This page has only limited features, please log in for full access.

Prof. Maria Teresa Manfredi
Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, 20133 Milan, Italy

Basic Info

Basic Info is private.

Research Keywords & Expertise

0 Epidemiology
0 Parasitic diseases
0 ruminants
0 zoonoses
0 Gastrointestinal Nematodes

Fingerprints

ruminants
Gastrointestinal Nematodes
Apicomplexa
Epidemiology
Parasitic diseases

Honors and Awards

The user has no records in this section


Career Timeline

The user has no records in this section.


Short Biography

The user biography is not available.
Following
Followers
Co Authors
The list of users this user is following is empty.
Following: 0 users

Feed

Journal article
Published: 05 August 2021 in Applied Sciences
Reads 0
Downloads 0

In the last three decades, we assisted in a shift in the dairy product preferences in developed countries, with an increase in goat-derived products consumption. As already seen in the bovine sector, the diffusion of goat milk consumption has led to an abandonment of the local breeds in favor of the more productive cosmopolitan breeds, with an intense reduction in the livestock biodiversity. However, in several studies, it has been shown that local breeds present unique features such as a robust behavior towards the local climate and a high quality of their dairy products. This study aims to assess the differences between the basic lactation variables (milk yield, fat %, protein %, lactose % and somatic cell count) in the Alpine goat and the local breed Verzasca goat from a Bayesian point of observation. Results indicate that the Nera di Verzasca goat has overall lactation characteristics similar toa cosmopolite breed such as the Alpine goat, except for the milk daily yield reduced with respect to Alpine goats (1.68 ± 0.84 and 2.14 ± 1.03, respectively). Moreover, the Verzasca goat showed a tendency to maintain a lower level of somatic cell count along with lactation (798 ± 1734 and 1216 ± 2828, respectively). These findings help to increase the knowledge about the Italian local goat breeds and are important in the optic of biodiversity conservation.

ACS Style

Stella Agradi; Alessia Gazzonis; Giulio Curone; Massimo Faustini; Susanna Draghi; Gabriele Brecchia; Daniele Vigo; Maria Manfredi; Sergio Zanzani; Luisa Pulinas; Majlind Sulce; Albana Munga; Marta Castrica; Laura Menchetti. Lactation Characteristics in Alpine and Nera di Verzasca Goats in Northern Italy: A Statistical Bayesian Approach. Applied Sciences 2021, 11, 7235 .

AMA Style

Stella Agradi, Alessia Gazzonis, Giulio Curone, Massimo Faustini, Susanna Draghi, Gabriele Brecchia, Daniele Vigo, Maria Manfredi, Sergio Zanzani, Luisa Pulinas, Majlind Sulce, Albana Munga, Marta Castrica, Laura Menchetti. Lactation Characteristics in Alpine and Nera di Verzasca Goats in Northern Italy: A Statistical Bayesian Approach. Applied Sciences. 2021; 11 (16):7235.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Stella Agradi; Alessia Gazzonis; Giulio Curone; Massimo Faustini; Susanna Draghi; Gabriele Brecchia; Daniele Vigo; Maria Manfredi; Sergio Zanzani; Luisa Pulinas; Majlind Sulce; Albana Munga; Marta Castrica; Laura Menchetti. 2021. "Lactation Characteristics in Alpine and Nera di Verzasca Goats in Northern Italy: A Statistical Bayesian Approach." Applied Sciences 11, no. 16: 7235.

Journal article
Published: 01 June 2021 in Journal of Parasitology
Reads 0
Downloads 0

The present study aimed to describe the natural trend of Eimeria spp. oocysts shedding in different breeds of adult goats raised in a sub-Alpine ecosystem by quantitative copromicroscopic analysis. A 1-yr long longitudinal study was planned in a goat herd composed of non-native (Alpine) and autochthonous (Nera di Verzasca) breeds. FLOTAC double technique was implemented to analyze individual fecal samples collected monthly from 2 groups (non-native and native) of 10 goats each. A generalized linear mixed model, in which each goat was included as a random intercept effect, identified 4 predictors of logarithmically transformed oocysts per gram shedding: the number of days from parturition (F = 27.744; P < 0.001), the interaction between the goat breed and the number of days from parturition (F = 8.407; P = 0.004), the interaction between the number of days from parturition and the number of parturitions (F = 6.371; P = 0.012), and the interaction between the monthly rainfalls and temperatures (F = 4.536; P = 0.023). These results indicate that the physiological status (number of days from parturition) of adult goats and its interaction with other individual features (number of parturitions and breed) can affect Eimeria spp. oocysts shedding. Besides, a combination of climatic variables can pose a risk for Eimeria spp. infection in goats reared in the sub-Alpine environment.

ACS Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Gabriele Giuliani; Eric Alberti; Luca Villa; Maria Teresa Manfredi. Comparison of Naturally Occurring Eimeria Infections in Alpine and Nera Di Verzasca Goat Breeds Reared in a Sub-Alpine Environment. Journal of Parasitology 2021, 107, 463 -471.

AMA Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Sergio Aurelio Zanzani, Gabriele Giuliani, Eric Alberti, Luca Villa, Maria Teresa Manfredi. Comparison of Naturally Occurring Eimeria Infections in Alpine and Nera Di Verzasca Goat Breeds Reared in a Sub-Alpine Environment. Journal of Parasitology. 2021; 107 (3):463-471.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Gabriele Giuliani; Eric Alberti; Luca Villa; Maria Teresa Manfredi. 2021. "Comparison of Naturally Occurring Eimeria Infections in Alpine and Nera Di Verzasca Goat Breeds Reared in a Sub-Alpine Environment." Journal of Parasitology 107, no. 3: 463-471.

Journal article
Published: 01 April 2021 in Microorganisms
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum (Apicomplexa, Sarcocystidae) are protozoan parasites infecting a wide range of intermediate hosts worldwide, including birds. Raptors acquire the infections through the ingestion of both infected preys and oocysts in the environment suggesting they might be used as indicators of the spread of these pathogens. Here, we report an epidemiological survey with the aim of determining the prevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum infections in wild birds of prey, hospitalized in two Wildlife Recovery Centres (WRCs) in Northern Italy. Genomic DNA extracted from brain tissue samples was submitted to Real Time PCR targeting T. gondii B1 and N. caninum Nc5 genes. T. gondii genotyping was then performed by multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis, targeting three polymorphic genes (GRA6, BTUB, and altSAG2). T. gondii DNA was found in 35 (62.5%) out of 56 examined samples; concerning genotyping, it was possible to amplify at least one gene for 26 animals, and obtained sequences belonged to Type II. N. caninum DNA was only detected in two (3.6%) common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus), adding a new species to the list of suitable intermediate hosts for this pathogen. Data obtained in the present study thus confirmed the spread of both T. gondii and N. caninum in wild bird of prey, endorsing the role of WRCs in the epidemiological surveillance of wildlife.

ACS Style

Alessia Gazzonis; Luca Villa; Emanuele Lubian; Sara Ressegotti; Guido Grilli; Stefano Raimondi; Sergio Zanzani; Maria Manfredi. Molecular Survey on Toxoplasmagondii and Neosporacaninum Infection in Wild Birds of Prey Admitted to Recovery Centers in Northern Italy. Microorganisms 2021, 9, 736 .

AMA Style

Alessia Gazzonis, Luca Villa, Emanuele Lubian, Sara Ressegotti, Guido Grilli, Stefano Raimondi, Sergio Zanzani, Maria Manfredi. Molecular Survey on Toxoplasmagondii and Neosporacaninum Infection in Wild Birds of Prey Admitted to Recovery Centers in Northern Italy. Microorganisms. 2021; 9 (4):736.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Alessia Gazzonis; Luca Villa; Emanuele Lubian; Sara Ressegotti; Guido Grilli; Stefano Raimondi; Sergio Zanzani; Maria Manfredi. 2021. "Molecular Survey on Toxoplasmagondii and Neosporacaninum Infection in Wild Birds of Prey Admitted to Recovery Centers in Northern Italy." Microorganisms 9, no. 4: 736.

Journal article
Published: 15 March 2021 in Parasites & Vectors
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Background Besnoitia besnoiti is an Apicomplexan protozoa causative of bovine besnoitiosis, a chronic and debilitating disease of cattle, with a variety of pathological findings that could alter some laboratory parameters. A study was conducted in a bovine besnoitiosis endemically infected dairy herd located in Italy characterized by high intra-herd seroprevalence and cattle with clinical signs of the disease. In the study, alterations in laboratory parameters, i.e. hematological and biochemical parameters, enzyme activities and serum cortisol levels, in Besnoitia besnoiti naturally infected cows were investigated in depth. Methods Laboratory parameters in 107 cows, of which 61 were seronegative and 46 were seropositive to B. besnoiti, including 27 with clinical signs of bovine besnoitiosis, were compared. Generalized linear models were used to evaluate the effect of Besnoitia infection on the considered laboratory parameters. Results Hematological analyses revealed that B. besnoiti infection determined a significant alteration to the leukocyte differential, with a higher percentage of granulocytes and a lower percentage of lymphocytes in seropositive and clinically affected animals (Mann–Whitney U-test, P = 0.022); erythrocyte and platelet counts did not show any difference between the considered groups of cows. Biochemistry tests evidenced that the parasite infection influenced serum protein values in seropositive cows and glutamate dehydrogenase values in clinically affected animals. No or only slight differences were revealed for all of the other biochemical and enzyme activity parameters in B. besnoiti-infected animals. In addition, despite the lack of statistical significance, seropositive and clinically affected cows evidenced higher concentrations of serum cortisol values compared to seronegative animals. Conclusions Although physiological, pathological and farm-related factors could have influenced the results in investigated animals, further studies involving more animals from different farms would be advisable to infer the role of B. besnoiti on these alterations, since laboratory parameters could help veterinarians in the diagnosis of bovine besnoitiosis in cattle.

ACS Style

Luca Villa; Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Silvia Mazzola; Alessia Giordano; Maria Teresa Manfredi. Exploring alterations in hematological and biochemical parameters, enzyme activities and serum cortisol in Besnoitia besnoiti naturally infected dairy cattle. Parasites & Vectors 2021, 14, 1 -13.

AMA Style

Luca Villa, Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Sergio Aurelio Zanzani, Silvia Mazzola, Alessia Giordano, Maria Teresa Manfredi. Exploring alterations in hematological and biochemical parameters, enzyme activities and serum cortisol in Besnoitia besnoiti naturally infected dairy cattle. Parasites & Vectors. 2021; 14 (1):1-13.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Luca Villa; Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Silvia Mazzola; Alessia Giordano; Maria Teresa Manfredi. 2021. "Exploring alterations in hematological and biochemical parameters, enzyme activities and serum cortisol in Besnoitia besnoiti naturally infected dairy cattle." Parasites & Vectors 14, no. 1: 1-13.

Journal article
Published: 13 January 2021 in Parasites & Vectors
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Background Neospora caninum, a coccidian protozoan, represents an important cause of bovine abortion. Available N. caninum strains show considerable variation in vitro and in vivo, including different virulence in cattle. To which extent sexual recombination, which is possible in the intestines of domestic dogs and closely related carnivores as definitive hosts, contributes to this variation is not clear yet. Methods Aborted bovine foetuses were collected between 2015 and early 2019 from Italian Holstein Friesian dairy herds suffering from reproductive problems. A total of 198 samples were collected from 165 intensive farms located in Lombardy, northern Italy. N. caninum samples were subjected to multilocus-microsatellite genotyping using ten previously established microsatellite markers. In addition to our own data, those from a recent study providing data on five markers from other northern Italian regions were included and analysed. Results Of the 55 samples finally subjected to genotyping, 35 were typed at all or 9 out of 10 loci and their individual multilocus-microsatellite genotype (MLMG) determined. Linear regression revealed a statistically significant association between the spatial distance of the sampling sites with the genetic distance of N. caninum MLMGs (P < 0.001). Including data from this and a previous North Italian study into eBURST analysis revealed that several of N. caninum MLMGs from northern Italy separate into four groups; most of the samples from Lombardy clustered in one of these groups. Principle component analysis revealed similar clusters and confirmed MLMG groups identified by eBURST. Variations observed between MLMGs were not equally distributed over all loci, but predominantly observed in MS7, MS6A, or MS10. Conclusions Our findings confirm the concept of local N. caninum subpopulations. The geographic distance of sampling was associated with the genetic distance as determined by microsatellite typing. Results suggest that multi-parental recombination in N. caninum is a rare event, but does not exclude uniparental mating. More comprehensive studies on microsatellites in N. caninum and related species like Toxoplasma gondii should be undertaken, not only to improve genotyping capabilities, but also to understand possible functions of these regions in the genomes of these parasites.

ACS Style

Luca Villa; Pavlo Maksimov; Christine Luttermann; Mareen Tuschy; Alessia L. Gazzonis; Sergio A. Zanzani; Michele Mortarino; Franz J. Conraths; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Gereon Schares. Spatial distance between sites of sampling associated with genetic variation among Neospora caninum in aborted bovine foetuses from northern Italy. Parasites & Vectors 2021, 14, 1 -14.

AMA Style

Luca Villa, Pavlo Maksimov, Christine Luttermann, Mareen Tuschy, Alessia L. Gazzonis, Sergio A. Zanzani, Michele Mortarino, Franz J. Conraths, Maria Teresa Manfredi, Gereon Schares. Spatial distance between sites of sampling associated with genetic variation among Neospora caninum in aborted bovine foetuses from northern Italy. Parasites & Vectors. 2021; 14 (1):1-14.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Luca Villa; Pavlo Maksimov; Christine Luttermann; Mareen Tuschy; Alessia L. Gazzonis; Sergio A. Zanzani; Michele Mortarino; Franz J. Conraths; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Gereon Schares. 2021. "Spatial distance between sites of sampling associated with genetic variation among Neospora caninum in aborted bovine foetuses from northern Italy." Parasites & Vectors 14, no. 1: 1-14.

Journal article
Published: 22 October 2020 in Parasites & Vectors
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Background Leishmania infantum is a vector-borne pathogen endemic in countries in the Mediterranean basin, including Italy. Dogs act as the primary reservoir for this parasite, but other animal species may also be infected. Low-to-moderate seroprevalence levels of infection have been reported in apparent healthy equine populations in southern Europe, reinforcing the importance of exploring those species, including horses, that act as a food source for vectors and may thus participate in the epizoological scenario of canine leishmaniosis (CanL) and zoonotic visceral leishmaniosis (ZVL). Since little is known regarding the exposure to L. infantum in horses in Italy, we assessed the seroprevalence in healthy equine populations from different CanL endemic areas. Methods The survey was conducted on 660 apparently healthy horses distributed throughout central and northern regions of Italy between 2016 and 2019. Blood samples were collected and the presence of anti-Leishmania antibodies (IgG) was investigated by the immunofluorescence antibody test. Information on the location and altitude of the stables, along with the horses’ breed, age, sex, and reproductive status was obtained by filling in a questionnaire. This was then used for statistical analysis by generalized linear models to explore risk factors associated with seroreactivity to L. infantum. Results An average seroprevalence of 13.9% was detected for L. infantum in the equine populations investigated, with statistically significant associations between seroprevalence, geographical variables (northern vs central Italy, origin and altitude) and individual factors (i.e. age and breed morphotype). Conclusions Our results highlight that horses are frequently exposed to L. infantum. Further prevalence surveys in horses, also using direct methods (e.g. PCR), are warranted to clarify the role of these hosts in the epidemiology of Leishmania in Italy.

ACS Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Filippo Bertero; Iolanda Moretta; Giulia Morganti; Michele Mortarino; Luca Villa; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Benedetto Morandi; Riccardo Rinnovati; Fabrizio Vitale; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Luis Cardoso; Fabrizia Veronesi. Detecting antibodies to Leishmania infantum in horses from areas with different epizooticity levels of canine leishmaniosis and a retrospective revision of Italian data. Parasites & Vectors 2020, 13, 1 -9.

AMA Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Filippo Bertero, Iolanda Moretta, Giulia Morganti, Michele Mortarino, Luca Villa, Sergio Aurelio Zanzani, Benedetto Morandi, Riccardo Rinnovati, Fabrizio Vitale, Maria Teresa Manfredi, Luis Cardoso, Fabrizia Veronesi. Detecting antibodies to Leishmania infantum in horses from areas with different epizooticity levels of canine leishmaniosis and a retrospective revision of Italian data. Parasites & Vectors. 2020; 13 (1):1-9.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Filippo Bertero; Iolanda Moretta; Giulia Morganti; Michele Mortarino; Luca Villa; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Benedetto Morandi; Riccardo Rinnovati; Fabrizio Vitale; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Luis Cardoso; Fabrizia Veronesi. 2020. "Detecting antibodies to Leishmania infantum in horses from areas with different epizooticity levels of canine leishmaniosis and a retrospective revision of Italian data." Parasites & Vectors 13, no. 1: 1-9.

Helminthology original paper
Published: 20 June 2020 in Parasitology Research
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Strongylida are gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) of greatest importance in small ruminants throughout the world. Differences in resistance and resilience to GIN among goat breeds were reported. This study aims to investigate the mechanism underlying the breed-associated differences using a cosmopolitan (Alpine, AB) and an autochthonous (Nera di Verzasca, NV) goat breed. At first, fifteen goats from the same herd (NV = 7, AB = 8) at day 0 were infected with infective larvae (L3) of mixed GIN. From the 15th day post-infection (DPI), individual parasite egg excretion (faecal egg counts, FEC) was performed on all goats, once per week, until the 63rd DPI. Afterwards, in goats under field conditions (30 AB and 30 NV reared on the same farm), individual faecal and blood samples were collected; FEC-specific antibody and PCV levels were explored. In goats with experimental GIN infection, mean eggs per gram of faeces (EPG) values were consistently lower in NV goats. In goats with natural GIN infection, EPG and prevalence values showed high variability in both breeds; among individual variables, breed had a significant influence on EPG. Further, PCV and anti-T. circumcincta IgA levels were influenced by the breed. Lower PCV values were also associated with higher strongyle EPG in AB goats, and anti-T. circumcincta IgA levels were influenced by both strongyle EPG and breed, with IgA levels being higher in AB vs. NV goats and positively associated with EPG. Neither EPG nor breed had any influence on IgE levels. Both studies on experimental and natural infection confirmed that goats of NV are more resistant to infection with gastrointestinal nematodes.

ACS Style

Sergio Zanzani; A. L. Gazzonis; E. Alberti; T. Mc Neilly; L. Villa; M. T. Manfredi. Gastrointestinal nematode infections in goats: differences between strongyle faecal egg counts and specific antibody responses to Teladorsagia circumcincta in Nera di Verzasca and Alpine goats. Parasitology Research 2020, 119, 2539 -2548.

AMA Style

Sergio Zanzani, A. L. Gazzonis, E. Alberti, T. Mc Neilly, L. Villa, M. T. Manfredi. Gastrointestinal nematode infections in goats: differences between strongyle faecal egg counts and specific antibody responses to Teladorsagia circumcincta in Nera di Verzasca and Alpine goats. Parasitology Research. 2020; 119 (8):2539-2548.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Sergio Zanzani; A. L. Gazzonis; E. Alberti; T. Mc Neilly; L. Villa; M. T. Manfredi. 2020. "Gastrointestinal nematode infections in goats: differences between strongyle faecal egg counts and specific antibody responses to Teladorsagia circumcincta in Nera di Verzasca and Alpine goats." Parasitology Research 119, no. 8: 2539-2548.

Journal article
Published: 04 November 2019 in Animals
Reads 0
Downloads 0

The objectives of this study were: (i) To investigate possible geographical or environmental factors influencing the infections by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in sheep and goats in northern Italy; (ii) to identify areas at risk of infection to set up preventive measures. Forty-three sheep and goat farms were included. Their locations were plotted and associated with T. gondii and N. caninum seroprevalence, then the distribution of farms’ prevalence was evaluated by spatial analysis. Significant clusters for both low and high prevalence were obtained, and a generalized linear model with ordinal logistic regression was implemented to verify if spatial clustering could be due to climate factors (temperature, rainfall, and their interaction). Clusters of high (80.0%) and low prevalence (28.12%) resulted for T. gondii seroprevalence in sheep farms. No significant clusters resulted for goat farms. Clusters of high (38.68%) and low prevalence (21.23%) resulted for N. caninum seroprevalence in sheep farms. One high-prevalence cluster (15.62%) resulted for goat farms. For goats, spatial analysis and analysis on climatic data showed the absence of environmental significant risk factors associated with T. gondii or N. caninum infection. On the contrary, for sheep, annual temperature, rainfall, and their association affected the risk of T. gondii and N. caninum infection. Particularly, high temperatures and abundant rainfalls were related to T. gondii seroprevalence, while low temperatures and scarce rainfalls were related to N. caninum seroprevalence.

ACS Style

Alessia Gazzonis; Luca Villa; Mariateresa Manfredi; Sergio Zanzani. Spatial Analysis of Infections by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum (Protozoa: Apicomplexa) in Small Ruminants in Northern Italy. Animals 2019, 9, 916 .

AMA Style

Alessia Gazzonis, Luca Villa, Mariateresa Manfredi, Sergio Zanzani. Spatial Analysis of Infections by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum (Protozoa: Apicomplexa) in Small Ruminants in Northern Italy. Animals. 2019; 9 (11):916.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Alessia Gazzonis; Luca Villa; Mariateresa Manfredi; Sergio Zanzani. 2019. "Spatial Analysis of Infections by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum (Protozoa: Apicomplexa) in Small Ruminants in Northern Italy." Animals 9, no. 11: 916.

Journal article
Published: 03 July 2019 in Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Lyme borreliosis cases have been reported from Lombardy in northern Italy, where Ixodes ricinus is the main vector of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. However, spatial and temporal variation in the incidence of Lyme borreliosis is not well understood. In the present study, based on new notified cases of Lyme borreliosis from 2000 to 2015, an average of 1.24 new cases per million residents per year was documented. New cases, georeferenced at the municipal level, were analyzed by retrospective space-time analysis (using SaTScan v. 9.3.1); and land cover, extrapolated from a Corine Land Cover dataset (using QGIS 2.8.1), was used to implement an environmental risk factor analysis. Firstly, a temporal high-risk cluster was detected in Lombardy: the relative risk of Lyme borreliosis was 3.73 times higher during 2008–2015 compared with the entire study period. Moreover, in a spatiotemporal high-risk cluster with a circular base, land cover consisting of wildland-urban interface, meadow, forest and meadow-forest transition were significantly higher compared to low-risk areas. Results of the present study demonstrate that the incidence of Lyme borreliosis is increasing in Lombardy and that environmental conditions are suitable for I. ricinus ticks infected with B. burgdorferi s.l.: citizens and health systems should be aware of Lyme borreliosis to reduce tick bites with personal protective behaviors and to avoid misdiagnosis, particularly within the area including the observed high-risk cluster. Economic resources should be invested to inform about methods to prevent tick bites, how to check people and pets after frequenting risk areas, and ways of removing the biting ticks when they are found.

ACS Style

Sergio A. Zanzani; Sara G. Rimoldi; Mariateresa Manfredi; Romualdo Grande; Alessia L. Gazzonis; Stefania Merli; Emanuela Olivieri; Vania Giacomet; Spinello Antinori; Giuliana Cislaghi; Giovanna Bestetti; Katiuscia Nan; Vittorio Sala; Maria R. Gismondo; Chiara Atzori; Eleonora De Faveri. Lyme borreliosis incidence in Lombardy, Italy (2000–2015): Spatiotemporal analysis and environmental risk factors. Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases 2019, 10, 101257 .

AMA Style

Sergio A. Zanzani, Sara G. Rimoldi, Mariateresa Manfredi, Romualdo Grande, Alessia L. Gazzonis, Stefania Merli, Emanuela Olivieri, Vania Giacomet, Spinello Antinori, Giuliana Cislaghi, Giovanna Bestetti, Katiuscia Nan, Vittorio Sala, Maria R. Gismondo, Chiara Atzori, Eleonora De Faveri. Lyme borreliosis incidence in Lombardy, Italy (2000–2015): Spatiotemporal analysis and environmental risk factors. Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases. 2019; 10 (6):101257.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Sergio A. Zanzani; Sara G. Rimoldi; Mariateresa Manfredi; Romualdo Grande; Alessia L. Gazzonis; Stefania Merli; Emanuela Olivieri; Vania Giacomet; Spinello Antinori; Giuliana Cislaghi; Giovanna Bestetti; Katiuscia Nan; Vittorio Sala; Maria R. Gismondo; Chiara Atzori; Eleonora De Faveri. 2019. "Lyme borreliosis incidence in Lombardy, Italy (2000–2015): Spatiotemporal analysis and environmental risk factors." Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases 10, no. 6: 101257.

Original article
Published: 19 December 2018 in Medical and Veterinary Entomology
Reads 0
Downloads 0

The Sardinian coloured donkey Equus asinus (Perissodactyla: Equidae) and its albino colour morph represent the wildlife species most typical of the island of Asinara. This Mediterranean island represents a favourable context for ticks and tick‐borne diseases; however, knowledge of the tick fauna on Asinara is scarce. A total of 106 Sardinian donkeys were inspected for tick infestation from June to November 2015. All ticks found were collected, classified by stage and sex, and identified to species level. The level of infestation of each donkey was determined; both the overall tick infestation and infestations of each detected species were classified on a scale of 1–3 to give an infestation score (IS). Overall, 256 hard ticks were collected from 60 of 106 donkeys (56.6%). Rhipicephalus bursa, Haemaphysalis punctata and Hyalomma marginatum (all: Ixodida: Ixodidae) infested 26.4%, 28.3% and 6.6% of donkeys, respectively. Different variables affected the IS. With reference to overall tick infestation, a higher IS was observed in donkeys grazing on grassland and Mediterranean shrubland and in albino donkeys compared with coloured donkeys. The collected ticks included species involved in the transmission of pathogens to humans, which highlights the risks for public health in a tourist destination such as Asinara National Park.

ACS Style

S. A. Zanzani; E. Pintore; E. Olivieri; N. Columbano; A. Scanu; V. Melosu; E. Sanna Passino; G. Careddu; A. L. Gazzonis; M. T. Manfredi; G. Garippa. Ixodid ticks on wild donkeys in a Mediterranean nature reserve (Asinara National Park): diversity and risk factors. Medical and Veterinary Entomology 2018, 33, 238 -246.

AMA Style

S. A. Zanzani, E. Pintore, E. Olivieri, N. Columbano, A. Scanu, V. Melosu, E. Sanna Passino, G. Careddu, A. L. Gazzonis, M. T. Manfredi, G. Garippa. Ixodid ticks on wild donkeys in a Mediterranean nature reserve (Asinara National Park): diversity and risk factors. Medical and Veterinary Entomology. 2018; 33 (2):238-246.

Chicago/Turabian Style

S. A. Zanzani; E. Pintore; E. Olivieri; N. Columbano; A. Scanu; V. Melosu; E. Sanna Passino; G. Careddu; A. L. Gazzonis; M. T. Manfredi; G. Garippa. 2018. "Ixodid ticks on wild donkeys in a Mediterranean nature reserve (Asinara National Park): diversity and risk factors." Medical and Veterinary Entomology 33, no. 2: 238-246.

Journal article
Published: 01 November 2018 in Preventive Veterinary Medicine
Reads 0
Downloads 0

A program for controlling bovine neosporosis based only on the use of beef semen, without culling seropositive animals, was evaluated in a closed dairy cattle herd over a 5-year period (2013-2017). The program was based on individual and periodic serological screenings to identify seropositive breeders. Seropositive cows were inseminated with beef-breed semen, thus excluding their descendants from the remount in order to prevent the vertical transmission of the disease. Seronegative animals, as well as heifers at first insemination, were tested before each insemination. Sera of 1097 cattle were examined by a commercial indirect ELISA for the detection of antibodies anti-Neospora caninum. To verify the difference in seropositivity values among years of sampling, statistical analysis through generalized estimation equations (GEEs) was performed, also considering the effects of age, lineages, and occurrence of abortion. A seroprevalence of 33.8% was found in the first screening. The prevalence and incidence of the infection within the herd decreased significantly in 2017 (P = 28.9%, I = 1.4%) (p-value = 0.0001). The family line investigation detected a higher risk of being seropositive for a cow born to a seropositive dam (p-value = 0.0001) than to a seronegative dam, decreasing both the apparently vertical and horizontal transmissions. The number of spontaneous abortions decreased after the first year of the study (23 in 2013 to 6 in 2017). Seropositive animals were associated with abortion events (p-value = 0.0001). Although an eradication of N. caninum was not achieved at the end of the study period, a significant reduction in prevalence and incidence of neosporosis in the herd and a reduction of the abortion rate was achieved with the application of this control plan in five years, without culling a high number of seropositive potential milk-producing animals.

ACS Style

Giulia Sala; Alessia Gazzonis; Antonio Boccardo; Eleonora Coppoletta; Chiara Galasso; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Davide Pravettoni. Using beef-breed semen in seropositive dams for the control of bovine neosporosis. Preventive Veterinary Medicine 2018, 161, 127 -133.

AMA Style

Giulia Sala, Alessia Gazzonis, Antonio Boccardo, Eleonora Coppoletta, Chiara Galasso, Maria Teresa Manfredi, Davide Pravettoni. Using beef-breed semen in seropositive dams for the control of bovine neosporosis. Preventive Veterinary Medicine. 2018; 161 ():127-133.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Giulia Sala; Alessia Gazzonis; Antonio Boccardo; Eleonora Coppoletta; Chiara Galasso; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Davide Pravettoni. 2018. "Using beef-breed semen in seropositive dams for the control of bovine neosporosis." Preventive Veterinary Medicine 161, no. : 127-133.

Journal article
Published: 13 October 2018 in Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite infecting a wide range of intermediate hosts, including birds. Nevertheless, scant information on the spread of infection in wild bird populations is available to date. With the aim of updating information on T. gondii infection in birds of prey and possible risk factors associated with the infection, a serosurvey was planned on both wild and captive raptors. An overall of 93 raptors from Northern Italy were tested for the presence of anti-T. gondii antibodies with a commercial modified agglutination test (MAT). A T. gondii prevalence of 10.7% was recorded; the highest seroprevalence was observed within the Family Strigidae (12.5%). Only wild animals tested positive; any statistical difference among species, taxonomic family, age, origin, use, migratory behavior and diet composition was not highlighted. Toxoplasmosis in birds of prey, sentinel species for the environmental spread of T. gondii, should always be considered within sanitary programs devoted to avian species protection.

ACS Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Zanzani; Azzurra Santoro; Fabrizia Veronesi; Emanuela Olivieri; Luca Villa; Emanuele Lubian; Silvia Lovati; Fulvio Bottura; Sara Epis; Maria Teresa Manfredi. Toxoplasma gondii infection in raptors from Italy: Seroepidemiology and risk factors analysis. Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases 2018, 60, 42 -45.

AMA Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Sergio Zanzani, Azzurra Santoro, Fabrizia Veronesi, Emanuela Olivieri, Luca Villa, Emanuele Lubian, Silvia Lovati, Fulvio Bottura, Sara Epis, Maria Teresa Manfredi. Toxoplasma gondii infection in raptors from Italy: Seroepidemiology and risk factors analysis. Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases. 2018; 60 ():42-45.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Zanzani; Azzurra Santoro; Fabrizia Veronesi; Emanuela Olivieri; Luca Villa; Emanuele Lubian; Silvia Lovati; Fulvio Bottura; Sara Epis; Maria Teresa Manfredi. 2018. "Toxoplasma gondii infection in raptors from Italy: Seroepidemiology and risk factors analysis." Comparative Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases 60, no. : 42-45.

Journal article
Published: 01 October 2018 in Parasitology International
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Among Apicomplexa protozoa infecting equids, Besnoitia spp., Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora spp. represent important issues from a sanitary and zootechnical viewpoint. However, only scarce epidemiological data are available on the spread of the infections in horses and donkeys in Europe. Therefore, a serosurvey was planned to estimate the prevalence of these Sarcocystidae species in Italian equids. Serum samples from 268 horses and 18 donkeys raised in Italy were collected and serologically analyzed to detect anti-Besnoitia spp., anti-T. gondii and anti-Neospora spp. antibodies: an approach based on an initial screening by in-house ELISA followed by a confirmatory WB was used. Two horses (0.7%) and four donkeys (22.2%), showed antibodies anti-Besnoitia spp. Ten horses (3.7%) resulted positive to T. gondii and one of these (0.4%) was seropositive also to Neospora spp. This is the first detection of anti-Besnoitia spp. specific antibodies in Italian horses and donkeys. The study confirmed the circulation of Besnoitia spp. among equids in Europe. Low prevalence of T. gondii and Neospora spp. in horses raised in Italy was reported. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy to consider that consumption of horse meat could represent a source for human toxoplasmosis.

ACS Style

Luca Villa; Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Gema Álvarez-García; Carlos Diezma Díaz; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Maria Teresa Manfredi. First detection of anti- Besnoitia spp. specific antibodies in horses and donkeys in Italy. Parasitology International 2018, 67, 640 -643.

AMA Style

Luca Villa, Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Gema Álvarez-García, Carlos Diezma Díaz, Sergio Aurelio Zanzani, Maria Teresa Manfredi. First detection of anti- Besnoitia spp. specific antibodies in horses and donkeys in Italy. Parasitology International. 2018; 67 (5):640-643.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Luca Villa; Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Gema Álvarez-García; Carlos Diezma Díaz; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Maria Teresa Manfredi. 2018. "First detection of anti- Besnoitia spp. specific antibodies in horses and donkeys in Italy." Parasitology International 67, no. 5: 640-643.

Journal article
Published: 01 October 2018 in Journal of Parasitology
Reads 0
Downloads 0
ACS Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Katia Stradiotto; Emanuela Olivieri; Luca Villa; Maria Teresa Manfredi. Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies in Bulk Tank Milk Samples of Caprine Dairy Herds. Journal of Parasitology 2018, 104, 560 -565.

AMA Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Sergio Aurelio Zanzani, Katia Stradiotto, Emanuela Olivieri, Luca Villa, Maria Teresa Manfredi. Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies in Bulk Tank Milk Samples of Caprine Dairy Herds. Journal of Parasitology. 2018; 104 (5):560-565.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Katia Stradiotto; Emanuela Olivieri; Luca Villa; Maria Teresa Manfredi. 2018. "Toxoplasma gondii Antibodies in Bulk Tank Milk Samples of Caprine Dairy Herds." Journal of Parasitology 104, no. 5: 560-565.

Journal article
Published: 01 October 2018 in Infection, Genetics and Evolution
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Cystic echinococcosis (CE), a zoonotic disease caused by tapeworms of the species complex Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato, represents a substantial global health and economic burden. Within this complex, E. granulosus sensu stricto (genotypes G1 and G3) is the most frequent causative agent of human CE. Currently, there is no fully reliable method for assigning samples to genotypes G1 and G3, as the commonly used mitochondrial cox1 and nad1 genes are not sufficiently consistent for the identification and differentiation of these genotypes. Thus, a new genetic assay is required for the accurate assignment of G1 and G3. Here we use a large dataset of near-complete mtDNA sequences (n = 303) to reveal the extent of genetic variation of G1 and G3 on a broad geographical scale and to identify reliable informative positions for G1 and G3. Based on extensive sampling and sequencing data, we developed a new method, that is simple and cost-effective, to designate samples to genotypes G1 and G3. We found that the nad5 is the best gene in mtDNA to differentiate between G1 and G3, and developed new primers for the analysis. Our results also highlight problems related to the commonly used cox1 and nad1. To guarantee consistent identification of G1 and G3, we suggest using the sequencing of the nad5 gene region (680 bp). This region contains six informative positions within a relatively short fragment of the mtDNA, allowing differentiation of G1 and G3 with confidence. Our method offers clear advantages over the previous ones, providing a significantly more consistent means to distinguish G1 and G3 than the commonly used cox1 and nad1.

ACS Style

Liina Kinkar; Teivi Laurimäe; Gerardo Acosta-Jamett; Vanessa Andresiuk; Ibrahim Balkaya; Adriano Casulli; Robin B. Gasser; Luis Miguel Gonzalez; Karen L. Haag; Houria Zait; Malik Irshadullah; Abdul Jabbar; David Jenkins; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Hossein Mirhendi; Selim M'Rad; Mohammad Rostami-Nejad; Myriam Oudni-M'Rad; Nora Beatriz Pierangeli; Francisco Ponce-Gordo; Steffen Rehbein; Mitra Sharbatkhori; Eshrat Beigom Kia; Sami Simsek; Silvia Viviana Soriano; Hein Sprong; Viliam Šnábel; Gérald Umhang; Antonio Varcasia; Urmas Saarma. Distinguishing Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto genotypes G1 and G3 with confidence: A practical guide. Infection, Genetics and Evolution 2018, 64, 178 -184.

AMA Style

Liina Kinkar, Teivi Laurimäe, Gerardo Acosta-Jamett, Vanessa Andresiuk, Ibrahim Balkaya, Adriano Casulli, Robin B. Gasser, Luis Miguel Gonzalez, Karen L. Haag, Houria Zait, Malik Irshadullah, Abdul Jabbar, David Jenkins, Maria Teresa Manfredi, Hossein Mirhendi, Selim M'Rad, Mohammad Rostami-Nejad, Myriam Oudni-M'Rad, Nora Beatriz Pierangeli, Francisco Ponce-Gordo, Steffen Rehbein, Mitra Sharbatkhori, Eshrat Beigom Kia, Sami Simsek, Silvia Viviana Soriano, Hein Sprong, Viliam Šnábel, Gérald Umhang, Antonio Varcasia, Urmas Saarma. Distinguishing Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto genotypes G1 and G3 with confidence: A practical guide. Infection, Genetics and Evolution. 2018; 64 ():178-184.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Liina Kinkar; Teivi Laurimäe; Gerardo Acosta-Jamett; Vanessa Andresiuk; Ibrahim Balkaya; Adriano Casulli; Robin B. Gasser; Luis Miguel Gonzalez; Karen L. Haag; Houria Zait; Malik Irshadullah; Abdul Jabbar; David Jenkins; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Hossein Mirhendi; Selim M'Rad; Mohammad Rostami-Nejad; Myriam Oudni-M'Rad; Nora Beatriz Pierangeli; Francisco Ponce-Gordo; Steffen Rehbein; Mitra Sharbatkhori; Eshrat Beigom Kia; Sami Simsek; Silvia Viviana Soriano; Hein Sprong; Viliam Šnábel; Gérald Umhang; Antonio Varcasia; Urmas Saarma. 2018. "Distinguishing Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto genotypes G1 and G3 with confidence: A practical guide." Infection, Genetics and Evolution 64, no. : 178-184.

Journal article
Published: 03 September 2018 in Parasites & Vectors
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Tick-borne rickettsial pathogens are emerging worldwide and pose an increased health risk to both humans and animals. A plethora of rickettsial species has been identified in ticks recovered from human and animal patients. However, the detection of rickettsial DNA in ticks does not necessarily mean that these ticks can act as vectors for these pathogens. Here, we used artificial feeding of ticks to confirm transmission of Rickettsia massiliae and Rickettsia raoultii by Rhipicephalus sanguineus (sensu lato) and Dermacentor reticulatus ticks, respectively. The speed of transmission was also determined. An artificial feeding system based on silicone membranes were used to feed adult R. sanguineus (s.l.) and D. reticulatus ticks. Blood samples from in vitro feeding units were analysed for the presence of rickettsial DNA using PCR and reverse line blot hybridisation. The attachment rate of R. sanguineus (s.l.) ticks were 40.4% at 8 h post-application, increasing to 70.2% at 72 h. Rickettsia massiliae was detected in blood samples collected 8 h after the R. sanguineus (s.l.) ticks were placed into the in vitro feeding units. D. reticulatus ticks were pre-fed on sheep and subsequently transferred to the in vitro feeding system. The attachment rate was 29.1 % at 24 h post-application, increasing to 43.6 % at 96 h. Rickettsia raoultii was detected in blood collected 24 h after D. reticulatus was placed into the feeding units. Rhipicephalus sanguineus (s.l.) and D. reticulatus ticks are vectors of R. massiliae and R. raoultii, respectively. The transmission of R. massiliae as early as 8 h after tick attachment emphasises the importance of removing ticks as soon as possible to minimise transmission. This study highlights the relevance of in vitro feeding systems to provide insight into the vectorial capacity of ticks and the dynamics of tick-borne pathogen transmission.

ACS Style

Emanuela Olivieri; Michiel Wijnveld; Marise Bonga; Laura Berger; Maria T. Manfredi; Fabrizia Veronesi; Frans Jongejan. Transmission of Rickettsia raoultii and Rickettsia massiliae DNA by Dermacentor reticulatus and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (s.l.) ticks during artificial feeding. Parasites & Vectors 2018, 11, 494 .

AMA Style

Emanuela Olivieri, Michiel Wijnveld, Marise Bonga, Laura Berger, Maria T. Manfredi, Fabrizia Veronesi, Frans Jongejan. Transmission of Rickettsia raoultii and Rickettsia massiliae DNA by Dermacentor reticulatus and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (s.l.) ticks during artificial feeding. Parasites & Vectors. 2018; 11 (1):494.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Emanuela Olivieri; Michiel Wijnveld; Marise Bonga; Laura Berger; Maria T. Manfredi; Fabrizia Veronesi; Frans Jongejan. 2018. "Transmission of Rickettsia raoultii and Rickettsia massiliae DNA by Dermacentor reticulatus and Rhipicephalus sanguineus (s.l.) ticks during artificial feeding." Parasites & Vectors 11, no. 1: 494.

Journal article
Published: 01 August 2018 in International Journal for Parasitology
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto (s.s.) is the major cause of human cystic echinococcosis worldwide and is listed among the most severe parasitic diseases of humans. To date, numerous studies have investigated the genetic diversity and population structure of E. granulosus s.s. in various geographic regions. However, there has been no global study. Recently, using mitochondrial DNA, it was shown that E. granulosus s.s. G1 and G3 are distinct genotypes, but a larger dataset is required to confirm the distinction of these genotypes. The objectives of this study were to: (i) investigate the distinction of genotypes G1 and G3 using a large global dataset; and (ii) analyse the genetic diversity and phylogeography of genotype G1 on a global scale using near-complete mitogenome sequences. For this study, 222 globally distributed E. granulosus s.s. samples were used, of which 212 belonged to genotype G1 and 10 to G3. Using a total sequence length of 11,682 bp, we inferred phylogenetic networks for three datasets: E. granulosus s.s. (n = 222), G1 (n = 212) and human G1 samples (n = 41). In addition, the Bayesian phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses were performed. The latter yielded several strongly supported diffusion routes of genotype G1 originating from Turkey, Tunisia and Argentina. We conclude that: (i) using a considerably larger dataset than employed previously, E. granulosus s.s. G1 and G3 are indeed distinct mitochondrial genotypes; (ii) the genetic diversity of E. granulosus s.s. G1 is high globally, with lower values in South America; and (iii) the complex phylogeographic patterns emerging from the phylogenetic and geographic analyses suggest that the current distribution of genotype G1 has been shaped by intensive animal trade.

ACS Style

Liina Kinkar; Teivi Laurimäe; Gerardo Acosta-Jamett; Vanessa Andresiuk; Ibrahim Balkaya; Adriano Casulli; Robin B. Gasser; Joke van der Giessen; Luis Miguel Gonzalez; Karen L. Haag; Houria Zait; Malik Irshadullah; Abdul Jabbar; David Jenkins; Eshrat Beigom Kia; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Hossein Mirhendi; Selim M'Rad; Mohammad Rostami Nejad; Myriam Oudni-M'Rad; Nora Beatriz Pierangeli; Francisco Ponce-Gordo; Steffen Rehbein; Mitra Sharbatkhori; Sami Simsek; Silvia Viviana Soriano; Hein Sprong; Viliam Šnábel; Gérald Umhang; Antonio Varcasia; Urmas Saarma. Global phylogeography and genetic diversity of the zoonotic tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto genotype G1. International Journal for Parasitology 2018, 48, 729 -742.

AMA Style

Liina Kinkar, Teivi Laurimäe, Gerardo Acosta-Jamett, Vanessa Andresiuk, Ibrahim Balkaya, Adriano Casulli, Robin B. Gasser, Joke van der Giessen, Luis Miguel Gonzalez, Karen L. Haag, Houria Zait, Malik Irshadullah, Abdul Jabbar, David Jenkins, Eshrat Beigom Kia, Maria Teresa Manfredi, Hossein Mirhendi, Selim M'Rad, Mohammad Rostami Nejad, Myriam Oudni-M'Rad, Nora Beatriz Pierangeli, Francisco Ponce-Gordo, Steffen Rehbein, Mitra Sharbatkhori, Sami Simsek, Silvia Viviana Soriano, Hein Sprong, Viliam Šnábel, Gérald Umhang, Antonio Varcasia, Urmas Saarma. Global phylogeography and genetic diversity of the zoonotic tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto genotype G1. International Journal for Parasitology. 2018; 48 (9-10):729-742.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Liina Kinkar; Teivi Laurimäe; Gerardo Acosta-Jamett; Vanessa Andresiuk; Ibrahim Balkaya; Adriano Casulli; Robin B. Gasser; Joke van der Giessen; Luis Miguel Gonzalez; Karen L. Haag; Houria Zait; Malik Irshadullah; Abdul Jabbar; David Jenkins; Eshrat Beigom Kia; Maria Teresa Manfredi; Hossein Mirhendi; Selim M'Rad; Mohammad Rostami Nejad; Myriam Oudni-M'Rad; Nora Beatriz Pierangeli; Francisco Ponce-Gordo; Steffen Rehbein; Mitra Sharbatkhori; Sami Simsek; Silvia Viviana Soriano; Hein Sprong; Viliam Šnábel; Gérald Umhang; Antonio Varcasia; Urmas Saarma. 2018. "Global phylogeography and genetic diversity of the zoonotic tapeworm Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto genotype G1." International Journal for Parasitology 48, no. 9-10: 729-742.

Journal article
Published: 01 October 2017 in Food Control
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Larval ascaridoids in fish destined to human consumption represent an important public health issue, besides to be an economical problem. Indeed, marine ascaridoids are the etiological agents of the fish-borne zoonosis anisakidosis. Due to an increase of new cases reported worldwide, a continuous monitoring of infection in fish is mandatory. The study was aimed to evaluate the risk of infection by larval ascaridoids in fishes from Mediterranean Sea. Two species of fishes among those representing a major potential threat for human health were selected. Epidemiological and molecular study was carried out. At Milan Fish Market, Italy, 179 anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus) and 84 chub mackerels (Scomber colias) caught in different fishing areas in the Mediterranean Sea were sampled and inspected for the presence of larvae. For each fish, larvae were counted and morphologically identified. Predictors of infections were investigated through general linear models. A subsample of 100 larvae was molecular characterized with PCR–RFLP targeting the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. Moreover, 26 Hysterothylacium spp. larvae were analyzed by sequencing of both nuclear ITS and mitochondrial ribosomal rrnS regions.\ud \ud Overall, 1080 anisakids larvae were collected from 103 anchovies (P = 57.5%) and 53 chub mackerels (P = 63.09%). Larvae were morphologically identified as Anisakis Type I larvae (P = 6.14% in anchovies and P = 55.95% in chub mackerels) and as Hysterothylacium spp. (P = 54.18% in anchovies and P = 13.09% in chub mackerels). Fishing area and fish weight resulted predictors of both Anisakis Type I land Hysterothylacium spp. infections in anchovies; in chub mackerels, only fishing areas resulted to be associated to both infections. Molecular analysis on ITS region identified Anisakis pegreffii, heterozygote genotype between A. pegreffii and A. simplex sensu stricto, and Hysterothylacium aduncum. Sequences analysis on Hysterothylacium specimens revealed a great homogeneity in rrnS marker, with eight variable nucleotides and an average evolutionary divergence over all sequence of 0.3%

ACS Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Serena Cavallero; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Emanuela Olivieri; Renato Malandra; Valerio Ranghieri; Stefano D'Amelio; Maria Teresa Manfredi. Anisakis sp. and Hysterothylacium sp. larvae in anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus) and chub mackerel (Scomber colias) in the Mediterranean Sea: Molecular identification and risk factors. Food Control 2017, 80, 366 -373.

AMA Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Serena Cavallero, Sergio Aurelio Zanzani, Emanuela Olivieri, Renato Malandra, Valerio Ranghieri, Stefano D'Amelio, Maria Teresa Manfredi. Anisakis sp. and Hysterothylacium sp. larvae in anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus) and chub mackerel (Scomber colias) in the Mediterranean Sea: Molecular identification and risk factors. Food Control. 2017; 80 ():366-373.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Serena Cavallero; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Emanuela Olivieri; Renato Malandra; Valerio Ranghieri; Stefano D'Amelio; Maria Teresa Manfredi. 2017. "Anisakis sp. and Hysterothylacium sp. larvae in anchovies (Engraulis encrasicolus) and chub mackerel (Scomber colias) in the Mediterranean Sea: Molecular identification and risk factors." Food Control 80, no. : 366-373.

Journal article
Published: 01 August 2017 in Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases
Reads 0
Downloads 0

Studies on the human-biting pathogen vectors Dermacentor reticulatus and Ixodes ricinus have been scarce in southern Europe. The aims of the present study were to determine the abundance of these ticks in a peri-urban park in northern Italy, describe the seasonal activity of D. reticulatus and examine the correlation between tick occurrence and environmental factors. Ticks were collected monthly from April 2015 to May 2016 using both dragging and flagging techniques. Various climatic variables (mean temperature, relative humidity and evapotranspiration for the collection dates; and 30-day moving averages preceding each collection date were calculated for rainfall, temperature, relative humidity and saturation deficit) also were recorded. Overall, 444 adults of D. reticulatus and 10 adults of I. ricinus were collected. Males of D. reticulatus appeared earlier in the year than females, but overall females were collected more frequently than males (1:1.25). Statistical analysis showed significant differences in the density of D. reticulatus among sampling transects and among months. The seasonal dynamic of D. reticulatus was characterized by a single peak of activity in the early spring. Tick density was associated with climatic variables: the 30-day moving average saturation deficit was particularly significant as most ticks (83%) were collected at values below 5.2mmHg. At the level of individual sampling transects, seasonal dynamics could be influenced by habitat type and host availability. We found D. reticulatus to be most abundant in mixed forests dominated by oaks and rich in ponds. As to I. ricinus, though found in a small number, its presence can be confirmed by our investigation. In light of the results of this study, the risk for encounters with D. reticulatus and I. ricinus may be higher than previously thought in northern Italy.

ACS Style

Emanuela Olivieri; Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Fabrizia Veronesi; Maria Teresa Manfredi. Seasonal dynamics of adult Dermacentor reticulatus in a peri-urban park in southern Europe. Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases 2017, 8, 772 -779.

AMA Style

Emanuela Olivieri, Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Sergio Aurelio Zanzani, Fabrizia Veronesi, Maria Teresa Manfredi. Seasonal dynamics of adult Dermacentor reticulatus in a peri-urban park in southern Europe. Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases. 2017; 8 (5):772-779.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Emanuela Olivieri; Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Fabrizia Veronesi; Maria Teresa Manfredi. 2017. "Seasonal dynamics of adult Dermacentor reticulatus in a peri-urban park in southern Europe." Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases 8, no. 5: 772-779.

Case report
Published: 07 June 2017 in BMC Veterinary Research
Reads 0
Downloads 0

In Italy, Angiostrongylus vasorum, an emergent parasite, is being diagnosed in dogs from areas considered free of infection so far. As clinical signs are multiple and common to other diseases, its diagnosis can be challenging. In particular, in areas where angiostrongylosis and dirofilariosis overlap, a misleading diagnosis of cardiopulmonary dirofilariosis might occur even on the basis of possible misleading outcomes from diagnostic kits. Two Cavalier King Charles spaniel dogs from an Italian breeding in the Northwest were referred to a private veterinary hospital with respiratory signs. A cardiopulmonary dirofilariosis was diagnosed and the dogs treated with ivermectin, but one of them died. At necropsy, pulmonary oedema, enlargement of tracheo-bronchial lymphnodes and of cardiac right side were detected. Within the right ventricle lumen, adults of A. vasorum were found. All dogs from the same kennel were subjected to faecal examination by FLOTAC and Baermann’s techniques to detect A. vasorum first stage larvae; blood analysis by Knott’s for Dirofilaria immitis microfilariae, and antigenic tests for both A. vasorum (Angio Detect™) and D.immitis (DiroCHEK® Heartworm, Witness®Dirofilaria). The surviving dog with respiratory signs resulted positive for A. vasorum both at serum antigens and larval detection. Its Witness® test was low positive similarly to other four dogs from the same kennel, but false positive results due to cross reactions with A. vasorum were also considered. No dogs were found infected by A. vasorum. Eventually, the investigation was deepened by browsing the pathological database of Veterinary Pathology Laboratories at Veterinary School of Milan University through 1998–2016, where 11 cases of angiostrongylosis were described. Two out of 11 dogs had a mixed infection with Crenosoma vulpis. The study demonstrates the need for accurate surveys to acquire proper epidemiological data on A. vasorum infection in Northwestern Italy and for appropriate diagnostic methods. Veterinary clinicians should be warned about the occurrence of this canine parasite and the connected risk of a misleading diagnosis, particularly in areas endemic for cardiopulmonary dirofilariosis.

ACS Style

Emanuela Olivieri; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Chiara Giudice; Paola Brambilla; Isa Alberti; Stefano Romussi; Rocco Lombardo; Carlo Maria Mortellaro; Barbara Banco; Federico Maria Vanzulli; Fabrizia Veronesi; Maria Teresa Manfredi. Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in dogs from a cardiopulmonary dirofilariosis endemic area of Northwestern Italy: a case study and a retrospective data analysis. BMC Veterinary Research 2017, 13, 165 .

AMA Style

Emanuela Olivieri, Sergio Aurelio Zanzani, Alessia Libera Gazzonis, Chiara Giudice, Paola Brambilla, Isa Alberti, Stefano Romussi, Rocco Lombardo, Carlo Maria Mortellaro, Barbara Banco, Federico Maria Vanzulli, Fabrizia Veronesi, Maria Teresa Manfredi. Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in dogs from a cardiopulmonary dirofilariosis endemic area of Northwestern Italy: a case study and a retrospective data analysis. BMC Veterinary Research. 2017; 13 (1):165.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Emanuela Olivieri; Sergio Aurelio Zanzani; Alessia Libera Gazzonis; Chiara Giudice; Paola Brambilla; Isa Alberti; Stefano Romussi; Rocco Lombardo; Carlo Maria Mortellaro; Barbara Banco; Federico Maria Vanzulli; Fabrizia Veronesi; Maria Teresa Manfredi. 2017. "Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in dogs from a cardiopulmonary dirofilariosis endemic area of Northwestern Italy: a case study and a retrospective data analysis." BMC Veterinary Research 13, no. 1: 165.