to walls. Furthermore, the study provides a guideline for insect density assessment and reporting and is envisioned as a building block towards the development of a pan-European database for robust investigation of environmental determinants of sand fly distribution.

Evaluation of the Baermann-Wetzel method for detecting lungworm larvae in wild ruminants from faecal samples.

Lungworms can exert a negative impact on wild ruminant fitness; for this reason, the diagnosis of the associated diseases is an important prevention measure. The Baerman-Wetzel technique is the most usual method for the diagnosis of bronchopulmonary nematodes and is based on the active migration and movement of their first-stage larvae. Pulmonary tissue samples are frequently used for the post-mortem diagnosis of these parasites, but this kind of sample is not always available and easy to obtain. Faecal samples represent a more accessible choice for parasite monitoring. This work aimed to evaluate the agreement between the results obtained by the Baermann-Wetzel technique when samples of lung parenchyma or faeces from wild ruminants are used. A good level of agreement as well as a similar sensitivity between the two types of sample were observed, validating the use of faecal samples as a less invasive and cost-effective alternative for the monitoring of lungworm in wild ruminant populations.

Comparative Evaluation of Bond Strength of Self-Etching and Total Etch Dental Adhesive Systems to Dentin of Deciduous and Permanent Teeth / Evaluación Comparativa de la Fuerza de Unión de los Sistemas de Adhesivo Dental Autograbado y Grabado Total para la Dentina de Dientes Deciduos y Permanentes

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to analyze the bond strength of total-etch and self-etch adhesive systems to dentin of primary and permanent teeth. Methods: Thirty sound naturally exfoliated primary molars deciduous teeth (DT) and thirty sound permanent bicuspids permanent teeth (PT) were randomly divided into six groups (n=10 per group) according to two commercial adhesive systems: Adper Single Bond 2; 3M ESPE (Total-etch) and Adper Easy Bond; 3M ESPE (selfetch and total-etch). Specimens submitted to cyclic loading in a universal Instron testing machine. Bond strength values (MPa) were analyzed by ANOVA test and Duncan post hoc test (a=0.05). Results: Mean values were higher in PT compared to DT. In deciduous teeth, no significantly differences observed. Total etch AdperTM Single Bond 2 showed significantly higher bond strength than self-etch AdperTM with additional acid etching in PT (p=0.031). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the highest bond strength was found in dentin tissue of PT with total etch AdperTM employing the adhesive the Single Bond 2 of one step self-etch.

RESUMEN: El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la fuerza de unión de los sistemas adhesivos de grabado total y autograbado a la dentina de los dientes primarios y permanentes. Métodos: treinta sonidos exfoliaron naturalmente los molares primarios dientes caducifolios (DT) y treinta sonidos. Los dientes permanentes de los premolares permanentes (PT) se dividieron aleatoriamente en seis grupos (n = 10 por grupo) de acuerdo con dos sistemas adhesivos comerciales: Adper Single Bond 2; 3M ESPE (Grabado total) y Adper Easy Bond; 3M ESPE (autograbado y grabado total). Muestras sometidas a carga cíclica en una máquina universal de pruebas Instron. Los valores de resistencia de la unión (MPa) se analizaron mediante la prueba ANOVA y la prueba post hoc de Duncan (a = 0.05). Resultados: Los valores medios fueron mayores en PT en comparación con DT. En dientes deciduos, no se observaron diferencias significativas. Total etch AdperTM Single Bond 2 mostró una fuerza de unión significativamente mayor que la autograbado AdperTM con grabado ácido adicional en PT (p = 0.031). Conclusión: Nuestros hallazgos sugieren que la mayor fuerza de unión se encontró en el tejido de dentina de PT con grabado total AdperTM empleando el adhesivo Single Bond 2 de autograbado de un solo paso.

Nasopharyngeal bot flies in red deer (Cervus elaphus) from southern Spain.

The nasopharyngeal bot flies Pharyngomyia picta and Cephenemyia auribarbis (Diptera: Oestridae) are parasites that have an impact on the health of wild ruminants. Little is known about their biological and epidemiological characteristics in multi-host habitats such as the Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park (CNP), in south-east Spain. This paper describes the main epidemiological features of bot fly larvae parasitising the population of red deer in CNP during 2003-2005. The results reveal an overall bot fly prevalence of 37.5%, with a P. picta and C. auribarbis co-infection rate of 12.5%. Although the statistical analyses were not significant(p > 0.05), a higher prevalence in males and in calves was observed, which has to be explained from a multifactorial viewpoint. Unfavourable climatic conditions during January induced the overwintering of larvae inside the host and, accordingly, a higher prevalence of the first instar (L1) was detected, while a higher prevalence of L2 and L3 was recorded in February and March. Further studies are needed to investigate in more detail the environmental characteristics that influence the chronobiology of bot flies in south-east Spain.

Les mouches nasopharyngées Pharyngomyia picta et Cephenemyia auribarbis (Diptera : Oestridae) sont des parasites qui affectent la santé des ruminants sauvages. Leurs caractéristiques biologiques et épidémiologiques au sein d'habitats tels que le Parc naturel des Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y las Villas (CNP) dans le sud-est de l'Espagne, où cohabitent de nombreuses espèces hôtes, sont mal connues. Les auteurs présentent les résultats d'une étude conduite de 2003 à 2005 visant à décrire les principales caractéristiques épidémiologiques de l'infestation par des larves de mouches dans les populations de cerfs élaphes du CNP. D'après les résultats de l'étude, la prévalence globale des mouches s'élève à 37,5 % avec un taux de co-infestation par P. picta et C. auribarbis atteignant 12,5 %. Bien que les analyses statistiques n'aient pas donné de résultats significatifs (p < 0,05), une prévalence plus élevée a été observée chez les mâles et les chevreuils, phénomène qui doit être expliqué dans une perspective multifactorielle. Les conditions climatiques défavorables durant le mois de janvier ont prolongé l'hivernage des larves au sein de l'hôte, ce qui s'est traduit par une prévalence plus élevée du premier stade larvaire (L1), tandis qu'en février et en mars les stades L2 et L3 étaient les plus fréquents. Des études complémentaires devront être menées afin d'élucider plus en détail les facteurs environnementaux susceptibles d'influer sur la chronobiologie de ces mouches dans le sud-est de l'Espagne.

Las moscas causantes de miasis nasofaríngea Pharyngomyia picta y Cephenemyia auribarbis (orden Diptera, familia Oestridae) son parásitos perjudiciales para la salud de los rumiantes salvajes. Poco se sabe acerca de sus características biológicas y epidemiológicas en hábitats donde hay múltiples hospedadores, como es el caso del Parque Natural de las Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas (CNP), situado en el sudeste de España. Los autores describen las principales características epidemiológicas que afectan a las larvas de moscas de la miasis que parasitan a la población de ciervos del CNP según un estudio realizado desde 2003 hasta 2005. Los resultados revelan una prevalencia global de estas moscas del 37,5%, con una tasa de coinfección por P. picta y C. auribarbis del 12,5%. Aunque los análisis estadísticos no arrojaron un resultado significativo (p > 0,05), se observó una prevalencia superior en machos y ciervos jóvenes, hecho que debe explicarse desde una perspectiva multifactorial. Las desfavorables condiciones climáticas predominantes en enero propiciaron la diapausa invernal de las larvas en los hospedadores, lo que a su vez explica que se detectase una mayor prevalencia de larvas de primer estadio (L1), mientras que en febrero y marzo se registró una mayor prevalencia de larvas de segundo y tercer estadio (L2 y L3). Se requieren más investigaciones para estudiar con mayor detalle las características ambientales que influyen en la cronobiología de las moscas causantes de miasis en el sudeste de España.

Spatio-temporal patterns of sarcoptic mange in red deer and Iberian ibex in a multi-host natural park.

The reliance on multiple hosts to survive is what makes the management and control of multi-host infectious agents challenging. Sarcoptes scabiei causes sarcoptic mange in a wide range of mammal species with ungulates being an important host. Little is known about the role different ungulates play in sustaining endemic transmission of the disease and no study has yet to describe the long-term multi-host sarcoptic infestation dynamics in free-ranging wildlife. Here, we explore 24 years of sarcoptic mange infestation data for two Mediterranean ungulate species, red deer and Iberian ibex, living in the Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park of southern Spain. The temporal analysis showed a clear seasonal pattern of infestation in both ungulates with a peak in early spring and a decline throughout the summer. The spatial analysis, however, showed that caprinae rather than cervidae is the most competent host for sarcoptic mange spreading and persistence. Considering that few studies have described the spatio-temporal pattern of mange outbreaks for long periods of time, the information reported in this work aims to improve our understanding of sarcoptic mange epizootic in wild ruminant populations.

Associated risk factors influencing ovine Eimeria infections in southern Spain.

Eimeria infections are common in sheep industry worldwide nonetheless very little is known on infection dynamics and associated risk factors influencing the outcome of clinical ovine coccidiosis. The aim of the present work was to analyse intrinsic (e. g. host age) and extrinsic (flock size, farm size and animal density) risk factors influencing dynamics of Eimeria spp. infections in sheep farms of the semi-arid region of Murcia in southern Spain. Overall, 64 ovine flocks in Murcia were surveyed and a total of 396 faecal samples were collected between May and July 2015. Flotation and McMaster techniques were performed for parasitological investigation. Excreted oocysts were identified on the basis of morphological as well as morphometric characteristics. In all analysed samples Eimeria spp. oocysts (100%) were found and 11 different Eimeria species were identified. Most prevalent species was E. ovinoidalis (97%) followed by E. parva/E.pallida (97%), E. weybridgensis (90.9%) and E. crandallis (89.4%), respectively. Concomitant infections with more than one Eimeria species were observed in all analysed samples. Analysis of intrinsic/extrinsic risk factor revealed age, herd/farm size and animal density to be the main factors significantly influencing Eimeria oocysts per gram of faeces counts (OPG) and overall prevalence of Eimeria spp. infections in sheep.

High prevalence and intensity of Stephanurus dentatus in a population of wild boar (Sus scrofa) in south western Spain.

In the period from October 2016 to February 2017, the urinary tracts of 390 wild boar (Sus scrofa) from four areas of south central Spain (102 from Doñana National Park; 150 from Sierra Morena and the Toledo Mountains; 84 from Sierra Nevada; 54 from Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park) were examined for the presence of adult specimens of Stephanurus dentatus (Nematoda: Strongyloidea). This parasite was only detected in the wild boar population of Doñana National Park, with high prevalence (76.5±4.2%; 78/102), mean intensity (43.2±4.4) and mean abundance (33.1±3.8). Juvenile wild boar had significantly lower prevalence and abundance than subadult and adult wild boar. The intensity of infestation was significantly higher in male than in female wild boar. The detection of a focus of S. dentatus infestation in the wild boar population in Doñana National Park will provide further opportunities for understanding the epidemiology of this parasite.

Epidemiological and genetic studies suggest a common Leishmania infantum transmission cycle in wildlife, dogs and humans associated to vector abundance in Southeast Spain.

Leishmania infantum infection was investigated in 202 wild carnivores, rodents and lagomorphs in Southeast Spain using a real-time PCR (rtPCR) in skin and organ samples, mostly spleen. Lesions compatible with leishmaniosis were not observed in any of the animals. Prevalence defined as the percentage of rtPCR-positive animals was 32% overall, and 45% in foxes (n = 69), 30% in rabbits (n = 80) and stone martens (n = 10), 19% in wood mice (n = 16), 0% in black rats (n = 10) and ranged between 0% and 100% in other minoritarian species including badgers, wild cats, wolves, raccoons, genets and hares. Most infected rabbits were rtPCR-positive in skin and not in spleen samples and the opposite was the case for foxes (p < 0.05). L. infantum prevalence was lowest in spring following months of non-exposure to phlebotomine sand fly vectors, and spatially matched recently estimated Phlebotomus perniciosus vector abundance and the prevalence of subclinical infection in dogs and humans. Prevalence increased with altitude and was greater in drier and less windy South and West compared to the coastal Southeast of the study area (p < 0.05). Genetic diversity of L. infantum from foxes, investigated by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphisms of kinetoplast DNA, revealed B genotype in all animals, which is frequent in people and dogs in the Iberian Peninsula and Morocco. The study provides further evidence that subclinical L. infantum infection is widespread in wildlife with prevalence depending on environmental factors and that parasite tissue tropism may vary according to host species. Moreover, it suggests that sylvatic and domestic transmission cycles are closely interconnected.

What do we know about parasites of wildlife in high biodiversity areas with anthropogenic disturbance? The special case of Mexico.

The continual rise of anthropogenic disturbance of ecosystems has been associated with an increasing incidence of emerging diseases. The largest amount of data on emerging diseases relates to bacterial and viral pathogens, but there is a lack of parasite data, especially from wildlife. Monitoring wildlife parasitic diseases should be considered a priority, especially in high biodiversity regions with strong anthropogenic impacts, like Mexico, where the wildlife/livestock/human interface is associated with increased risk of disease transmission. Mexico belongs to the top-ten megadiverse countries and is located between two biogeographic regions. This situation makes Mexico a favourable region for the spillover of animal pathogens to human beings, causing pandemics, such as the one recently caused by influenza virus A (H1N1). The current state of knowledge of Mexican wildlife parasites is scarce and focuses mainly in Neotropical fauna. Moreover, this knowledge is heterogeneous for different parasite groups, especially concerning their pathologic effects and epidemiology. The goals of this review are to compile information on Mexican wildlife parasites and to identify knowledge gaps in order to stimulate research on pending epidemiological, public health, ecological and pathological areas, and to encourage the creation of more specialized groups from the perspective of the One-Health concept.

The American mink (Neovison vison) is a competent host for native European parasites.

The American mink (Neovison vison) is a mustelid native to North America that was introduced in Europe and the former USSR for fur farming. Throughout the last century, accidental or deliberate escapes of mink from farms caused the establishment of stable feral populations. In fact, the American mink is considered an invasive alien species in 28 European countries. The present study evaluates the gastrointestinal and cardiopulmonary helminth fauna of the American mink in Galicia (NW Spain) to understand its role as a potential reservoir for parasites affecting other autochthonous mustelids. In the period 2008-2014, fifty American mink (35 males and 15 females) of different ages (22 immature and 28 adults) from the provinces of Lugo, Ourense and Pontevedra were captured and sacrificed. Eight parasite species were found (6 nematodes and 2 trematodes) with the following prevalences: Molineus patens (68%), Aonchotheca putorii (54%), Crenosoma melesi (10%), Aonchotheca annulosa (8%), Angiostrongylus daskalovi (6%), Aelurostrongylus spp. (2%), Troglotrema acutum (2%) and an unidentified trematode (2%). Eighty-two per cent of the mink harboured helminths, including 15 animals (30%) infected by only one parasite species, 19 (38%) by two species, 5 (10%) by three species and 2 mink (4%) by four species. All helminth species identified are native to European mustelids. Statistical models were used to evaluate if animal characteristics (age, sex and weight), date and capture area influenced the prevalence, intensity or parasite richness. Statistical differences were detected only in models for intensity of M. patens, A. putorii and C. melesi. This is the first report of Angiostrongylus daskalovi, a cardiopulmonary nematode, and A. annulosa, a gastrointestinal nematode specific of rodents, in American mink. Moreover, although the fluke T. acutum has already been cited in American mink, to our knowledge, the present study represents the first report of this trematode in the lung.

Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) do also cast neutrophil extracellular traps against the apicomplexan parasite Neospora caninum.

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are web-like structures composed of nuclear DNA decorated with histones and cytoplasmic peptides which antiparasitic properties have not previously been investigated in cetaceans. Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) were isolated from healthy bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and stimulated with Neospora caninum tachyzoites and the NETs-agonist zymosan. In vitro interactions of PMN with the tachyzoites resulted in rapid extrusion of NETs. For the demonstration and quantification of cetacean NETs, extracellular DNA was stained by using either Sytox Orange® or Pico Green®. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and fluorescence analyses demonstrated PMN-derived release of NETs upon exposure to tachyzoites of N. caninum. Co-localization studies of N. caninum induced cetacean NETs proved the presence of DNA adorned with histones (H1, H2A/H2B, H3, H4), neutrophil elastase (NE), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and pentraxin (PTX) confirming the molecular properties of mammalian NETosis. Dolphin-derived N. caninum-NETosis were efficiently suppressed by DNase I and diphenyleneiodonium (DPI) treatments. Our results indicate that cetacean-derived NETs represent an ancient, conserved and relevant defense effector mechanism of the host innate immune system against N. caninum and probably other related neozoan parasites circulating in the marine environment.

Parasite prevalence in Mycobacterium spp. infected dairy goats in the region of Murcia (south-east Spain).

Eighty-four Murciano-Granadina dairy goats slaughtered in the region of Murcia (South-East Spain) were necropsied to evaluate parasitic infections. The majority of the animals (94.0%) were parasitised and multiple infections were present. Twenty-one parasite species were found, including 18 nematode species (Muellerius capillaris, Dictyocaulus filaria, Neostrongylus linearis, Cystocaulus ocreatus, Teladorsagia circumcincta, T. occidentalis, T. trifurcata, Marshallagia marshalli, Camelostrongylus mentulatus, Trichostrongylus capricola, Nematodirus abnormalis, N. filicollis, N. spathiger, T. vitrinus, T. colubriformis, Trichuris spp., Chabertia ovina and Skrjabinema ovis); one trematode species (Dicrocoelium dendriticum); one arthropod species (Oestrus ovis); and one protozoa genus (Eimeria spp.). Additionally, 17.85% of the animals were Mycobacterium spp. positive. Therefore, comparison between parasite prevalence, intensity and abundance in tuberculosis-positive and -negative animals was performed. Statistically significant differences between the prevalence of lungworms and gastrointestinal nematodes in Mycobacterium spp. infected and free goats were found. The paper discusses this co-infection between Mycobacteriaceae and endoparasites.

Une étude a été conduite sur 84 chèvres laitières de race Murciano­Granadina abattues dans la région de Murcia (sud-est de l'Espagne) afin d'évaluer la présence d'infections parasitaires. Dans leur grande majorité (94,0 %), les chèvres étaient infestées de parasites et le nombre de pluri-infections était important. Au total, 21 espèces de parasites ont été observées, dont 18 espèces de nématodes (Muellerius capillaris, Dictyocaulus filaria, Neostrongylus linearis, Cystocaulus ocreatus, Teladorsagia circumcincta, T. occidentalis, T. trifurcata, Marshallagia marshalli, Camelostrongylus mentulatus, Trichostrongylus capricola, Nematodirus abnormalis, N. filicollis, N. spathiger, T. vitrinus, T. colubriformis, Trichuris spp., Chabertia ovina et Skrjabinema ovis), une espèce de trématode (Dicrocoelium dendriticum), une espèce d'arthropode (Oestrus ovis) et des membres d'un genre de protozoaire (Eimeria spp.). En outre, la présence de Mycobacterium spp. a été détectée chez 17,85 % des chèvres examinées. Par conséquent, une étude comparative a été réalisée pour déterminer la prévalence, l'intensité et l'abondance des parasites chez les animaux ayant donné des résultats respectivement positifs et négatifs à la détection de la tuberculose. Des différences significatives au plan statistique ont été constatées entre les chèvres infectées et indemnes de Mycobacterium spp., respectivement, pour ce qui concerne la prévalence des vers pulmonaires et des nématodes gastro-intestinaux. Les auteurs font le point sur cette co-infection par des mycobactéries et des endoparasites.

Tras ser sacrificadas, ochenta y cuatro cabras lecheras murciano­granadinas de la región de Murcia (sudeste de España) fueron sometidas a necropsia para determinar la presencia de eventuales parasitosis. La mayoría de los animales (un 94,0%) presentaban parásitos y múltiples infecciones. Se descubrieron veintiuna especies de parásito: 18 especies de nemátodo (Muellerius capillaris, Dictyocaulus filaria, Neostrongylus linearis, Cystocaulus ocreatus, Teladorsagia circumcincta, T. occidentalis, T. trifurcata, Marshallagia marshalli, Camelostrongylus mentulatus, Trichostrongylus capricola, Nematodirus abnormalis, N. filicollis, N. spathiger, T. vitrinus, T. colubriformis, Trichuris spp., Chabertia ovina y Skrjabinema ovis); una especie de tremátodo (Dicrocoelium dendriticum); una especie de artrópodo (Oestrus ovis) y un género de protozoo (Eimeria spp.). Además, el 17,85% de los ejemplares eran positivos para Mycobacterium spp. A partir de ahí se procedió a comparar la prevalencia, intensidad y abundancia de parásitos en los animales positivos para la tuberculosis con respecto a los negativos. Se observaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre las cabras que estaban infectadas por Mycobacterium spp. y las que no lo estaban en cuanto a la prevalencia de nemátodos pulmonares y gastrointestinales. Los autores examinan esta infección concomitante entre micobacteriáceas y endoparásitos.

Use of computed tomography as a non-invasive method for diagnosing cephenemyiosis in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus).

This study was conducted to assess the reliability of computed tomography (CT) for diagnosing bot fly infestations by Cephenemyia stimulator (Clark) (Diptera: Oestridae) in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus L.) (Artiodactyla: Cervidae). For this purpose, the heads of 30 animals were analysed, firstly by CT and then by necropsy, which was used as the reference standard method. The prevalence values obtained by both methods were identical; the prevalence of infestation was 40.0% overall, and was higher in males (45.5%) than in females (25.0%). These results highlight the usefulness of CT as an alternative or non-invasive method for diagnosing cephenemyiosis in live-captured roe deer and in hunting trophies or museum collections that cannot be destroyed or damaged.

Enfermedad neuromuscular: evaluación clínica y seguimiento desde el punto de vista neumológico / Neuromuscular disease: Respiratory clinical assessment and follow-up

Los pacientes con enfermedad neuromuscular constituyen un grupo de riesgo importante para sufrir con frecuencia situaciones de fracaso respiratorio agudo o crónico. Desde que nacen o son diagnosticados requieren un seguimiento por parte del neumopediatra para diagnosticar y tratar las complicaciones respiratorias, que son su principal causa de fallecimiento, dentro de un contexto multidisciplinar. El soporte ventilatorio y la asistencia a la tos han mejorado la calidad de vida y el pronóstico a largo plazo de muchos de estos pacientes. En este artículo los autores repasan la fisiopatología, evaluación de la función respiratoria, trastornos del sueño y complicaciones respiratorias más frecuentes en las enfermedades neuromusculares. En un próximo artículo se analizarán los diversos tratamientos utilizados desde el punto de vista neumológico

Patients with neuromuscular disease are an important group at risk of frequently suffering acute or chronic respiratory failure, which is their main cause of death. They require follow-up by a pediatric respiratory medicine specialist from birth or diagnosis in order to confirm the diagnosis and treat any respiratory complications within a multidisciplinary context. The ventilatory support and the cough assistance have improved the quality of life and long-term survival for many of these patients. In this paper, the authors review the pathophysiology, respiratory function evaluation, sleep disorders, and the most frequent respiratory complications in neuromuscular diseases. The various treatments used, from a respiratory medicine point of view, will be analyzed in a next paper