Intestinal parasite infections in pigs and beef cattle in rural areas of Chungcheongnam-do, Korea

Ontological representation, modeling, and analysis of parasite vaccines

BACKGROUND

Pathogenic parasites are responsible for multiple diseases, such as malaria and Chagas disease, in humans and livestock. Traditionally, pathogenic parasites have been largely an evasive topic for vaccine design, with most successful vaccines only emerging recently. To aid vaccine design, the VIOLIN vaccine knowledgebase has collected vaccines from all sources to serve as a comprehensive vaccine knowledgebase. VIOLIN utilizes the Vaccine Ontology (VO) to standardize the modeling of vaccine data. VO did not model complex life cycles as seen in parasites. With the inclusion of successful parasite vaccines, an update in parasite vaccine modeling was needed.

RESULTS

VIOLIN was expanded to include 258 parasite vaccines against 23 protozoan species, and 607 new parasite vaccine-related terms were added to VO since 2022. The updated VO design for parasite vaccines accounts for parasite life stages and for transmission-blocking vaccines. A total of 356 terms from the Ontology of Parasite Lifecycle (OPL) were imported to VO to help represent the effect of different parasite life stages. A new VO class term, 'transmission-blocking vaccine,' was added to represent vaccines able to block infectious transmission, and one new VO object property, 'blocks transmission of pathogen via vaccine,' was added to link vaccine and pathogen in which the vaccine blocks the transmission of the pathogen. Additionally, our Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) of 140 parasite antigens used in the parasitic vaccines identified enriched features. For example, significant patterns, such as signal, plasma membrane, and entry into host, were found in the antigens of the vaccines against two parasite species: Plasmodium falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii. The analysis found 18 out of the 140 parasite antigens involved with the malaria disease process. Moreover, a majority (15 out of 54) of P. falciparum parasite antigens are localized in the cell membrane. T. gondii antigens, in contrast, have a majority (19/24) of their proteins related to signaling pathways. The antigen-enriched patterns align with the life cycle stage patterns identified in our ontological parasite vaccine modeling.

CONCLUSIONS

The updated VO modeling and GSEA analysis capture the influence of the complex parasite life cycles and their associated antigens on vaccine development.

A survey of gastrointestinal helminth infestation in smallholder backyard pigs and the first molecular identification of the two zoonotic helminths Ascaris suum and Trichuris suis in Myanmar

BACKGROUND

Parasitic infestations have a substantial economic impact on pig production. This study aimed to investigate the gastrointestinal (GI) helminths in pigs and to molecularly characterise two important nematodes, Ascaris and Trichuris species.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 500 pig faecal samples were collected from small holder backyard pig farms in five townships within Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. Microscopic examination was conducted to estimate the prevalence of GI helminth infestation in the pigs. DNA extraction and PCR were performed on faecal samples that were morphologically positive for Ascaris and Trichuris eggs. Molecular analysis was then conducted to characterise A. suum and T. suis, the most common and zoonotic helminths.

RESULTS

According to microscopic examination, 69.2% (346/500) were positive for GI helminth eggs. The GI helminth species observed were A. suum, Strongyle, Strongyloides spp., T. suis, Metastrongylus spp., Hyostrongylus spp., Fasciolopsis spp., Paragonimus spp., and Schistosoma spp., with occurrences of 34.8%, 29.6%, 21.4%, 20.0%, 4.0%, 1.6%, 1.0%, 1.0%, and 0.4%, respectively. Mixed infections of GI helminths were noted in 31.0% of the samples. Overall, sampled pigs excreted mostly low levels (< 100 EPG) or moderate levels (> 100-500 EPG) of GI helminth eggs. The highest mean EPG for each parasite species was noted in A. suum. The presence of A. suum and T. suis was confirmed molecularly. The sequences of the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) region of A. suum showed high similarity with previously reported sequences. Likewise, the sequences of T. suis exhibited high similarity with the sequences reported from humans and pigs. Age was noted as an associated factor (P < 0.05) for GI helminth infection status.

CONCLUSIONS

In this report, A. suum and T. suis were molecularly identified for the first time in Myanmar. It is important to extend the information among the farmers to be aware of the necessity of preventing zoonotic parasites by practicing regular deworming, proper use of anthelmintics and maintaining hygienic conditions in their pig farms.

Prevalence and sequence diversity of Balantioides coli in pigs in Xinjiang, China

Balantioides coli is a common intestinal parasitic protozoan in pigs. In the present study, 801 fecal samples of pigs from seven farms in Xinjiang were analyzed based on the ITS1-5.8S rRNA-ITS2 gene. The prevalence of B. coli was 4.2% (34/801), with the highest prevalence of 18.9% (18/95) occurring in Alaer, Xinjiang. B. coli was detected in all age groups (pre-weaned pigs, post-weaned pigs, fattening pigs and sows), with the highest rate in fatteners (6.9%, 9/129) and the lowest (1.2%, 2/169) in pre-weaned pigs. Significant differences (P = 0.000) were found among sampling sites but not among age groups (P = 0.084). Sequence analysis indicated that 34 sequence variants, including sequence type A (n = 11) and sequence type B (n = 23), occurred in all age groups. In this study, the existence of sequence type A suggested that B. coli poses a potential threat to human health. More studies are needed to better understand the distributions and public health significance of B. coli in China.

Family-Run Pig Farms: Research and Extension Activities for Parasite Control in a Municipality in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

The parasites infesting pigs and pig farmers on family farms in Rio de Janeiro city, Brazil, were analyzed, and extension activities were carried out to impart information about parasites. Between 2020 and 2021, fecal samples were collected from 180 pigs as well as ear scrapings from 142 pigs. In addition, 34 stool specimens from farmers and their families were analyzed. The collected material was processed by parasitological techniques. Parasites were detected in 86.1% of the pigs, forms of phylum Ciliophora (70.5%), strongylids (56.7%), Strongyloides ransomi (44.4%), coccidia (38.3%) and Ascaris suum (32.2%). Sarcoptes scabiei var. suis were identified in 3.5% of the pigs. An analysis of infections by age group revealed that the general frequency of phylum Ciliophora and strongylid parasites was statistically significant. Other factors also associated with the frequency of the parasites included the type of food fed to the pigs, cleaning of the facilities, care of piglets and type of facility. The frequency of intestinal parasites of farmers themselves was low; however, the high rate of parasite infections detected in pigs highlighted the precarious conditions of hygiene of the farms. Lastly, the farmers’ participation in extension activities was a step forward in actions to improve their farm management.

Molecular Characterization of Entamoeba spp. in Pigs with Diarrhea in Southern China

Entamoeba spp. is a common zoonotic intestinal protozoan that can parasitize most vertebrates, including humans and pigs, causing severe intestinal diseases and posing a serious threat to public health. However, the available data on Entamoeba spp. infection in pigs are relatively limited in China. To characterize the infection of Entamoeba spp. within pigs in southern China, 1254 fecal samples of diarrheic pigs were collected from 37 intensive pig farms in Hunan, Jiangxi and Fujian provinces and the infection of Entamoeba spp. was investigated based on the small subunit rRNA (SSU rRNA) gene. The overall infection rate of Entamoeba spp. was 58.4% (732/1254), including 38.4% (118/307) in suckling piglets, 51.2% (153/299) in weaned piglets, 57.9% (55/95) in fattening pigs and 73.4% (406/553) in sows, respectively. Moreover, age and the sampling cities in Jiangxi and Fujian provinces were found to be the key factors influencing the infection of Entamoeba spp. (p < 0.05). Two subtypes (ST1 and ST3) with a zoonotic potential of Entamoeba polecki and Entamoeba suis were detected in all age groups of pigs and all sampling areas, with the predominant species and predominant subtype being E. polecki (91.3%, 668/732) and E. polecki ST1 (573/668), respectively, and E. polecki ST1 + E. polecki ST3 (78.6%, 239/304) being the most frequently detected form of mixed infection. Severe Entamoeba spp. infection and zoonotic subtypes were found in this study, exposing a large public health problem in the study area, and strategies need to be implemented to eliminate the risk in the future.

Distribution of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infection in Domestic Pigs in the Republic of Korea: Nationwide Survey from 2020-2021

This study aimed to examine the distribution of gastrointestinal parasitic infections in domestic pigs in the Republic of Korea. From May 2020 to October 2021, 364 pig fecal samples were collected from 75 farms in 7 Provinces and microscopically examined. A total of 170 (46.7%) pigs were infected with at least one of the following parasites: Balantioides coli, strongyles, Ascaris suum, Trichuris suis, and coccidia. By parasite species, B. coli, strongyles, A. suum, T. suis, and coccidia oocysts or eggs were detected in 144 (39.6%), 24 (6.6%), 14 (3.8%), 4 (1.1%), and 1 (0.3%) samples, respectively. One hundred fifty-four, 15, and 1 cases showed single, double, and triple infections, respectively. Of the swine fecal samples from 75 farms, 69 specimens (92.0%) were infected with 1 or more parasites. All surveyed farms across the country exhibited a positive rate of over 30%, among which the highest positive rate was 65.0% in Chungcheongnam-do, and Jeollabuk-do was followed by 61.9%. Winter showed a statistically lower prevalence than other seasons. This study showed that gastrointestinal parasites are prevalent in pigs in Korea, although the diversity of parasites is low.

First Evidence of Entamoeba Parasites in Australian Wild Deer and Assessment of Transmission to Cattle

Australian wild deer populations have significantly expanded in size and distribution in recent decades. Due to their role in pathogen transmission, these deer populations pose a biosecurity risk to the livestock industry. However, little is known about the infection status of wild deer in Australia. The intestinal parasite Entamoeba bovis has been previously detected in farm and wild ruminants worldwide, but its epidemiology and distribution in wild ruminants remain largely unexplored. To investigate this knowledge gap, faecal samples of wild deer and domestic cattle from south-eastern Australia were collected and analysed for the presence of Entamoeba spp. using PCR and phylogenetic analysis of the conserved 18S rRNA gene. E. bovis parasites were detected at high prevalence in cattle and wild deer hosts, and two distinct Entamoeba ribosomal lineages (RLs), RL1 and RL8, were identified in wild deer. Phylogenetic analysis further revealed the existance of a novel Entamoeba species in sambar deer and a novel Entamoeba RL in fallow deer. While we anticipated cross-species transmission of E. bovis between wild deer and cattle, the data generated in this study demonstrated transmission is yet to occur in Australia. Overall, this study has identified novel variants of Entamoeba and constitutes the first report of Entamoeba in fallow deer and sambar deer, expanding the host range of this parasite. Epidemiological investigations and continued surveillance of Entamoeba parasites in farm ruminants and wild animals will be required to evaluate pathogen emergence and transmission to livestock.

Balantidium coli; Rare and Accidental Finding in the Urine of Pregnant Woman: Case Report

Background

Balantidium coli is a ciliated protozoan parasite, which causes intestinal and extraintestinal infections in humans. It is transmitted feco-orally by ingesting infective cysts with food and water. Urinary balantidiasis may occur through contamination (direct spread from the anal area), secondarily to rectovaginal fistula and following immune suppression. Data about cases of urinary balantidiasis are rare in the world. Currently, there are no documented reports of urinary balantidiasis in Ethiopia. As our understanding, there are only eleven documented reports of urinary balantidiasis globally. However, cases of urinary balantidiasis among pregnant women have not been documented yet. The aim of this report is to alarm health professionals for considering the occurrence of such rare cases and conduct diagnosis.

Case Presentation

A 24-year old pregnant woman was admitted due to severe preeclampsia and preterm delivery at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, gynecology ward. Her urine was presented to inpatient laboratory for routine urinalysis. We detected unusual and ciliated parasite from her urine sediment characterized by its active and rotary motility through its cilia and possessing macro- and micro-nuclei, several food vacuoles and ingested red blood cells inside the cytoplasm. Hematuria, many white blood cells and epithelial cells were also detected from the urine sediment, which suggests genito-urinary tract infection due to this parasite. This rare parasite finding was confirmed to be B. coli.

Conclusion

The route of transmission and extraintestinal existence from this woman’s urine was unclear. It might be due to feco-oral transmission and spread to the genitourinary tract through direct anal contact. Moreover, it might be associated with immune suppression as she is pregnant woman.

Phylogenetics and Pathogenicity of Balantioides coli Isolates in Vietnamese Weaned Pigs

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the diversity of Balantioides coli (B. coli) based on the 18S rDNA of isolates collected from weaned pigs with diarrhea and then select a B. coli isolate to determine its pathogenicity in weaned pigs through experimental infection.

METHODS

The genetic analysis of field-isolated B. coli strains was based on sequencing of the partial 18S rDNA genetic fragment and the pathogenicity of an isolate of B. coli (DN2018-2-DTD) was identified through an experimental infection.

RESULTS

The fourteen B. coli isolates shared 98.47-100% nucleotide similarity and were divided into two clades in a phylogenetic tree. In an infection experiment, a slight increase in the body temperature was identified in two infected groups as compared to that in the control group (P < 0.05) from days post-infection (dpi) 12-18 and from dpi 20-27. In the group infected with 3000 CPG/TPG, 2/9 pigs started to develop diarrhea on day two. In the group infected with 500 CPG/TPG, 8/9 pigs had diarrhea on dpi 3. Trophozoites/cysts of B. coli were firstly detected in feces on dpi 3 in a group of pigs infected with a dose of 3000 CPG/TPG, and CPG/TPG reached its peak at dpi 5 in both groups of infected pigs (35,450 and 13,250 CPG/TPG). There was a significant difference in the bodyweight of the control group (noninfected) as compared to that of the groups of infected pigs on dpi 7 (P < 0.05), 14 (P < 0.001) and 28 (P < 0.01). Lesions were solely recorded in infected pigs, including white ulcerative nodules with necrosis scattered in the mucosa of the colon and cecum on dpi 7, 14, and 28.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to investigate the pathogenicity of B. coli in Vietnamese pigs to demonstrate that B. coli could induce necrotic ulcerative enteritis and diarrhea in weaned pigs.

Identification of Zoonotic Balantioides coli in Pigs by Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and Its Distribution in Korea

Balantioides coli is a zoonotic protozoan parasite whose main reservoir is pigs. Recent studies have shown that B. coli variant A but not B has zoonotic potential. While B. coli infection has been reported in different animals and countries, the prevalence of the zoonotic variant is limited due to a lack of molecular information. Therefore, this study investigated the prevalence of B. coli in domestic pigs in Korea and assessed its zoonotic potential. A total of 188 pig fecal samples were collected from slaughterhouses in Korea. B. coli was identified by microscopy and molecular methods. B. coli was identified in 79 (42.9%) and 174 (94.6%) samples by microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), respectively. This study also developed a PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method to differentiate B. coli variant A from B without sequence analysis. Using this method, 62 (33.7%) and 160 (87.0%) samples were positive for variants A and B, respectively, and 48 (26.1%) samples were co-infected with both variants. Sequence and phylogenetic analyses showed a high genetic diversity of B. coli in pigs in Korea. To our knowledge, this is the first study to develop a method to differentiate B. coli variants A and B without sequence analysis and to assess the molecular epidemiology of B. coli in pigs. Continuous monitoring of zoonotic B. coli in pigs should be performed as pigs are the main source of human balantidiasis.

Gastrointestinal parasites of indigenous pigs (Sus domesticus) in south-central Nepal

BACKGROUND

Intestinal parasites have a significant impact on productivity of pigs. Additionally, presence of zoonotic parasites in pig faeces used as fertilizer and ingestion of raw or undercooked pork products originated from parasite-infested pigs pose a risk to human health.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in indigenous pigs (Sus domesticus) maintained under traditional rearing system in Nepal.

METHODS

Fresh faecal samples (n = 100) were collected from the pigs of varying age and sex maintained in 18 small-scale farms in south-central Nepal. Samples were processed using various standard methods and examined for parasite eggs, cysts or oocysts.

RESULTS

Prevalence of GI parasites in indigenous pigs was 91%, comprising of 14 different genera of protozoans and helminths. Male pigs generally had a higher (97.5%) prevalence of GI parasites than females (87%). While 90% of the suckling and weaner piglets were positive for the GI parasites, all growers and 85% the adult pigs were infected with the parasites. Entamoeba spp. were the primary protozoans in all age groups. Strongyloides sp. was more prevalent helminths in suckling and weaner piglets, whereas Ascarid spp. were higher in both growers and adults. Triplet infection was higher (33.3%) in suckling and weaner piglets, while quadruplet and pentuplet infections were higher (p < .05) among growers (46.7%) and adults (30%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The indigenous pigs harbour a higher prevalence and greater diversity of GI parasites. GI parasitism varies by sex and age of the pigs.

Prevalence of Balantidium coli (Malmsten, 1857) infection in swine reared in South Italy: A widespread neglected zoonosis

Background and Aim:

Balantidiasis, caused by Balantidium coli (syn. Neobalantidium coli or B. coli), represents a neglected parasitic infection of zoonotic significance affecting a variety of hosts, including domestic pigs that are the main reservoir. B. coli has a direct life cycle with a fecal-oral route transmission that occurs mainly by the ingestion of food and water contaminated with cysts. The ingestion of meat contaminated during inappropriate slaughtering processes may represent a new potential route of transmission. Only a few studies have investigated the prevalence of B. coli in domestic pigs in Italy, despite its high prevalence and zoonotic significance. This study aimed to improve the knowledge on B. coli prevalence in domestic swine reared both in intensive and “en plein air” breeding systems in the south of Italy.

Materials and Methods:

The infection rate of B. coli in pigs bred in 15 different pig farms and regularly slaughtered in South Italy, in the Calabria region, was investigated. From 2017 to 2019, 177 terminal parts of the rectums of pigs, of which 91 commercial hybrids and 86 autochthonous (Nero Calabrese), reared, respectively, in intensive and “en plein air” breeding system, were tested for parasite detection. After the slaughtering, the terminal part of the rectum was sampled and transported to the laboratories and immediately processed. For the detection of trophozoites, fresh smears of feces were examined at light microscopy. Moreover, flotation was performed using a sodium chloride solution, then smears of feces were dispersed on microscope slides and examined at light microscopy. The observed parasites were identified at the species level using morphological characteristics.

Results:

B. coli was detected in a total of 83 (i.e., 46.89%) pigs, with a significantly higher prevalence (p<0.0001) found in commercial hybrid (i.e., 59/91-64.84%) pigs rather than in autochthonous ones (i.e., 24/86-27.91%). It follows that the infection was more common in pigs reared in the intensive breeding system than in “en plein air” ones (p<0.0001). The infection prevalence was higher in males than in females and lower in elder animals than in younger ones (p=0.012 and p<0.0001, respectively).

Conclusion:

The breeding system is likely the main discriminant for the parasite spread as well as the hygienic condition of the farms. Good manufacturing and hygiene practices along the food production chain are crucial in preventing human balantidiasis transmission by meat consumption. The high B. coli prevalence, the wide spectrum of host species, and its zoonotic significance push toward a greater public interest.

Review of zoonotic amebiasis: Epidemiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control

Amebiasis is a disease caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica, which mainly shows symptoms of acute diarrhea, dysentery, amebic colitis, and amebic liver abscesses. As the fourth leading parasitic cause of human mortality, E. histolytica mainly infect children in developing countries, transmitted by food and water contamination. In the majority of infected individuals, Entamoeba sp. asymptomatically colonizes the large intestine and self-limiting, while in others, the parasite breaches the mucosal epithelial barrier to cause amebic colitis and can disseminate to soft organs to cause abscesses. Metronidazole (MTZ) is the recommended and most widely used drug for treating the invasive amebiasis. No amebiasis vaccine has been approved for human clinical trials to date, but many recent vaccine development studies hold promise. For the prevention and control of amebiasis, improvement of water purification systems and hygiene practices could decrease disease incidence. In this review, we focus on the epidemiology, transmission, clinical signs, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control of the zoonotic amebiasis.

Balantioides coli

Balantioides coli (=Balantidium coli) is the only ciliate that parasitizes humans. Pigs are the main reservoir. Other species, as camels, cattle, donkey, sheep and goat have been also proposed as reservoirs for human infections. The parasite has a direct life cycle, being transmitted by the faecal-oral route. This type of cycle and the large number of host species imply an important potential for zoonotic transmission of the parasite. Infections are most commonly found in tropical and temperate regions, with prevalence up to 100% in pigs; high prevalence values have been also recorded in some non-human primates and camels. In humans, prevalence is usually under 10% in the population at risk. The main epidemiological factors involved in the transmission of this parasite include close contact with pigs, lack of basic sanitation infrastructures (water supply, wastewater disposal) and hygiene. Individual health status, intestinal microbiota and diet are also important for the onset of the infection. Outbreaks caused by this parasite are rare; those reported to date were related to poor hygienic conditions or to catastrophic natural disasters. Balantioides coli infections can be asymptomatic and symptomatic, which can be chronic (with intermittent diarrhoea), or acute (a dysenteric form which can be life-threatening). Efective treatments include tetracycline, iodoquinol and 5-nitroimidazole compounds (metronidazole, secnidazole). The main effective individual preventive measure is the use of disinfected water for drinking and other uses. Adequate water supply infrastructures, proper disposal of wastewater and animal faeces, and regular monitoring programs on farms will help limit transmission.

A SURVEY FOR ZOONOTIC AND OTHER GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITES IN PIG IN BALI PROVINCE, INDONESIA

Pigs have potentially to transmit zoonotic gastrointestinal parasite disease both caused by protozoa and worm. The aim of this study was to identify gastrointestinal parasites that were potentially zoonotic in pigs in the province of Bali. A total of 100 fresh feces samples was collected from several pig farms in Bali, from Badung and Tabanan districts, each consisted of 50 samples. Pig feces samples were examined for the presence of eggs worms, cysts and oocysts for protozoa based on the morphology and size. Identification for protozoa and worms used native, sedimentation and sucrose flotation methods. Parameters measured were sex, feed and cage management. The result showed that the characteristic parameters for pigs in both district were generally female. Cage management for raising pigs mostly used group cage. Feed that provided in both district mostly used bran and concentrate. All of 100 pig feces samples that examined positive for parasites. There were 8 types of gastrointestinal parasites that have been identified. Four types of protozoa found were Entamoeba sp. (99%), Balantidium sp. (79%), Eimeria sp. (78%), Blastocystis sp. (69%) and four types of worms were Ascaris sp. (20%), Trichuris sp. (20%), Strongyloides sp. (19%), and Oesophagostomum sp. (8%). All pigs were infected with two or more parasites. The prevalence of parasitic gastrointestinal infections was different for each district, six genera (Entamoeba sp., Balantidium sp., Blastocystis sp., Eimeria sp., Oesophagostomum sp. and Trichuris sp.)  were higher found in Tabanan district and the two genera (Ascaris sp. and Strongyloides sp.) were higher in Badung district. Oesophagostomum sp. was only found to infect pigs in Tabanan district. The conclusion is gastrointestinal parasites that found in pigs at Badung and Tabanan district Bali Province mostly have zoonotic potential.

Balantidium coli in domestic animals: An emerging protozoan pathogen of zoonotic significance

Balantidium coli (B. coli) is an emerging ciliated protozoan parasite of zoonotic importance which causes a disease balantidiasis in a variety of host species including pigs, camels, ruminants, equines and even human. This disease has a cosmopolitan distribution with high prevalence rates in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world due to favorable geo-climatic conditions for the development and survival of the parasite in these regions. Main reservoir hosts for this pathogen are pigs and animals; acquire infection mainly by the ingestion of the food or water contaminated with the porcine feces. The infected animal manifests clinical signs of anorexia, dehydration, profuse watery diarrhea and retarded growth. Wet mount slide prepared from intestinal scrapings and fecal material is used for the identification of trophozoites and cysts stages of this parasite. PCR can also be used to confirm the parasite. Secnidazole, oxytetracycline and metronidazole have varying efficacy against B. coli infection in various domestic animal species. There is no comprehensive literature available on the occurrence and distribution of the infection at international level. Therefore, the published data between 1989 and 2019 regarding this disease is critically analyzed to provide a detailed overview on this pathogen with special emphasis on geographical distribution of B. coli in domestic animals and different therapeutic agents used to treat this infection. This review will pinpoint the endemic regions which may be a source of potential disease outbreaks and will also help in application of more effectual control strategies against balantidiasis.

Prevalence and distribution of Entamoeba species in a rural community in northern South Africa

Amoebiasis occurs worldwide and affects about 20–50 million people annually. Stool samples were collected from patients attending different rural clinics in Northern South Africa in the present study. Microscopic examination was performed for the initial detection of Entamoeba parasites. A multiplex PCR protocol based on the small subunit rRNA gene of E. moshkovskii, E. dispar, and E. histolytica, was used for the differential detection of the three Entamoeba species (collectively referred to as Entamoeba complex). A total of 170 participants were recruited in the study, with a mean age of 35.9 ± 17.8 years and a median of 37.0 years. The prevalence of Entamoeba species was found to be 34.7% and 33% by PCR and microscopy, respectively. E. histolytica had a prevalence of 4.1%, E. dispar 14.7% and E. moshkovskii 15.9%. Of the three species, only E. histolytica was significantly associated with diarrhoea and was more prevalent among HIV patients even in the absence of diarrhoea while the other two were not, although the difference was not significant (p > 0.05). This is the first study in South Africa to describe the prevalence of E. moshkovskii. E. dispar was significantly associated with abdominal pains (p = 0.003). Further studies are needed to clarify the role of E. moshkovskii and E. dispar in abdominal pain and diarrhoea.

Copro-prevalence and Risk Factor Assessment of Gastrointestinal Parasitism in Indian Domestic Pigs

The aim of the present study was to determine copro-prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites and their associated potential risk factors in pigs of Punjab (India). A total of 839 faecal samples were collected from pigs of all age group and sex from different agro-climatic zones of Punjab covering all seasons and subjected to qualitative and quantitative examination. Among the samples examined, 28.4 % were positive for gastrointestinal parasites and their respective prevalences were Ascaris suum (11.1 %), coccidia (9.41 %), Trichuris suis (6.43 %), Balantidium coli (4.5 %), amphistome (3.33 %), strongyle (2.14 %) and Ascarops strongylina (1.78 %). Upon sporulation of coccidian positive samples, 8 species of Eimeria were recorded (Eimeria polita, E. spinosa, E. scabra, E. perminuta, E. suis, E. debliecki, E. neodebliecki and E. porci). Among the various risk factors analysed, season, agro-climatic zones and managemental practices had a signifi cant (p<0.05) effect on gastrointestinal parasitism of pigs. Quantification of the infection levels in various seasons and age groups revealed the highest mean egg per gram in rainy season (1966. 6± 1146.5) and grower pigs (1457.1 ± 500.4). Coproculture analysis revealed the presence of larvae of Hyostrongylus rubidus and Oesophagostomum species. The results of the current study would be of immense help in formulation and implementation of control strategies for effective control of gastrointestinal parasitism in pigs.

Prevalence and Genetic Identification of Three Entamoeba Species in Pigs in Southeastern China

Parasitic Entamoeba spp. can infect many classes of vertebrates including humans and pigs. Entamoeba suis and zoonotic Entamoeba polecki have been identified in pigs, and swine are implicated as potential reservoirs for Entamoeba histolytica. However, the prevalence of Entamoeba spp. in pigs in southeastern China has not been reported. In this study, 668 fecal samples collected from 6 different regions in Fujian Province, southeastern China, were analyzed to identify three Entamoeba species by nested PCR and sequencing analysis. The overall prevalence of Entamoeba spp. was 55.4% (370/668; 95% CI 51.6% to 59.2%), and the infection rate of E. polecki ST1 was the highest (302/668; 45.2%, 95% CI 41.4% to 49.0%), followed by E. polecki ST3 (228/668; 34.1%, 95% CI 30.5% to 37.7%) and E. suis (87/668; 13.0%, 95% CI 10.5% to 15.6%). E. histolytica was not detected in any samples. Moreover, the coinfection rate of E. polecki ST1 and ST3 was 25.1% (168/668; 95% CI 21.9% to 28.4%), the coinfection rate of E. polecki ST1 and E. suis was 3.7% (25/668; 95% CI 2.3% to 5.2%), the coinfection rate of E. polecki ST3 and E. suis was 0.3% (2/668), and the coinfection rate of E. polecki ST1, E. polecki ST3, and E. suis was 4.0% (27/668; 95% CI 2.5% to 5.5%). A representative sequence (MK347346) was identical to the sequence of E. suis (DQ286372). Two subtype-specific sequences (MK357717 and MK347347) were almost identical to the sequences of E. polecki ST1 (FR686383) and ST3 (AJ566411), respectively. This is the first study to survey the occurrence and to conduct molecular identification of three Entamoeba species in southeastern China. This is the first report regarding mixed infections with E. suis, E. polecki ST1, and E. polecki ST3 in China. More research studies are needed to better understand the transmission and zoonotic potential of Entamoeba spp.

IDENTIFICATION AND PREVALENCE OF GASTROINTESTINAL PARASITES IN BEEF CATTLE IN SIAK SRI INDRAPURA, RIAU, INDONESIA

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites infection are one of the major constraints cattle farm in tropical countries including Indonesia and some of GI parasites in cattle have the potential to transmit to humans. This study was aimed to identify and determine the level of prevalence of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in beef cattle in Siak Sri Indrapura District, Riau Province, Indonesia. This research was conducted on 100 beef cattle consisted of, respectively, 32, 34 and 34 cattles from Bungaraya, Sabak Auh, and Dayun sub-district. The characteristic of sample such as age and sex cattle, cage management, feed and drinking water were recorded. Native, sedimentation and sucrose flotation methods were used to find protozoa and eggs worm. We assessed GI parasites based on finding eggs worm, protozoan cyst and coccidial oocysts in stool samples and identification of GI parasite was based on the morphology and size of the eggs worm and cysts or oocysts of protozoan. The result showed that all of 100 feces samples that examined 100% positive infection for parasites. There were eleven types of gastrointestinal parasites that have been identified, 6 genera of protozoan and 5 genera of worms. The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in beef cattles in Siak Sri Indrapura District were Blastocystis sp. (100%), Entamoeba sp. (90%), Eimeria sp. (53%), Giardia sp. (7%), Balantidium coli (4%), Cryptosporidium sp. (2%) Oesophagustomum sp. (45%), Toxocara vitulorum (20%), Moniezia expansa (9%), Trichuris sp. (5%), and Fasciola sp. (4%). In conclusion, Siak Sri Indrapura Riau is an endemic GI parasite and this can threaten the health of livestock and potentially as a zoonotic transmission.

Prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths and parasites in smallholder pigs reared in the central Free State Province

Pigs are kept by farmers as a source of livelihood and food. Unfortunately, helminthiasis and other internal parasites are major setbacks to profitable pig production in Africa. There is a lack of information on the prevalence and intensity of gastrointestinal helminths and parasites plaguing resource-poor pig farmers in the Free State. Knowledge of these endemic parasites can be used as baseline data to help design future intervention plans. The aim of this study was to identify and quantify the types of gastrointestinal helminths and parasites prevalent in smallholder pigs reared in the central Free State Province. Faecal samples were randomly collected from 77 pigs and parasitologically analysed. Quantification was done using the McMaster counting technique. Farming system, age, gender and health status were the risk factors considered. The study was conducted between January and March 2016. Overall, results showed that 61 samples (79.2%) tested positive for one or more gastrointestinal parasites, which were observed as single or mixed infections. Amongst the positive samples, 44.5% were infected with Ascaris suum, 50.6% with Trichuris suis, 26.0% and 72.7% were infected with Oesophagostomum dentatum and coccidia, respectively. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) between the rate of infection in the intensive and semi-intensive systems and between the dewormed and non-dewormed pigs. Piglets and female pigs recorded a higher prevalence in their categories. Pigs excreted mostly low (eggs per gram [EPG] ≤ 100) to moderate (EPG > 100 < 500) levels of helminth eggs. It is concluded that different species of gastrointestinal parasites are present in most pigs reared by smallholder farmers in this study area.

Keywords: gastrointestinal helminths and parasites; smallholder pig farmers; pigs; prevalence; Central Free State Province.

Prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal protozoa in Madura cattle at Bangkalan Regency, East Java, Indonesia

Aim:

This study aimed to describe the gastrointestinal protozoa in Madura cattle at Bangkalan Regency, East Java, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 500 samples of Madura cattle feces were collected from 10 districts at Bangkalan Regency. Those ten districts represent the lowland and upland areas, and each district was represented by one village. The collected feces were examined using native, sedimentation, and floating methods. The species identification was determined by their morphology.

Results:

There were 357 (71.4%) samples positively infected with protozoan. The highest rate of sample with protozoan infection was at Kamal District (88.23%), and Bangkalan District (52.83%) was the lowest one. There were six species of protozoa that infected gastrointestinal tract; those are Eimeria spp., Balantidium spp., Isospora spp., Blastocystis spp., Entamoeba spp., and Cryptosporidium spp. The highest number of protozoa found in this research was Eimeria (53.42%) followed by Blastocystis (14.43%). In this study, we found that 295 samples (58.76%) infected by one kind of protozoa, 53 samples (10.56%) infected by two kinds of protozoa, and 11 samples (2.19%) infected by three kinds of protozoa. In addition, there were 65.54% of bulls infected with protozoa, considerably lower than cows (72.97%). Cattle aged 6 months-2 years old (73.39%) and >2 years old (71.25%) are known more prone to protozoan infections than cattle aged <6 months (66.15%).

Conclusion:

The present study revealed that protozoan infection of cattle is common in Bangkalan Regency. Studies focused on determining that the prevalence of protozoan, risk factors for the parasitism, and the geographic distribution are needed and will be effective guide for prevention and control measures.

The First Case of Diarrhoea in Tibetan Sheep, Ovis aries, Caused by Balantidium coli in the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau Area, China

This study was carried out to determine the pathogen-causing diarrhoea in sheep Ovis aries in the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau Area, China. A trophozoite was identified as species of ciliate alveolates infecting the sheep based on morphological characteristics examined by microscope. It was mostly spherical, colourless and transparent, with many vesicles. Macronucleus and contractile vacuoles could not be distinguished. Size of the trophozoite was 80–180×70–150 μm and its surface was covered with cilia. Molecular analysis based on sequences of 18S rRNA and ITS genes confirmed the ciliate species as Balantidium coli. According to the literature, there have been many epidemiological investigations of B. coli infection in pigs, monkeys and humans. To our knowledge, this was the first report of B. coli infections in sheep in the Qinghai Tibetan Plateau Area of China, or eleswhere around the world. Importantly, the sheep case was rare but raised our concern that B. coli may spread across species and expand its host range.

First report on the occurance of intestinal Entamoeba spp. In pigs In China

Three Entamoeba spp. including E. suis, zoonotic E. polecki, and E. histolytica, have been described in pigs to date. However, little is known about the molecular epidemiology of these neglected parasites in pigs globally. In this study we surveyed the occurrence and molecular epidemiology of porcine Entamoeba spp. in pigs in eastern China and evaluated their zoonotic potential. Five hundred fresh fecal samples, collected from seven pig farms in Anhui province, eastern China,were examined for the presence of E. histolytica, E. suis, and E. polecki ST1 and ST3 infections by a combination of nested PCR targeting the small subunit ribosomal DNA gene and subsequent sequencing.The overall occurrence of Entamoeba spp. was 45.8% (229/500). Infection with E. polecki ST1 (38.2%; 191/500) was the most common, followed by E. polecki ST3 (10.0%; 50/500), and E. suis (0.8%; 4/500). No E. histolytica infection was detected. Double infections with E. polecki ST1 and E. suis, and with E. polecki ST1 and ST3 were found in two (0.4%) and 14 (2.8%) samples, respectively. No age predisposition to infection with Entamoeba spp. was observed. PCR and subsequent sequencing confirmed the validity and feasibility of the nested PCR method used in this study in identifying species/subtypes of porcine Entamoeba spp.This is the first report to describe the occurrence and molecular epidemiology of Entamoeba species in pigs in China. The presence of two zoonotic E. polecki subtypes implies that pigs can be reservoirs for human E. polecki infections. More studiess are needed to better understand the transmission and public health significance of porcine Entamoeba spp.

A survey for potentially zoonotic gastrointestinal parasites of dogs and pigs in Cambodia

There is little information available on parasites of zoonotic significance in Cambodia. In 2011, in an effort to obtain data on potentially zoonotic gastrointestinal parasites in domestic animals, 50 dogs and 30 pigs residing in 38 households located in Ang Svay Check village, Takeo province, Cambodia were examined for parasites from faecal samples. The samples were processed using the formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique (FECT). Hookworms were the most common zoonotic parasite found in dogs (80.0%) followed by Echinostomes (18.0%). While, in pigs, Fasciolopsis buski was the most common zoonotic parasite (30.0%) followed by Ascaris suum (13.3%). This study provides baseline data on gastrointestinal parasites in dogs and pigs from Cambodia and underscores the importance of domestic animals as reservoir hosts for human parasites for Cambodian veterinary and public health agencies. Follow-up studies are required to further taxonomically characterize these dog and pig parasites and to determine their role in human parasites in this community.

Gastrointestinal parasites of swine raised in different management systems in the State of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Abstract: From 2012 to 2013 were surveyed gastrointestinal parasites from pig farms located in different municpaliyies in the state of Rio de Janeiro. Fecal samples from 790 pigs were collected from the rectum on 88 family farms and 702 farms with industrial production. The samples were subjected to Faust et al., Sheather, Ritchie, Lutz and direct examination faecal techniques. The estimated parasite prevalence was 93.1% in family farms and 59.1% in industrial farms. Balantidium coli, coccidia and Entamoeba sp. were the parasites with the highest frequencies, and the male and female reproductive categories and fatteners pigs the most infected (p<0.05). Trophozoites of B. coli were most evident in stool samples from semi-solid followed by solid and diarrheal consistencies. Strongyles eggs and Trichuris suis have been detected exclusively in family farms. Ascaris suum eggs and Strongyloides ransomi showed low frequency. The high degree of parasitism, especially protozoa, indicates the need to reassess the management of pigs in both types of production.

Effects of some pesticides on development of Ascaris suum eggs

To evaluate the effects of pesticides to parasite eggs, Ascaris suum eggs were incubated with 5 different pesticides (1:1,500-1:2,000 dilutions of 2% emamectin benzoate, 5% spinetoram, 5% indoxacarb, 1% deltamethrin, and 5% flufenoxuron; all v/v) at 20℃ for 6 weeks, and microscopically evaluated the egg survival and development on a weekly basis. The survival rate of A. suum eggs incubated in normal saline (control eggs) was 90±3% at 6 weeks. However, the survival rates of eggs treated with pesticides were 75-85% at this time, thus significantly lower than the control value. Larval development in control eggs commenced at 3 weeks, and 73±3% of eggs had internal larvae at 6 weeks. Larvae were evident in pesticide-treated eggs at 3-4 weeks, and the proportions of eggs carrying larvae at 6 weeks (36±3%-54±3%) were significantly lower than that of the control group. Thus, pesticides tested at levels similar to those used in agricultural practices exhibited low-level ovicidal activity and delayed embryogenesis of A. suum eggs, although some differences were evident among the tested pesticides.

Quantitative evaluation of viability- and apoptosis-related genes in Ascaris suum eggs under different culture-temperature conditions

Ascaris suum eggs are inactivated by composting conditions; however, it is difficult to find functional changes in heat-treated A. suum eggs. Here, unembryonated A. suum eggs were incubated at 20℃, 50℃, and 70℃ in vitro, and the gene expression levels related to viability, such as eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (IF4E), phosphofructokinase 1 (PFK1), and thioredoxin 1 (TRX1), and to apoptosis, such as apoptosis-inducing factor 1 (AIF1) and cell death protein 6 (CDP6), were evaluated by real-time quantitative RT-PCR. No prominent morphological alterations were noted in the eggs at 20℃ until day 10. In contrast, the eggs developed rapidly, and embryonated eggs and hatched larvae began to die, starting on day 2 at 50℃ and day 1 at 70℃. At 20℃, IF4E, PFK1, and TRX1 mRNA expression was significantly increased from days 2-4; however, AIF1 and CDP6 mRNA expression was not changed significantly. IF4E, PFK1, and TRX1 mRNA expression was markedly decreased from day 2 at 50℃ and 70℃, whereas AIF1 and CDP6 mRNA expression was significantly increased. The expressions of HSP70 and HSP90 were detected for 9-10 days at 20℃, for 3-5 days at 50℃, and for 2 days at 70℃. Taken together, incremental heat increases were associated with the rapid development of A. suum eggs, decreased expression of genes related to viability, and earlier expression of apoptosis-related genes, and finally these changes of viability- and apoptosis-related genes of A. suum eggs were associated with survival of the eggs under temperature stress.

Effect of temperature on embryonation of Ascaris suum eggs in an environmental chamber

The influence of temperature on the development and embryonation of Ascaris suum eggs was studied using coarse sand medium in an environmental chamber with 50% humidity. The time required for development and embryonation of eggs was examined under 3 different temperature conditions, 5℃, 25℃, and 35℃. A. suum eggs did not develop over 1 month at the temperature of 5℃. However, other temperature conditions, 25℃ and 35℃, induced egg development to the 8-cell-stage at days 5-6 after incubation. All eggs examined developed to the 8-cell stage at day 6 after incubation in the sand medium at 25℃. The higher temperature, 35℃, slightly accelerated the A. suum egg development compared to 25℃, and the development to the 8-cell stage occurred within day 5 after incubation. The formation of larvae in A. suum eggs at temperatures of 35℃ and 25℃ appeared at days 17 and 19 after incubation, respectively. These findings show that 35℃ condition shortens the time for the development of A. suum eggs to the 8-cell-stage in comparison to 25℃, and suggest the possibility of accelerated transmission of this parasite, resulting from global warming and ecosystem changes.

Effects of kimchi extract and temperature on embryostasis of Ascaris suum eggs

To determine the effects of kimchi extracts at different temperatures on larval development, Ascaris suum eggs were mixed with soluble part of 7 different brands of commercially available kimchi and preserved at either 5℃ or 25℃ for up to 60 days. A. suum eggs incubated at 25℃ showed marked differences in larval development between kimchi extract and control group. While all eggs in the control group completed embryonation by day 21, only 30% of the eggs in the kimchi extract group became embryonated by day 36 and about 25% never became larvated even at day 60. At 5℃, however, none of the eggs showed larval development regardless of the incubation period or type of mixture group. To determine the survival rate of A. suum eggs that showed no embryonation after being preserved at 5℃, eggs preserved in kimchi extracts for 14, 28, and 60 at 5℃ were re-incubated at 25℃ for 3 weeks in distilled water. While all eggs in the control group became larvated, eggs in the kimchi extract group showed differences in their embryonation rates by the incubation period; 87.4 % and 41.7% of the eggs became embryonated after being refrigerated for 14 days and 28 days, respectively. When refrigerated for 60 days, however, no eggs mixed in kimchi extract showed larval development. Our results indicate that embryogenesis of A. suum eggs in kimchi extract was affected by duration of refrigeration, and that all eggs stopped larval development completely in kimchi kept at 5℃ for up to 60 days.