Giardia duodenalis in a clinically healthy population of captive zoo chimpanzees: Rapid antigen testing, diagnostic real-time PCR and faecal microbiota profiling

Identification of zoonotic pathogens in zoo animals in the Republic of Korea

Zoo animals may harbor various zoonotic pathogens and may pose a potential risk to humans through close contact. Nevertheless, epidemiological data on zoonotic diseases are scarce. Here, we conducted an epidemiological investigation and genetic characterization of Coxiella burnetii, Cryptosporidium species, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Giardia duodenalis in zoo animals in the Republic of Korea (ROK) and evaluated their zoonotic potential. A total of 261 fecal samples were collected from 27 animal species at one zoo between July 2022 and December 2023. Out of the four pathogens tested, one (0.4 %), twelve (4.5 %), and one (0.4 %) animals were found positive for C. burnetii, E. bieneusi, and G. duodenalis, respectively. Cryptosporidium species were not detected in zoo animals. Sequence analysis of C. burnetii based on the IS1111 gene revealed that one sequence obtained from a black goat (Capra hircus) exhibited 100 % homology with those reported from a rodent in the ROK. A zoonotic assemblage B (n = 1) of G. duodenalis was identified in Patagonian mara (Dolichotis patagonum). Of the 12 E. bieneusi-positive samples, eleven novel genotypes (KRZB1-4 and KRZS2-8) were identified in four Asian black bears (Ursus thibetanus ussuricus) and eight squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus). Phylogenetically, ten novel genotypes belonged to group 1 with zoonotic potential, and one novel genotype, KRZB4, was assigned to group 10. This study showed that C. burnetii, E. bieneusi, and G. duodenalis infections were identified in zoo animals in the ROK. Our findings highlight the need for ongoing monitoring and effective strategies to prevent and control these zoonotic pathogens.

Embedding research and enquiry in Australian DVM curriculum

Research and enquiry (R&E) is an integral part of veterinary training. It is a foundation of evidence-based practice. In the University of Sydney Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree R&E culminates in a cap-stone experience in Year 3: a 'professionally focused project', a student-driven and academic supported individual research project. The project provides an authentic experience within a veterinary discipline. Students work with an academic advisor who provides guidance for developing and achieving meaningful educational and professional goals. Successful advising depends upon a shared understanding of, and commitment to, the advising process by students, advisors and the university. The R&E mission can be broadly defined as - veterinarians recognise that evidence-based approach to practice, which is based on the scientific method, leads to the generation of new knowledge that underpins the veterinary medical profession.

Comparison of Giardia duodenalis point-of-care antigen faecal tests to reference laboratory assays in non-symptomatic dogs

Giardia duodenalis is one of the most prevalent enteric parasites of dogs. Point-of-care antigen tests (POC) are rapid and do not require additional equipment, or a specialised diagnostic laboratory. The aim of this study was to compare diagnostic tests available in veterinary practices and in a diagnostic laboratory for the detection of G. duodenalis on a cohort of group-housed dogs from New South Wales, Australia. Two different POC tests were used for the detection of G. duodenalis. Laboratory tests used were the multiplexed-tandem PCR panel (MT-PCR) that includes detection of G. duodenalis DNA, and two reference tests (an in-house TaqMan real-time PCR and a direct immunofluorescence assay, DFA). Canine faecal samples (n = 40) were tested simultaneously for the detection of G. duodenalis. Using either DFA or TaqMan real-time PCR as reference tests, 77.5% (31/40) and 82.5% (33/40) of dogs tested positive, respectively. Agreement (Kappa) between the DFA and TaqMan real-time PCR was 0.84 (95% CI 0.64 to 1.00). There was substantial G. duodenalis test outcome agreement between the two POC tests, Kappa = 0.75. Combining the two POC tests yielded 77% sensitivity and 100% specificity with DFA as reference, and for TaqMan real-time PCR it was 73% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The MT-PCR was in excellent agreement with each reference test, DFA or TaqMan real-time PCR. Due to the high specificity of both POC tests, they can be confidently used as rule-in diagnostics. Confirmatory testing that detects different biological parameters such as DNA, e.g. PCR (inc. MT-PCR), should be implemented before concluding that a dog is negative for the presence of G. duodenalis.