1
|
Alemneh T, Dagnachew S. Thelazia species (eyeworms) infection in cattle: Prevalence, species diversity, seasonal dynamics and its ocular effects in South Gondar zone, Northwest Ethiopia. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2025; 61:101254. [PMID: 40398975 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2025.101254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2025] [Revised: 03/19/2025] [Accepted: 03/26/2025] [Indexed: 05/23/2025]
Abstract
Thelaziasis is a neglected vector-borne disease widely distributed throughout the world and is responsible for severe economic losses in cattle. The disease is caused by parasitic nematodes of the genus Thelazia (Spirurida, Thelaziidae). So far, limited attention has been given to ungulate-associated Thelazia species though it is a highly prevalent disease that raises concerns for animal welfare and potential economic impacts. A cross sectional study was carried out between August 2023 to July 2024 in the South Gondar Zone of Northwest Ethiopia, aiming to estimate the prevalence, investigate the seasonal dynamics, identify the species involved, demonstrate the ocular effects, and to assess the potential risk factors associated with the occurrence of thelaziasis in cattle. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select study animals. Data analysis was performed with logistic regression using SPSS software version 27.0. A total of 690 cattle were examined, of which 165 tested positive for Thelazia, resulting in an overall prevalence of 23.9 % (95 % CI: 20.7-27.2). Thelazia rhodesi and Thelazia gulosa were the identified species infecting cattle. Sex, body condition score and district of cattle were not associated with the occurrence of thelaziasis (p > 0.05). However, age, breed, management and season had influenced the occurrence of parasitosis (p < 0.05). Adult cattle (30.6 %), local breed (26.9 %), and extensive management system (29.8 %) categories have demonstrated higher infection rates than young (15.3 %), crossbreed (16.5 %), and semi-intensive management system (10.5 %). The occurrence of infection showed apparent seasonality (p < 0.001) with the maximum prevalence appeared in autumn (39.7 %). Ocular lesions such as lacrimation, conjunctivitis and ulceration were detected in 142 (20.6 %) of examined cattle, and the occurrence of ocular lesions exhibited significant association with the prevalence of parasitosis (p < 0.001). The occurrence of Thelazia species with high prevalence in the study area alarms the significance of incorporating this parasite in the differential diagnosis of eye diseases in cattle, especially when adults affected in areas with free grazing management system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tewodros Alemneh
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar. P.O. Box 196, Ethiopia; Woreta Town Office of Agricultural and Environmental Protection, South Gondar Zone, Woreta, Ethiopia.
| | - Shimelis Dagnachew
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Gondar. P.O. Box 196, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Filip-Hutsch K, Demiaszkiewicz AW, Hutsch T, Duk K, Klich D, Pyziel AM, Balińska P, Anusz K. Infectious keratoconjunctivitis in European bison (Bison bonasus) in Poland: risk factors, epidemiology and anatomopathological changes with analysis of potential role of Thelazia nematodes in the disease development. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:524. [PMID: 39574077 PMCID: PMC11580673 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04375-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2024] [Accepted: 11/07/2024] [Indexed: 11/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) is a common ocular disease of ruminants worldwide. Recently, an outbreak of infectious keratoconjunctivitis was observed in the European bison in Poland. Hundreds of animals show conjunctival congestion, corneal opacity, and ulceration, leading to total blindness. The present study aimed to examine the ocular changes of European bison and patterns of the disease occurrence with special emphasis on the role of Thelazia nematodes in the development of IKC. RESULTS The eyes of 131 European bison, showing ocular signs and clinically healthy, were collected in Poland in 2021 - 2022 and subjected to parasitological and histopathological examination. Histopathology showed varying lesions, including corneal erosions or ulcers, diffuse purulent infiltrates to lymphocytic infiltration in the cornea, and lymphocytic or mixed conjunctivitis with CALT stimulation. The severity of ocular changes was higher in European bison from mountain areas and during the winter season. Two species of Thelazia nematodes - T. skrjabini and T. gulosa have been isolated from eyes. Prevalence of infection reached over 66.4%, and the infection intensity ranged from 1 to 16 nematodes per individual. Although nematodes of the genus Thelazia were prevalent in European bison, their occurrence did not correspond with the severity of ocular changes. CONCLUSIONS The results of our studies allowed to identify patterns related to the first outbreak of infectious keratoconjunctivitis in European bison. Living in mountain areas and winter season were the most predisposing factors for the development of ocular changes. Despite the high prevalence of Thelazia nematodes in the present study, their role in forming ocular lesions was not confirmed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Filip-Hutsch
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-WULS, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Aleksander W Demiaszkiewicz
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Twarda 51/55, 00-818, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tomasz Hutsch
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-WULS, Nowoursynowska 159, Warsaw, 02-776, Poland
- Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory ALAB plus - ALAB bioscience, Stępińska 22/30, 00-739, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Karolina Duk
- Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory ALAB plus - ALAB bioscience, Stępińska 22/30, 00-739, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Daniel Klich
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences - WULS, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-787, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna M Pyziel
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-WULS, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Paulina Balińska
- Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Twarda 51/55, 00-818, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Anusz
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-WULS, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cârstolovean AS, Taulescu M, Hodor D, Cotuțiu VD, Aldea AM, Șerban CC, Cazan CD, Gherman CM, Mihalca AD. A case of mortality in a re-introduced European bison associated with severe pneumonia caused by Dictyocaulus viviparus. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:423. [PMID: 39304874 PMCID: PMC11415994 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04282-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dictyocaulosis is a parasitic disease caused by pulmonary nematodes from genus Dictyocaulus affecting various ungulate hosts. It can cause verminous bronchopneumonia and for heavily infected individuals, fatal outcomes can occur. CASE PRESENTATION The study describes the case of a male European bison which died three months after relocation from Slovakia to one of the reintroduction areas in Nucșoara village, Făgăraș Mountains, Romania. Necropsy revealed the presence of pulmonary nematodes in the respiratory tract. Morphology and molecular diagnosis was performed and Dictyocaulus viviparus was identified. CONCLUSION Rigorous health monitoring is essential to assure the success of reintroduction programs, understanding and preventing infectious diseases and limiting their impact on population health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrada-Silvia Cârstolovean
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca, 400372, Romania.
| | - Marian Taulescu
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca, 400372, Romania
| | - Dragoș Hodor
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca, 400372, Romania
| | - Vlad-Dan Cotuțiu
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca, 400372, Romania
| | - Adrian Mihai Aldea
- Foundation Conservation Carpathia, Calea Feldioarei 27A, Brașov, 500450, Romania
| | | | - Cristina Daniela Cazan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca, 400372, Romania
| | - Călin Mircea Gherman
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca, 400372, Romania
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, Cluj-Napoca, 400372, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cotuțiu VD, Ionică AM, Dan T, Cazan CD, Borșan SD, Culda CA, Mihaiu M, Gherman CM, Mihalca AD. Diversity of Thelazia spp. in domestic cattle from Romania: epidemiology and molecular diagnosis by a novel multiplex PCR. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:400. [PMID: 37924115 PMCID: PMC10623811 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06012-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thelaziosis is a neglected vector-borne disease caused by parasitic nematode worms of the genus Thelazia which affects various hosts. Limited attention has been given to ungulate-associated Thelazia species. Current diagnosis of thelaziosis and the identification/differentiation of species heavily relies on morphological features. Therefore, we conducted an epidemiological study in Romanian cattle, with the aim to obtain morphological and molecular data that can be used for species identification. METHODS The eyes of 705 slaughtered cattle were sampled and subjected to morphological identification, morphometric analysis, and molecular characterization. PCR amplification and sequence analysis were performed based on the cytochromec oxidase subunit 1 (COI) gene. Statistical tests assessed the correlations between infection parameters and ecological or biogeographical factors. A novel PCR method was developed based on the consensus sequence from each species. Specific forward primers were designed for each of the three species, and a reverse primer (COIintR) was used for all reactions. A consensus thermal profile was established by gradient PCR amplification of each species separately. RESULTS Of the sampled cattle, 19.3% were infected with Thelazia spp. Prevalence varied significantly with ecogeographical factors. A total of 585 Thelazia nematodes were recovered, with T. rhodesi being the most abundant, followed by T. skrjabini and T. gulosa. Morphometric and molecular analyses supported the morphological identification, yielding unique sequences for each species. From the 59 T. rhodesi specimens sequenced, 29 unique sequences were obtained, with a 99.1-99.85% nucleotide identity to the only other COI sequence present in GenBank®. All nine T. gulosa isolates were unique (99.37-100% nucleotide identity to other sequences), while T. skrjabini specimens displayed 98.47-100% nucleotide identity to the sole available sequence. CONCLUSIONS Bovine thelaziosis is prevalent in Romania, raising concerns for animal welfare and potential economic impacts. Infected cattle grazing alongside vulnerable wild ruminants, such as the European bison, may affect conservation efforts. Our newly developed multiplex PCR shows promise as a valuable surveillance tool, enabling the detection of occult infections in apparently healthy animals through lachrymal secretion testing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vlad-Dan Cotuțiu
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Angela Monica Ionică
- Clinical Hospital for Infectious Diseases Cluj-Napoca, Iuliu Moldovan Street nr 23, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania
| | - Teodora Dan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania
| | - Cristina Daniela Cazan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania
| | - Silvia Diana Borșan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania
| | - Carla Andreea Culda
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania
| | - Marian Mihaiu
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania
| | - Călin Mircea Gherman
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Calea Mănăștur 3-5, 400372, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Herskind C, Petersen HH, Pertoldi C, Østergaard SK, Kołodziej-Sobocińska M, Sobociński W, Tokarska M, Hammer Jensen T. Effect of Translocation on Host Diet and Parasite Egg Burden: A Study of the European Bison ( Bison bonasus). BIOLOGY 2023; 12:biology12050680. [PMID: 37237495 DOI: 10.3390/biology12050680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
For the purpose of nature management and species conservation, European bison (Bison bonasus) are being increasingly reintroduced into nature reserves across Europe. The aim of this study was to investigate European bison's adaptability to new areas through the study of their parasite-EPG (eggs per gram feces) and dietary diversity during twelve months after translocation. We compared the parasite-EPG from introduced European bison in Lille Vildmose, Denmark, with the parasite-EPG from populations from Bornholm, Denmark, and Białowieża Forest, Poland. From March 2021 to February 2022, fecal samples were collected from three populations. Samples from Lille Vildmose were examined through flotation, sedimentation, the Baermann technique, and nanopore sequencing. Fecal samples from Bornholm and Białowieża were examined through flotation and sedimentation. Nanopore sequencing of DNA from 63 European bison's fecal samples collected during March-September in Lille Vildmose identified 8 species of nematodes within the digestive tract of the European bison, with Haemonchus contortus being the most frequently observed. In Lille Vildmose, a significantly higher excretion of nematode-EPG was observed during the summer period than in the spring, autumn, and winter. In addition, monthly differences in the excretion of nematode eggs were found, with this being significantly higher in June than in the months during autumn and winter (October-February). Significant differences in the nematode-EPG were only found between the excretion of nematode eggs in Białowieża Forest when compared to that of Lille Vildmose, with significantly higher excretion in Lille Vildmose (October-November). The results indicate that the development rates for nematodes may be affected by changes in temperature, with increasing temperatures speeding up their development time. Independent of this study design, wildlife vets together with the gamekeepers managing the herd found it necessary to treat the herd with antiparasitics for practical and animal welfare reasons in relation to translocation. Furthermore, 79 plant taxa were identified in the diet of the European bison. The broadest diet was observed in March suggesting that the European bison quickly adapted to their new habitat. The results suggest a seasonal shift in their diet, with this being most apparent from March to April.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christinna Herskind
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Heidi Huus Petersen
- Centre for Diagnostic, Technical University of Denmark, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Cino Pertoldi
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | | | - Wojciech Sobociński
- Institute of Biology, University of Białystok, Ciołkowskiego 1J, 15-245 Białystok, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Tokarska
- Mammal Research Institute, Polish Academy of Sciences, Stoczek 1, 17-230 Białowieża, Poland
| | - Trine Hammer Jensen
- Department of Chemistry and Bioscience, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7H, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
- Aalborg Zoo, Mølleparkvej 63, 9000 Aalborg, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Krajewska-Wędzina M, Krzysiak MK, Bruczyńska M, Orłowska B, Didkowska A, Radulski Ł, Wiśniewski J, Olech W, Nowakiewicz A, Welz M, Kaczor S, Weiner M, Anusz K. Ten Years of Animal Tuberculosis Monitoring in Free-Living European Bison (Bison bonasus) in Poland. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13071205. [PMID: 37048461 PMCID: PMC10093704 DOI: 10.3390/ani13071205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
In the period 1996–2012, two outbreaks of animal tuberculosis were noted in the population of free-living European bison (Bison bonasus caucasicus) in the Bieszczady Mountains, Southern Poland. As the European bison is an endangered species and particularly susceptible to tuberculosis, not to mention a national icon, the decision was made to test all deceased bison for TB in Poland. The screened bison were obtained by elimination due to poor health or natural death. A total of 159 European bison have been examined over the last 10 years. The individuals came from four regions of Poland (Białowieża Forest, Bieszczady Mountains, Borecka Forest, Knyszyńska Forest), not only from the area where tuberculosis is still endemic. Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium avium spp. hominisuis were identified in two different herds. The isolation of M. bovis from European bison was the first case described in Poland. So far, the only causative agent of tuberculosis identified in European bison in Poland, both in the wild and in captive herds, was Mycobacterium caprae. The isolated M. bovis spoligotype has not previously been registered in international spoligotype databases so far. The obtained results highlight the need to monitor TB in European bison in Poland.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monika Krajewska-Wędzina
- National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Puławy, Poland
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Life Sciences, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Michał K. Krzysiak
- Białowieża National Park, 17-230 Białowieża, Poland
- Institute of Forest Sciences, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Białystok University of Technology, 15-351 Białystok, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Bruczyńska
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
- County Veterinary Inspectorate, Orężna 9, 05-501 Piaseczno, Poland
| | - Blanka Orłowska
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Didkowska
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Łukasz Radulski
- County Veterinary Inspectorate, C.K. Norwida 17, 24-100 Puławy, Poland
| | - Jan Wiśniewski
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wanda Olech
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aneta Nowakiewicz
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Preclinical Veterinary Sciences, University of Life Sciences, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mirosław Welz
- Provincial Veterinary Inspectorate, Piotra Ścigiennego 6a, 38-400 Krosno, Poland
| | - Stanisław Kaczor
- County Veterinary Inspectorate, Młynarska 45, 38-500 Sanok, Poland
| | - Marcin Weiner
- Pope John Paul II State School of Higher Education, 21-500 Biała Podlaska, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Anusz
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Klich D, Łopucki R, Kaczor S, Zwolak I, Didkowska A, Wiącek D, Bielecki W, Perzanowski K, Wojciechowska M, Olech W. Comorbidities and concentration of trace elements in livers of European bison from Bieszczady Mountains (Poland). Sci Rep 2023; 13:4332. [PMID: 36922557 PMCID: PMC10017800 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-31245-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
European bison is a species for which health monitoring is essential in conservation activities. So far, little research has been carried out on the concentration of elements in this species. Most previous studies did not associate the concentration of elements with susceptibility to diseases. In this study we investigate the relationship between comorbidities in European bison and concentrations of a wide spectrum of elements in the liver. Samples were collected during the monitoring of the European bison population in Bieszczady (southeast Poland) over the 2020-2022 period. Each individual was also visually inspected by a veterinarian in the field for the presence of lesions as a part of a post-mortem examination. The animals were divided into 3 groups: group A-one type of clinical sign; group B-two types of clinical signs; group C-three or more types of clinical signs. The ICP-OES method was applied to assess the concentration of 40 elements in livers. Discriminant analysis showed clear differences between the mineral status of individuals in the groups with one, two, and at least three types of clinical signs. Detailed analysis of selected elements showed that, in the case of eight elements, there was a relationship with age, sex, or comorbidities. Cu, Se, and Zn showed significant differences in relation to comorbidities, but only Cu concentration was lower when the frequency of lesions was higher. We concluded that in research on the mineral status of the population, apart from the availability of trace elements in the environment, the health condition of the studied individuals should also be considered. However, inferring the mineral status of the population on the basis of randomly obtained samples from dead individuals may give an incomplete view of the population, especially in the case of species susceptible to diseases, such as European bison.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Klich
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Rafał Łopucki
- Department of Biomedicine and Environmental Research, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Konstantynów 1J, 20-708, Lublin, Poland
| | - Stanisław Kaczor
- County Veterinary Inspectorate, Młynarska 45, 38-500, Sanok, Poland
| | - Iwona Zwolak
- Department of Biomedicine and Environmental Research, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Konstantynów 1J, 20-708, Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Didkowska
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 166, 02-787, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dariusz Wiącek
- Institute of Agrophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Doświadczalna 4, 20-290, Lublin, Poland
| | - Wojciech Bielecki
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Nowoursynowska 166, 02-787, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Kajetan Perzanowski
- The Institute of Biological Sciences, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Konstantynów 1 H, 20-708, Lublin, Poland
| | - Marlena Wojciechowska
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wanda Olech
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Roston S, Kulenkamp JE, Ferrieri P, Strul S. Rare Thelazia californiensis infant ocular infestation. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep 2023; 30:101813. [PMID: 36844613 PMCID: PMC9950434 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoc.2023.101813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose A rare case of Thelazia californiensis ocular infestation was diagnosed and treated in an 11-month-old patient. Observations The patient presented with a visual acuity of 20/130 OU by Teller cards. Exam demonstrated a white, mobile worm in the inferomedial fornix of the right eye. The remainder of the exam was otherwise normal. The worm was removed under anesthesia and identified as Thelazia californiensis by the Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Conclusions and importance This case demonstrates a rare but important cause of follicular conjunctivitis and mobile foreign bodies, especially in patients with a supportive history of exposure to the intermediate and definitive hosts of Thelazia species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - J. Erik Kulenkamp
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, USA
| | - Patricia Ferrieri
- Infectious Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Minnesota Medical School, USA
| | - Sasha Strul
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, USA
- Corresponding author. Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Neurosciences, University of Minnesota, 701 S 25 Ave Third Fl, Minneapolis, MN, 55454, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Klich D, Didkowska A, Pyziel-Serafin AM, Perlińska-Teresiak M, Wołoszyn-Gałęza A, Żoch K, Balcerak M, Olech W. Contact between European bison and cattle from the cattle breeders' perspective, in the light of the risk of pathogen transmission. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0285245. [PMID: 37134113 PMCID: PMC10155960 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0285245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogens transmitted between wildlife and domestic animals can pose a threat to endangered species, undermine conservation efforts in wildlife, and affect productivity and parasite control in domestic animals. There are several examples of pathogen transmission between European bison and other animals. The present study surveyed breeders from the vicinity of four large wisent populations in eastern Poland about observed contacts between wisent and cattle. Such contacts were noted by 37% of breeders, indicating a significant risk of contact between European bison and cattle in the study areas, even in the areas where the European bison live mainly in a forest complex, i.e., in the Borecka Forest. A higher potential risk of contacts between European bison and cattle was noted in the Białowieska Forest and the Bieszczady Mountains than in the Borecka and Knyszyńska Forests. In the Białowieska Forest, the risk of viral pathogen transmission resulting from contacts is higher (more direct contacts), and in the case of the Bieszczady Mountains, the probability of parasitic diseases is higher. The chance of contacts between European bison and cattle depended on the distance of cattle pastures from human settlements. Moreover, such contact was possible throughout the year, not only in spring and fall. It appears possible to minimize the risk of contacts between wisent and cattle by changing management practices for both species, such as keeping grazing areas as close as possible to settlements, and reducing the time cattle graze on pastures. However, the risk of contact is much greater if European bison populations are large and are dispersed beyond forest complexes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Klich
- Department of Animal Genetic and Conservation, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Didkowska
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna M Pyziel-Serafin
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW), Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Perlińska-Teresiak
- Department of Animal Genetic and Conservation, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Marek Balcerak
- Department of Animal Breeding, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wanda Olech
- Department of Animal Genetic and Conservation, Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Filip-Hutsch K, Laskowski Z, Myczka AW, Czopowicz M, Moskwa B, Demiaszkiewicz AW. The occurrence and molecular identification of Thelazia spp. in European bison (Bison bonasus) in the Bieszczady Mountains. Sci Rep 2022; 12:22508. [PMID: 36581768 PMCID: PMC9800370 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-27191-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with Thelazia nematodes results in eye disease in wild and domestic animals. The aim of the present study was to describe the occurrence of Thelazia nematodes in European bison, and to subject the isolated parasites to molecular identification and phylogenetical analysis. The eyeballs of 18 European bison from the Bieszczady Mountains, culled due to dysfunctional vision, were collected for study. The conjunctival sacs, tear ducts, corneal surface and nictitating membrane were rinsed with a saline solution. Any obtained nematodes were isolated under a stereoscopic microscope, and then identified as T. gulosa or T. skrjabini by molecular analysis of partial cox1 sequences. The prevalence of infection with Thelazia spp. was found to be 61%, with a 95% confidence interval (CI 95%) of 39-80%. Thelazia skrjabini was isolated from 56% (CI 95% 34-75%) of examined animals; T. gulosa was significantly less common (p = 0.038) with the prevalence of infection reaching 22% (CI 95% 9-45%). Three European bison were cross-infected with both T. gulosa and T. skrjabini. Phylogenetic analysis found the obtained sequences to be similar to those of Thelazia species from domestic ungulates in Europe. Infection intensity ranged from 1 to 16 nematodes per individual (median of three nematodes), and was significantly higher in females (6 nematodes) than in males (1 nematode; p = 0.019). A tendency for seasonal occurrence of nematodes in European bison was also observed. Our study provides further information regarding the patterns of Thelazia transmission in European bison in Poland.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Filip-Hutsch
- grid.13276.310000 0001 1955 7966Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences–SGGW, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zdzisław Laskowski
- grid.413454.30000 0001 1958 0162Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Twarda 51/55, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna W. Myczka
- grid.413454.30000 0001 1958 0162Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Twarda 51/55, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Czopowicz
- grid.13276.310000 0001 1955 7966Division of Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences–SGGW, Nowoursynowska 159C, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bożena Moskwa
- grid.413454.30000 0001 1958 0162Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Twarda 51/55, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Aleksander W. Demiaszkiewicz
- grid.413454.30000 0001 1958 0162Witold Stefański Institute of Parasitology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Twarda 51/55, 00-818 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Perzanowski K, Klich D, Olech W. European Union needs urgent strategy for the European bison. Conserv Lett 2022. [DOI: 10.1111/conl.12923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kajetan Perzanowski
- Faculty of Natural Sciences and Health The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin Lublin Poland
| | - Daniel Klich
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation Warsaw University of Life Sciences‐SGGW Warsaw Poland
| | - Wanda Olech
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation Warsaw University of Life Sciences‐SGGW Warsaw Poland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Duszewska AM, Baraniewicz-Kołek M, Wojdan J, Barłowska K, Bielecki W, Gręda P, Niżański W, Olech W. Establishment of a Wisent (Bison bonasus) Germplasm Bank. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12101239. [PMID: 35625085 PMCID: PMC9137628 DOI: 10.3390/ani12101239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The wisent (European bison) is a protected species. For this reason, we undertook the use of biotechnologies—such as in vitro maturation of oocytes, in vitro fertilization of matured oocytes, in vitro culture of embryos, and embryo vitrification—to establish a wisent embryo bank. The competencies of the vitrified embryos were tested by transferring the warming embryos to cattle (interspecies embryo transfer). The pregnancy was confirmed biochemically and using USG, and although the fetuses were resorbed, the embryos’ competence for development was demonstrated. The results of these studies open the way for the cryoconservation of wisent germplasm. Abstract The wisent, or European bison (Bison bonasus), belongs to the same family (Bovidae) as the American bison and domestic cattle. The wisent is the largest mammal in Europe, and is called the “Forest Emperor”. The wisent is listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List, and is protected by international law. Achievements in reproductive biotechnology have opened new possibilities for the cryoconservation of the wisent germplasm. Therefore, this research aimed to improve a strategy for the protection and preservation of the European bison through the creation of a wisent germplasm bank, based on the following procedures: isolation and in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes, in vitro fertilization (IVF) of matured oocytes, in vitro embryo culture (IVC), and embryo cryopreservation. Wisent ovaries were isolated from females outside the reproductive season, and eliminated from breeding for reasons other than infertility. Cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) were isolated from follicles greater than 2 mm in diameter and matured for 24 h and 30 h. After IVM, COCs were fertilized in vitro with wisent sperm. The obtained wisent zygotes, based on oocytes matured for 24 h and 30 h, were cultured for 216 h. Embryos at the morula and early blastocyst stages were vitrified and then warmed and transferred to interspecies recipients (Bos taurus). USG and biochemical tests were used to monitor pregnancies. This study obtained embryos in the morula and early blastocyst stages only after oocytes were fertilized and matured for 30 h. On average, per oocyte donor, 12.33 ± 0.5 COCs were isolated, and only 9.33 ± 0.61 COCs were qualified for in vitro maturation (75.68%), while 9.16 ± 0.48 COCs were matured (84.32%). On average, per donor, 5.5 ± 0.34 embryos were cleaved (59.96%) after 48 h post-fertilization (hpf), and 3.33 ± 0.21 achieved the eight-cell stage (36.52%) after 96 hpf, while 1 ± 0.21 morula and early blastocyst stages (10.71%) were achieved after 216 hpf. A total of six embryos (one morula and five early blastocysts) were obtained and vitrified; after warming, five of them were interspecies transferred to cattle (Bos taurus). On day 41 after fertilization, 3 out of 5 pregnancies were detected based on USG, P4, and PAG tests. However, no pregnancy was observed on day 86 after fertilization, indicating embryo resorption. This study shows that obtaining wisent embryos in vitro, and subsequent cryopreservation to create a wisent embryo bank, can be applied and implemented for the wisent protection program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Duszewska
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (P.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Magdalena Baraniewicz-Kołek
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (P.G.)
| | - Jarosław Wojdan
- Department of Biotechnology and Nutrigenomics, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Postępu 36A, Jastrzębiec, 05-552 Magdalenka, Poland; (J.W.); (K.B.)
| | - Katarzyna Barłowska
- Department of Biotechnology and Nutrigenomics, Institute of Genetics and Animal Biotechnology, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Postępu 36A, Jastrzębiec, 05-552 Magdalenka, Poland; (J.W.); (K.B.)
| | - Wojciech Bielecki
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Paweł Gręda
- Department of Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska 159, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland; (M.B.-K.); (P.G.)
| | - Wojciech Niżański
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Wanda Olech
- Department of Genetics and Animal Breeding, Faculty of Animal Science, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Krzysiak MK, Anusz K, Konieczny A, Rola J, Salat J, Strakova P, Olech W, Larska M. The European bison (Bison bonasus) as an indicatory species for the circulation of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) in natural foci in Poland. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 12:101799. [PMID: 34358779 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is one of the most common zoonotic diseases in Europe transmitted by Ixodidae vectors. While small mammals such as bank voles and ticks constitute the main reservoirs for virus transmission, large sylvatic species act as a food source for ticks. Cervids such as roe deer and red deer are considered sentinel species for TBE in natural foci. In addition, an increase of the population size and density of large wild mammals in an area corresponds to an increase in the tick burden and may potentially increase the prevalence of TBE virus (TBEV) in ticks and tick hosts and further exposure risk in humans. Humans are considered accidental hosts. The prevalence of TBE relies on interactions between host, vector and environment. The present study examines the exposure of the largest European herbivore, the European bison (Bison bonasus) to TBEV infection. Assessed using the IMMUNOZYM FSME ELISA (PROGEN), the overall TBEV seroprevalence was 62.7% in the 335 European bison that were studied. ELISA results were confirmed by the gold-standard virus neutralization test (VNT) with 98.7% sensitivity and thus giving a true prevalence of 63.5%. TBEV seroprevalence was significantly correlated to the origin, age group, sex, population type (free living/captive) and sanitary status (healthy/selectively eliminated/found dead/killed in accident) of the European bison in the univariable analysis. The highest seroprevalences were observed in the three largest north-eastern wild populations (Białowieska, Borecka and Knyszyńska forests), which corresponded with the highest incidence of human cases reported in the country. The risk of TBEV seropositivity increased with age and was higher in female and free-ranging European bison. Additionally, to the epidemiological investigation, the continuous detection of TBEV antibodies was studied by repetitive testing of animals over the course of 34 months. Two of six seropositive animals remained seropositive throughout the study. The presence of antibodies was followed throughout the study in seropositive European bison and for at least a year in animals that seroconverted during the observation period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michał K Krzysiak
- Białowieża National Park, Park Pałacowy 11, 17-230, Białowieża, Poland; Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Institute of Forest Sciences, Białystok University of Technology, Wiejska 45 E, 15-351, Białystok, Poland.
| | - Krzysztof Anusz
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health Protection, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University Of Life Sciences (WULS), ul. Nowoursynowska 166, Warszawa 02-786, Poland
| | - Andrzej Konieczny
- Faculty of Agrobioengineering, University of Live Sciences, ul. Akademicka 13, Lublin 20-950, Poland
| | - Jerzy Rola
- Department of Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, AL. Partyzantów 57, Pulawy 24-100, Poland
| | - Jiri Salat
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 296/70, Brno 621 00, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branisovska 31, Ceské Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Strakova
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hudcova 296/70, Brno 621 00, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branisovska 31, Ceské Budejovice 37005, Czech Republic
| | - Wanda Olech
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Science (WULS), ul. Ciszewskiego 8, Warszawa 02-786, Poland
| | - Magdalena Larska
- Department of Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, AL. Partyzantów 57, Pulawy 24-100, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Klich D, Łopucki R, Perlińska-Teresiak M, Lenkiewicz-Bardzińska A, Olech W. Human-Wildlife Conflict: The Human Dimension of European Bison Conservation in the Bieszczady Mountains (Poland). Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:503. [PMID: 33671922 PMCID: PMC7919045 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
An important limitation for the population growth of European bison in the Bieszczady Mountains may be the level of social acceptance. The study aimed to compare attitudes to European bison of local village inhabitants in Bieszczady and city dwellers in Rzeszów. We also investigated whether damage caused by European bison or other wild species changes peoples' perceptions of this animal. Our study showed that not only does the growing European bison population cause an increase in negative attitudes among local village communities, but this species also causes more conflict than any other herbivore in the Bieszczady Mountains. Village residents believed that the main threats that arise from European bison were the damage they cause and forest use limitations. The current compensation system for the damage caused by this species does not solve the problem because over 60% of damage is not effectively reported to the state administration. The city dwellers of Rzeszów displayed a different attitude towards the European bison. We concluded that while educational workshops for local villagers may alleviate conflict in the short-term, ultimately it is only by restricting the growth of the European bison population that a long-term effect will be achieved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Klich
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.-T.); (W.O.)
| | - Rafał Łopucki
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research, The John Paul II Catholic University of Lublin, Konstantynów 1J, 20-708 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Perlińska-Teresiak
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.-T.); (W.O.)
| | | | - Wanda Olech
- Department of Animal Genetics and Conservation, Warsaw University of Life Sciences-SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (M.P.-T.); (W.O.)
| |
Collapse
|