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Battistini R, Masotti C, Bianchi DM, Decastelli L, Garcia-Vozmediano A, Maurella C, Fauconnier ML, Paparella A, Serracca L. In Vivo Evaluation of the Potential of Thyme and Lemon Hydrolates as Processing Aids to Reduce Norovirus Concentration during Oyster Depuration. Foods 2023; 12:3976. [PMID: 37959094 PMCID: PMC10647395 DOI: 10.3390/foods12213976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated the use of hydrolates, co-products of essential oil distillation, as processing aids to improve the depuration process of Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) as a post-harvest method aimed at reducing the norovirus (NoV) viral load. Live oysters were kept in water to which hydrolates of Thymus serpyllum and Citrus limon at 1% were added for 24 h. The concentration of NoV was quantified using the ISO 15216-1 quantitative real-time RT-PCR method in the oyster digestive tissue both before and after the treatment. The results showed a significant reduction of 0.2 log in the NoV GII concentration after 24 h of treatment with 1% C. limon hydrolate. Conversely, treatment with T. serpyllum did not appear to reduce the concentration of NoV compared to the control. Additionally, a sensory analysis was conducted through a blind survey comparing untreated and treated oysters. No changes in the sensory and physical characteristics of the oysters were observed, except for a decrease in the marine flavour intensity, which was positively perceived by consumers. These results indicate that the addition of hydrolates of C. limon at 1% during depuration might represent a promising processing aid for enhancing both the safety and acceptability of live oysters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Battistini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (R.B.); (D.M.B.); (L.D.); (A.G.-V.); (C.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Chiara Masotti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (R.B.); (D.M.B.); (L.D.); (A.G.-V.); (C.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Daniela Manila Bianchi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (R.B.); (D.M.B.); (L.D.); (A.G.-V.); (C.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Lucia Decastelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (R.B.); (D.M.B.); (L.D.); (A.G.-V.); (C.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (R.B.); (D.M.B.); (L.D.); (A.G.-V.); (C.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Cristiana Maurella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (R.B.); (D.M.B.); (L.D.); (A.G.-V.); (C.M.); (L.S.)
| | - Marie-Laure Fauconnier
- Laboratory of Chemistry of Natural Molecules, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Passage des Déportés 2, 5030 Gembloux, Belgium;
| | - Antonello Paparella
- Department of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, Via R. Balzarini 1, 64100 Teramo, Italy;
| | - Laura Serracca
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (R.B.); (D.M.B.); (L.D.); (A.G.-V.); (C.M.); (L.S.)
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Pitti M, Garcia-Vozmediano A, Tramuta C, Maurella C, Decastelli L. Monitoring of Antimicrobial Resistance of Salmonella Serotypes Isolated from Humans in Northwest Italy, 2012-2021. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12010089. [PMID: 36678437 PMCID: PMC9865215 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Salmonella enterica is among the most common causes of foodborne outbreaks in humans in Europe. The global emergence of resistance to antimicrobials calls for close monitoring of the spread and prevalence of resistant Salmonella strains. In this study, we investigated the occurrence of antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella serotypes isolated from humans between 2012 and 2021 in Piedmont, northwest Italy. A total of 4814 Salmonella strains (168 serotypes) were tested against six classes of antimicrobials. Many strains (83.3%) showed resistance to at least one antibiotic: tetracycline (85.1%), ampicillin (79.2%), quinolones (47.4%), and gentamicin (28.4%). Between the first (2012-2016) and the second study period (2017-2021), a decrease in antimicrobial resistance was noted for tetracycline (from 92.4% to 75.3%), ampicillin (from 85.3% to 71.3%), quinolones (from 49.4% to 44.6%), and cefotaxime (from 34.8% to 4.0%). Many multidrug resistant Salmonella strains (43.6%) belonged to S. ser. Typhimurium, S. ser. Infantis, and S. ser. Typhimurium 1,4,[5],12:i:-. Overall, multidrug resistance decreased from 60.7% to 26.4%, indicating a reduction in the antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella strains in Piedmont and in Europe and demonstrating the effectiveness of the measures that were put in place to reduce antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Pitti
- Centro di Riferimento per la Tipizzazione delle Salmonelle, CeRTiS, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Bologna, 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0112686233
| | - Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- S.S. Rischi Alimentari ed Epidemiologia degli Alimenti (REA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Bologna, 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Clara Tramuta
- Centro di Riferimento per la Tipizzazione delle Salmonelle, CeRTiS, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Bologna, 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | | | - Cristiana Maurella
- S.S. Rischi Alimentari ed Epidemiologia degli Alimenti (REA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Bologna, 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
| | - Lucia Decastelli
- Centro di Riferimento per la Tipizzazione delle Salmonelle, CeRTiS, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Bologna, 148, 10154 Turin, Italy
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Moroni B, Coenda F, Garcia-Vozmediano A, Nicoletti A, Pregel P, Mina A, Tomassone L, Rossi L, Scaglione FE. Subcutaneous Ticks in Wild Carnivores: Any Host-Related Differences? Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12233411. [PMID: 36496932 PMCID: PMC9739201 DOI: 10.3390/ani12233411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks under the skin have been shown in different canid species such as red fox, domestic dog, and raccoon dog. Despite being increasingly reported in Europe in the last decade, the biological mechanisms associated to subcutaneous ticks (SCT), as well as the predisposing factors, are not yet clear. The main goal of this study was to investigate the presence of SCT in wild carnivores in Northwestern Italy. Sixty-three wild carnivores were examined, and SCT were submitted to histological examination or stored in ethanol for morphological and molecular identification. A portion of the cox1 gene and 16S rDNA were amplified, and positive PCR products were sequenced. Fifty-one small brown-coloured nodules of about 2 × 3 mm containing ticks in different decomposition stages were observed in 11 out of 30 foxes. Seven ticks were classified as Ixodes ricinus, while 14 ticks were determined only at the genus level (Ixodes spp.), and in two ticks no morphological key was applicable due to the advanced degradation status. By PCR, the rDNA fragment of six ticks (26.1%, 95% CI: 12.6-46.5%) was amplified, and BLAST analysis revealed a 99-100% nucleotide similarity to I. ricinus. At the histological examination, the inflammatory response varied from a mild to a moderate mixed infiltrate, primarily composed by neutrophils and lymphocytes. The results of this study confirm foxes as the main wild reservoir for SCT. The absence of SCT in other carnivores (badgers and martens) is in accordance with other studies. Ixodes ricinus is the most frequently reported tick species, corroborating the idea that longirostral ticks might be more frequently associated to SC embedment than brevirostral ticks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Moroni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Fabrizio Coenda
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, Via Bologna 148, 10154 Torino, Italy
| | - Arturo Nicoletti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Paola Pregel
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Alessandra Mina
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Luca Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
| | - Frine Eleonora Scaglione
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy
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Garcia-Vozmediano A, Bellato A, Rossi L, Hoogerwerf MN, Sprong H, Tomassone L. Use of Wild Ungulates as Sentinels of TBEV Circulation in a Naïve Area of the Northwestern Alps, Italy. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12111888. [PMID: 36431023 PMCID: PMC9699112 DOI: 10.3390/life12111888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Wild and domestic animals can be usefully employed as sentinels for the surveillance of diseases with an impact on public health. In the case of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), the detection of antibodies in animals can be more effective than screening ticks for detecting TBEV foci, due to the patchy distribution of the virus. In the Piedmont region, northwestern Italy, TBEV is considered absent, but an increase in tick densities, of Ixodes ricinus in particular, has been observed, and TBEV is spreading in bordering countries, e.g., Switzerland. Therefore, we collected sera from wild ungulates during the hunting season (October-December) from 2017 to 2019 in the Susa Valley, Italian western Alps, and screened them for TBEV antibodies by a commercial competitive ELISA test. We collected 267 serum samples by endocranial venous sinuses puncture from red deer, roe deer and northern chamois carcasses. The animals were hunted in 13 different municipalities, at altitudes ranging between 750 and 2800 m a.s.l. The serological survey for TBEV yielded negative results. Borderline results for five serum samples were further confirmed as negative for TBEV by a plaque reduction neutralisation test. To date, our results indicate that TBEV is not circulating in western Piedmont. However, monitoring of TBEV should continue since TBEV and its vector are spreading in Europe. The wide-range distribution of wild ungulates and their role as feeding hosts, make them useful indicators of the health threats posed by Ixodid ticks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.G.-V.); (L.T.)
| | - Alessandro Bellato
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Luca Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Marieke N. Hoogerwerf
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Hein Sprong
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.G.-V.); (L.T.)
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Garcia-Vozmediano A, De Meneghi D, Sprong H, Portillo A, Oteo JA, Tomassone L. A One Health Evaluation of the Surveillance Systems on Tick-Borne Diseases in the Netherlands, Spain and Italy. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9090504. [PMID: 36136720 PMCID: PMC9501221 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9090504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Ixodid ticks and tick-borne diseases are expanding their geographical range, but surveillance activities vary among countries. We analysed the surveillance systems in place in the Netherlands, Spain and Italy, to identify ideal elements to monitor tick-borne diseases, by using a One Health evaluation protocol. We identified differences among the three surveillance systems, with the Dutch initiative showing a high level of transdisciplinary collaboration, good identification of the actors and engagement of the public in research and education. Measurable outcomes have been generated, such as the reduction in tick bites and the discovery of new pathogens and tick species. In Italy and Spain, surveillance systems are based on compulsory notification to health authorities; legislation seems relevant but law enforcement alongside the availability of economic resources is rather fragmented and limited to the most severe diseases. The non-scientific community is marginally considered and collaborations are limited to local initiatives. Research activities in both countries have mostly contributed to gaining knowledge on the distribution of tick species and the discovery of new pathogens. Although all TBD surveillance plans comply with the EU regulations, the initiatives characterised by trans-disciplinary collaboration may be more effective for the surveillance and prevention of tick-transmitted diseases. Abstract To identify ideal elements for the monitoring and prevention of tick-borne diseases (TBD), we analysed the surveillance systems in place in the Netherlands, Spain and Italy. We applied a semi-quantitative evaluation to identify outcomes and assess the degree of One Health implementation. Differences emerged in the surveillance initiatives, as well as the One Health scores. The Dutch surveillance is dominated by a high level of transdisciplinary and trans-sectoral collaboration, enabling communication and data sharing among actors. Different project-based monitoring, research and educational activities are centrally coordinated and the non-scientific community is actively involved. All this yielded measurable health outcomes. In Italy and Spain, TBD surveillance and reporting systems are based on compulsory notification. Law enforcement, alongside dedicated time and availability of economic resources, is fragmented and limited to the most severe health issues. Veterinary and human medicine are the most involved disciplines, with the first prevailing in some contexts. Stakeholders are marginally considered and collaborations limited to local initiatives. Research activities have mostly contributed to gaining knowledge on the distribution of tick vectors and discovery of new pathogens. Although all TBD surveillance plans comply with EU regulations, initiatives characterised by transdisciplinary collaboration may be more effective for the surveillance and prevention of TBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L. go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Daniele De Meneghi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L. go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
- Network for EcoHealth and One Health (NEOH), European Chapter of Ecohealth International, Kreuzstrasse 2, P.O. Box, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
| | - Hein Sprong
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Aránzazu Portillo
- Center of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases (CRETAV), Department of Infectious Diseases, San Pedro University Hospital-Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Calle Piqueras 98, 26006 Logroño, La Rioja, Spain
| | - José A. Oteo
- Center of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases (CRETAV), Department of Infectious Diseases, San Pedro University Hospital-Center for Biomedical Research of La Rioja (CIBIR), Calle Piqueras 98, 26006 Logroño, La Rioja, Spain
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L. go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
- Network for EcoHealth and One Health (NEOH), European Chapter of Ecohealth International, Kreuzstrasse 2, P.O. Box, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland
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Garcia-Vozmediano A, Tomassone L, Fonville M, Bertolotti L, Heylen D, Fabri ND, Medlock JM, Nijhof AM, Hansford KM, Sprong H, Krawczyk AI. The Genetic Diversity of Rickettsiella Symbionts in Ixodes ricinus Throughout Europe. Microb Ecol 2022; 84:613-626. [PMID: 34580739 PMCID: PMC9436858 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-021-01869-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Rickettsiella species are bacterial symbionts that are present in a great variety of arthropod species, including ixodid ticks. However, little is known about their genetic diversity and distribution in Ixodes ricinus, as well as their relationship with other tick-associated bacteria. In this study, we investigated the occurrence and the genetic diversity of Rickettsiella spp. in I. ricinus throughout Europe and evaluated any preferential and antagonistic associations with Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii and the pathogens Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and Borrelia miyamotoi. Rickettsiella spp. were detected in most I. ricinus populations investigated, encompassing a wide array of climate types and environments. The infection prevalence significantly differed between geographic locations and was significantly higher in adults than in immature life stages. Phylogenetic investigations and protein characterization disclosed four Rickettsiella clades (I-IV). Close phylogenetic relations were observed between Rickettsiella strains of I. ricinus and other arthropod species. Isolation patterns were detected for Clades II and IV, which were restricted to specific geographic areas. Lastly, although coinfections occurred, we did not detect significant associations between Rickettsiella spp. and the other tick-associated bacteria investigated. Our results suggest that Rickettsiella spp. are a genetically and biologically diverse facultative symbiont of I. ricinus and that their distribution among tick populations could be influenced by environmental components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO Italy
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO Italy
| | - Manoj Fonville
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Luigi Bertolotti
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO Italy
| | - Dieter Heylen
- Eco-Epidemiology Group, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Nannet D. Fabri
- Department of Wildlife, Fish, and Environmental Studies, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 901 83 Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 7, 3584 CL Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jolyon M. Medlock
- Infections Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Ard M. Nijhof
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-von-Ostertag-Str. 7-13, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Kayleigh M. Hansford
- Infections Medical Entomology & Zoonoses Ecology, Public Health England, Porton Down, UK
| | - Hein Sprong
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Aleksandra I. Krawczyk
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University and Research Centre, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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Battistini R, Masotti C, Listorti V, Suffredini E, Maurella C, Garcia-Vozmediano A, Costa E, Iacona F, Orlandi M, Ercolini C, Serracca L. Norovirus Persistence in Oysters to Prolonged Commercial Purification. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10080944. [PMID: 34451408 PMCID: PMC8401112 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10080944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Depuration is generally the main treatment employed for bivalve mollusks harvested from contaminated sites. Commercial depuration has demonstrated to be effective for removal of bacterial pathogens, although it probably provides only limited efficacy against human enteric viruses. We evaluated the quantitative reduction of norovirus (NoV) genogroups I and II in naturally contaminated oysters after 1, 4, and 9 days of depuration. The process was conducted in an authorized depuration plant, and NoV concentration was determined by RT-qPCR according to ISO 15216-1:2017 method. Regardless of the NoV genogroup, our results showed no significant reduction in NoV concentration after 1 day of depuration. Higher mean reduction (68%) was obtained after 4 days of treatment, while no further increase was observed after 9 days. Overall, reduction was highly variable, and none of the trials showed statistically significant reduction in NoV RNA concentration at the end of each depuration period. Indeed, NoV concentration remained high in 70% of samples even after 9 days of depuration, with values ranging between 4.0 × 102 and 2.3 × 104 g.c./g. These results indicate that an extension of commercial depuration time does not appear to be effective for reducing or eliminating NoV in oysters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Battistini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (C.M.); (V.L.); (C.M.); (A.G.-V.); (C.E.); (L.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Chiara Masotti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (C.M.); (V.L.); (C.M.); (A.G.-V.); (C.E.); (L.S.)
| | - Valeria Listorti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (C.M.); (V.L.); (C.M.); (A.G.-V.); (C.E.); (L.S.)
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Cristiana Maurella
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (C.M.); (V.L.); (C.M.); (A.G.-V.); (C.E.); (L.S.)
| | - Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (C.M.); (V.L.); (C.M.); (A.G.-V.); (C.E.); (L.S.)
| | - Erica Costa
- Liguria Local Health Unit-ASL 5, Complex Unit of Hygiene of Foods and Animal Origin, 19122 La Spezia, Italy; (E.C.); (F.I.); (M.O.)
| | - Francesco Iacona
- Liguria Local Health Unit-ASL 5, Complex Unit of Hygiene of Foods and Animal Origin, 19122 La Spezia, Italy; (E.C.); (F.I.); (M.O.)
| | - Mino Orlandi
- Liguria Local Health Unit-ASL 5, Complex Unit of Hygiene of Foods and Animal Origin, 19122 La Spezia, Italy; (E.C.); (F.I.); (M.O.)
| | - Carlo Ercolini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (C.M.); (V.L.); (C.M.); (A.G.-V.); (C.E.); (L.S.)
| | - Laura Serracca
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d’Aosta, 10154 Turin, Italy; (C.M.); (V.L.); (C.M.); (A.G.-V.); (C.E.); (L.S.)
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Garcia-Vozmediano A, Giglio G, Ramassa E, Nobili F, Rossi L, Tomassone L. Low Risk Perception about Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases in an Area Recently Invaded by Ticks in Northwestern Italy. Vet Sci 2021; 8:vetsci8070131. [PMID: 34357923 PMCID: PMC8310202 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci8070131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Risk perception, together with the adoption of measures to prevent tick bites, may strongly influence human exposure to ticks and transmitted pathogens. We created a questionnaire to evaluate how people perceive the health risk posed by ticks in an area recently invaded by these arthropods, in the western Italian Alps. Moreover, through a collaborative effort with park rangers and physicians, we investigated which tick species bite humans and their infection with pathogens (Borrelia burgdorferi s.l., Anaplasma phagocytophilum, and spotted-fever group Rickettsiae). Apart from two Dermacentor marginatus bites, we identified Ixodes ricinus (n = 124) as the main species responsible for tick bites. The investigated pathogens infected 25.4% of tested I. ricinus. The evaluation of the engorgement rate of biting I. ricinus revealed that they had been likely feeding on humans for 24 h or more, suggesting a high probability of pathogen transmission. Indeed, the questionnaires revealed that people infrequently adopt preventive measures, such as inspecting the body for ticks, although most respondents claimed that ticks are a threat to human health. Having suffered from previous tick bites was positively associated with the adoption of personal protection measures. Given the increasing incidence of tick-borne diseases in the region, the public should be better informed about the possibility of being bitten by infected ticks in order to mitigate the risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (A.G.-V.); (G.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Giorgia Giglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (A.G.-V.); (G.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Elisa Ramassa
- Ente di Gestione delle Aree Protette delle Alpi Cozie, Via Fransuà Fontan, 1, 10050 Salbertrand, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Nobili
- Ente di Gestione delle Aree Protette del Po Torinese, Corso Trieste 98, 10024 Moncalieri, Italy;
| | - Luca Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (A.G.-V.); (G.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (A.G.-V.); (G.G.); (L.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-011-670-9195
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Garcia-Vozmediano A, Giglio G, Ramassa E, Nobili F, Rossi L, Tomassone L. Dermacentor marginatus and Dermacentor reticulatus, and Their Infection by SFG Rickettsiae and Francisella-Like Endosymbionts, in Mountain and Periurban Habitats of Northwestern Italy. Vet Sci 2020; 7:E157. [PMID: 33081422 PMCID: PMC7712301 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7040157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the distribution of Dermacentor spp. and their infection by zoonotic bacteria causing SENLAT (scalp eschar neck lymphadenopathy) in Turin province, northwestern Italy. We collected ticks in a mountain and in a periurban park, from vegetation and different animal sources, and we sampled tissues from wild boar. Dermacentor marginatus (n = 121) was collected in both study areas, on vegetation, humans, and animals, while D. reticulatus (n = 13) was exclusively collected on wild boar from the periurban area. Rickettsia slovaca and Candidatus Rickettsia rioja infected 53.1% of the ticks, and R. slovaca was also identified in 11.3% of wild boar tissues. Bartonella spp. and Francisella tularensis were not detected, however, Francisella-like endosymbionts infected both tick species (9.2%). Our findings provide new insights on the current distribution of Dermacentor spp. and their infection with a spotted-fever group rickettsiae in the Alps region. Wild boar seem to play a major role in their eco-epidemiology and dispersion in the study area. Although further studies are needed to assess the burden of rickettsial diseases, our results highlight the risk of contracting SENLAT infection through Dermacentor spp. bites in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (G.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Giorgia Giglio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (G.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Elisa Ramassa
- Ente di gestione delle aree protette delle Alpi Cozie, Via Fransuà Fontan, 1, 10050 Salbertrand, Italy;
| | - Fabrizio Nobili
- Ente di Gestione delle Aree Protette del Po Torinese, Corso Trieste, 98, 10024 Moncalieri, Italy;
| | - Luca Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (G.G.); (L.R.)
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, Italy; (G.G.); (L.R.)
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Garcia-Vozmediano A, Krawczyk AI, Sprong H, Rossi L, Ramassa E, Tomassone L. Ticks climb the mountains: Ixodid tick infestation and infection by tick-borne pathogens in the Western Alps. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 11:101489. [PMID: 32723635 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In mountain areas of northwestern Italy, ticks were rarely collected in the past. In recent years, a marked increase in tick abundance has been observed in several Alpine valleys, together with more frequent reports of Lyme borreliosis. We then carried out a four-year study to assess the distribution and abundance of ticks and transmitted pathogens and determine their altitudinal limit in a natural park area in Piedmont region. Ixodes ricinus and Dermacentor marginatus were collected from both the vegetation and hunted wild ungulates. Tick abundance was significantly associated with altitude, habitat type and signs of animal presence, roe deer's in particular. Ixodes ricinus prevailed in distribution and abundance and, although their numbers decreased with increasing altitude, we recorded the presence of all active life stages of up to around 1700 m a.s.l., with conifers as the second most infested habitat after deciduous woods. Molecular analyses demonstrated the infection of questing I. ricinus nymphs with B. burgdorferi sensu lato (15.5 %), Rickettsia helvetica and R. monacensis (20.7 %), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (1.9 %), Borrelia miyamotoi (0.5 %) and Neoehrlichia mikurensis (0.5 %). One third of the questing D. marginatus were infected with R. slovaca. We observed a spatial aggregation of study sites infested by B. burgdorferi s.l. infected ticks below 1400 m. Borrelia-infected nymphs prevailed in open areas, while SFG rickettsiae prevalence was higher in coniferous and deciduous woods. Interestingly, prevalence of SFG rickettsiae in ticks doubled above 1400 m, and R. helvetica was the only pathogen detected above 1800 m a.s.l. Tick infestation on hunted wild ungulates indicated the persistence of tick activity during winter months and, when compared to past studies, confirmed the recent spread of I. ricinus in the area. Our study provides new insights into the population dynamics of ticks in the Alps and confirms a further expansion of ticks to higher altitudes in Europe. We underline the importance of adopting a multidisciplinary approach in order to develop effective strategies for the surveillance of tick-borne diseases, and inform the public about the hazard posed by ticks, especially in recently invaded areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy.
| | - Aleksandra Iwona Krawczyk
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 BA Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Hein Sprong
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 BA Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Luca Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy.
| | - Elisa Ramassa
- Ente di gestione delle aree protette delle Alpi Cozie, Via Fransuà Fontan, 1, 10050 Salbertrand TO, Italy.
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy.
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