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Raso C, Galietta V, Eleni C, Innocenti M, Fonti N, Palmerini T, Grillo M, Calderini P, Borgogni E. Ectopic Pregnancy and T-Cell Lymphoma in a Eurasian Red Squirrel ( Sciurus vulgaris): Possible Comorbidity and a Comparative Pathology Perspective. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:731. [PMID: 38473116 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050731] [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: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Ectopic pregnancy (EP) is a life-threatening disease that affects humans and other mammals. Tumors causing ruptures of the reproductive tract have been identified as possible predisposing factors in human and veterinary medicine. We here describe a case of concomitant ectopic pregnancy and lymphoma in a Eurasian red squirrel found deceased in Italy and submitted to the public health laboratory Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e della Toscana (IZSLT) for post-mortem examination. A full-term partially mummified ectopic fetus in the abdomen and a large fibrinonecrotic tubal scar adjacent to the right ovary were observed at necropsy. The tubal scar is likely the point of tubal rupture through which the fetus displaced. Histology revealed the presence of neoplastic cells referable to lymphoma infiltrating the ovary, spleen, small intestine, heart and peripancreatic adipose tissue. The lymphoma was further characterized as T-cell-type using immunohistochemistry. We suggest that the lymphoma, by involving the ovary, played a pathogenetic role in the development of a secondary EP by altering the genital tract at the structural and hormonal levels. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of concomitant ovarian lymphoma and EP in animals and humans in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Raso
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Della Toscana "M. Aleandri", 02100 Rieti, Italy
| | - Valentina Galietta
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Della Toscana "M. Aleandri", 00178 Roma, Italy
| | - Claudia Eleni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Della Toscana "M. Aleandri", 00178 Roma, Italy
| | | | - Niccolò Fonti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, Viale delle Piagge, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Tiziana Palmerini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Della Toscana "M. Aleandri", 00178 Roma, Italy
| | - Mauro Grillo
- UOC Igiene e Sanità Animale, ASL Rieti, 02100 Rieti, Italy
| | - Pietro Calderini
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Della Toscana "M. Aleandri", 02100 Rieti, Italy
| | - Elena Borgogni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Lazio e Della Toscana "M. Aleandri", 02100 Rieti, Italy
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Wijburg SR, Montizaan MGE, Kik MJL, Joeres M, Cardron G, Luttermann C, Maas M, Maksimov P, Opsteegh M, Schares G. Drivers of infection with Toxoplasma gondii genotype type II in Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris). Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:30. [PMID: 38263195 PMCID: PMC10804655 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06068-6] [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: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In September 2014, there was sudden upsurge in the number of Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) found dead in the Netherlands. High infection levels with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii were demonstrated, but it was unclear what had caused this increase in cases of fatal toxoplasmosis. In the present study, we aimed to gain more knowledge on the pathology and prevalence of T. gondii infections in Eurasian red squirrels in the Netherlands, on the T. gondii genotypes present, and on the determinants of the spatiotemporal variability in these T. gondii infections. The presence of the closely related parasite Hammondia hammondi was also determined. METHODS Eurasian red squirrels that were found dead in the wild or that had died in wildlife rescue centres in the Netherlands over a period of seven years (2014-2020) were examined. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was conducted to analyse tissue samples for the presence of T. gondii and H. hammondi DNA. Toxoplasma gondii-positive samples were subjected to microsatellite typing and cluster analysis. A mixed logistic regression was used to identify climatic and other environmental predictors of T. gondii infection in the squirrels. RESULTS A total of 178 squirrels were examined (49/178 T. gondii positive, 5/178 H. hammondi positive). Inflammation of multiple organs was the cause of death in 29 squirrels, of which 24 were also T. gondii polymerase chain reaction positive. Toxoplasma gondii infection was positively associated with pneumonia and hepatitis. Microsatellite typing revealed only T. gondii type II alleles. Toxoplasma gondii infection rates showed a positive correlation with the number of days of heavy rainfall in the previous 12 months. Conversely, they showed a negative association with the number of hot days within the 2-week period preceding the sampling date, as well as with the percentage of deciduous forest cover at the sampling site. CONCLUSIONS Toxoplasma gondii infection in the squirrels appeared to pose a significant risk of acute mortality. The T. gondii genotype detected in this study is commonly found across Europe. The reasons for the unusually high infection rates and severe symptoms of these squirrels from the Netherlands remain unclear. The prevalence of T. gondii in the deceased squirrels was linked to specific environmental factors. However, whether the increase in the number of dead squirrels indicated a higher environmental contamination with T. gondii oocysts has yet to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara R Wijburg
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Centre for Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie Van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
- Dutch Wildlife Health Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Margriet G E Montizaan
- Dutch Wildlife Health Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marja J L Kik
- Dutch Wildlife Health Centre, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Utrecht, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department Biomolecular Health Sciences, Pathology, Veterinair Pathologisch Diagnostisch Centrum, Yalelaan 1, 3584 CL, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Maike Joeres
- Institute of Epidemiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493, Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Garance Cardron
- Institute of Epidemiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493, Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Christine Luttermann
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493, Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Miriam Maas
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Centre for Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie Van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Pavlo Maksimov
- Institute of Epidemiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493, Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Marieke Opsteegh
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, Centre for Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie Van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Gereon Schares
- Institute of Epidemiology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Südufer 10, 17493, Greifswald - Insel Riems, Germany.
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Torres-Blas I, Horsler H, Paredes UM, Perkins M, Priestnall SL, Brekke P. Impact of exposure to urban air pollution on grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) lung health. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 326:121312. [PMID: 36893972 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The increased rate of global urbanisation has recently exacerbated the significant public health problem of traffic related air pollution. Despite the known significant impact on human health, little is known about the effects of air pollution on wildlife health. The lung is the primary target organ for the effects of exposure to air pollution, leading to lung inflammation, altering the lung epigenome, culminating in respiratory disease. In this study, we aimed to assess lung health and DNA methylation profiles in Eastern grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) populations living across an urban-rural air pollution gradient. Squirrel lung health was assessed in four populations situated across the most polluted inner-city boroughs to the less polluted edges of Greater London. We also assessed lung DNA methylation across three London sites and a further two rural sites in Sussex and North Wales. Lung and tracheal diseases were present in 28% and 13% of the squirrels respectively. Specifically, focal inflammation (13%), focal macrophages with vacuolated cytoplasm (3%) and endogenous lipid pneumonia (3%). There was no significant difference in prevalence of lung, tracheal diseases, anthracosis (carbon presence) or lung DNA methylation levels between urban sites and urban and rural sites respectively or NO2 levels. BALT (Bronchus-Associated Lymphoid Tissue) was significantly smaller in the site with highest NO2 and contained the highest carbon loading compared to sites with lower NO2, however differences in carbon loading in between sites were not significant. High pollution site individuals also had significantly higher numbers of alveolar macrophages which suggests that grey squirrels are exposed to and respond to traffic-related air pollution and further research is needed to understand the impact of traffic-related air pollutants on wildlife health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Torres-Blas
- Dept Pathobiology & Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, N Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, UK; Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Helen Horsler
- The Francis Crick Institute, 1 Midland Road, London, NW1 1AT, UK
| | - Ursula M Paredes
- School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Matthew Perkins
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK
| | - Simon L Priestnall
- Dept Pathobiology & Population Sciences, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, N Mymms, Hatfield, AL9 7TA, UK
| | - Patricia Brekke
- Institute of Zoology, Zoological Society of London, Regent's Park, London, NW1 4RY, UK.
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Veronesi F, Deak G, Diakou A. Wild Mesocarnivores as Reservoirs of Endoparasites Causing Important Zoonoses and Emerging Bridging Infections across Europe. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020178. [PMID: 36839450 PMCID: PMC9964259 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesocarnivores are small- or mid-sized carnivore species that display a variety of ecologies and behaviours. In Europe, wild mesocarnivores are represented by the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), the golden jackal (Canis aureus), the European wildcat (Felis silvestris), the Mustelidae of the genera Meles, Martes, Mustela, Lutra, the invasive species of raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides), raccoons (Procyon lotor), and American mink (Neogale vison). These abundant animals thrive in various habitats and often develop their activity close to human settlements. Thus, they may play an important role in the introduction, maintenance, and transmission of major parasitic zoonoses and promote bridging infections with domestic animals. Against this background, this article reports and discusses some of the most important endoparasites of wild mesocarnivores living in Europe, on the basis of their actual role as reservoirs, spreaders, or sentinels. The data derived from epizootiological studies in different European countries, and the proven or speculated implications of the detected endoparasites in human and domestic animals' health, are discussed. Through older and recent literature review, the state-of-the-art knowledge on the occurrence and prevalence of the parasites under consideration is presented, showing further, warranted investigations and the need for surveillance and vigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizia Veronesi
- Parasitology Laboratory of the University Teaching Hospital, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, 06124 Perugia, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (G.D.); (A.D.)
| | - Georgiana Deak
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (G.D.); (A.D.)
| | - Anastasia Diakou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece
- Correspondence: (F.V.); (G.D.); (A.D.)
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Nielsen SS, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar C, Herskin M, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Ståhl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Winckler C, Baldinelli F, Broglia A, Kohnle L, Alvarez J. Assessment of listing and categorisation of animal diseases within the framework of the Animal Health Law (Regulation (EU) No 2016/429): antimicrobial-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in cattle and horses. EFSA J 2022; 20:e07312. [PMID: 35582361 PMCID: PMC9087474 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2022.7312] [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] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was identified among the most relevant antimicrobial-resistant (AMR) bacteria in the EU for cattle and horses in previous scientific opinions. Thus, it has been assessed according to the criteria of the Animal Health Law (AHL), in particular criteria of Article 7 on disease profile and impacts, Article 5 on its eligibility to be listed, Annex IV for its categorisation according to disease prevention and control rules as in Article 9, and Article 8 for listing animal species related to the bacterium. The assessment has been performed following a methodology previously published. The outcome is the median of the probability ranges provided by the experts, which indicates whether each criterion is fulfilled (lower bound ≥ 66%) or not (upper bound ≤ 33%), or whether there is uncertainty about fulfilment. Reasoning points are reported for criteria with uncertain outcome. According to the assessment here performed, it is uncertain whether AMR S. aureus can be considered eligible to be listed for Union intervention according to Article 5 of the AHL (60-90% probability). According to the criteria in Annex IV, for the purpose of categorisation related to the level of prevention and control as in Article 9 of the AHL, the AHAW Panel concluded that the bacterium does not meet the criteria in Sections 1, 2 and 4 (Categories A, B and D; 1-5%, 5-10% and 10-33% probability of meeting the criteria, respectively) and the AHAW Panel was uncertain whether it meets the criteria in Sections 3 and 5 (Categories C and E, 33-90% and 60-90% probability of meeting the criteria, respectively). The animal species to be listed for AMR S. aureus according to Article 8 criteria include mainly mammals, birds, reptiles and fish.
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A Peek into the Bacterial Microbiome of the Eurasian Red Squirrel ( Sciurus vulgaris). Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12050666. [PMID: 35268234 PMCID: PMC8909207 DOI: 10.3390/ani12050666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sciurus vulgaris (the Eurasian red squirrel) is native to Europe and Asia, but due to habitat destruction or fragmentation, interspecific competition, and infectious diseases, especially in European island areas the species finds itself at the brink of extinction. The repopulation of such bare habitats requires healthy squirrel specimens, either translocated from other wild habitats or reintroduced to the wilderness following captive breeding. Captivity, nonetheless, has shown an immense capacity to reshape the structure of wild species’ microbiota, adapting it to the less diverse diet and fewer environmental challenges. Therefore, assessing the differences between “wild” and “captive” microbiota in this species could elucidate if special living conditions are needed in order to augment the survival rate of specimens reintroduced into the wild. Furthermore, the microflora profile of the normal flora of healthy red squirrels raised in captivity could support clinicians in addressing infectious diseases episodes and also raise awareness on the zoonotic risk. Hence, this study aimed at documenting the bacterial species carried by S. vulgaris, disclosing overall similarities and variability patterns of the microbiota identified in individuals from two different living environments. We anticipated that the bacterial community would be less diverse in individuals raised in captivity, owing to their restrictive diet and to unchanging conditions in the enclosure. We also hypothesized that there would be a higher prevalence of zoonotic microorganisms in the captive animals, due to the proximity of humans and of other domestic species. To test this, samples (n = 100) were taken from five body regions of 20 red squirrels, both free-ranging and bred in captivity, processed by classical microbiology techniques, and further identified by biochemical assay (VITEK®2 Compact System). A relatively poor bacterial community, comprising 62 bacterial strains belonging to 18 species and 8 different genera, was identified. Most of these microorganisms were reported for the first time in S. vulgaris. With no discrimination between living environments, the highest prevalence (p < 0.001), was registered in Staphylococcus sciuri (60%; 12/20), followed by Escherichia coli (45%; 9/20) and Bacillus cereus (35%; 7/20). The results suggest unremarkable differences in diversity and richness of the resident aerobic microbiota of S. vulgaris, in relation to the living environment.
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Hepatozoon in Eurasian red squirrels Sciurus vulgaris, its taxonomic identity, and phylogenetic placement. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:2989-2993. [PMID: 34331136 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07229-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Adeleorid apicomplexan parasites of the genus Hepatozoon Miller, 1908 are broadly distributed among the rodents. Broader molecular data on Hepatozoon from Palaearctic squirrels are necessary for evaluation of diversity and origin of Hepatozoon in Eurasian red squirrel Sciurus vulgaris populations, considering ongoing invasion by Gray squirrel S. carolinensis. Our report brings a set of molecular data from a population of S. vulgaris in the Czech Republic, non-invaded by any invasive squirrel species. Cadavers of 41 Eurasian red squirrels were examined using nested PCR targeting 18S rRNA gene; 30 animals tested positive for the presence of Hepatozoon spp. DNA in at least one tissue. Phylogenetic analysis of obtained sequence types revealed relatedness to sequences of Hepatozoon sp. from S. vulgaris from Spain and the Netherlands, forming a sister clade to Hepatozoon isolates from other European rodents. The fact that all available 18S rRNA gene sequences form a monophyletic clade is interpreted as a presence of a single Hepatozoon species in S. vulgaris in continental Europe, most probably Hepatozoon sciuri. The presented molecular data on the Hepatozoon from European squirrels provides a basis for future studies on possible exchange of Hepatozoon species between Eurasian red and gray squirrels.
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Fingland K, Ward SJ, Bates AJ, Bremner‐Harrison S. A systematic review into the suitability of urban refugia for the Eurasian red squirrel
Sciurus vulgaris. Mamm Rev 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/mam.12264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Fingland
- School of Animal Rural and Environmental Sciences Nottingham Trent University Southwell NottinghamshireNG25 0QFUK
| | - Samantha J. Ward
- School of Animal Rural and Environmental Sciences Nottingham Trent University Southwell NottinghamshireNG25 0QFUK
| | - Adam J. Bates
- School of Animal Rural and Environmental Sciences Nottingham Trent University Southwell NottinghamshireNG25 0QFUK
| | - Samantha Bremner‐Harrison
- School of Animal Rural and Environmental Sciences Nottingham Trent University Southwell NottinghamshireNG25 0QFUK
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DIAGNOSING AND CATEGORIZING LEPROSY IN LIVE EURASIAN RED SQUIRRELS ( SCIURUS VULGARIS) FOR MANAGEMENT, SURVEILLANCE, AND TRANSLOCATION PURPOSES. J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 52:648-659. [PMID: 34130408 DOI: 10.1638/2020-0066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of Mycobacterium lepromatosis and Mycobacterium leprae in Eurasian red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris, ERS) carcasses throughout the British Isles, and leprosy as a disease, have recently been reported using histological and molecular diagnostic methods. In 2016, the first longitudinal study of ERS affected by leprosy was initiated. One of the main challenges was the reliable diagnosis of leprosy in live ERS, which is important for (a) welfare and case management and (b) surveillance or pretranslocation screening efforts. We explored diagnostic methods ranging from detailed clinical assessment and informative categorization of observed lesions, thermal imaging, serology (antiphenolic glycolipid-I antibody [αPGL-I] detection) to molecular methods (polymerase chain reaction [PCR]). For PCR the ear was established as the optimal sampling site. Based on the experiences from this 2-yr study we propose an objective categorization system for clinical lesions and a diagnostic framework for the combination of the diagnostic tools we found to be effective in live ERS: clinical assessment, αPGL-I serology, and PCR. Thermal imaging did not offer additional information for leprosy diagnostics in ERS. We propose an amended definition of leprosy lesions in ERS as "skin areas of local hair loss, in which a firm-rubbery, glossy swelling develops, that may ulcerate" and standardized terminology for describing ERS leprosy status. The information presented forms the basis of a consistent, reliable diagnostic and reporting system for leprosy cases in ERS.
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Hardouin EA, Butler H, Cvitanović M, Ulrich RG, Schulze V, Schilling AK, Lurz PWW, Meredith A, Hodder KH. Wildlife conservation in a fragmented landscape: the Eurasian red squirrel on the Isle of Wight. CONSERV GENET 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10592-021-01380-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIsland populations may have a higher extinction risk due to reduced genetic diversity and need to be managed effectively in order to reduce the risk of biodiversity loss. The Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) in the south of England only survive on three islands (the Isle of Wight, Brownsea and Furzey islands), with the Isle of Wight harbouring the largest population in the region. Fourteen microsatellites were used to determine the genetic structure of red squirrel populations on the Isle of Wight, as well as their relatedness to other populations of the species. Our results demonstrated that squirrels on these islands were less genetically diverse than those in Continental mainland populations, as would be expected. It also confirmed previous results from mitochondrial DNA which indicated that the squirrels on the Isle of Wight were relatively closely related to Brownsea island squirrels in the south of England. Importantly, our findings showed that genetic mixing between squirrels in the east and west of the Isle of Wight was very limited. Given the potential deleterious effects of small population size on genetic health, landscape management to encourage dispersal of squirrels between these populations should be a priority.
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HEMATOLOGIC AND BIOCHEMICAL VALUES OF THE JUVENILE EASTERN GRAY SQUIRREL ( SCIURUS CAROLINENSIS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 50:644-649. [PMID: 33517634 DOI: 10.1638/2018-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Venous blood samples were collected from 64 apparently healthy juvenile Eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) after sedation with midazolam at the Wildlife Center of Texas located in Houston, Texas, during 2012. Blood gas (pH, PCO2, PO2, base excess, bicarbonate, oxygen saturation), electrolyte (sodium, potassium), biochemical (total CO2, ionized calcium, glucose), and hematologic parameters (hematocrit, hemoglobin, complete blood count) were determined using the i-STAT point-of-care analyzer. Sex did not affect any analyte. All squirrels recovered uneventfully and were successfully rehabilitated and released. Most values were as expected based on comparison to other young rodent species. These analyte data for healthy juvenile Eastern gray squirrels may be useful in assessment of Eastern gray squirrel population health and management and treatment of individual squirrels presented in need of medical care.
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Luu L, Palomar AM, Farrington G, Schilling AK, Premchand-Branker S, McGarry J, Makepeace BL, Meredith A, Bell-Sakyi L. Bacterial Pathogens and Symbionts Harboured by Ixodes ricinus Ticks Parasitising Red Squirrels in the United Kingdom. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10040458. [PMID: 33920445 PMCID: PMC8070177 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10040458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) are native to most of Eurasia; in much of the United Kingdom, they have been supplanted by the non-native grey squirrel, and are considered an endangered species. Very little is known about the range of tick-borne pathogens to which UK red squirrels are exposed. As part of trap-and-release surveys examining prevalence of Mycobacterium spp. in red squirrel populations on two UK islands, Ixodes ricinus ticks were removed from squirrels and PCR screened for Borrelia spp., intracellular arthropod-borne bacteria and the parasitic wasp Ixodiphagus hookeri. At both sites, the most commonly encountered tick-transmitted bacterium was Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (overall minimum prevalence 12.7%), followed by Anaplasma phagocytophilum (overall minimum prevalence 1.6%). Single ticks infected with Spiroplasma were found at both sites, and single ticks infected with Borrelia miyamotoi or an Ehrlichia sp. at one site. Ticks harbouring Wolbachia (overall minimum prevalence 15.2%) were all positive for I. hookeri. Our study shows that UK red squirrels are potentially exposed to a variety of bacterial pathogens via feeding ticks. The effects on the health and survival of this already vulnerable wildlife species are unknown, and further studies are needed to evaluate the threat posed to red squirrels by Borrelia and other tick-borne pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Luu
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
| | - Ana M. Palomar
- Centre of Rickettsiosis and Arthropod-Borne Diseases, Hospital Universitario San Pedro-CIBIR, 26006 Logroño, Spain;
| | - Gemma Farrington
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
| | - Anna-Katarina Schilling
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK; (A.-K.S.); (A.M.)
| | - Shonnette Premchand-Branker
- Department of Biology, University of York, Wentworth Way, York YO10 5DD, UK;
- The Pirbright Institute, Ash Road, Pirbright, Surrey GU24 0NF, UK
| | - John McGarry
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
| | - Benjamin L. Makepeace
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
| | - Anna Meredith
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Midlothian EH25 9RG, UK; (A.-K.S.); (A.M.)
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Lesley Bell-Sakyi
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; (L.L.); (G.F.); (J.M.); (B.L.M.)
- The Pirbright Institute, Ash Road, Pirbright, Surrey GU24 0NF, UK
- Correspondence:
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13
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Passantino G, Tursi M, Vercelli C, Filippi I, Decaro N, Tinelli A, Valente L, Leone R, Zizzo N. Systematic Pathologic Findings Report of Callosciurus finlaysonii (Horsfield, 1823) (Rodentia, Sciuridae) Squirrels from Maratea area (South Italy) to Investigate Species-Specific Pathologies, Reliability of CO 2 Euthanasia Method, and Possible Use as Environmental Sentinels. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10101771. [PMID: 33008088 PMCID: PMC7600486 DOI: 10.3390/ani10101771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Sciurus vulgaris has been considered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to the risk of extinction caused by the invasion of the invasive species (IAS) such as Callosciurus finlaysonii Horsfield, 1823. This species originated from Southeast Asia and it was introduced in Italy, in 1980. These animals could cause the extinction of the autochthonous counterpart and might also represent a concern, due to the progressive and unavoidable invasion of urban areas. Abstract The aim of the present study was to macroscopically and microscopically describe the main pathological findings occurring in this invasive species, in order to better understand the real risks for naïve animals and humans. The present study was conducted on Callosciurusfinlaysonii squirrels (n = 165), captured in the Maratea area and euthanatized with CO2 according to a population control of invasive species of the Italian Agriculture Ministry project (ex CIPE project) and conferred to the Department of Veterinary Medicine of Bari (Italy). Macroscopic analysis demonstrated heart, lung, and liver congestion, probably due to the euthanasia method, and variable lesions of bowel, liver, and kidney. The microscopically examination showed the presence of lymphocytic infiltration in the lower layers of the bowel, suggesting enteritis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first systemic report of gross and microscopical anatomopathological lesions in C.finlaysonii, in South Italy. The results could be useful to fill a gap of knowledge of this species in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Passantino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Strada Prov.le per Casamassima Km, 3 70010 Valenzano (Bari), Italy; (N.D.); (A.T.); (L.V.); (R.L.); (N.Z.)
- Correspondence: (G.P.); (C.V.); Tel.: +39-(0)8-0467-9842 (G.P.); +39-(0)1-1670-9710 (C.V.)
| | - Massimiliano Tursi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Turin Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco (Turin), Italy;
| | - Cristina Vercelli
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, School of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Turin Largo Braccini 2, 10095 Grugliasco (Turin), Italy;
- Correspondence: (G.P.); (C.V.); Tel.: +39-(0)8-0467-9842 (G.P.); +39-(0)1-1670-9710 (C.V.)
| | - Ilaria Filippi
- Independent Researcher, 00045 Genzano di Roma (Roma), Italy;
| | - Nicola Decaro
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Strada Prov.le per Casamassima Km, 3 70010 Valenzano (Bari), Italy; (N.D.); (A.T.); (L.V.); (R.L.); (N.Z.)
| | - Antonella Tinelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Strada Prov.le per Casamassima Km, 3 70010 Valenzano (Bari), Italy; (N.D.); (A.T.); (L.V.); (R.L.); (N.Z.)
| | - Luciana Valente
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Strada Prov.le per Casamassima Km, 3 70010 Valenzano (Bari), Italy; (N.D.); (A.T.); (L.V.); (R.L.); (N.Z.)
| | - Rosa Leone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Strada Prov.le per Casamassima Km, 3 70010 Valenzano (Bari), Italy; (N.D.); (A.T.); (L.V.); (R.L.); (N.Z.)
| | - Nicola Zizzo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Strada Prov.le per Casamassima Km, 3 70010 Valenzano (Bari), Italy; (N.D.); (A.T.); (L.V.); (R.L.); (N.Z.)
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14
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PROGNOSTIC INDICATORS FOR SURVIVAL OF ORPHANED EASTERN GRAY SQUIRRELS ( SCIURUS CAROLINENSIS). J Zoo Wildl Med 2020; 51:275-279. [PMID: 32549555 DOI: 10.1638/2019-0124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The eastern grey squirrel (EGS), Sciurus carolinensis, is a tree squirrel native to the eastern United States. This species commonly presents to wildlife medical clinics for a variety of human-related injuries including confrontations with road traffic and pet predation. The purpose of this study was to assess initial examination findings as prognostic indicators for survival in EGS. The medical record database of the University of Illinois Wildlife Medical Clinic was searched from January 2012 through December 2018 for records of EGS weighing <300 g. The squirrels were identified as survivors (individuals surviving, released, or transferred to a rehabilitator within 72 hr of intake) or nonsurvivors (individuals euthanized or dying within 72 hr of intake after receiving medical care). Presenting weight, health status, method of feeding, and singleton versus group presentation were categorically recorded for each case. The data were modeled using a series of candidate logistic regression models fitted using the generalized linear model. An information theoretical approach determined the best fit model. A total of 955 EGS were included in this study. Factors that predicted a nonsurvivor status included EGSs that presented with any health system abnormality (odds ratio [OR], 4.81; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.34-6.72), EGSs that presented between December and May (OR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.12-2.27) rather than between June and November, and individuals with neurologic signs (OR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.51-4.51) compared with EGSs without neurologic signs. Despite not being included in the final model, the presence of respiratory signs (OR, 3.43; 95% CI, 2.41-4.89) and diarrhea (OR, 4.01; 95% CI, 1.59-10.09) were significantly associated with a higher likelihood of nonsurvival status. Wildlife medical clinics and rehabilitation centers may use this information by initiating more aggressive therapies or instituting distinct euthanasia protocols for EGS that present with body system abnormalities, particularly neurologic clinical signs, and those that present in the winter months.
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15
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Viral enteritis causes deaths and stunting in neonatal piglets in Scotland. Vet Rec 2020; 185:719-723. [PMID: 31831694 DOI: 10.1136/vr.l6948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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16
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Kvicerova J, Hofmannova L, Scognamiglio F, Santoro M. Eimeria sciurorum (Apicomplexa, Coccidia) From the Calabrian Black Squirrel ( Sciurus meridionalis): An Example of Lower Host Specificity of Eimerians. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:369. [PMID: 32850991 PMCID: PMC7399200 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Host specificity plays one of the key roles in parasitism. It affects the evolution and diversification of both host and parasite, as well as it influences their geographical distribution, and epidemiological significance. For most of parasites, however, host specificity is unknown or misrepresented because it is difficult to be determined accurately. Here we provide the information about the lower host specificity of Eimeria sciurorum infecting squirrels, and its new host record for the Calabrian black squirrel Sciurus meridionalis, a southern Italian endemic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Kvicerova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Lada Hofmannova
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences Brno, Brno, Czechia
| | - Francesca Scognamiglio
- Department of Animal Health, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Portici, Italy
| | - Mario Santoro
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Naples, Italy
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17
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Heaton CJ, Gerbig GR, Sensius LD, Patel V, Smith TC. Staphylococcus aureus Epidemiology in Wildlife: A Systematic Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:E89. [PMID: 32085586 PMCID: PMC7168057 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9020089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Staphylococcus aureus is a common bacterial colonizer of humans and a variety of animal species. Many strains have zoonotic potential, moving between humans and animals, including livestock, pets, and wildlife. We examined publications reporting on S. aureus presence in a variety of wildlife species in order to more cohesively review distribution of strains and antibiotic resistance in wildlife. Fifty-one studies were included in the final qualitative synthesis. The most common types documented included ST398, ST425, ST1, ST133, ST130, and ST15. A mix of methicillin-resistant and methicillin-susceptible strains were noted. A number of molecular types were identified that were likely to be found in wildlife species, including those that are commonly found in humans or other animal species (including livestock). Additional research should include follow-up in geographic areas that are under-sampled in this study, which is dominated by European studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Tara C. Smith
- Kent State University, College of Public Health, Kent, OH 44240, USA; (C.J.H.); (G.R.G.); (L.D.S.); (V.P.)
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18
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Holmes P, Everest DJ, Spiro S, Wessels M, Shuttleworth C. First report of dermatophilosis in wild European red squirrels (
Sciurus vulgaris
). VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1136/vetreccr-2019-000838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Holmes
- Shrewsbury Veterinary Investigation CentreAnimal and Plant Health AgencyShrewsburySY1 4HDUK
| | - David J Everest
- Pathology and Animal SciencesAPHA WeybridgeWoodham LaneAddlestoneSurreyKT15 3NBUK
| | - Simon Spiro
- Pathology and Animal SciencesAPHA WeybridgeWoodham LaneAddlestoneSurreyKT15 3NBUK
- Department of Pathobiology and Population SciencesRoyal Veterinary CollegeHatfieldHertfordshireAL9 7TAUK
| | - Mark Wessels
- Departemnt of HistopathologyFinn PathologistsDissUK
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19
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Yu JH, Durrant KL, Liu S, Carlin EP, Wang C, Rodriguez J, Bratthauer A, Walsh T, Valitutto MT, Fine L, Murray S, Fleischer RC. First Report of a Novel Hepatozoon sp. in Giant Pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca). ECOHEALTH 2019; 16:338-345. [PMID: 31147811 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-019-01416-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The first report of giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) infected with a novel Hepatozoon species is presented. An intraleukocytic parasite was detected via routine blood smear from a zoo-housed giant panda at the National Zoological Park. Ribosomal DNA sequences indicated a previously undescribed Hepatozoon species. Phylogenetic and distance analyses of the sequences placed it within its own branch, clustered with Old World species with carnivore (primarily ursid and mustelid) hosts. Retrospective and opportunistic testing of other individuals produced additional positive detections (17/23, 73.9%), demonstrating 100% prevalence (14/14) across five institutions. All animals were asymptomatic at time of sampling, and health implications for giant pandas remain unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer H Yu
- Global Health Program, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA.
| | - Kate L Durrant
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- Center for Conservation Genomics, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
| | - Songrui Liu
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ellen P Carlin
- Global Health Program, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, USA
| | - Chengdong Wang
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China
| | - Juan Rodriguez
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
| | - Ann Bratthauer
- Department of Pathology, Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tim Walsh
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, USA
| | - Marc T Valitutto
- Global Health Program, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
| | - Leah Fine
- Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Suzan Murray
- Global Health Program, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
| | - Robert C Fleischer
- Center for Conservation Genomics, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
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20
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Hutchison M. Releasing grey squirrels into the wild. Vet Rec 2019; 184:655. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.l3099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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21
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McInnes C. Why do red squirrels die? Vet Rec 2018; 183:500-501. [PMID: 30361223 DOI: 10.1136/vr.k4414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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22
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Blackett TA, Simpson VR, Haugland S, Everest DJ, Muir CF, Smith KC, Mill AC. Mortalities, amyloidosis and other diseases in free-living red squirrels ( Sciurus vulgaris) on Jersey, Channel Islands. Vet Rec 2018; 183:503. [PMID: 30181130 DOI: 10.1136/vr.104779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Between 2007 and 2014, 337 free-living red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) on Jersey, Channel Islands, were examined post mortem as part of a mortality and disease surveillance scheme. Road traffic accidents (RTAs) were attributable for 50.7 per cent (171/337) of the casualties, 34.4 per cent (116/337) succumbed to diseases including fatal exudative dermatitis (FED), 7.1 per cent (24/337) to predation, 6.5 per cent (22/337) to other trauma and 1.2 per cent (4/337) to suspected poisoning. Cat predation accounted for 5 per cent (17/337) of mortalities. Pathologies were diverse and individual animals were often identified with more than one disease process. Squirrelpox virus (SQPV) particles were not detected in selected cases examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Amyloid was identified in 19.3 per cent (65/337) of squirrels, often in conjunction with inflammatory lesions like hepatic capillariasis. A consistent cause of amyloid accumulation was not identified, although there was a significant association of amyloidosis with hepatic capillariasis and FED. In addition to RTAs, amyloidosis and FED have been identified as important causes of squirrel morbidity and mortality on Jersey, while the underlying aetiology and predisposing factors for these two disease complexes are presently unclear. Disease, fragmented woodlands, an increasingly suburban habitat, along with various anthropogenic factors, may jeopardise the long-term viability of this island red squirrel population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Clare F Muir
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Kenneth C Smith
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK
| | - Aileen C Mill
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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23
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Hughes K, Borman AM. Adiaspiromycosis in a wild European rabbit, and a review of the literature. J Vet Diagn Invest 2018; 30:614-618. [PMID: 29717642 DOI: 10.1177/1040638718772631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Adiaspiromycosis is a mycotic infection caused by thermally dimorphic fungi classified as Emmonsia parva and E. crescens (formerly Chrysosporium spp.) until recently, when new classifications were proposed. We document the pathologic findings in a severe case of adiaspiromycosis, with lymph node involvement, in a wild European rabbit ( Oryctolagus cuniculus). The rabbit exhibited granulomatous pneumonia with tracheobronchial lymph node enlargement. Histopathologically, the lung was expanded by myriad, densely cellular, heterophilic and granulomatous foci, surrounding bi- to trilaminar adiaspores. Adiaspore density was considered to be similar in all lung lobes. In the left caudal lung lobe, 80 adiaspores were counted in a 50-mm2 area using digital image analysis. The mean and median adiaspore diameters were 240 ± 52 μm and 255 μm, respectively. Tracheobronchial lymph nodes exhibited moderate numbers of similar adiaspores. PCR amplification of DNA extracted from microdissected adiaspores failed to identify Emmonsia spp.-specific DNA. These data suggest that adiaspiromycosis may result in severe granulomatous pneumonia in wild European rabbits. Although confirmation of the etiologic agent by PCR using DNA extracted from formalin-fixed tissue is not always successful, digital image analysis can be used to aid accurate assessment of adiaspore density and morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Hughes
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK (Hughes).,Mycology Reference Laboratory, Public Health England South West Laboratory, Bristol, UK (Borman)
| | - Andrew M Borman
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK (Hughes).,Mycology Reference Laboratory, Public Health England South West Laboratory, Bristol, UK (Borman)
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24
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25
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Abstract
This chapter includes diseases of animals in the order Rodentia, in which there are over 2000 species representing 40% of all mammals. This incredibly diverse order includes members inhabiting every continent, either naturally or in human-made environments. While rodents have been the cause or implicated in disease transmission that has lead to human pandemics, such as the Black Death, and the decimation of certain animal species, like island-dwelling birds; genetically modified rodents have contributed significantly to the advancement of biomedical research and human health. There are more than 50 species of endangered rats, mice, voles, squirrels, and marmots. The recent extinction of the Bramble Cay melomys represents the first human-induced rodent extinction linked to climate change. Rodents are the reservoir host of several human and domestic pathogens of concern listed by OIE. Herein, we highlight those diseases of rodents that lead to clinically important gross and microscopic lesions.
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26
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DNA barcoding of metacestodes found in the Guerlinguetus ingrami (Rodentia: Sciuridae) reveals the occurrence of Hydatigera taeniaeformis sensu stricto (Cyclophyllidea: Taeniidae) in the Americas. Parasitol Int 2017; 67:115-118. [PMID: 29055694 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2017] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The existence of cryptic species in the genus Hydatigera, cyclophillid cestodes, mainly of felids, was recently described based on molecular studies of parasites from Asia, Europe and Africa. However, the occurrence of H. taeniaeformis sensu stricto (s.s.), the species more widely distributed and with a presumed specificity for murid rodents as intermediate hosts, has not been formally described in Americas. In the present study, during necropsy of an Ingram's squirrel specimen, Guerlinguetus ingrami, found dead in the municipality of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais state, Brazil, strobilocerci were found in the liver. The metacestodes were subjected to morphological and molecular studies. Sequences of the COI barcode region were obtained and used for phylogenetic analyses. The morphology and measures of the rostellar hooks were compatible with the ones described for H. taeniaeformis s.s. This identification was confirmed by a molecular phylogenetic approach (96.2-99.7% similarity with isolates of the parasite from Europe and Asia). This is the first molecular confirmation of the existence of H. taeniaeformis s.s. on the American continent. Moreover, the involvement of sciurid rodents in the transmission of H. taeniaeformis s.s. is discussed here as a probable case of parasite spillover.
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27
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Avanzi C, Del-Pozo J, Benjak A, Stevenson K, Simpson VR, Busso P, McLuckie J, Loiseau C, Lawton C, Schoening J, Shaw DJ, Piton J, Vera-Cabrera L, Velarde-Felix JS, McDermott F, Gordon SV, Cole ST, Meredith AL. Red squirrels in the British Isles are infected with leprosy bacilli. Science 2017; 354:744-747. [PMID: 27846605 DOI: 10.1126/science.aah3783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Leprosy, caused by infection with Mycobacterium leprae or the recently discovered Mycobacterium lepromatosis, was once endemic in humans in the British Isles. Red squirrels in Great Britain (Sciurus vulgaris) have increasingly been observed with leprosy-like lesions on the head and limbs. Using genomics, histopathology, and serology, we found M. lepromatosis in squirrels from England, Ireland, and Scotland, and M. leprae in squirrels from Brownsea Island, England. Infection was detected in overtly diseased and seemingly healthy animals. Phylogenetic comparisons of British and Irish M. lepromatosis with two Mexican strains from humans show that they diverged from a common ancestor around 27,000 years ago, whereas the M. leprae strain is closest to one that circulated in Medieval England. Red squirrels are thus a reservoir for leprosy in the British Isles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Avanzi
- Global Health Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jorge Del-Pozo
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Roslin, Scotland, UK
| | - Andrej Benjak
- Global Health Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Karen Stevenson
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Victor R Simpson
- Wildlife Veterinary Investigation Centre, Chacewater, Cornwall, UK
| | - Philippe Busso
- Global Health Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Joyce McLuckie
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Chloé Loiseau
- Global Health Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Colin Lawton
- School of Natural Sciences, Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Janne Schoening
- UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Darren J Shaw
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Roslin, Scotland, UK
| | - Jérémie Piton
- Global Health Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lucio Vera-Cabrera
- Laboratorio Interdisciplinario de Investigación Dermatológica, Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital Universitario, Monterrey, N.L., Mexico
| | - Jesùs S Velarde-Felix
- Laboratorio Interdisciplinario de Investigación Dermatológica, Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital Universitario, Monterrey, N.L., Mexico
| | - Fergal McDermott
- UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stephen V Gordon
- UCD School of Veterinary Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland.,UCD Conway Institute of Biomolecular and Biomedical Research, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Stewart T Cole
- Global Health Institute, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Anna L Meredith
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Roslin, Scotland, UK.
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28
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Dale TD, Watts PC, Jones D, Pounder K, Everest DJ, Begon ME, Chantrey J. Enhancement of wildlife disease surveillance using multiplex quantitative PCR: development of qPCR assays for major pathogens in UK squirrel populations. EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2016; 62:589-599. [PMID: 32214943 PMCID: PMC7088385 DOI: 10.1007/s10344-016-1031-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Revised: 06/22/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Rapid development in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology has revolutionised the speed and accuracy of many diagnostic assays. However, comparatively few wildlife epidemiological studies use quantitative PCR (qPCR) for pathogen detection, even fewer employ an internal control, to ensure confidence in negative results, and PCR's ability to multiplex and therefore detect several targets in a single reaction is underutilised. Here, we describe the development of two multiplex qPCR assays for the red and grey squirrel that detect the pathogens squirrelpox virus (SQPV) and adenovirus in squirrels (SADV), both of which cause mortality in the red squirrel. Both assays use a section of the squirrel phosphoglycerate kinase gene as an endogenous internal control that identifies and compensates for both, inadequate sampling or PCR inhibition. Tests on infected squirrel tissue demonstrate that simple swab samples (particularly from distal antebrachial skin) are sufficient to detect and identify the relative quantity of SQPV DNA in both squirrel species, while rectal swabs and blood cell pellets can be used to reliably indicate SADV infection. These assays are sensitive and specific with an endogenous internal control providing confidence in negative results and allowing comparison across laboratories. Using such assays should prove advantageous in wildlife studies with limited resources while allowing the maximum data yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy D. Dale
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB UK
| | | | - David Jones
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Kieran Pounder
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB UK
| | - David J. Everest
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Weybridge, New Haw, Addlestone, Surrey, KT15 3NB UK
| | - Michael E. Begon
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB UK
| | - Julian Chantrey
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB UK
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Kik M, IJzer J, Opsteegh M, Montizaan M, Dijkstra V, Rijks J, Gröne A. Toxoplasma gondii in Wild Red Squirrels, the Netherlands, 2014. Emerg Infect Dis 2016; 21:2248-9. [PMID: 26583779 PMCID: PMC4672420 DOI: 10.3201/eid2112.141711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii and Besnoitia besnoiti in a wildlife conservation area in southern Portugal. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2016; 3-4:7-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2016.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Revised: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Simpson V, Hargreaves J, Butler H, Blackett T, Stevenson K, McLuckie J. Leprosy in red squirrels on the Isle of Wight and Brownsea Island. Vet Rec 2015; 177:206-207. [PMID: 28319925 DOI: 10.1136/vr.h4491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vic Simpson
- Wildlife Veterinary Investigation Centre, Chacewater, Cornwall TR4 8PB, e-mail:
| | | | - Helen Butler
- Wight Squirrel Project, PO Box 33, Ryde, Isle of Wight PO33 1BH
| | - T Blackett
- Jersey Red Squirrel Disease Surveillance Scheme, JSPCA Animals' Shelter, 89 St Saviours Road, St Helier, Jersey JE2 4JG
| | - Karen Stevenson
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH26 0PZ
| | - Joyce McLuckie
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH26 0PZ
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Dolka I, Giżejewska A, Giżejewski Z, Kluciński W, Kołodziejska J. Histological Evaluation of Selected Organs of the Eurasian Beavers(Castor fiber)Inhabiting Poland. Anat Histol Embryol 2014; 44:378-90. [DOI: 10.1111/ahe.12150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- I. Dolka
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW); Nowoursynowska 159c 02-776 Warsaw Poland
| | - A. Giżejewska
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn; Oczapowskiego 2 10-719 Olsztyn Poland
| | - Z. Giżejewski
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research; Polish Academy of Sciences; Tuwima 10 10-747 Olsztyn Poland
| | - W. Kluciński
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW); Nowoursynowska 159c 02-776 Warsaw Poland
| | - J. Kołodziejska
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW); Nowoursynowska 159c 02-776 Warsaw Poland
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Chantrey J, Dale TD, Read JM, White S, Whitfield F, Jones D, McInnes CJ, Begon M. European red squirrel population dynamics driven by squirrelpox at a gray squirrel invasion interface. Ecol Evol 2014; 4:3788-99. [PMID: 25614793 PMCID: PMC4301051 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.1216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infectious disease introduced by non-native species is increasingly cited as a facilitator of
native population declines, but direct evidence may be lacking due to inadequate population and
disease prevalence data surrounding an outbreak. Previous indirect evidence and theoretical models
support squirrelpox virus (SQPV) as being potentially involved in the decline of red squirrels
(Sciurus vulgaris) following the introduction of the non-native gray squirrel
(Sciurus carolinensis) to the United Kingdom. The red squirrel is a major UK
conservation concern and understanding its continuing decline is important for any attempt to
mitigate the decline. The red squirrel–gray squirrel system is also exemplary of the
interplay between infectious disease (apparent competition) and direct competition in driving the
replacement of a native by an invasive species. Time series data from Merseyside are presented on
squirrel abundance and squirrelpox disease (SQPx) incidence, to determine the effect of the pathogen
and the non-native species on the native red squirrel populations. Analysis indicates that SQPx in
red squirrels has a significant negative impact on squirrel densities and their population growth
rate (PGR). There is little evidence for a direct gray squirrel impact; only gray squirrel presence
(but not density) proved to influence red squirrel density, but not red squirrel PGR. The dynamics
of red SQPx cases are largely determined by previous red SQPx cases, although previous infection of
local gray squirrels also feature, and thus, SQPV-infected gray squirrels are identified as
potentially initiating outbreaks of SQPx in red squirrels. Retrospective serology indicates that
approximately 8% of red squirrels exposed to SQPV may survive infection during an epidemic.
This study further highlights the UK red squirrel – gray squirrel system as a classic example
of a native species population decline strongly facilitated by infectious disease introduced by a
non-native species. It is therefore paramount that disease prevention and control measures are
integral in attempts to conserve red squirrels in the United Kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian Chantrey
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, U.K
| | - Timothy D Dale
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, U.K
| | - Jonathan M Read
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool Leahurst Campus, Neston, CH64 7TE, U.K
| | - Steve White
- Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Seaforth Nature Reserve Liverpool, L21 1JD, U.K
| | - Fiona Whitfield
- Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Seaforth Nature Reserve Liverpool, L21 1JD, U.K
| | - David Jones
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool Leahurst Campus, Neston, CH64 7TE, U.K
| | - Colin J McInnes
- Moredun Institute, Pentlands Science Park Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, U.K
| | - Michael Begon
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool Biosciences Building, Crown Street, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, U.K
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