Rebecca Traub

Zoonotic helminths of dogs and risk factors associated with polyparasitism in Grenada, West Indies

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 15-05-2023

DOI: 10.1017/S0031182023000495

Abstract: Canine soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) cause important zoonoses in the tropics, with varying degrees of intensity of infection in humans and dogs. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors for STHs in community dogs residing in Grenada, West Indies. In May 2021, 232 canine fecal s les were examined for zoonotic helminths by microscopy (following flotation), and genomic DNA from a subset of 211 of these s les were subjected to multiplex qPCR for the detection and specific identification of hookworms, Toxocara spp. and Strongyloides . Microscopic examination revealed that 46.5% (108/232, 95% CI 40–52.9), 9% (21/232, 95% CI 5.35–12.7) and 5.2% (12/232, 95% CI 2.3–8) of the s les contained eggs of Ancylostoma spp., Toxocara spp. and Trichuris vulpis , respectively. Multiplex qPCR revealed that, 42.2% (89/211, 95% CI 35.5–48.8) were positive for at least 1 zoonotic parasite. Of these, 40.8% (86/211, 95% CI 34.1–47.3) of s les tested positive for Ancylostoma spp., 36% (76/211, 95% CI 29.5–42.9) were positive for A. caninum, 13.3% (28/211, 95% CI 9–18.6) for A. ceylanicum , 5.7% for T. canis (12/211, 95% CI 2.97–8.81) and 1% (2/211, 95% CI 0–2.26) for Strongyloides spp. (identified as S. stercoralis and S. papillosus by conventional PCR-based Sanger sequencing). Using a multiple logistic regression model, a low body score and free-roaming behaviour were significant predictors of test-positivity for these parasitic nematodes in dogs ( P 0.05). Further studies of zoonotic STHs in humans should help elucidate the public health relevance of these parasites in Grenada.

Prevalence and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidum spp. and Giardia spp. in environmental samples in Hanam province, Vietnam

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.FAWPAR.2016.03.003

The prevalence and distribution of gastrointestinal parasites of stray and refuge dogs in four locations in India

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2014.06.037

Abstract: A gastrointestinal parasite survey of 411 stray and refuge dogs s led from four geographical and climactically distinct locations in India revealed these animals to represent a significant source of environmental contamination for parasites that pose a zoonotic risk to the public. Hookworms were the most commonly identified parasite in dogs in Sikkim (71.3%), Mumbai (48.8%) and Delhi (39.1%). In Ladakh, which experiences harsh extremes in climate, a competitive advantage was observed for parasites such as Sarcocystis spp. (44.2%), Taenia hydatigena (30.3%) and Echinococcus granulosus (2.3%) that utilise intermediate hosts for the completion of their life cycle. PCR identified Ancylostoma ceylanicum and Ancylostoma caninum to occur sympatrically, either as single or mixed infections in Sikkim (Northeast) and Mumbai (West). In Delhi, A. caninum was the only species identified in dogs, probably owing to its ability to evade unfavourable climatic conditions by undergoing arrested development in host tissue. The expansion of the known distribution of A. ceylanicum to the west, as far as Mumbai, justifies the renewed interest in this emerging zoonosis and advocates for its surveillance in future human parasite surveys. Of interest was the absence of Trichuris vulpis in dogs, in support of previous canine surveys in India. This study advocates the continuation of birth control programmes in stray dogs that will undoubtedly have spill-over effects on reducing the levels of environmental contamination with parasite stages. In particular, owners of pet animals exposed to these environments must be extra vigilant in ensuring their animals are regularly dewormed and maintaining strict standards of household and personal hygiene.

Molecular identification of zoonotic hookworms in dogs from four counties of Kenya

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 28-02-2019

DOI: 10.1017/S0022149X1900018X

Abstract: All canine hookworms are known to be zoonotic, causing infections ranging from transient skin irritations to prolonged ‘creeping eruptions’, eosinophilic enteritis and even patent intestinal infections. There is little information on canine hookworm species and their public health significance in sub-Saharan Africa. This study determined the prevalence and species of hookworms in dogs from different climatic zones of Kenya. Dog faecal s les were collected from the environment, and hookworm eggs were isolated by zinc chloride flotation and subjected to DNA extraction. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays targeting the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) 1 and 2, 5.8S and 28S ribosomal RNA of Ancylostoma spp. and Uncinaria stenocephala were performed, and hookworm species were identified by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) or DNA sequencing. Hookworm eggs were detected by microscopy in 490/1621 (30.23%, 95% CI 28.01–32.54) faecal s les. Estimates of faecal prevalence were high in counties receiving higher rainfall (Narok 46.80%, Meru 44.88%) and low in those with a more arid climate (Isiolo 19.73%, Turkana 11.83%). In a subset of 70 faecal s les, Ancylostoma caninum (n = 59) was the most common species, followed by A. braziliense (n = 10) and A. cf. duodenale (n = 1). This study reports for the first time the detection of A. cf. duodenale in dog faeces and zoonotic hookworm species in Kenyan dogs. These findings emphasize the need for control measures such as enforcing laws for restraining stray dogs, regular deworming of dogs, and public health awareness programmes aimed at informing communities on outdoor use of footwear.

Molecular analysis of the genera Hapalotrema Looss, 1899 and Learedius Price, 1934 (Digenea: Spirorchiidae) reveals potential cryptic species, with comments on the validity of the genus Learedius

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1007/S11230-014-9535-Y

Abstract: Adult blood flukes of the genera Hapalotrema Looss, 1899 and Learedius Price, 1934 were collected from turtles off Queensland and the Hawaiian Islands. Specimens were identified as Hapalotrema pambanensis Mehrotra, 1973, H. synorchis Luhman, 1935, H. postorchis Rao, 1976 and Learedius learedi Price, 1934 on the basis of morphology. No major morphological differences were found between specimens from this study and previously published descriptions. DNA was also extracted and sequences obtained using custom spirorchiid-specific primers for the ITS2 and 28S rDNA regions, in order to confirm species identification and investigate phylogenetic relationships. Intraspecific genetic variation was generally low. However the ITS2 region of H. postorchis and to a lesser extent that of L. learedi showed considerable variation between specimens from the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Further studies will be required to determine whether this variation should be considered inter- or intra-specific. Maximum likelihood phylogenetic analyses were completed for both sequenced genes. Learedius learedi was unequivocally nested among species of Hapalotrema, suggesting that the status of the genus Learedius may need to be reassessed.

Canine vector-borne diseases in India: A review of the literature and identification of existing knowledge gaps

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-3-28

Risk profiling and efficacy of albendazole against the hookworms Necator americanus and Ancylostoma ceylanicum in Cambodia to support control programs in Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.LANWPC.2021.100258

Spatial distribution of Taenia solium exposure in humans and pigs in the Central Highlands of Vietnam

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 20-09-2018

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0006810

Opportunistic Mapping of Strongyloides stercoralis and Hookworm in Dogs in Remote Australian Communities

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 21-05-2020

DOI: 10.3390/PATHOGENS9050398

Abstract: Both Strongyloides stercoralis and hookworms are common soil-transmitted helminths in remote Australian communities. In addition to infecting humans, S. stercoralis and some species of hookworms infect canids and therefore present both environmental and zoonotic sources of transmission to humans. Currently, there is limited information available on the prevalence of hookworms and S. stercoralis infections in dogs living in communities across the Northern Territory in Australia. In this study, 274 dog faecal s les and 11 faecal s les of unknown origin were collected from the environment and directly from animals across 27 remote communities in Northern and Central Australia. S les were examined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis for the presence of S. stercoralis and four hookworm species: Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Ancylostoma braziliense and Uncinaria stenocephala. The prevalence of S. stercoralis in dogs was found to be 21.9% (60/274). A. caninum was the only hookworm detected in the dog s les, with a prevalence of 31.4% (86/274). This study provides an insight into the prevalence of S. stercoralis and hookworms in dogs and informs future intervention and prevention strategies aimed at controlling these parasites in both dogs and humans. A “One Health” approach is crucial for the prevention of these diseases in Australia.

Bovine cysticercosis-Development of a real-time PCR to enhance classification of suspect cysts identified at meat inspection

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2013.02.018

Abstract: Laboratory confirmation methods are important in bovine cysticerosis diagnosis as other pathologies can result in morphologically similar lesions resulting in false identifications. We developed a probe-based real-time PCR assay to identify Taenia saginata in suspect cysts encountered at meat inspection and compared its use with the traditional method of identification, histology, as well as a published nested PCR. The assay simultaneously detects T. saginata DNA and a bovine internal control using the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene of each species and shows specificity against parasites causing lesions morphologically similar to those of T. saginata. The assay was sufficiently sensitive to detect 1 fg (Ct 35.09 ± 0.95) of target DNA using serially-diluted plasmid DNA in reactions spiked with bovine DNA as well as in all viable and caseated positive control cysts. A loss in PCR sensitivity was observed with increasing cyst degeneration as seen in other molecular methods. In comparison to histology, the assay offered greater sensitivity and accuracy with 10/19 (53%) T. saginata positives detected by real-time PCR and none by histology. When the results were compared with the reference PCR, the assay was less sensitive but offered advantages of faster turnaround times and reduced contamination risk. Estimates of the assay's repeatability and reproducibility showed the assay is highly reliable with reliability coefficients greater than 0.94.

A case of mistaken identity - Reappraisal of the species of canid and felid hookworms (Ancylostoma) present in Australia and India

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 21-09-2007

DOI: 10.1017/S0031182006001211

Abstract: This study serves to clarify the current status of canid and felid Ancylostoma species present in Australia. The morphological identification of A. ceylanicum from cats for the first time in Townsville, Australia, appears to be in error, together with the genetic markers provided for the species. Morphological and genetic data presented herein provide strong evidence that the hookworms from cats in Towsville are not A. ceylanicum as previously identified (i.e. the first report of this species in Australia), but are A. braziliense . Therefore the subsequent genetic markers established for A. ceylanicum in subsequent molecular studies based on these Townsville specimens should also be attributed to A. braziliense . Based on this information, a study of canine hookworm species present in northern India is also in error and it is apparent that the hookworms found in this region are those of A. ceylanicum . The distribution of A. braziliense and A. ceylanicum in the Americas and Asia Pacific region is discussed together with the importance of combining parasite morphology with genetic data for parasite diagnosis in epidemiological studies.

Development and validation of a long-read metabarcoding platform for the detection of filarial worm pathogens infecting animals and humans

Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC

Date: 05-10-2023

DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-3383482/V1

Investigations into the association between soil-transmitted helminth infections, haemoglobin and child development indices in Manufahi District, Timor-Leste

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 19-04-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-017-2084-X

Direct characterization of Blastocystis from faeces by PCR and evidence of zoonotic potential

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 19-10-2006

DOI: 10.1017/S0031182006001582

Zoonotic and economically significant pathogens of peri-urban wild dogs across north-eastern New South Wales and south-eastern Queensland, Australia

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1071/WR18110

Abstract: Context Peri-urban wild dogs are known to reside within high-risk and densely populated regions and are capable of harbouring a variety of zoonotic pathogens. Despite recognising the potential of peri-urban wild dogs to carry zoonotic pathogens, limited prevalence data are currently available to assist in understanding the potential risks that peri-urban wild dogs pose within developed communities. Aims The aim of the present research was to establish the current status of key zoonotic and economically significant pathogens in peri-urban wild dogs. Methods Two hundred and one peri-urban wild dog cadavers were collected from south-eastern Queensland and northern New South Wales. In addition, whole blood, serum and faecal s les were also collected. Pathogens were identified through several morphological, microbiological and molecular methods. Key results Helminth parasites were detected within 79.6% of peri-urban wild dogs Echinococcus granulosus was the most common pathogen, with adult worms being detected within 50.7 ± 6.9% of intestines, followed by Spirometra erinacei (36.6 ± 6.4%) hookworms, including Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria stenocephala (28.8 ± 7.1%) Toxocara canis (5.4 ± 3.1%) and Taenia spp., including T. serialis and T. pisiformis (4.5 ± 2.8%). Bacterial pathogens detected included methicillin-resistant Escherichia coli (20.0 ± 10.1%), Salmonella spp. (3.7 ± 4.0%) and methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (3.3 ± 2.7%). Conclusions The present study is the most comprehensive investigation of zoonotic pathogen carriage in peri-urban wild dogs in Australia. Parasitic infections in peri-urban wild dogs are common, with tapeworms representing the majority of intestinal pathogens. Important zoonotic bacterial pathogens are carried by peri-urban wild dogs, although at a much lower prevalence than are parasites. Implications The presence of these pathogens in free-ranging peri-urban dog populations suggests a strong potential for public health risk, most notably from E. granulosus. These data are inherently important as baseline information, which is essential to guide risk-based management of peri-urban wild dog impacts.

The prevalence and diversity of intestinal parasitic infections in humans and domestic animals in a rural Cambodian village

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.PARINT.2014.03.007

Abstract: In Cambodia, intestinal parasitic infections are prevalent in humans and particularly in children. Yet, information on potentially zoonotic parasites in animal reservoir hosts is lacking. In May 2012, faecal s les from 218 humans, 94 dogs and 76 pigs were collected from 67 households in Dong village, Preah Vihear province, Cambodia. Faecal s les were examined microscopically using sodium nitrate and zinc sulphate flotation methods, the Baermann method, Koga Agar plate culture, formalin-ether concentration technique and Kato Katz technique. PCR was used to confirm hookworm, Ascaris spp., Giardia spp. and Blastocystis spp. Major gastrointestinal parasitic infections found in humans included hookworms (63.3%), Entamoeba spp. (27.1%) and Strongyloides stercoralis (24.3%). In dogs, hookworm (80.8%), Spirometra spp. (21.3%) and Strongyloides spp. (14.9%) were most commonly detected and in pigs Isospora suis (75.0%), Oesophagostomum spp. (73.7%) and Entamoeba spp. (31.6%) were found. Eleven parasite species were detected in dogs (eight helminths and three protozoa), seven of which have zoonotic potential, including hookworm, Strongyloides spp., Trichuris spp., Toxocara canis, Echinostoma spp., Giardia duodenalis and Entamoeba spp. Five of the parasite species detected in pigs also have zoonotic potential, including Ascaris spp., Trichuris spp., Capillaria spp., Balantidium coli and Entamoeba spp. Further molecular epidemiological studies will aid characterisation of parasite species and genotypes and allow further insight into the potential for zoonotic cross transmission of parasites in this community.

A survey of Angiostrongylus species in definitive hosts in Queensland

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPPAW.2015.06.003

A survey of canine filarial diseases of veterinary and public health significance in India

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-3-30

Real-time PCR as a surveillance tool for the detection of Trichinella infection in muscle samples from wildlife

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2012.03.054

Abstract: Trichinella nematodes are the causative agent of trichinellosis, a meat-borne zoonosis acquired by consuming undercooked, infected meat. Although most human infections are sourced from the domestic environment, the majority of Trichinella parasites circulate in the natural environment in carnivorous and scavenging wildlife. Surveillance using reliable and accurate diagnostic tools to detect Trichinella parasites in wildlife hosts is necessary to evaluate the prevalence and risk of transmission from wildlife to humans. Real-time PCR assays have previously been developed for the detection of European Trichinella species in commercial pork and wild fox muscle s les. We have expanded on the use of real-time PCR in Trichinella detection by developing an improved extraction method and SYBR green assay that detects all known Trichinella species in muscle s les from a greater variety of wildlife. We simulated low-level Trichinella infections in wild pig, fox, saltwater crocodile, wild cat and a native Australian marsupial using Trichinella pseudospiralis or Trichinella papuae ethanol-fixed larvae. Trichinella-specific primers targeted a conserved region of the small subunit of the ribosomal RNA and were tested for specificity against host and other parasite genomic DNAs. The analytical sensitivity of the assay was at least 100 fg using pure genomic T. pseudospiralis DNA serially diluted in water. The diagnostic sensitivity of the assay was evaluated by spiking 10 g of each host muscle with T. pseudospiralis or T. papuae larvae at representative infections of 1.0, 0.5 and 0.1 larvae per gram, and shown to detect larvae at the lowest infection rate. A field s le evaluation on naturally infected muscle s les of wild pigs and Tasmanian devils showed complete agreement with the EU reference artificial digestion method (k-value=1.00). Positive lification of mouse tissue experimentally infected with T. spiralis indicated the assay could also be used on encapsulated species in situ. This real-time PCR assay offers an alternative highly specific and sensitive diagnostic method for use in Trichinella wildlife surveillance and could be adapted to wildlife hosts of any region.

Molecular and morphological characterisation of Echinococcus from food producing animals in India

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2009.06.021

Abstract: In view of the medical, veterinary and economic importance of hydatid disease in India, our study aimed to determine the prevalence and genotypes of Echinococcus present in domestic livestock in India. Out of 21,861 animals examined, cattle were found with the highest prevalence of hydatid cysts (5.10%) followed by buffaloes (3.81%), pigs (0.87%) and sheep (0.075%). Phylogenetic analysis of the cytochrome oxidase-1 gene revealed that the buffalo strain or G3 genotype was the predominant genotype (29/46) in all species of livestock followed by the cattle strain or G5 genotype (9/46), the G1 genotype or the common sheep strain (6/46) and the G2 genotype or Tasmanian Sheep strain (2/46). The ability of the G3 (buffalo) and G5 (cattle) genotypes of Echinococcus granulosus to infect and produce fertile hydatid cysts in pigs was also demonstrated for the first time. Both morphological and molecular results support earlier studies suggesting that Echinococcus of buffalo origin is phenotypically and genetically similar to the sheep (G1) and Tasmanian Sheep (G2) strains of Echinococcus, which adds further evidence to support its recognition as one species, viz., E. granulosus sensu stricto. Our molecular, morphological and biological characteristics also support earlier studies suggesting that Echinococcus of cattle origin, designated the G5 genotype, should be recognised as a separate species, viz. Echinococcus ortleppi. Finally, the study reveals that the prevalence of hydatidosis in urban centres in India has been showing a consistently declining trend over the past few decades, possibly owing to economic development and improved government legislation of abattoirs.

Creating the Right Sort of Ship to Achieve Integrated Care: A Response to Recent Commentaries

Publisher: Maad Rayan Publishing Company

Date: 02-02-2019

DOI: 10.15171/IJHPM.2019.04

Using quantitative PCR to identify opportunities to strengthen soil-transmitted helminth control in Solomon Islands: A cross-sectional epidemiological survey

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 23-05-2022

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0010350

Abstract: The Kato-Katz microscopy technique is the global standard for assessment of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) burden. However, major limitations include its poor sensitivity, requirement for rapid s le processing, and inability to differentiate hookworm species nor detect Strongyloides spp. infections. We assessed the prevalence and intensity of STH species in Solomon Islands by conducting a province-wide survey using quantitative PCR (qPCR) for diagnosis, which can provide much better characterisation of STH burden than microscopy. We conducted a cross-sectional survey in 18 villages in Western Province to detect infections with six STH species and quantify intensity with three. We used linear mixed model regression to identify potential water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and environmental risk factors for infection. We collected stool specimens from 830 village residents. Overall STH prevalence was 63.3% (range 27.5 to 91.5% across villages), led by Necator americanus (54.5% [range 17.5–89.4%]), followed by Ancylostoma ceylanicum (15.5% [range 2.8–45.8%]), Trichuris trichiura (9.1% [range 0–79.2%]), and Strongyloides spp. (3.2% [range 0–29.2%]). Most infections were of light intensity for N . americanus (85.7%) and T . trichiura (90.7%). Owning a household latrine was associated with a lower risk of N . americanus infection (AOR 0.41, 95% CI 0.24–0.68) while greater precipitation was linked to more common T . trichiura infection (AOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.04–1.25). In this first large-scale population survey of STH in the Pacific using qPCR, we found evidence that ivermectin should be incorporated into STH control programmes because of the presence of T . trichiura and Strongyloides spp., both of which are poorly responsive to albendazole. Furthermore, One Health strategies are needed for improved A . ceylanicum and Strongyloides spp. control, WASH access and use should be improved to complement deworming programmes, and control efforts should ideally be expanded to entire communities. ClinicalTrials.gov Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618001086257 .

Zoonotic hookworms of dogs and cats – lessons from the past to inform current knowledge and future directions of research

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2021.10.005

Abstract: The early-to-mid 1900s was an era that marked the first published reports of clinical cases and experimental human infections that provided valuable evidence to inform our current knowledge on the zoonotic nature of the canid and felid hookworms. To this day, descriptions of the pathognomonic syndromes produced in humans by these early pioneers provide vital information on the putative geographical distribution of these hookworm species, even before their discovery in dogs and cats. Cases of hookworm-related cutaneous larvae migrans and Ancylostoma caninum-induced eosinophilic enteritis continue to be reported in the medical literature, most commonly in recent migrants or returned travellers who have spent time in regions in which these canine and feline hookworms remain highly endemic. Ancylostoma ceylanicum, now recognised as the second most common hookworm infecting humans in the Asia Pacific region, is also being reported in regions of Africa and South America previously assumed free of this parasite. Despite the substantial technological progress made in the field of parasite diagnostics, our knowledge on the epidemiology and population-level morbidity impacts of these zoonotic hookworms in humans has remained relatively stagnant over the last few decades, with 'covert' infections continuing to remain undetected by currently available forms of routine diagnostics. Improved diagnostic tools that enable accurate and rapid species-specific diagnosis of zoonotic hookworm infections in humans are required to provide the necessary evidence to advocate for future investments in One Health-based intervention strategies.

Canine gastrointestinal parasites as a potential source of zoonotic infections in Nigeria: A nationwide survey

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.PREVETMED.2021.105385

Advanced approaches for the diagnosis and chemoprevention of canine vector-borne pathogens and parasites—Implications for the Asia-Pacific region and beyond

Publisher: Elsevier

Date: 2023

DOI: 10.1016/BS.APAR.2022.12.001

Characterization of the blastocystis-specific faecal IgA immune response in pigs

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 17-09-2014

DOI: 10.1111/PIM.12123

Abstract: Blastocystis is an intestinal protist found in many species including humans and pigs. It has a controversial pathogenesis and has been implicated as a potential cause of irritable bowel syndrome. Our previous studies identified pigs as potential animal models for blastocystosis by demonstrating that they were likely natural hosts of Blastocystis and can harbour subtypes (ST) in common with humans. Furthermore, our finding of a lack of intestinal histopathology associated with Blastocystis infection in pigs is also a consistent finding in examined infected humans. In this study, we aimed to identify and characterize the Blastocystis-specific mucosal IgA response in pigs by immunoblotting, using pig faecal antibodies and Blastocystis antigen. Faeces from 233 pigs representing three age groups (sows/boars, growers/weaners and piglets) and including five dexamethasone-immunosuppressed research pigs were tested. The majority (81·5%) of the pigs had faecal IgA reactivity against Blastocystis proteins of molecular weights of 17·5-120 kDa. Reactivity to a >250 kDa protein was found in 18·5% of pigs. Notably, immunosuppressed pigs and piglets were statistically more likely to have reactivity to this protein compared to growers/weaners and sows/boars, respectively. These results corroborate other findings suggesting that compromised immunity may predispose to blastocystosis and support our contention that pigs are potentially good models for pathogenesis studies.

Field evaluation of the gut microbiome composition of pre-school and school-aged children in Tha Song Yang, Thailand, following oral MDA for STH infections

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 26-07-2021

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0009597

Abstract: Soil-transmitted helminths, such as roundworms ( Ascaris lumbricoides ), whipworms ( Trichuris trichiura ) and hookworms ( Necator americanus and Ancylostoma spp.), are gastrointestinal parasites that occur predominantly in low- to middle-income countries worldwide and disproportionally impact children. Depending on the STH species, health status of the host and infection intensity, direct impacts of these parasites include malnutrition, anaemia, diarrhoea and physical and cognitive stunting. The indirect consequences of these infections are less well understood. Specifically, gastrointestinal infections may exert acute or chronic impacts on the natural gut microfauna, leading to increased risk of post-infectious gastrointestinal disorders, and reduced gut and overall health through immunomodulating mechanisms. To date a small number of preliminary studies have assessed the impact of helminths on the gut microbiome, but these studies are conflicting. Here, we assessed STH burden in 273 pre-school and school-aged children in Tha Song Yang district, Tak province, Thailand receiving annual oral mebendazole treatment. Ascaris lumbricoides (107/273) and Trichuris trichiura (100/273) were the most prevalent species and often occurred as co-infections (66/273). Ancylostoma ceylanicum was detected in a small number of children as well ( n = 3). All of these infections were of low intensity ( ,999 or 999 eggs per gram for Ascaris and Trichuris respectively). Using this information, we characterised the baseline gut microbiome profile and investigated acute STH-induced alterations, comparing infected with uninfected children at the time of s ling. We found no difference between these groups in bacterial alpha- ersity, but did observe differences in beta- ersity and specific differentially abundant OTUs, including increased Akkermansia muciniphila and Bacteroides coprophilus , and reduced Bifidobacterium adolescentis , each of which have been previously implicated in STH-associated changes in the gut microfauna.

Field application of a novel multiplex qPCR assay reveals the occurrence of the zoonotic hookworm Ancylostoma braziliense in Nigerian dogs

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTATROPICA.2020.105758

Government-subsidised mental health services are underused in Australian residential aged care facilities

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 07-2022

DOI: 10.1071/AH22049

Abstract: Objective To describe patterns of use of the available Government-subsidised mental health services among people living in Australian residential aged care facilities. Methods A retrospective population-based trend analysis was conducted, including all non-Indigenous people living in an Australian facility between 2012 and 2017. Adjusted incidence proportions and trends were estimated for four groups of mental health services. Results The use of Medicare-subsidised mental health services was very low overall. The proportion of residents who accessed primary care mental health services increased from 1.3% in 2012/2013 to 2.4% in 2016/2017, while psychiatry service use increased from 1.9 to 2.3%. Claims for clinical psychology increased from 0.18 to 0.26%, and claims for a registered psychologist, occupational therapist or social worker rose from 0.45 to 1.2%. People with dementia were less likely than people without dementia to access all services aside from psychiatry services. Conclusions Less than 3% of residents accessed funding subsidies for mental health services and people with dementia experienced pronounced barriers to service access. Mental health care is a pillar of the publicly-funded health system in Australia, and low use of these services among aged care residents indicates a need for organisational and policy changes to improve access.

Canine gastrointestinal parasites perceptions, practices, and behaviours: A survey of dog owners in Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2023

DOI: 10.1016/J.ONEHLT.2023.100587

Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and environmental risk factors for soil-transmitted helminth intensity of infection in Timor-Leste, using real time PCR

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 27-03-2017

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0005393

A cluster-randomised controlled trial comparing school and community-based deworming for soil transmitted helminth control in school-age children: the CoDe-STH trial protocol

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 18-09-2019

DOI: 10.1186/S12879-019-4449-6

Abstract: Current guidelines and targets for soil-transmitted helminth (STH) control focus on school-based deworming for school-age children, given the high risk of associated morbidity in this age group. However, expanding deworming to all age groups may achieve improved STH control among both the community in general and school-age children, by reducing their risk of reinfection. This trial aims to compare school-based targeted deworming with community-wide mass deworming in terms of impact on STH infections among school-age children. The CoDe-STH (Community Deworming against STH) trial is a cluster-randomised controlled trial (RCT) in 64 primary schools in Dak Lak province, Vietnam. The control arm will receive one round of school-based targeted deworming with albendazole, while in the intervention arm, community-wide mass deworming with albendazole will be implemented alongside school-based deworming. Prevalence of STH infections will be measured in school-age children at baseline and 12 months following deworming. The primary outcome is hookworm prevalence in school-age children at 12 months, by quantitative PCR. Analysis will be intention-to-treat, with outcomes compared between study arms using generalised linear and non-linear mixed models. Additionally, cost-effectiveness of mass and targeted deworming will be calculated and compared, and focus group discussions and interviews will be used to assess acceptability and feasibility of deworming approaches. In idual based stochastic models will be used to predict the impact of mass and targeted deworming strategies beyond the RCT timeframe to assess the likelihood of parasite population ‘bounce-back’ if deworming is ceased due to low STH prevalence. The first large-scale trial comparing mass and targeted deworming for STH control in South East Asia will provide key information for policy makers regarding the optimal design of STH control programs. ACTRN12619000309189 .

Evidence for a specific host-endosymbiont relationship between ‘Rickettsia sp. genotype RF2125’ and Ctenocephalides felis orientis infesting dogs in India

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-015-0781-X

Molecular evidence of Rickettsia felis infection in dogs from northern territory, Australia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 11-10-2011

DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-4-198

Risk factors for infection with soil-transmitted helminths during an integrated community level water, sanitation, and hygiene and deworming intervention in Timor-Leste

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2018.12.006

Abstract: Water, sanitation and hygiene interventions have been advocated as important complements to deworming programs to improve soil-transmitted helminth control. Evidence for the impact of water, sanitation and hygiene on soil-transmitted helminth infections is mixed, and based mainly on cross-sectional studies. In this study, we assessed associations between in idual- and household-level water, sanitation and hygiene variables and soil-transmitted helminth infections, using data collected during the 2 year follow-up study period of the WASH for WORMS randomised controlled trial in Timor-Leste. Data were collected across four surveys, conducted at 6 monthly intervals in 23 communities. We analysed water, sanitation and hygiene and sociodemographic variables as risk factors for infection with Necator americanus, Ascaris spp., and undifferentiated soil-transmitted helminth infection, using generalised linear mixed models to account for clustering at community, household and participant levels. Water, sanitation and hygiene risk factors were examined both concurrently and with a 6 month lag period that coincided with the most recent deworming. The analysis included 2333 participants. Factors associated with N. americanus infection included age group, male sex (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 3.1, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.4-4.2), working as a farmer (aOR 1.7, 95% CI 1.2-2.4), and completing secondary school or higher (aOR 0.29, 95% CI 0.16-0.53). Risk factors for Ascaris spp. infection included age group, living in a dwelling with more than six people (aOR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1-2.3), having a tube well or borehole as the household water source (aOR 3.7, 95% CI 1.3-10.8), and using a latrine shared between households 6 months previously (aOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.2-4.3). Handwashing before eating was protective against infection with any soil-transmitted helminth (aOR 0.79, 95% CI 0.65-0.95). In the context of regular deworming, few water, sanitation and hygiene-related factors were associated with soil-transmitted helminth infections. Future research examining the role of water, sanitation and hygiene in soil-transmitted helminth transmission is required, particularly in low transmission settings after cessation of deworming. Identifying improved indicators for measuring water, sanitation and hygiene behaviours is also a key priority.

Implementation of a frailty intervention in the transition from hospital to home: a realist process evaluation protocol for the FORTRESS trial

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 06-2023

DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2022-070267

Abstract: Frailty in Older people: Rehabilitation, Treatment, Research Examining Separate Settings (the FORTRESS study) is a multisite, hybrid type II, stepped wedge, cluster, randomised trial examining the uptake and outcomes of a frailty intervention. The intervention is based on the 2017 Asia Pacific Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Frailty and begins in the acute hospital setting and transitions to the community. The success of the intervention will require in idual and organisational behaviour change within a dynamic health system. This process evaluation will examine the multiple variables at play in the context and mechanism of the frailty intervention to enhance understanding of the outcomes of the FORTRESS study and how the outcomes can be translated from the trial into broader practice. The FORTRESS intervention will recruit participants from six wards in New South Wales and South Australia, Australia. Participants of the process evaluation will include trial investigators, ward-based clinicians, FORTRESS implementation clinicians, general practitioners and FORTRESS participants. The process evaluation has been designed using realist methodology and will occur in parallel to the FORTRESS trial. A mixed-method approach will be used with qualitative and quantitative data collected from interviews, questionnaires, checklists and outcome assessments. Qualitative and quantitative data will be examined for CMOCs (Context, Mechanism, Outcome Configurations) and programme theories will be developed, tested and refined. This will facilitate development of more generalisable theories to inform translation of frailty intervention within complex healthcare systems. Ethical approval for the FORTRESS trial, inclusive of the process evaluation, has been obtained from the Northern Sydney Local Health District Human Research Ethics Committees reference number 2020/ETH01057. Recruitment for the FORTRESS trial uses opt-out consent. Dissemination will be via publications, conferences and social media. ACTRN12620000760976p (FORTRESS trial).

Geographical distribution and risk factors for Echinococcus granulosus infection in peri-urban wild dog populations

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPPAW.2019.08.005

Parasites and vector-borne diseases disseminated by rehomed dogs

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 10-11-2020

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-020-04407-5

Abstract: The Companion Vector-Borne Diseases (CVBD) World Forum is a working group of leading international experts who meet annually to evaluate current scientific findings and future trends concerning the distribution, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnosis and prevention of vector-borne infections of dogs and cats. At the 14th Symposium of the CVBD World Forum in Trieste, Italy (March 25–28, 2019), we identified the need to (i) bring attention to the potential spread of parasites and vectors with relocated dogs, and (ii) provide advice to the veterinary profession regarding the importance of surveillance and treatment for parasites and vector-borne infections when rehoming dogs. This letter shares a consensus statement from the CVBD World Forum as well as a summary of the problem faced, including the role of veterinary professionals in parasite surveillance, causal issues, and the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation in addressing the problem. To limit opportunities for dissemination of parasites and vectors, whenever possible, underlying problems creating the need for dog rehoming should be addressed. However, when it is necessary to rehome dogs, this should ideally take place in the country and national region of origin. When geographically distant relocation occurs, veterinary professionals have a vital role to play in public education, vigilance for detection of exotic vectors and infections, and alerting the medical community to the risk(s) for pathogen spread. With appropriate veterinary intervention, dog welfare needs can be met without inadvertently allowing global spread of parasites and their vectors.

'Cysticercosis storm' in feedlot cattle in north-west New South Wales

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 26-02-2013

DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12023

Abstract: To investigate the cause of an outbreak of bovine cysticercosis (Taenia saginata) infection on a cattle property in north-western New South Wales (NSW). Cystic lesions were detected in the muscles of cattle during routine meat inspection at slaughter. These lesions were confirmed to be cysticerci of T. saginata through histology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Data on cattle maintenance were obtained through interviews with feedlot owners and staff. A suspect feed supplement was investigated. Between 5 July to 13 December 2010, 390 feedlot cattle from north-western NSW were slaughtered in abattoirs in NSW and Queensland. Of these, 138 animals had been maintained exclusively in feedlot enclosures from 80 to 300 days. Bovine cysticercosis was discovered in 80 cattle (58%, 26 carcasses were condemned). Another 18 cattle spent 24 h in the feedlot before being moved onto pasture and 1 of them was found to be infected. During the 5 months following the initial outbreak, a further 275 cattle were slaughtered 2 of 51 heifers retained in the feedlot for a further 100 days were infected. None of the 234 animals grazed exclusively on pasture on the property were infected. Bovine cysticercosis was confirmed through examination of histological sections of muscle lesions and PCR using DNA extracted from cysticerci. No eggs of T. saginata were recovered from the feed supplement using a standard flotation method. The source of infection arose from rations contaminated with human faeces. All possibilities for local contamination were eliminated during the investigation. The suspected source of infection was imported copra meal, which was used as a feed supplement.

High-throughput multiplex qPCRs for the surveillance of zoonotic species of canine hookworms

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 15-06-2020

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0008392

Domestic dogs are mammalian reservoirs for the emerging zoonosis flea-borne spotted fever, caused by Rickettsia felis

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 05-03-2020

DOI: 10.1038/S41598-020-61122-Y

Abstract: Rickettsia felis is an obligate intracellular bacterium that is being increasingly recognized as an etiological agent of human rickettsial disease globally. The agent is transmitted through the bite of an infected vector, the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis , however there is to date, no consensus on the pathogen’s vertebrate reservoir, required for the maintenance of this agent in nature. This study for the first time, demonstrates the role of the domestic dog ( Canis familiaris ) as a vertebrate reservoir of R. felis . The ability of dogs to sustain prolonged periods of rickettsemia, ability to remain asymptomatically infected with normal haematological parameters and ability to act as biological vehicles for the horizontal transmission of R. felis between infected and uninfected fleas provides indication of their status as a mammalian reservoir of this emerging zoonosis.

High Prevalence ofAncylostoma ceylanicumHookworm Infections in Humans, Cambodia, 2012

Publisher: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Date: 06-2014

DOI: 10.3201/EID2006.131770

Dogs are reservoir hosts of the zoonotic Dirofilaria sp. ‘hongkongensis’ and potentially of Brugia sp. Sri Lanka genotype in Sri Lanka

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2023

DOI: 10.1016/J.ONEHLT.2023.100625

Modeling the effectiveness of One Health interventions against the zoonotic hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Date: 07-03-2023

DOI: 10.3389/FMED.2023.1092030

Abstract: Hookworm disease is a major global public health concern, annually affecting 500–700 million of the world's poorest people. The World Health Organization is targeting the elimination of hookworm as a public health problem by 2030 using a strategy of mass drug administration (MDA) to at-risk human populations. However, in Southeast Asia and the Pacific the zoonotic hookworm species, Ancylostoma ceylanicum , is endemic in dogs and commonly infects people. This presents a potential impediment to the effectiveness of MDA that targets only humans. Here, we develop a novel multi-host (dog and human) transmission model of A. ceylanicum and compare the effectiveness of human-only and “One Health” (human plus dog) MDA strategies under a range of eco-epidemiological assumptions. We show that One Health interventions—targeting both dogs and humans—could suppress prevalence in humans to ≤ 1% by the end of 2030, even with only modest coverage (25–50%) of the animal reservoir. With increasing coverage, One Health interventions may even interrupt transmission. We discuss key unresolved questions on the eco-epidemiology of A. ceylanicum , the challenges of delivering MDA to animal reservoirs, and the growing importance of One Health interventions to human public health.

National study of the gastrointestinal parasites of dogs and cats in Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2007.10.015

Abstract: The prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in Australian pet dogs and cats was largely unknown prior to this study. Current recommendations for the prophylactic treatment of parasites in Australia are based on studies conducted 20-30 years ago. A total of 1400 canine and 1063 feline faecal s les were collected from veterinary clinics and refuges from across Australia. The overall prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in dogs and cats was 23.9% (CI 21.7-26.1) and 18.4% (CI 16.1-20.7), respectively. Overall Giardia was the most prevalent parasite in dogs (9.3% CI 7.8-10.8) followed by hookworm (6.7% CI 5.4-8.0). Isospora felis was the most prevalent parasite in cats (5.6% CI 4.2-7.0), followed by Toxocara cati (3.2% CI 2.1-4.3). In conclusion the prevalence of intestinal helminths in Australian pet dogs and cats is low. Consequently, consideration should be given to the future use of anthelmintics and continued emphasis on pet owner education as means of preventing infection.

Molecular epidemiology of Blastocystis in pigs and their in-contact humans in Southeast Queensland, Australia, and Cambodia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2014.04.006

Abstract: Blastocystis, an intestinal protist commonly found in humans and animals worldwide, has been implicated by some as a causative agent in irritable bowel syndrome in humans. In pigs, infection with Blastocystis is commonly reported, with most pigs shown to harbour subtypes (ST) 1 or 5, suggesting that these animals are potentially natural hosts for Blastocystis. Although ST5 is considered rare in humans, it has been reported to be a potential zoonosis from pigs in rural China. To test these hypotheses, we conducted molecular analysis of faecal s les from pigs and in-contact humans from commercial intensive piggeries in Southeast Queensland (SEQ), Australia, and a village in rural Cambodia. The prevalence of Blastocystis in SEQ and Cambodian pigs was 76.7% and 45.2%, respectively, with all positive pigs harbouring ST5. It appears likely that pigs are natural hosts of Blastocystis with a high prevalence of ST5 that is presumably the pig-adapted ST in these regions. Amongst the SEQ piggery staff, 83.3% were Blastocystis carriers in contrast to only 55.2% of Cambodian villagers. The predominant STs found in humans were STs 1, 2 (Cambodia only) and 3. Interestingly, ST5 which is usually rare in humans was present in the SEQ piggery staff but not in the Cambodian villagers. We conclude that in intensive piggeries, close contact between pigs and their handlers may increase the risks of zoonotic transmission of Blastocystis.

Seroprevalence and risk factors for Rickettsia felis exposure in dogs from Southeast Queensland and the Northern Territory, Australia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 03-06-2013

DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-159

What do older people want from integrated care? Experiences from a South Australian co‐design case study

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-03-2021

DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12947

Abstract: The challenges of improving the integration of care for older people with complex care needs are well recognised. Evidence suggests that solutions should be co‐designed with older people to ensure they are contextually relevant and person‐centred. As a first step in a co‐design project to improve integrated care for older people, seven interviews and three workshops were held with older people and service providers. Data collected via recordings, notes and journey maps were inductively analysed. Five themes were identified: relationships and roles, patient capacity and safety, information and systems, multiway communication, and transitions and flow. This created a more holistic and person‐centred picture of integrated care than typically derived from published literature. Older people perceive integrated care from relational, organisational, informational and in idual viewpoints. This reinforces the central importance of adopting a person‐centred, as opposed to health system‐focused, approach to designing and implementing integrated care solutions.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of human and zoonotic dog soil-transmitted helminth infections in Australian Indigenous communities

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 24-10-2022

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0010895

Abstract: Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) infect 1.5 billion people and countless animals worldwide. In Australian Indigenous communities, STH infections have largely remained endemic despite control efforts, suggesting reservoirs of infection may exist. Dogs fulfil various important cultural, social and occupational roles in Australian Indigenous communities and are populous in these settings. Dogs may also harbour zoonotic STHs capable of producing morbidity and mortality in dogs and humans. This review provides an overview of human and zoonotic STH infections, identifies the Australian Indigenous locations affected and the parasite species and hosts involved. The meta-analysis provides estimates of in idual study and pooled true prevalence of STH infections in Australian Indigenous communities and identifies knowledge gaps for further research on zoonotic or anthroponotic potential. A systematic literature search identified 45 eligible studies documenting the presence of Strongyloides stercoralis , Trichuris trichiura , Ancylostoma caninum , Ancylostoma duodenale , Ancylostoma ceylanicum , undifferentiated hookworm, and Ascaris lumbricoides . Of these studies, 26 were also eligible for inclusion in meta-analysis to establish true prevalence in the light of imperfect diagnostic test sensitivity and specificity by Rogan-Gladen and Bayesian methods. These studies revealed pooled true prevalence estimates of 18.9% (95% CI 15.8–22.1) for human and canine S . stercoralis infections and 77.3% (95% CI 63.7–91.0) for canine A . caninum infections indicating continued endemicity, but considerably more heterogenous pooled estimates for canine A . ceylanicum infections, and A . duodenale , undifferentiated hookworm and T . trichiura in humans. This review suggests that the prevalence of STHs in Australian Indigenous communities has likely been underestimated, principally based on imperfect diagnostic tests. Potential misclassification of hookworm species in humans and dogs due to outdated methodology, also obscures this picture. High-quality contemporary studies are required to establish current true prevalence of parasite species in all relevant hosts to guide future policy development and control decisions under a culturally sound One Health framework.

Development and validation of a multiplexed-tandem qPCR tool for diagnostics of human soil-transmitted helminth infections

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 17-06-2019

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0007363

Canine Leishmaniasis Control in the Context of One Health

Publisher: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Date: 12-2019

DOI: 10.3201/EID2512.190164

Sheep May Not Be an Important Zoonotic Reservoir for Cryptosporidium and Giardia Parasites

Publisher: American Society for Microbiology

Date: 09-2005

DOI: 10.1128/AEM.71.9.4992-4997.2005

Abstract: Little is known of the prevalence of Cryptosporidium and Giardia parasites in sheep and the genotypes that they harbor, although potentially sheep may contribute significantly to contamination of watersheds. In the present study, conducted in Western Australia, a total of 1,647 sheep fecal s les were screened for the presence of Cryptosporidium and Giardia spp. using microscopy, and a subset ( n = 500) were screened by PCR and genotyped. Analysis revealed that although both parasites were detected in a high proportion of s les by PCR (44% and 26% for Giardia and Cryptosporidium spp., respectively), with the exception of one Cryptosporidium hominis isolate, the majority of isolates genotyped are not commonly found in humans. These results suggest that the public health risk of sheep-derived Cryptosporidium and Giardia spp. in catchment areas and effluent may be overestimated and warrant further investigation.

Zoonotic Soil-Transmitted Helminths in Free-Roaming Dogs, Kiribati

Publisher: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Date: 08-2021

DOI: 10.3201/EID2708.204900

Comparative pathogenesis of eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus mackerrasae and Angiostrongylus cantonensis in murine and guinea pig models of human infection

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 09-06-2016

DOI: 10.1017/S003118201600069X

Abstract: This study investigated comparatively the pathogenicity of experimental infection of mice and guinea pigs, with Angiostrongylus mackerrasae and the closely related species A. cantonensis . Time course analyses showed that A. mackerrasae causes eosinophilic meningitis in these hosts, which suggests that the species has the potential to cause meningitis in humans and domestic animals. Both A. mackerrasae and the genetically similar A. cantonensis caused eosinophilic meningitis in mice at two time points of 14 and 21 days post infection (dpi). The brain lesions in mice infected with A. mackerrasae were more granulomatous in nature and the parasites were more likely to appear degenerate compared with lesions caused by A. cantonensis . This may indicate that the mouse immune system eliminates A. mackerrasae infection more effectively. The immunologic responses of mice infected with the two Angiostrongylus species was compared by assessing ex vivo stimulated spleen derived T cells and cytokines including interferon-gamma, interleukin 4 and interleukin 17 on 14 and 21 dpi. The results were similar for mice infected with A. cantonensis and A. mackerrasae . Serum from the infected animals with either A. cantonensis or A. mackerrasae recognized total soluble antigen of A. cantonensis female worms on Western blot.

Comparison of a new multiplex real-time PCR with the Kato Katz thick smear and copro-antigen ELISA for the detection and differentiation of Taenia spp. in human stools

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 07-07-2017

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0005743

The role of dogs in transmission of gastrointestinal parasites in a remote tea-growing community in northeastern India.

Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Date: 11-2002

DOI: 10.4269/AJTMH.2002.67.539

Abstract: The prevalence and risk factors associated with canine gastrointestinal parasitic zoonoses and the role of dogs in the mechanical transmission of human Ascaris infection was examined in three tea estates in Assam, India. Nearly all (99%) dogs harbored one or more zoonotic species of gastrointestinal parasites, with hookworm infection being most common (94%). Parasitic stages presumed to be host-specific for humans such as Ascaris spp. (31%), Trichuris trichiura (25%), and Isospora belli (2%) were also recovered from dog feces. A polymerase chain reaction-linked restriction fragment length polymorphism technique was used to differentiate the species of Ascaris eggs in dog feces. The results of this study demonstrate the role of the dog as a significant disseminator and environmental contaminator of Ascaris lumbricoides in communities where promiscuous defecation by humans occurs.

Ancylostoma ceylanicumHookworm in the Solomon Islands

Publisher: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Date: 02-2017

DOI: 10.3201/EID2302.160822

Efficacy of a combination product containing pyrantel, febantel and praziquantel (Drontal® Plus Flavour, Bayer Animal Health) against experimental infection with the hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum in

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-11-2009

DOI: 10.1007/S00436-009-1665-9

Abstract: Ancylostoma ceylanicum is a common hookworm of dogs, cats and humans in Asia. More recently, this hookworm was found to infect dogs in Australia. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of a combination product containing pyrantel, febantel and praziquantel (Drontal) Plus Flavour, Bayer) against A. ceylanicum in experimentally infected dogs. Twelve dogs were each subcutaneously injected with 300 infective third-stage larvae of A. ceylanicum. Pups were stratified by egg count and randomly allocated equally into control and treatment groups. The pups in the treatment group were treated orally at 20 days post-infection with a tablet containing pyrantel, febantel and praziquantel (Drontal Plus Flavour, Bayer) with the recommended dose of one tablet per 10 kg bodyweight. The dogs in the control group were not treated. Egg counts were performed daily until the end of the study period and compared for the treated and control groups. No eggs were detected in the treated group of pups within 3 days of treatment, and faecal s les from this group remained negative throughout the rest of the study resulting in a treatment efficacy (egg reduction) of 100% (p = 0.0011). The egg counts for the untreated group remained high for the rest of the study period. This trial demonstrated that a combination tablet containing pyrantel, febantel and praziquantel (Drontal Plus Flavour, Bayer) given at the manufacturer's recommended dose is effective against infection with A. ceylanicum in dogs.

Cost and cost-effectiveness analysis of mass drug administration compared to school-based targeted preventive chemotherapy for hookworm control in Dak Lak province, Vietnam

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2023

DOI: 10.1016/J.LANWPC.2023.100913

Mobilising evidence to improve nursing practice: A qualitative study of leadership roles and processes in four countries

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJNURSTU.2018.09.017

Abstract: The approach and style of leaders is known to be an important factor influencing the translation of research evidence into nursing practice. However, questions remain as to what types of roles are most effective and the specific mechanisms through which influence is achieved. The aim of the study was to enhance understanding of the mechanisms by which key nursing roles lead the implementation of evidence-based practice across different care settings and countries and the contextual factors that influence them. The study employed a qualitative descriptive approach. Data collection was undertaken in acute care and primary/community health care settings in Australia, Canada, England and Sweden. 55 in iduals representing different levels of the nursing leadership structure (executive to frontline), roles (managers and facilitators), sectors (acute and primary/community) and countries. In idual semi-structured interviews were conducted with all participants exploring their roles and experiences of leading evidence-based practice. Data were analysed through a process of qualitative content analysis. Different countries had varying structural arrangements and roles to support evidence-based nursing practice. At a cross-country level, three main themes were identified relating to different mechanisms for enacting evidence-based practice, contextual influences at a policy, organisational and service delivery level and challenges of leading evidence-based practice. National policies around quality and performance shape priorities for evidence-based practice, which in turn influences the roles and mechanisms for implementation that are given prominence. There is a need to maintain a balance between the mechanisms of managing and monitoring performance and facilitating critical questioning and reflection in and on practice. This requires a careful blending of managerial and facilitative leadership. The findings have implications for theory, practice, education and research relating to implementation and evidence-based practice.

Reducing zoonotic and internal parasite burdens in pigs using a pig confinement system

Publisher: Veterinary World

Date: 11-2017

DOI: 10.14202/VETWORLD.2017.1347-1352

Eradication of Blastocystis Carriage With Antimicrobials: Reality or Delusion?

Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)

Date: 02-2010

DOI: 10.1097/MCG.0B013E3181BB86BA

Molecular characterization of Blastocystis isolates from zoo animals and their animal-keepers

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2009.12.032

Abstract: Blastocystis is an enteric protist and one of the most frequently reported parasitic infections in humans and a variety of animal hosts. It has also been reported in numerous parasite surveys of animals in zoological gardens and in particular in non-human primate species. PCR-based methods capable of the direct detection of Blastocystis in faeces were used to detect Blastocystis from various hosts, including non-human primates, Australian native fauna, elephants and giraffes, as well as their keepers from a Western Australian zoo. Additional faecal s les were also collected from elephants and giraffes from four other zoos in Amsterdam (The Netherlands), Antwerp (Belgium), Melbourne and Werribee (Australia). Information regarding the general health and lifestyle of the human volunteers were obtained by questionnaire. Overall, 42% and 63% of animals and zoo-keepers s led from the Western Australian zoo were positive for Blastocystis, respectively. The occurrence of Blastocystis in elephants and giraffes from other cities was similar. This is the first report of Blastocystis found in the elephant, giraffe, quokka, southern hairy nosed wombat and western grey kangaroo. Three novel and what appear to be highly host-specific subtypes (STs) of Blastocystis in the elephant, giraffe and quokka are also described. These findings indicate that further exploration of the genetic ersity of Blastocystis is crucial. Most zoo-keepers at the Perth Zoo were harbouring Blastocystis. Four of these zoo-keeper isolates were identical to the isolates from the southern hairy nosed wombat and five primate species.

Protocol for a process evaluation of a stepped wedge randomised controlled trial to reduce unnecessary hospitalisations of older people from residential aged care: the EDDIE+ study

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 02-2023

DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2022-066857

Abstract: The Early Detection of Deterioration in Elderly residents (EDDIE+) programme is a theory-informed, multi-component intervention aimed at upskilling and empowering nursing and personal care staff to identify and manage early signs of deterioration in residents of aged care facilities. The intervention aims to reduce unnecessary hospital admissions from residential aged care (RAC) homes. Alongside a stepped wedge randomised controlled trial, an embedded process evaluation will be conducted to assess the fidelity, acceptability, mechanisms of action and contextual barriers and enablers of the EDDIE+ intervention. Twelve RAC homes in Queensland, Australia are participating in the study. A comprehensive mixed-methods process evaluation, informed by the integrated Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (i-PARIHS) framework, will assess intervention fidelity, contextual barriers and enablers, mechanisms of action, and the acceptability of the programme from various stakeholder perspectives. Quantitative data will be collected prospectively from project documentation, including baseline context mapping of participating sites, activity tracking and regular check-in communication sheets. Qualitative data will be collected postintervention via semi-structured interviews with a range of stakeholder groups. The i-PARIHS constructs of innovation, recipients, context and facilitation will be applied to frame the analysis of quantitative and qualitative data. Ethical approval for this study has been granted by the Bolton Clarke Human Research Ethics Committee (approval number: 170031) with administrative ethical approval granted by the Queensland University of Technology University Human Research Ethics Committee (2000000618). Full ethical approval includes a waiver of consent for access to residents’ demographic, clinical and health services de-identified data. A separate health services data linkage based on RAC home addresses will be sought through a Public Health Act application. Study findings will be disseminated through multiple channels, including journal publications, conference presentations and interactive webinars with a stakeholder network. Australia New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12620000507987).

A novel metabarcoding diagnostic tool to explore protozoan haemoparasite diversity in mammals: a proof-of-concept study using canines from the tropics

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 02-09-2019

DOI: 10.1038/S41598-019-49118-9

Abstract: Haemoparasites are responsible for some of the most prevalent and debilitating canine illnesses across the globe, whilst also posing a significant zoonotic risk to humankind. Nowhere are the effects of such parasites more pronounced than in developing countries in the tropics where the abundance and ersity of ectoparasites that transmit these pathogens reaches its zenith. Here we describe the use of a novel next-generation sequencing (NGS) metabarcoding based approach to screen for a range of blood-borne apicomplexan and kinetoplastid parasites from populations of temple dogs in Bangkok, Thailand. Our methodology elucidated high rates of Hepatozoon canis and Babesia vogeli infection, whilst also being able to characterise co-infections. In addition, our approach was confirmed to be more sensitive than conventional endpoint PCR diagnostic methods. Two kinetoplastid infections were also detected, including one by Trypanosoma evansi , a pathogen that is rarely screened for in dogs and another by Parabodo caudatus , a poorly documented organism that has been previously reported inhabiting the urinary tract of a dog with haematuria. Such results demonstrate the power of NGS methodologies to unearth rare and unusual pathogens, especially in regions of the world where limited information on canine vector-borne haemoparasites exist.

Predictors of short-term hospitalization and emergency department presentations in aged care

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-06-2021

DOI: 10.1111/JGS.17317

Abstract: To examine in idual , medication, system, and healthcare related predictors of hospitalization and emergency department (ED) presentation within 90 days of entering the aged care sector, and to create risk‐profiles associated with these outcomes. Retrospective population‐based cohort study using data from the Registry of Senior Australians. Older people (aged 65 and older) with an aged care eligibility assessment in South Australia between January 1, 2013 and May 31, 2016 ( N = 22,130). Primary outcomes were unplanned hospitalization and ED presentation within 90 days of assessment. In idual, medication, system, and healthcare related predictors of the outcomes at the time of assessment, within 90 days or 1‐year prior. Fine–Gray models were used to calculate subdistribution hazard ratios (sHR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Harrell's C ‐index assessed predictive ability. Four thousand nine‐hundred and six (22.2%) in iduals were hospitalized and 5028 (22.7%) had an ED presentation within 90 days. Predictors of hospitalization included: being a man (hospitalization sHR = 1.33, 95% CI 1.26–1.42), ≥3 urgent after‐hours attendances (hospitalization sHR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.06–1.39), increasing frailty index score (hospitalization sHR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.11–1.28), in iduals using glucocorticoids (hospitalization sHR = 1.11, 95% CI 1.02–1.20), sulfonamides (hospitalization sHR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.10–1.27), trimethoprim antibiotics (hospitalization sHR = 1.15, 95% CI 1.03–1.29), unplanned hospitalizations 30 days prior (hospitalization sHR = 1.13, 95% CI 1.04–1.23), and ED presentations 1 year prior (hospitalization sHR = 1.07, 95% CI 1.04–1.10). Similar predictors and hazard estimates were also observed for ED presentations. The hospitalization models out‐of‐s le predictive ability ( C ‐index = 0.653, 95% CI 0.635–0.670) and ED presentations ( C ‐index = 0.647, 95% CI 0.630–0.663) were moderate. One in five in iduals with aged care eligibility assessments had unplanned hospitalizations and/or ED presentation within 90 days with several predictors identified at the time of aged care eligibility assessment. This is an actionable period for targeting at‐risk in iduals to reduce hospitalizations.

Evaluation of the bacterial microbiome of two flea species using different DNA-isolation techniques provides insights into flea host ecology

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 04-11-2015

DOI: 10.1093/FEMSEC/FIV134

Abstract: Fleas (Siphonaptera) are ubiquitous blood-sucking pests of animals worldwide and are vectors of zoonotic bacteria such as Rickettsia and Bartonella. We performed Ion Torrent PGM licon sequencing for the bacterial 16S rRNA gene to compare the microbiome of the ubiquitous cat flea (Ctenocephalides f. felis) and the host-specific echidna stickfast flea (Echidnophaga a. ambulans) and evaluated potential bias produced during common genomic DNA-isolation methods. We demonstrated significant differences in the bacterial community ersity between the two flea species but not between protocols combining surface sterilisation with whole flea homogenisation or exoskeleton retention. Both flea species were dominated by obligate intracellular endosymbiont Wolbachia, and the echidna stickfast fleas possessed the endosymbiont Cardinium. Cat fleas that were not surface sterilised showed presence of Candidatus 'Rickettsia senegalensis' DNA, the first report of its presence in Australia. In the case of Rickettsia, we show that sequencing depth of 50 000 was required for comparable sensitivity with Rickettsia qPCR. Low-abundance bacterial genera are suggested to reflect host ecology. The deep-sequencing approach demonstrates feasibility of pathogen detection with simultaneous quantitative analysis and evaluation of the inter-relationship of microbes within vectors.

Location and pathogenic potential of Blastocystis in the porcine intestine

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 05-08-2014

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0103962

Efficacy of a spot on combination containing imidacloprid 10% and moxidectin 1% (Advocate®/Advantage® Multi, Bayer Animal Health) against Ancylostoma ceylanicum in cats

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2012.05.008

Abstract: Ancylostoma ceylanicum is a common zoonotic hookworm of dogs and cats, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of a spot on combination product containing imidacloprid 10% and moxidectin 1% (Advocate(®)/Advantage(®) Multi, Bayer Animal Health) against A. ceylanicum in experimentally infected cats. Sixteen kittens were each subcutaneously injected with 100 infective third-stage larvae of A. ceylanicum. Kittens were stratified by egg count and randomly allocated into control and treatment groups. The kittens in the treatment group were each treated with a spot on combination of 10% (w/v) imidacloprid and 1% (w/v) moxidectin, administered topically at recommended label dose rates. The kittens in the control group were not treated. Egg counts were performed daily until the end of the study period and compared for the treated and control groups. No eggs were detected in the treated group of kittens within 4 days of treatment and faecal s les from this group remained negative throughout the rest of the study, resulting in a treatment efficacy (egg reduction) of 100% (P<0.0001). The egg counts remained high (993 ± 666 epg) in the untreated control group for the rest of the study period. This study demonstrated that based on faecal egg count reduction, the spot on combination containing imidacloprid 10% (w/v) and moxidectin 1% (w/v) (Advocate(®)/Advantage(®) Multi, Bayer Animal Health) given at the recommended dose is highly effective against infection with A. ceylanicum in cats.

Morphological and molecular characterisation of Echinococcus granulosus in livestock and humans in Punjab, Pakistan

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2010.02.003

Abstract: Cystic echinococcus poses an important economic and public health problem to Pakistan. Our study determined the prevalence and genotypes of Echinococcus present in domestic livestock and humans in Punjab, Pakistan. Out of 39,738 animals examined, 6.67% of animals were found infected. The prevalence and fertility of hydatid cysts was highest in camels (prevalence 17.29% proportion fertile 95%), followed by sheep (prevalence 7.52% proportion fertile 86.4%), buffalo (prevalence 7.19% proportion fertile 84.3%), goats (prevalence 5.48% proportion fertile 79.09%) and cattle (prevalence 5.18% proportion fertile 75.25%). Phylogenetic analysis of the cytochrome oxidase-1 gene revealed that the common sheep strain (G1) and buffalo strain (G3) are cycling among livestock in Punjab and that these strains are highly adapted to goats, camels and cattle. Both human cysts were found to belong to the common sheep strain (G1) of E. granulosus, reinforcing this strain has the most potential for zoonotic transfer. Both morphological and molecular results support earlier studies suggesting that Echinococcus of sheep and buffalo origin is phenotypically and genetically similar which adds further evidence to support its recognition as one species viz, Echinococcus granulosus sensu stricto.

Effect of experimental hookworm infection on insulin resistance in people at risk of type 2 diabetes

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 26-07-2023

DOI: 10.1038/S41467-023-40263-4

Abstract: The reduced prevalence of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes in countries with endemic parasitic worm infections suggests a protective role for worms against metabolic disorders, however clinical evidence has been non-existent. This 2-year randomised, double-blinded clinical trial in Australia of hookworm infection in 40 male and female adults at risk of type 2 diabetes assessed the safety and potential metabolic benefits of treatment with either 20 ( n = 14) or 40 ( n = 13) Necator americanus larvae (L3) or Placebo ( n = 13) (Registration ACTRN12617000818336). Primary outcome was safety defined by adverse events and completion rate. Homoeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, fasting blood glucose and body mass were key secondary outcomes. Adverse events were more frequent in hookworm-treated participants, where 44% experienced expected gastrointestinal symptoms, but completion rates were comparable to Placebo. Fasting glucose and insulin resistance were lowered in both hookworm-treated groups at 1 year, and body mass was reduced after L3-20 treatment at 2 years. This study suggests hookworm infection is safe in people at risk of type 2 diabetes and associated with improved insulin resistance, warranting further exploration of the benefits of hookworms on metabolic health.

Faecal prevalence, distribution and risk factors associated with canine soil-transmitted helminths contaminating urban parks across Australia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2022.08.001

Abstract: Dog parks provide an ideal urban space where dogs and their owners can exercise, play, and socialise in a safe environment. However, these parks can also increase the risk of exposure to a series of infectious agents including canine soil-transmitted helminths (cSTHs) such as hookworms, roundworms, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Trichuris vulpis, which are endemic to Australia. In this study, we collected 1581 canine faecal s les in 190 urban parks across Australia and subjected these to faecal floatation and multiplex real-time PCRs (qPCR) to detect a range of cSTHs. In total, 44.2% of the parks s led were contaminated with at least one species of cSTH, with hookworms being the most prevalent parasites (10.2%) followed by Trichuris spp. (1.3%) and Strongyloides spp. (1.2%). This is the first large-scale study investigating the contamination of urban parks with cSTHs in Australia, and the first nation-wide study to demonstrate the occurrence of Strongyloides spp. in canine faecal s les from urban areas in the country. This study reveals a high rate of contamination with cSTHs in dog parks in urban Australia, most of which having proven zoonotic potential. Preventive measures, including awareness-raising educational programmes promoting responsible pet ownership, should be encouraged to minimise the health risks associated with cSTHs for both dogs and humans.

First report of a Trichinella papuae infection in a wild pig (Sus scrofa) from an Australian island in the Torres Strait region

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2011.10.004

Abstract: Multiple Trichinella species are reported from the Australasian region although mainland Australia has never confirmed an indigenous case of Trichinella infection in humans or animals. Wildlife surveys in high-risk regions are essential to truly determine the presence or absence of Trichinella, but in mainland Australia are largely lacking. In this study, a survey was conducted in wild pigs from mainland Australia's Cape York Peninsula and Torres Strait region for the presence of Trichinella, given the proximity of a Trichinella papuae reservoir in nearby PNG. We report the detection of a Trichinella infection in a pig from an Australian island in the Torres Strait, a narrow waterway that separates the islands of New Guinea and continental Australia. The larvae were characterised as T. papuae (Kikori strain) by PCR and sequence analysis. No Trichinella parasites were found in any pigs from the Cape York Peninsula. These results highlight the link the Torres Strait may play in providing a passage for introduction of Trichinella parasites from the Australasian region to the Australian mainland.

The epidemiology of Taenia spp. infection and Taenia solium cysticerci exposure in humans in the Central Highlands of Vietnam

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-10-2018

DOI: 10.1186/S12879-018-3434-9

Molecular characterization of Hepatozoon canis from farm dogs in Pakistan

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 18-02-2018

DOI: 10.1007/S00436-018-5790-1

Abstract: Hepatozoon canis is a tick-borne pathogen of canids, which is distributed worldwide. However, very little is known about this protozoan parasite in Pakistan. This study provides the first molecular evidence of H. canis from farm dogs from three agro-ecological zones of Punjab, Pakistan. A conventional PCR targeting the 18S rRNA gene was used to characterize H. canis from farm dogs from three districts, namely Kasur, Rawalpindi, and Muzaffargarh, in Punjab. Of 341 blood s les tested, 155 (45.5%) were positive for H. canis, 73 (61.3%) from Kasur, 46 (42.5%) from Rawalpindi, and 36 (31.5%) from Muzaffargarh. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that 18S rRNA sequences of H. canis from this study clustered in three clades with those of H. canis from previously published studies to the exclusion of all other Hepatozoon spp. included in the analysis. This study provides the first insight into H. canis from farm dogs in Pakistan. Furthermore, it lays a foundation for future studies of the parasite to assess the impact of canine hepatozoonosis in dogs from various agro-ecological zones in Pakistan where pet ownership of dogs is increasing.

Assessing the efficacy of albendazole against hookworm in Vietnam using quantitative PCR and sodium nitrate flotation

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 31-10-2022

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0010767

Abstract: Preventive chemotherapy (PC), consisting of the regular distribution of anthelmintics to populations or groups of populations at risk, is the primary tool used to control soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections. This strategy, whilst cost-effective, raises the concern of potential emergence of drug resistance. The efficacy of anthelmintics against STH infections is measured using cure rate (CR) and egg reduction rate (ERR), using microscopy-based techniques such as the Kato-Katz thick smear. However, Kato-Katz has low sensitivity, especially for low-intensity infections, and requires fresh s les that need to be processed quickly. Realtime quantitative PCR (qPCR), which is more sensitive, is emerging as a “gold standard” for STH diagnostics given its higher sensitivity (important in low prevalence settings) and ability to differentiate hookworm species, while sodium nitrate flotation (SNF) may provide a low-cost more sensitive and practical alternative to Kato-Katz in the field. In this study, we examined the efficacy of a locally manufactured brand of albendazole 400 mg (“Alzental”) against hookworm in Đắk Lắk province, Vietnam, using both qPCR and SNF. For qPCR, formulae to convert qPCR cycle threshold (Ct) values into eggs per gram of faeces (EPG) were utilised to determine efficacy calculations, and these values directly compared with efficacy values generated using SNF. Factors associated with CR and ERR were examined, and Alzental tablet quality was assessed by comparing with an Australian TGA-approved equivalent “Eskazole” tablet. We observed a CR and ERR of 64.9% and 87.5% respectively using qPCR, and 68.4% and 67.6% respectively using SNF. The tablet composition of Alzental was comparable to Eskazole in terms of active albendazole drug concentration with no evidence of impurities. This study demonstrates that the efficacy of Alzental against hookworm is within the range of previously reported studies for albendazole 400 mg. The study also demonstrates the value of qPCR and SNF as alternatives to standard Kato-Katz methodology for assessment of anthelmintic efficacy.

Acetylcholine receptor subunit genes from Ancylostoma caninum: Altered transcription patterns associated with pyrantel resistance

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2008.08.005

Abstract: The molecular mechanism of resistance to nicotinic agonist anthelmintics such as pyrantel and levamisole in nematodes of medical and veterinary significance is poorly understood. The identification of pyrantel-resistant isolates of the canine hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum, provides an opportunity to explore, at a molecular level, the mechanism of cholinergic resistance in a species that is a model for the human hookworms. Here we describe the cloning of three A. caninum genes orthologous to components of the pyrantel-sensitive nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in Caenorhabditis elegans (UNC-29, -38, -63). Analysis of mRNA levels by quantitative PCR was also performed on these genes, plus an additional three nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunit genes thought not to be constituents of the pyrantel-sensitive receptor, for which a partial sequence was obtained. Gene sequences and mRNA levels were compared between two isolates of A. caninum showing either high- or low-level resistance to pyrantel (as shown previously by in vivo efficacy and in vitro comparative studies). While no polymorphisms of likely significance between the two A. caninum isolates were observed, quantitative analysis of transcription revealed significantly lower levels for the three putative pyrantel receptor subunits (AAR-29, -38 and -63) in the highly pyrantel-resistant isolate compared with the isolate with low-level resistance. In contrast, transcription of the three subunits thought not to constitute the pyrantel receptor (AAR-8, -15 and -19) was either not significantly different between the two isolates, or slightly higher in the highly-resistant isolate. This data suggests that reduced transcription of the mRNA coding for nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subunits that form the pyrantel-sensitive receptors may be a component of the pyrantel resistance mechanism in A. caninum.

Assessment of a metabarcoding approach for the characterisation of vector-borne bacteria in canines from Bangkok, Thailand

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 08-08-2019

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-019-3651-0

A novel, species-specific, real-time PCR assay for the detection of the emerging zoonotic parasite Ancylostoma ceylanicum in human stool

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 10-07-2017

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0005734

Simple Fecal Flotation Is a Superior Alternative to Guadruple Kato Katz Smear Examination for the Detection of Hookworm Eggs in Human Stool

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 18-12-2014

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0003313

Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction for Diagnosis of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections: A Comparison with a Flotation-Based Technique and an Investigation of Variability in DNA Detection

Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Date: 03-10-2018

DOI: 10.4269/AJTMH.18-0356

Using an implementation science approach to build leader facilitation capability in healthcare

Publisher: Emerald

Date: 17-09-2021

DOI: 10.1108/JHOM-12-2020-0510

Abstract: The study describes the implementation of a novel strategy, entitled the Action Learning Set Facilitation Model, to develop internal facilitation capability to lead change. The Model incorporated the Novice-Experienced-Expert pathway, a facilitation development approach underpinning the integrated-Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services Implementation Framework, with action learning methodology. A mixed-methods descriptive approach reports the results of 22 interviews, 182 Action Learning Sets and 159 post program survey data sets to explore facilitator experiences, strengths and potential application of the Model. At program completion, five novice (of 174) and one experienced (of 27) facilitator transitioned to the next facilitation level. The three groups of facilitators described positive change in confidence and facilitation skill, and experience of action learning sets. Inconsistencies between self-report competence and observed practice amongst novices was reported. Novices had decreasing exposure to the Model due to factors related to ongoing organisational change. Internal facilitators were considered trusted and credible facilitators. There are practical and resource implications in investing in internal facilitation capability, noting proposed and real benefits of similar development programs may be compromised during, or as a consequence of organisational change. Further research describing application of the facilitation model, strategies to enhance multisystemic support for programs and evaluation support are suggested. The Action Learning Set Facilitation Model offers promise in developing internal facilitation capability supporting change in organisations. Critical success factors include building broad scale internal capability, stable leadership and longitudinal support to embed practice. This is the first application of the facilitation component of the integrated-Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services implementation framework embedded to action learning sets as an implementation science strategy for leader development supporting organisational change.

Community-wide versus school-based targeted deworming for soil-transmitted helminth control in school-aged children in Vietnam: the CoDe-STH cluster-randomised controlled trial

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2023

DOI: 10.1016/J.LANWPC.2023.100920

Correction: A global genotyping survey of Strongyloides stercoralis and Strongyloides fuelleborni using deep amplicon sequencing

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 18-06-2021

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0009538

Clinical pilot study: efficacy of triple antibiotic therapy in Blastocystis positive irritable bowel syndrome patients

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 08-2014

DOI: 10.1186/S13099-014-0034-0

Prevalence of Cysticercus bovis in Australian cattle

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-06-2010

DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-0813.2010.00593.X

Abstract: The first national abattoir survey of Cysticercus bovis ('beef measles') in cattle was conducted in February 2008. During the data collection period, 493,316 cattle were subjected to standard postmortem procedures, including incision of the masseter and heart muscles. On-site veterinarians were asked to record the location of any C. bovis cysts, as well as the National Livestock Identification System ear tag numbers of infected animals. Veterinarians were asked to submit s les for laboratory confirmation by histology and polymerase chain reaction testing. Of the 23 s les submitted, none was positive for C. bovis by either diagnostic method. Occasional, isolated diagnoses of beef measles are still made in most states of Australia, but since the last regional surveys were conducted 30 years ago, when the estimated prevalence was 50 to 200 per 100,000 cattle slaughtered, the parasite has become extremely rare.

Ancylostoma ceylanicum Hookworms in Dogs, Grenada, West Indies

Publisher: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Date: 09-2022

DOI: 10.3201/EID2809.220634

Spirorchiidiasis in marine turtles: the current state of knowledge

Publisher: Inter-Research Science Center

Date: 28-03-2019

DOI: 10.3354/DAO03348

Abstract: Blood flukes of the family Spirorchiidae are important disease agents in marine turtles. The family is near cosmopolitan in distribution. Twenty-nine marine species across 10 genera are currently recognized, but taxonomic problems remain and it is likely that more species will be discovered. Spirorchiids infect the circulatory system, where they and their eggs cause a range of inflammatory lesions. Infection is sometimes implicated in the death of the turtle. In some regions, prevalence in stranded turtles is close to 100%. Knowledge of life cycles, important for control and epidemiological studies, has proven elusive until recently, when the first intermediate host identifications were made. Recent molecular studies of eggs and adult worms indicate that a considerable level of intrageneric and intraspecific ersity exists. The characterization of this ersity is likely to be of importance in exploring parasite taxonomy and ecology, unravelling life cycles, identifying the differential pathogenicity of genotypes and species, and developing antemortem diagnostic tools, all of which are major priorities for future spirorchiid research. Diagnosis to date has been reliant on copromicroscopy or necropsy, which both have significant limitations. The current lack of reliable antemortem diagnostic options is a roadblock to determining the true prevalence and epidemiology of spirorchiidiasis and the development of effective treatment regimes.

Impact of relational continuity of primary care in aged care: a systematic review

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 14-07-2022

DOI: 10.1186/S12877-022-03131-2

Abstract: Greater continuity of care has been associated with lower hospital admissions and patient mortality. This systematic review aims to examine the impact of relational continuity between primary care professionals and older people receiving aged care services, in residential or home care settings, on health care resource use and person-centred outcomes. Systematic review of five databases, four trial registries and three grey literature sources to October 2020. Included studies (a) aimed to increase relational continuity with a primary care professional, (b) focused on older people receiving aged care services (c) included a comparator and (d) reported outcomes of health care resource use, quality of life, activities of daily living, mortality, falls or satisfaction. Cochrane Collaboration or Joanna Briggs Institute criteria were used to assess risk of bias and GRADE criteria to rate confidence in evidence and conclusions. Heterogeneity in study cohorts, settings and outcome measurement in the five included studies (one randomised) precluded meta-analysis. None examined relational continuity exclusively with non-physician providers. Higher relational continuity with a primary care physician probably reduces hospital admissions (moderate certainty evidence high versus low continuity hazard ratio (HR) 0.94 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.92–0.96, n = 178,686 incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0.99, 95%CI 0.76–1.27, n = 246) and emergency department (ED) presentations (moderate certainty evidence high versus low continuity HR 0.90, 95%CI 0.89–0.92, n = 178,686 IRR 0.91, 95%CI 0.72–1.15, n = 246) for older community-dwelling aged care recipients. The benefit of providing on-site primary care for relational continuity in residential settings is uncertain (low certainty evidence, 2 studies, n = 2,468 plus 15 care homes) whilst there are probably lower hospitalisations and may be fewer ED presentations, there may also be an increase in reported mortality and falls. The benefit of general practitioners’ visits during hospital admission is uncertain (very low certainty evidence, 1 study, n = 335). Greater relational continuity with a primary care physician probably reduces hospitalisations and ED presentations for community-dwelling aged care recipients, thus policy initiatives that increase continuity may have cost offsets. Further studies of approaches to increase relational continuity of primary care within aged care, particularly in residential settings, are needed. CRD42021215698.

TroCCAP recommendations for the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of parasitic infections in dogs and cats in the tropics

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2020.109167

Laboratory diagnostic methods

Publisher: Elsevier

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1016/B978-1-78242-332-4.00016-3

Determining the zoonotic significance of Giardia and Cryptosporidium in Australian dogs and cats

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2008.02.031

Abstract: In a recent study of intestinal parasites in dogs and cats in Australia, Giardia was found to be the most prevalent parasite in dogs. The aim of the current study through the use of molecular tools was to determine the zoonotic significance of the Giardia and Cryptosporidium isolates recovered from dogs and cats during the Australian study. Of the isolates successfully lified all but one of the Giardia from dogs was either Assemblage C and/or D, with one Assemblage A. Of the cat s les lified all but one were Assemblage F, with one Assemblage D. We hypothesize that the lack of zoonotic Giardia Assemblages recovered is a result of their being a low prevalence of Giardia in the human population. The Cryptosporidium recovered from dogs and cats was determined to be C. canis and C. felis, respectively, a finding which supports growing evidence that Cryptosporidium in companion animals is of limited public health significance to healthy people.

A systematic review of taeniasis, cysticercosis and trichinellosis in Vietnam

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 21-03-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-017-2085-9

Comparative efficacy of a spot-on formulation containing emodepside and praziquantel (Profender®, Bayer) and praziquantel and pyrantel oral tablets (Drontal® for Cats) against experimental Ancylostoma

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2012.08.024

Abstract: Ancylostoma ceylanicum is a common zoonotic hookworm of dogs and cats throughout Asia and has also been reported to occur within the Australasian region. The aim of this study to was to determine the efficacy of a spot-on formulation containing emodepside and praziquantel (Profender(®), Bayer) and praziquantel and pyrantel oral tablets (Drontal(®) for Cats, Bayer) against experimental A. ceylanicum infections in cats. Twenty-four kittens were each subcutaneously injected with 100 infective third-stage larvae of A. ceylanicum. Kittens were stratified by egg count and randomly allocated equally into control and two treatment groups. The first group were treated with emodepside 2.1% raziquantel 8.6% (Profender®, Bayer) at the recommended label dose. The second group was treated with 80 mg pyrantel and 20mg praziquantel (Drontal(®) for Cats, Bayer) at the recommended label dose. The kittens in the control group were not treated. Egg counts were performed daily until the end of the study period and compared for the treated and control groups. No eggs were detected in the treated group of kittens within 4 days of treatment and faecal s les from this group remained negative throughout the rest of the study, resulting in a treatment efficacy (egg reduction) of 100% (P<0.0001). The egg counts remained high (993 ± 666 epg) in the untreated control group for the rest of the study period. This study demonstrated that both combination products containing topical emodepside raziquantel (Profender(®), Bayer) and praziquantel yrantel oral tablets (Drontal(®) for Cats, Bayer) given at the recommended dose is highly effective against infection with A. ceylanicum in cats.

Hookworm Infection in Oceania

Publisher: Springer International Publishing

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-43148-2

Experimental infection with Ancylostoma ceylanicum in dogs and efficacy of a spot on combination containing imidacloprid 10% and moxidectin 2.5% (Advocate ® /Advantage ® Multi, Bayer Animal Health)

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 27-03-2010

DOI: 10.1007/S00436-010-1819-9

Abstract: Ancylostoma ceylanicum is a common hookworm of dogs, cats and humans in Asia. More recently, this hookworm was found to infect dogs in Australia. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of a spot on combination product containing imidacloprid 10% and moxidectin 2.5% (Advocate/Advantage Multi, Bayer Animal Health) against A. ceylanicum in experimentally infected dogs. Twelve dogs were each subcutaneously injected with 300 infective third-stage larvae of A. ceylanicum. Pups were stratified by egg count and randomly allocated equally into control and treatment groups. The pups in the treatment group were each treated with a spot on combination of 10% (w/v) imidacloprid and 2.5% (w/v) moxidectin, administered topically at the skin surface between the shoulder blades. The dogs in the control group were not treated. Egg counts were performed daily until the end of the study period and compared for the treated and control groups. No eggs were detected in the treated group of pups within 4 days of treatment and faecal s les from this group remained negative throughout the rest of the study, resulting in a treatment efficacy (egg reduction) of 100% (P < 0.0001). The egg counts remained high (4,469 +/- 2,064 eggs per gram, epg) in the untreated control group for the rest of the study period. This study demonstrated that the spot on combination containing imidacloprid 10% and moxidectin 2.5 % (Advocate/Advantage Multi, Bayer Animal Health) given at the recommended dose is highly effective against infection with A. ceylanicum in dogs.

Diversity of Blastocystis subtypes in dogs in different geographical settings

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 24-07-2013

DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-215

Cats as potential mammalian reservoirs for Rickettsia sp. genotype RF2125 in Bangkok, Thailand

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.VPRSR.2018.07.001

Abstract: Rickettsia felis is an obligate intracellular alpha-proteobacteria and the cause of flea-borne spotted fever (FBSF), an emerging zoonosis of global public health importance, for which dogs and cats have been implicated as potential mammalian reservoirs hosts. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors for R. felis-like species in semi-domesticated cats and their fleas in aim of understanding public health risks posed by cats and their fleas in Bangkok, Thailand. Single whole blood s les (n = 432) and where observed, fleas (n = 234), were collected from cats from 53 temple communities in Bangkok. Fleas were morphologically and genetically identified to a species level. Cat blood and fleas were subjected to a spotted fever group (SFG)-specific PCR targeting the partial outer membrane protein B (ompB). Those that were positive, were further characterised using an R. felis-specific nested PCR targeting the partial citrate synthase A (gltA) gene. All fleas were identified as Ctenocephalides felis felis. In total SFG Rickettsiae were detected in the blood of 82/482 (17.01%) cats and 3/234 fleas (1.28%). DNA sequencing of the partial ompB characterised all positive licons from cat blood and their fleas as 100% identical to Rickettsia endosymbiont of Ctenocephalides felis orientis isolate (Rickettsia sp. genotype RF2125) and Rickettsia asemboensis (GenBank accession no. KP256362 and KY650699, respectively). The gltA gene targeting R. felis was successfully lified from 12/82 PCR-positive cat blood s les and these clustered with 99% bootstrap support with isolates within the Rickettsia sp. genotype RF2125 clade. Cats that were permitted to roam freely inside monasteries were more likely to be infected with R. felis compared with cats confined indoors. The results suggest that cats in Thailand are potential mammalian reservoir hosts for Rickettsia sp. genotype RF2125.

The impact of ivermectin, diethylcarbamazine citrate, and albendazole mass drug administration on the prevalence of scabies and soil-transmitted helminths in school-aged children in three municipaliti

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2023

DOI: 10.1016/S2214-109X(23)00134-1

Effective low-cost preservation of human stools in field-based studies for helminth and microbiota analysis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2021.01.002

Terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism for the identification of spirorchiid ova in tissues from the green sea turtle, Chelonia mydas

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 31-08-2016

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0162114

First international external quality assessment scheme of nucleic acid amplification tests for the detection of Schistosoma and soil-transmitted helminths, including Strongyloides: A pilot study.

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 16-06-2020

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0008231

Molecular epidemiology of food-borne parasitic zoonoses

Publisher: Springer US

Date: 2007

DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-71358-8

Serological evidence of exposure to Rickettsia felis and Rickettsia typhi in Australian veterinarians

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-03-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-017-2075-Y

Transmission cycles of Giardia duodenalis in dogs and humans in Temple communities in Bangkok—A critical evaluation of its prevalence using three diagnostic tests in the field in the absence of a gold

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTATROPICA.2009.03.006

Abstract: The prevalence and associated risk factors for Giardia duodenalis in canine and human populations in Temple communities of Bangkok, Thailand were determined by evaluating three common diagnostic methods utilised to detect Giardia, namely zinc sulphate flotation and microscopy, an immunofluoresence antibody test and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based on the SSU-rDNA gene. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity together with the negative and positive predictive values of each test were evaluated in the absence of a gold standard using a Bayesian approach. The median estimates of the prevalence of infection with G. duodenalis in dogs and humans in Thailand were 56.8% (95% PCI, 30.4%, 77.7%) and 20.3% (95% PCI, 7.3%, 46.3%) respectively. PCR and immunofluorescence antibody tests (IFAT) were the most accurate tests overall with diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 97.4% (95% PCI, 88.5%, 99.9%) and 56.2% (95% PCI, 40.4%, 82.9%) for the PCR and 61.8% (95% PCI, 40.8%, 99.1%) and 94.7% (95% PCI, 87.4%, 99.1%) for IFAT respectively Three cycles, anthroponotic, zoonotic and dog-specific cycles of G. duodenalis were shown to be operating among the human and canine populations in these Temple communities in Bangkok, supporting the role of the dog as a potential reservoir for Giardia infections in humans.

Ancylostoma ceylanicum

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.PT.2021.04.013

Ancylostoma ceylanicum, a re-emerging but neglected parasitic zoonosis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2013.07.006

Abstract: Although Ancylostoma ceylanicum is known to be an endemic and widely distributed hookworm of dogs and cats in Asia, its contribution to human morbidity as a potentially zoonotic hookworm remains largely unexplored. Since its discovery by Lane (1913) as a 'new parasite' of humans a century ago, the hookworm has been regarded as a 'rare' and 'abnormal' parasite and largely overlooked in surveys of human parasites. Recent molecular-based surveys in Asia, however, have demonstrated that A. ceylanicum is the second most common hookworm species infecting humans, comprising between 6% and 23% of total patent hookworm infections. In experimentally induced infections, A. ceylanicum mimics the clinical picture produced by the anthroponotic hookworms of 'ground itch' and moderate to severe abdominal pain in the acute phase. Natural infections with A. ceylanicum in humans have been reported in almost all geographical areas in which the hookworm is known to be endemic in dogs and cats, however for the majority of reports, no clinical data are available. Much like the anthroponotic hookworm species, patent A. ceylanicum adults can isolate within the jejunum to produce chronic infections that on occasion, may occur in high enough burdens to produce anaemia. In addition, the hookworm can act much like Ancylostoma caninum and be found lower in the gastrointestinal tract leading to abdominal distension and pain, diarrhoea and occult blood in the faeces accompanied by peripheral eosinophilia. Whether A. ceylanicum is capable of producing both classical hookworm disease and evoking morbidity through an uncontrolled allergic response in some in iduals remains unascertained. Future investigations combining the use of molecular diagnostic tools with clinical and pathological data will shed further light on its role as a human pathogen. The control of this zoonosis necessitates an integrated and inter-sectorial "One Health" approach be adopted in communities where large numbers of dogs share a close relationship with humans.

Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH): A Critical Component for Sustainable Soil-Transmitted Helminth and Schistosomiasis Control

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 10-04-2014

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0002651

High-throughput microfluidic real-time PCR for the simultaneous detection of selected vector-borne pathogens in dogs in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Publisher: Hindawi Limited

Date: 13-07-2022

DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14645

Abstract: A scarcity of information on the occurrence of zoonotic vector-borne pathogens (VBPs), alongside a lack of human and animal health authorities' awareness of pre-existing data, augment the risk of VBP infection for local people and limit our ability to establish control programs. This holds especially true in low-middle income countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). This dearth of information on zoonotic VBPs is bolstered by the inability of previously used diagnostic tests, including conventional molecular diagnostic methods, to detect the full spectrum of relevant pathogens. Considering this, we set out to apply a microfluidic qPCR assay capable of detecting 43 bacterial and protozoan pathogens from blood to accrue critical baseline data for VBPs occurrence in BiH. A total of 408 dogs were tested of which half were infected with at least one VBP of zoonotic or veterinary importance. Leishmania infantum was found in 18% of dogs, reaching a prevalence as high as 38% in urbanized areas of Sarajevo. These data highlight substantially higher levels of L. infantum prevalence when compared to that previously reported using conventional methods using the same s les. Additionally, this high-throughput microfluidic qPCR assay was able to detect pathogens rarely or never reported in canines in BiH, including Anaplasma phagocytophilum (3%), Anaplasma platys (0.2%), haemotropic Mycoplasma (1%) and Hepatozoon canis (26%). Our report of the endemicity of important zoonotic pathogens and those of clinical significance to dogs emphasizes the need for urgent implementation of surveillance and control for VBPs in BiH, targeting both animal and human infections within the country.

Molecular epidemiology and pathology of spirorchiid infection in green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPPAW.2017.03.001

Canine vector‐borne disease pathogens in dogs from south‐east Queensland and north‐east Northern Territory

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 22-03-2012

DOI: 10.1111/J.1751-0813.2012.00898.X

Abstract: To determine the prevalence of canine vector-borne diseases (CVBD: Babesia spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp., haemotropic mycoplasmas and Hepatozoon) in Australian dogs namely, dogs from pounds in south-east Queensland and an indigenous Aboriginal community in the north-east of the Northern Territory. Blood s les were collected from 100 pound dogs and 130 Aboriginal community dogs and screened for the CVBD pathogens using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All positive PCR products were sequenced for species confirmation. In total, 3 pound dogs and 64 Aboriginal community dogs were infected with at least one CVBD pathogen. Overall, B. vogeli was detected in 13 dogs, A. platys in 49, M. haemocanis in 23, Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum in 3 and C. M. haemobos in 1 dog. Co-infections were detected in 22 Aboriginal community dogs. This study found B. vogeli, A. platys and haemotropic mycoplasma infections to be common in dogs in subtropical and tropical areas of Australia. This study also reports for the first time the prevalence and genetic characterisation of haemotropic mycoplasmas in dogs in Australia.

Intestinal parasites of dogs and cats in Australia: The veterinarian’s perspective and pet owner awareness

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2010

DOI: 10.1016/J.TVJL.2008.12.007

Abstract: During a recent national study of intestinal parasites in dogs and cats in Australia, questionnaires were submitted to veterinarians and pet owners to evaluate from a veterinary and public health standpoint the veterinarians' perception, awareness and knowledge of gastrointestinal parasites in their locality. The study included sourcing information with regard to commonly recommended deworming protocols. The awareness of pet owners regarding parasitic zoonoses and the degree of education provided to them by veterinarians was also determined. Very few veterinarians routinely discussed the zoonotic potential of pet parasites with clients but most recommended regular prophylactic administration of anthelmintics throughout a pet's life. Some pet owners were unaware of the existence of zoonoses. It is possible that an overreliance on anthelmintics may have led to a certain complacency about the need to educate pet owners about the risks of zoonoses. Veterinarians are important educators in the community and it is important to evaluate their performance if improvements are to be made.

Human social conditions predict the risk of exposure to zoonotic parasites in companion animals in East and Southeast Asia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 15-11-2022

DOI: 10.1038/S43856-022-00210-8

Abstract: A recent dramatic surge in pet ownership has been observed across metropolitan areas in Asia. To date, there is a dearth of information on the risk associated with pet ownership for the transmission of parasites on a large scale in Asia, despite this continent giving rise to the largest burden of zoonotic infections worldwide. We explored the nature and extent of zoonotic internal (endo-) and external (ecto-) parasites and arthropod-borne pathogens in 2381 client-owned dogs and cats living in metropolitan areas of eight countries in East and Southeast Asia using reliable diagnostic tests and then undertook extensive statistical analyses to define predictors of exposure to zoonotic pathogens. The estimated ORs for overall parasite infections are 1.35 [95% CIs 1.07 .71] in young animals and 4.10 [1.50 .2] in the animal group older than 15 years as compared with adult animals, 0.61 [0.48 .77] in neutered animals as compared to unneutered animals, 0.36 [0.26 .50] in animals living in urban areas as compared with rural areas, 1.14 [1.08 .21] for each 1 °C increase of annual mean temperature which varies from 12.0 to 28.0 °C, and 0.86 [0.78 .95] for each year of life expectancy which varies from 70.9 to 83.3 years. Here we highlight the influence of human life expectancy and the neutering status of the animals, which reflect increased living standards through access to education and human and veterinary health care, to be both strongly associated with exposure to zoonotic parasites. An integrated approach of local and international authorities to implement and manage educational programs will be crucial for the control of zoonotic infections of companion animals in Asia.

Detection of group 1 Trypanosoma brucei gambiense by loop-mediated isothermal amplification

Publisher: American Society for Microbiology

Date: 04-2011

DOI: 10.1128/JCM.01817-10

Abstract: Trypanosoma brucei gambiense group 1 is the major causative agent of the Gambian human African trypanosomiasis (HAT). Accurate diagnosis of Gambian HAT is still challenged by lack of precise diagnostic methods, low and fluctuating parasitemia, and generally poor services in the areas of endemicity. In this study, we designed a rapid loop-mediated isothermal lification (LAMP) test for T. b. gambiense based on the 3′ end of the T. b. gambiense -specific glycoprotein (TgsGP) gene. The test is specific and lifies DNA from T. b. gambiense isolates and clinical s les at 62°C within 40 min using a normal water bath. The analytical sensitivity of the TgsGP LAMP was equivalent to 10 trypanosomes/ml using purified DNA and ∼1 trypanosome/ml using supernatant prepared from boiled blood, while those of classical PCR tests ranged from 10 to 10 3 trypanosomes/ml. There was 100% agreement in the detection of the LAMP product by real-time gel electrophoresis and the DNA-intercalating dye SYBR green I. The LAMP licons were unequivocally confirmed through sequencing and analysis of melting curves. The assay was able to lify parasite DNA from native cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and double-centrifuged supernatant prepared from boiled buffy coat and bone marrow aspirate. The robustness, superior sensitivity, and ability to inspect results visually through color change indicate the potential of TgsGP LAMP as a future point-of-care test.

The prevalence, intensities and risk factors associated with geohelminth infection in tea-growing communities of Assam, India

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 06-2004

DOI: 10.1111/J.1365-3156.2004.01252.X

The epidemiology of porcine Taenia solium cysticercosis in communities of the Central Highlands in Vietnam

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-06-2018

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-018-2945-Y

Predictors of hospitalisations and emergency department presentations shortly after entering a residential aged care facility in Australia: A retrospective cohort study

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 11-2021

DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2021-057247

Abstract: To: (1) examine the 90-day incidence of unplanned hospitalisation and emergency department (ED) presentations after residential aged care facility (RACF) entry, (2) examine in idual-related, facility-related, medication-related, system-related and healthcare-related predictors of these outcomes and (3) create in idual risk profiles. Retrospective cohort study using the Registry of Senior Australians. Fine-Gray models estimated subdistribution HRs and 95% CIs. Harrell’s C-index assessed risk models’ predictive ability. In iduals aged ≥65 years old entering a RACF as permanent residents in three Australian states between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2016 (N=116 192 in iduals in 1967 RACFs). In idual-related, facility-related, medication-related, system and healthcare-related predictors ascertained at assessments or within 90 days, 6 months or 1 year prior to RACF entry. 90-day unplanned hospitalisation and ED presentation post-RACF entry. The cohort median age was 85 years old (IQR 80–89), 62% (N=71 861) were women, and 50.5% (N=58 714) had dementia. The 90-day incidence of unplanned hospitalisations was 18.0% (N=20 919) and 22.6% (N=26 242) had ED presentations. There were 34 predictors of unplanned hospitalisations and 34 predictors of ED presentations identified, 27 common to both outcomes and 7 were unique to each. The hospitalisation and ED presentation models out-of-s le Harrell’s C-index was 0.664 (95% CI 0.657 to 0.672) and 0.655 (95% CI 0.648 to 0.662), respectively. Some common predictors of high risk of unplanned hospitalisation and ED presentations included: being a man, age, delirium history, higher activity of daily living, behavioural and complex care needs, as well as history, number and recency of healthcare use (including hospital, general practitioners attendances), experience of a high sedative load and several medications. Within 90 days of RACF entry, 18.0% of in iduals had unplanned hospitalisations and 22.6% had ED presentations. Several predictors, including modifiable factors, were identified at the time of care entry. This is an actionable period for targeting in iduals at risk of hospitalisations.

Giardia duodenalis infection in the context of a community-based deworming and water, sanitation and hygiene trial in Timor-Leste

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 18-10-2019

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-019-3752-9

Abstract: Giardiasis is a common diarrhoeal disease caused by the protozoan Giardia duodenalis . It is prevalent in low-income countries in the context of inadequate access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and is frequently co-endemic with neglected tropical diseases such as soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections. Large-scale periodic deworming programmes are often implemented in these settings however, there is limited evidence for the impact of regular anthelminthic treatment on G. duodenalis infection. Additionally, few studies have examined the impact of WASH interventions on G. duodenalis . The WASH for WORMS cluster randomised controlled trial was conducted in remote communities in Manufahi municipality, Timor-Leste, between 2012 and 2016. All study communities received four rounds of deworming with albendazole at six-monthly intervals. Half were randomised to additionally receive a community-level WASH intervention following study baseline. We measured G. duodenalis infection in study participants every six months for two years, immediately prior to deworming, as a pre-specified secondary outcome of the trial. WASH access and behaviours were measured using questionnaires. There was no significant change in G. duodenalis prevalence in either study arm between baseline and the final study follow-up. We found no additional benefit of the community-level WASH intervention on G. duodenalis infection (relative risk: 1.05, 95% CI: 0.72–1.54). Risk factors for G. duodenalis infection included living in a household with a child under five years of age (adjusted odds ratio, aOR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.04–1.75), living in a household with more than six people (aOR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.02–1.72), and s ling during the rainy season (aOR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1.04–1.45). In iduals infected with the hookworm Necator americanus were less likely to have G. duodenalis infection (aOR: 0.71, 95% CI: 0.57–0.88). Prevalence of G. duodenalis was not affected by a community WASH intervention or by two years of regular deworming with albendazole. Direct household contacts appear to play a dominant role in driving transmission. We found evidence of antagonistic effects between G. duodenalis and hookworm infection, which warrants further investigation in the context of global deworming efforts. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12614000680662. Registered 27 June 2014, retrospectively registered. anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=366540 .

Epidemiology of soil-transmitted helminths using quantitative PCR and risk factors for hookworm and Necator americanus infection in school children in Dak Lak province, Vietnam

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 27-06-2023

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-023-05809-X

Abstract: Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection is driven by a complex interaction of demographic, socioeconomic and behavioural factors, including those related to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Epidemiological studies that measure both infection and potential risk factors associated with infection help to understand the drivers of transmission in a population and therefore can provide information to optimise STH control programmes. During October and November 2019, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of the prevalence and intensity of STH infection and associated risk factors among 7710 primary-school-age children from 64 primary schools across 13 districts in Dak Lak province, Vietnam. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to detect and quantify STH infections. The predominant STH species was the hookworm Necator americanus (overall cluster-adjusted prevalence of 13.7%), and its prevalence was heterogeneously distributed across surveyed schools (0% to 56.3%). All other STH species had a prevalence of less than 1%. Using mixed-effects logistic regression, we found that the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) was significantly higher for both infection and moderate-to-heavy-intensity infection with N. americanus among children from multiple ethnic minority groups, compared to children from the majority group (Kinh). Adjusted odds of infection with N. americanus were also higher in children who reported practising open defecation at school (aOR 1.42, 95% CI 1.05, 1.93, P = 0.02) and in those who had an unimproved household water supply (aOR 1.28, 95% CI 1.04, 1.57, P = 0.02). Conversely, children with a flushing household toilet had a reduced risk of infection (aOR 0.58, 95% CI 0.47, 0.70, P 0.01), as did those whose primary female carer attended secondary (aOR 0.65, 95% CI 0.51, 0.84, P 0.01) or tertiary education (aOR 0.39, 95% CI 0.24, 0.63, P 0.01). This study is the largest reported prevalence survey of STH infections conducted using qPCR as a diagnostic technique. The findings of higher adjusted odds of infection amongst ethnic minority children highlight that STH control programmes may not be reaching certain population groups and that additional culturally appropriate approaches may be required. Additionally, the associations between specific WASH factors and infection indicate potential programmatic targets to complement preventive chemotherapy programmes.

Impact of a prospective feedback loop on care review activities in older patients at the end of life. A stepped-wedge randomised trial

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 16-11-2022

DOI: 10.1186/S12877-022-03554-X

Abstract: Hospitalisation rates for older people are increasing, with end-of-life care becoming a more medicalised experience. Innovative approaches are warranted to support early identification of the end-of-life phase, communicate prognosis, provide care consistent with people’s preferences, and improve the use of healthcare resources. The Intervention for Appropriate Care and Treatment (InterACT) trial aimed to increase appropriate care and treatment decisions for older people at the end of life, through implementation of a prospective feedback loop. This paper reports on the care review outcomes. A stepped-wedge randomised controlled trial was conducted in three large acute hospitals in Queensland, Australia between May 2020 and June 2021. The trial identified older people nearing the end of life using two validated tools for detecting deterioration and short-term death. Admitting clinical teams were provided with details of patients identified as at-risk with the goal of increasing awareness that end of life was approaching to facilitate appropriate patient centred care and avoid non-beneficial treatment. We examined the time between when the patient was identified as ‘at-risk’ and three outcomes: clinician-led care review discussions, review of care directive measures and palliative care referrals. These were considered useful indicators of appropriate care at the end of life. In two hospitals there was a reduction in the review of care directive measures during the intervention compared with usual care at 21 days (reduced probability of − 0.08 95% CI: − 0.12 to − 0.04 and − 0.14 95% CI: − 0.21 to − 0.06). In one hospital there was a large reduction in clinician-led care review discussions at 21 days during the intervention (reduced probability of − 0.20 95% CI: − 0.28 to − 0.13). There was little change in palliative care referrals in any hospital, with average probability differences at 21 days of − 0.01, 0.02 and 0.04. The results are disappointing as an intervention designed to improve care of hospitalised older people appeared to have the opposite effect on care review outcomes. The reasons for this may be a combination of the intervention design and health system challenges due to the pandemic that highlight the complexity of providing more appropriate care at the end of life. Australia New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry, ACTRN12619000675123 (registered 6 May 2019).

A web-based educational intervention to implement trauma-informed care in a paediatric healthcare setting

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 19-08-2020

DOI: 10.1186/S40814-020-00636-8

Abstract: Adoption of responsive trauma-informed practices by staff in hospital-based paediatric care may help mitigate downstream costs associated with treatment delivery due to reduced pain and distress for children and care providers, improved health-related quality of life and increased satisfaction with care. A web-based education intervention (termed Responsive CARE) was developed to build self-efficacy of staff in a paediatric medical setting. This protocol paper describes a feasibility study (including preliminary effectiveness) of the implementation of Responsive CARE in a tertiary, outpatient burn clinical setting. A pre-post, mixed methods design will be employed. Children and caregivers attending hospital for change of burn wound dressings or burn scar management during the 3-month control or 3-month intervention period will be eligible, with follow-up to 6-months post-baseline. All children and caregiver/s will receive “standard care” including burn interventions focused on wound healing, scar management, itch management (both pharmacological and non-pharmacological), counselling, age-appropriate procedural support and burn rehabilitation. Health professional participants will be those involved in the management of children with burns during the study period or their senior managers. Health professional participants who attend a weekly educational clinical meeting will be invited to complete the intervention during a 1-month timeframe between the control and intervention period (or upon their commencement in burn outpatients during the intervention period) using an in idualised log-in process. A purposive s le of caregivers and health professionals will be sought for participation in semi-structured interviews. Qualitative data will be analysed using Framework analysis. Feasibility will be evaluated via interviews, digital records of intervention usage and technical assistance logs. The primary outcome measures of effectiveness (pain, itch and distress) will be measured using self-report or behavioural observation. Quantitative data will primarily be analysed descriptively and using generalised linear models. This study will provide insights into factors that impact upon the feasibility of a web-based trauma-informed care education intervention in a clinical practice setting. This knowledge may support other education approaches within healthcare settings related to improving and supporting patients to reduce the risk of healthcare interactions that result in paediatric medical traumatic stress.

Comparison of the egg recovery rates and limit of detection for soil-transmitted helminths using the Kato-Katz thick smear, faecal flotation and quantitative real-time PCR in human stool

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 26-05-2021

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0009395

Abstract: Monitoring the success of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) control programs relies on accurate diagnosis and quantitative assessment of infection prevalence and intensity. As preventative chemotherapeutic program coverage for STH expands, the necessity of gaining insights into the relative or comparative sensitivities, in terms of limits of detection (LOD) and egg-recovery-rates (ERR) for microscopy and quantitative polymerase chain reaction qPCR-based diagnostic techniques becomes imperative to inform suitability for their intended use for large scale STH monitoring and treatment efficacy studies. The diagnostic performance in terms of ERR and LOD of the Kato-Katz (KK) thick smear technique, sodium nitrate (NaNO 3 ) faecal floatation (FF) and qPCR for the accurate detection and enumeration of STH eggs were calculated and expressed in eggs per gram (EPG), by experimentally seeding parasite-free human faeces with Ascaris spp., Trichuris spp. and Necator americanus eggs representing low, medium and high intensity infections. The efficiency of NaNO 3 flotation was also calculated over a range of specific gravities (SpGr) for the optimum recovery of STH eggs. FF of SpGr 1.30 recovered 62.7%, 11% and 8.7% more Trichuris spp., Necator americanus and Ascaris spp. eggs respectively, than the recommended SpGr of 1.20. All diagnostic methods demonstrated strong direct correlation to the intensity of seeded EPG. KK and FF (SpGr 1.30) resulted in significant lower ERRs compared to qPCR ( p .05). qPCR demonstrated significantly (p .05) greater sensitivity with an ability to detect as little as 5 EPG for all three STH, compared to 50 EPG by KK and FF (SpGr 1.30). This study compares the diagnostic parameters in terms of LOD and ERRs of STHs for the KK, FF and qPCR. These results indicate that the diagnostic performance of qPCR assays should be considered by control programs in the phase that aims to seek confirmation of transmission break and cessation of preventive chemotherapy in low-transmission settings, in line with the control targets of the WHO neglected tropical diseases 2030 Roadmap.

Application of a Multiplex Quantitative PCR to Assess Prevalence and Intensity Of Intestinal Parasite Infections in a Controlled Clinical Trial

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 28-01-2016

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0004380

Quantitative detection of viable helminth ova from raw wastewater, human feces, and environmental soil samples using novel PMA-qPCR methods

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 15-06-2016

DOI: 10.1007/S11356-016-7039-9

Abstract: In this study, we have evaluated the efficacy of propidium monoazide quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PMA-qPCR) to differentiate between viable and non-viable Ancylostoma caninum ova. The newly developed method was validated using raw wastewater seeded with known numbers of A. caninum ova. Results of this study confirmed that PMA-qPCR has resulted in average of 88 % reduction (P < 0.05) in gene copy numbers for 50 % viable +50 % non-viable when compared with 100 % viable ova. A reduction of 100 % in gene copies was observed for 100 % non-viable ova when compared with 100 % viable ova. Similar reductions (79-80 %) in gene copies were observed for A. caninum ova-seeded raw wastewater s les (n = 18) collected from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) A and B. The newly developed PMA-qPCR method was applied to determine the viable ova of different helminths (A. caninum, A. duodenale, Necator americanus and Ascaris lumbricoides) in raw wastewater, human fecal and soil s les. None of the unseeded wastewater s les were positive for the above-mentioned helminths. N. americanus and A. lumbricoides ova were found in unseeded human fecal and soil s les. For the unseeded human fecal s les (1 g), an average gene copy concentration obtained from qPCR and PMA-qPCR was found to be similar (6.8 × 10(5) ± 6.4 × 10(5) and 6.3 × 10(5) ± 4.7 × 10(5)) indicating the presence of viable N. americanus ova. Among the 24 unseeded soil s les tested, only one was positive for A. lumbricoides. The mean gene copy concentration in the positively identified soil s le was 1.0 × 10(5) ± 1.5 × 10(4) (determined by qPCR) compared to 4.9 × 10(4) ± 3.7 × 10(3) (determined by PMA-qPCR). The newly developed PMA-qPCR methods were able to detect viable helminth ova from wastewater and soil s les and could be adapted for health risk assessment.

CIB1 contributes to oncogenic signalling by Ras via modulating the subcellular localisation of sphingosine kinase 1

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 12-12-2017

DOI: 10.1038/ONC.2016.428

PCR-based coprodiagnostic tools reveal dogs as reservoirs of zoonotic ancylostomiasis caused by Ancylostoma ceylanicum in temple communities in Bangkok

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2008.05.001

Abstract: A survey of gastrointestinal parasites of dogs and humans from temple communities in Bangkok revealed that 58% of dogs and 3.4% of humans, among those s led, were infected with hookworms utilising faecal flotation techniques and microscopy. A previously established polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-RFLP approach was utilised to determine the species of hookworms infecting dogs found positive for hookworm eggs. Single infections with Ancylostoma ceylanicum and Ancylostoma caninum were recorded in 77% and 9% of hookworm positive dogs, respectively and mixed infections with both species of Ancylostoma were recorded in 14% of dogs. A single-step PCR for the multiplex detection of Ancylostoma species and Necator americanus DNA in human faeces was developed and applied to characterise the species of hookworms in microscopy positive in iduals. Single infection with N. americanus was recorded in five and A.ceylanicum infection in two, out of seven in iduals positive for hookworm. This study demonstrates that humans are at risk of acquiring infection with A. ceylanicum in communities where this species of hookworm is endemic in dogs.

Water, sanitation and hygiene related risk factors for soil-transmitted helminth and Giardia duodenalis infections in rural communities in Timor-Leste

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2016.07.005

Abstract: There is little evidence on prevalence or risk factors for soil transmitted helminth infections in Timor-Leste. This study describes the epidemiology, water, sanitation and hygiene, and socioeconomic risk factors of STH and intestinal protozoa amongst communities in Manufahi District, Timor-Leste. As part of a cluster randomised controlled trial, a baseline cross-sectional survey was conducted across 18 villages, with data from six additional villages. Stool s les were assessed for soil transmitted helminth and protozoal infections using quantitative PCR (qPCR) and questionnaires administered to collect water, sanitation and hygiene and socioeconomic data. Risk factors for infection were assessed using multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression, stratified by age group (preschool, school-aged and adult). Overall, soil transmitted helminth prevalence was 69% (95% Confidence Interval 67-71%), with Necator americanus being most common (60% 95% Confidence Interval 58-62%) followed by Ascaris spp. (24% 95% Confidence Interval 23-26%). Ascaris-N. americanus co-infection was common (17% 95% Confidence Interval 15%-18%). Giardia duodenalis was the main protozoan identified (13% 95% Confidence Interval 11-14%). Baseline water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure and behaviours were poor. Although risk factors varied by age of participants and parasite species, risk factors for N. americanus infection included, generally, age in years, male sex, and socioeconomic quintile. Risk factors for Ascaris included age in years for children, and piped water to the yard for adults. In this first known assessment of community-based prevalence and associated risk factors in Timor-Leste, soil transmitted helminth infections were highly prevalent, indicating a need for soil transmitted helminth control. Few associations with water, sanitation and hygiene were evident, despite water, sanitation and hygiene being generally poor. In our water, sanitation and hygiene we will investigate implications of improving WASH on soil transmitted helminth infection in impoverished communities.

CHERISH (collaboration for hospitalised elders reducing the impact of stays in hospital): protocol for a multi-site improvement program to reduce geriatric syndromes in older inpatients

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 09-01-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S12877-016-0399-7

Terminology for Blastocystis subtypes – a consensus

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.PT.2007.01.004

Abstract: Blastocystis is a ubiquitous enteric protistan parasite that has extensive genetic ersity and infects humans and many other animals. Distinct molecular methodologies developed to detect variation and obtain information about transmission patterns and clinical importance have resulted in a confusing array of terminologies for the identification and designation of Blastocystis subtypes. In this article, we propose a standardization of Blastocystis terminology to improve communication and correlate research results. Based primarily on published small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene analyses, we propose that all mammalian and avian isolates should be designated Blastocystis sp. and assigned to one of nine subtypes.

Low risk for transmission of zoonotic Giardia duodenalis from dogs to humans in rural Cambodia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-7-412

From Research Evidence to “Evidence by Proxy”? Organizational Enactment of Evidence‐Based Health Care in Four High‐Income Countries

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-04-2019

DOI: 10.1111/PUAR.13056

Evidence of exposure to Rickettsia felis in Australian patients

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.ONEHLT.2016.06.001

A ‘plethora of services’ but a lack of consistency

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 03-05-2022

DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.13080

Abstract: We explored the perspectives of professionals working in health and aged care services in South Australia about factors that influenced successful transitions from hospital to home or residential aged care home for older people. We examined successful and recommended strategies that could support safe transitions following hospital discharge and reduce avoidable hospital admissions in South Australia. Nineteen professionals from acute, post‐acute, primary, community and aged care settings in South Australia participated in semi‐structured interviews. Qualitative content analysis was conducted. Participants reported that navigating service provision could be difficult, compounded by different funding arrangements for hospitals, community, primary care and aged care services. Some participants felt that there was an over‐reliance on the hospital sector, leaving primary care and community‐based services under‐utilised to support hospital transitions. The importance of good communication between services and sectors was highlighted. Participants described different categories of services that supported safe transitions by supporting older people immediately post‐discharge services that provided support to stay at home in the weeks and months following discharge and services that helped the person receive health care at locations other than hospitals or emergency departments when they were unwell. Participants noted that successful programs were not always maintained. Division of responsibility of aged and health‐care services between state and national governance contributes to fragmentation of care in South Australia. Careful planning of transitions and coordination of services across sectors is required to ensure older people are supported in the months following discharge from hospital to reduce avoidable rehospitalisations.

Pyrantel in small animal medicine: 30 years on

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.TVJL.2007.06.021

Abstract: Pyrantel, a tetrahydropyrimidine nicotinic agonist anthelmintic, has been used in companion animal medicine since the 1970s to control two important nematode groups, the hookworms and the roundworms. Given the zoonotic potential of these parasites, pyrantel has served a dual role in helping to protect the health of both companion animals and the public for more than 30 years. This review describes the history and mechanism of action of this drug, and collates evidence that resistance to pyrantel has developed in at least one canine nematode, the hookworm Ancylostoma caninum. The role of in vitro diagnosis tests in managing anthelmintic resistance in companion animal parasites is discussed, as are management practices that may reduce the rate at which resistance develops.

Nanopore Sequencing Using the Full-Length 16S rRNA Gene for Detection of Blood-Borne Bacteria in Dogs Reveals a Novel Species of Hemotropic Mycoplasma

Publisher: American Society for Microbiology

Date: 21-12-2022

DOI: 10.1128/SPECTRUM.03088-22

Abstract: Blood- and vector-borne bacteria (VBB) can cause severe pathology and even be lethal for dogs in many regions across the globe. Accurate characterization of all the bacterial pathogens infecting a canine host is critical, as coinfections are common and emerging and novel pathogens that may go undetected by traditional diagnostics frequently arise.

An Integrated Coproscopic and Molecular Method Provides Insights into the Epidemiology of Zoonotic Intestinal Helminths of Dogs across Cambodia

Publisher: Hindawi Limited

Date: 22-08-2023

DOI: 10.1155/2023/2001871

Abstract: Introduction. In Cambodia, a limited number of focal surveys targeting dogs in rural communities have reported intestinal helminths of potential zoonotic risk as highly endemic. In this study, we investigated the prevalence, ersity, distribution, and risk predictors associated with zoonotic intestinal helminths infecting pet, community, and pagoda dogs across rural and urban settings in Cambodia through an integrated coproscopic and molecular approach. Methods. Faecal s les, demographic, and clinical data were collected from 457 dogs across Cambodia. Faeces were screened for gastroenteric parasites using sodium nitrate faecal floatation (1.30 SpGr) and multiplex TaqMan-based quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays for differentiation of canine hookworm species (Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Ancylostoma braziliense, Ancylostoma caninum, and Uncinaria stenocephala) and for Strongyloides spp. Conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing was used to further characterise eggs resembling zoonotic helminths that could not be designated to a species level by light microscopy alone. In addition, infection intensities for hookworms and Toxocara as eggs per gram of faeces were estimated to assess the dog age-dependent contribution of these zoonotic parasites in the environment. Finally, multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk predictors for gastrointestinal parasitoses. Results. Using combined coproscopic and molecular methods, we detected at least one helminth in 79% of the s led dogs. Of these, 78.8% were infected with at least one zoonotic species, with A. ceylanicum (50%) and A. caninum (50%) constituting the most common parasites followed by A. braziliense (20%), Toxocara canis (15%), Strongyloides spp. (5%), Dipylidium caninum (2%), and Eucoleus spp. (2%). The indirect zoonotic helminths Spirometra erinaceieuropaei, Spirometra mansoni, and Haplorchis yokogawai contributed to 14% of the total infections in dogs. Dogs were also found mechanically passing eggs of large trematodes such as Fischoederius elongatus, Schistosoma spp., Par histomatidae, and Gastrothylax crumenifer. Contradictory to previous reports, the prevalence of T. canis was highest in adult dogs with egg shedding intensity peaking in dogs more than 7 years of age. Finally, we found that pale mucous membranes and low total protein were predictors of hookworm infection in dogs ( p 0.05 ). Conclusion. Dogs within both rural and urban settings across Cambodia are highly infected with a large ersity of zoonotic gastroenteric helminths. This study reports the presence of A. braziliense, the aetiological agent of hookworm-related “creeping eruptions” for the first time in Cambodia. Moreover, infection intensity data suggest that adult dogs should also be targeted by deworming c aigns to reduce the prevalence of zoonotic hookworm and T. canis infections within the country. These results highlight the need for an integrated approach to canine population management and parasite control in dogs across urban and rural settings in Cambodia to mitigate the public health risks and impacts posed by these helminths.

Detection of six soil-transmitted helminths in human stool by qPCR- a systematic workflow

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 30-09-2021

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0258039

Abstract: Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) infect up to one-quarter of the global population, with a significant associated disease burden. The main human STH are: Ancylostoma spp. and Necator americanus (hookworms) Ascaris lumbricoides , Trichuris trichiura , and Strongyloides stercoralis . The aim of this study was to establish a scalable system for stool STH multiplex quantitative real-time polymerase chain reactions (qPCR). Stool s les collected in Fiji and preserved in potassium dichromate were transferred to Melbourne at ambient temperature. S les were washed to remove potassium dichromate and DNA was extracted with the Mini-Beadbeater-24 and a column-based kit. A SYBR green qPCR to detect the vertebrate mitochondrial gene was used as a DNA extraction control. S les were tested using a probe-based multiplex qPCR targeting A . lumbricoides , T . trichiura and S . stercoralis , and in a second multiplex reaction to detect hookworms to the species level ( A . duodenale , A . ceylanicum , N . americanus ). An internal lification control in both multiplex assays was included to prevent false-negative results due to PCR inhibitors. S les were homogenised for a single cycle of 40 seconds to release STH DNA and washed stool was stored for up to 15 weeks at -30°C without compromising DNA. Our multiplex qPCR detected multiple species of STH without reduced sensitivity compared to singleplex. qPCR data from 40 stools was validated against STH-positive stools determined by microscopy. We have developed and validated an efficient and staged system for detecting six clinically important STH affecting humans that could be easily implemented without advanced automation in any qPCR-capable laboratory.

The epidemiology of Rickettsia felis infecting fleas of companion animals in eastern Australia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 20-03-2018

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-018-2737-4

WASH for WORMS: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial of the Impact of a Community Integrated Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene and Deworming Intervention on Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections

Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Date: 06-03-2019

DOI: 10.4269/AJTMH.18-0705

Bloody diarrhea associated with hookworm infection in traveler returning to France from Myanmar

Publisher: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Date: 10-2015

DOI: 10.3201/EID2110.150695

Molecular epidemiology: A multidisciplinary approach to understanding parasitic zoonoses

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPARA.2005.06.008

Abstract: Sound application of molecular epidemiological principles requires working knowledge of both molecular biological and epidemiological methods. Molecular tools have become an increasingly important part of studying the epidemiology of infectious agents. Molecular tools have allowed the aetiological agent within a population to be diagnosed with a greater degree of efficiency and accuracy than conventional diagnostic tools. They have increased the understanding of the pathogenicity, virulence, and host-parasite relationships of the aetiological agent, provided information on the genetic structure and taxonomy of the parasite and allowed the zoonotic potential of previously unidentified agents to be determined. This review describes the concept of epidemiology and proper study design, describes the array of currently available molecular biological tools and provides ex les of studies that have integrated both disciplines to successfully unravel zoonotic relationships that would otherwise be impossible utilising conventional diagnostic tools. The current limitations of applying these tools, including cautions that need to be addressed during their application are also discussed.

Attempt to uncover reservoirs of human spotted fever rickettsiosis on the Fleurieu Peninsula, South Australia

Publisher: Medknow

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.4103/0972-9062.249483

A multipronged next-generation sequencing metabarcoding approach unearths hyperdiverse and abundant dog pathogen communities in Cambodia.

Publisher: Hindawi Limited

Date: 03-07-2021

DOI: 10.1111/TBED.14180

Abstract: Recent surveys in Southeast Asia, including Cambodia, have identified canine vector-borne pathogens (VBPs), including those with zoonotic potential, as highly prevalent. The lack of veterinary care alongside the close association semidomesticated dogs have with humans in the region exacerbates these zoonotic risks. Nonetheless, the number of studies investigating such pathogens and the threats they pose to dog and human health is limited. Here, we utilize a next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based metabarcoding protocol to conduct an assumption-free characterization of the bacterial, apicomplexan, and kinetoplastid blood-borne pathogens of free-roaming dogs from across Cambodia. From 467 dogs at five field sites, 62% were infected with one of eight confirmed pathogens, comprising Anaplasma platys (32%), Ehrlichia canis (20%), Hepatozoon canis (18%), Babesia vogeli (14%), Mycoplasma haemocanis (13%), the zoonotic pathogen Bartonella clarridgeiae (3%), Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum (0.2%), and Trypanosoma evansi (0.2%). Coinfections of between two and four VBPs were common with 28% of dogs found to have a mixed infection. Moreover, DNA from putatively infectious agents belonging to the bacterial family and genera Coxiella, Mycobacterium, Neisseria, Rickettsiaceae, Treponema, and two uncharacterized Mycoplasma species were identified, in addition to protozoan genera Colpodella, Parabodo, and Bodo. Using a multiple logistic regression model, the presence of ectoparasites, abnormal mucous membranes, anemia, and total protein were found as predictors of canine VBP exposure. This study represents the first time an NGS metabarcoding technique has been used to holistically detect the bacterial and protozoan hemoparasites communities of dogs through an in-depth survey, highlighting the power of such methods to unearth a wide spectrum of pathogenic organisms in an unbiased manner.

Parasitic diseases of cats and dogs in the tropics

Publisher: CABI Publishing

Date: 05-04-2006

DOI: 10.1079/PAVSNNR20061010

Abstract: Parasitic, infectious and vector-borne diseases of humans and animals thrive in the typically hot and humid environment of the tropics. Many countries in these regions of the world remain underdeveloped with limited resources at their disposal to effectively combat the tremendous disease burdens borne by their human populations. Research, surveillance and control of veterinary diseases have been given priority only when those diseases have an impact on poverty alleviation or if they pose a significant zoonotic threat to the community. In some societies however, in Asia in particular, economic growth and increasing affluence has resulted in changing attitudes towards companion animal ownership and with this has come increasingly higher expectations and demands on veterinary surgeons for improved knowledge in canine and feline medicine and surgery. Yet despite expanding access to information technology, regionally pertinent information for veterinarians concerning the epidemiology, diagnosis and management of tropical diseases of these companion animals is scarce. The paper aims to redress this imbalance by providing, for the first time, a comprehensive review of the parasitic diseases of cats and dogs in the tropics. The first section discusses diseases and parasites of zoonotic importance echinococcosis, toxocariasis, ancylostomiasis, the liver and intestinal flukes, gnathostomiasis, toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis and American trypanosomiasis. In the second section the parasitic diseases of clinical importance for the animals themselves are considered, including babesiosis, dirofilariasis, hepatozoonosis, ectoparasitic diseases, angiostrongylosis and spirocercosis, with information provided on the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases.

Efficacy of single topical treatment of Selamectin (Revolution®) against Ancylostoma ceylanicum in experimentally infected cats

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.VPRSR.2019.100346

Abstract: Ancylostoma ceylanicum, a species of hookworm, is a common parasite of dogs and cats in the Asia-Pacific region. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of a single topical treatment of selamectin (Revolution®) against A. ceylanicum in experimentally infected cats. 12 kittens were injected with 300 infective stage larvae (L3) of A. ceylanicum by the subcutaneous route. Faecal s les were examined daily (days 7-15) for the presence of hookworm eggs. On day 18 kittens were stratified by faecal egg count and randomly allocated in equal numbers to control (n = 6) and treatment (n = 6) groups. Faecal egg counts were then performed daily (days 14-27) or every 3 days (days 28-51) until the end of the study and compared between the treated and control groups. Kittens in the treatment group were administered a single topical dose of selamectin (Revolution®), per label recommendations (6 mg/kg), on day 19. Kittens in the control group were not treated. At 4 days post-treatment, no hookworm eggs were detected in the treated group. Faecal s les from this group remained negative throughout the study, the treatment efficacy was 100% egg reduction (P < .0001). Average faecal egg counts remained high (558 ± 231 eggs per gram) in the untreated control group until the end of the study period. In conclusion, a single topical treatment of selamectin (Revolution®) at the recommended dose was highly efficacious against infection with A. ceylanicum in cats.

Transmission of haemotropic mycoplasma in the absence of arthropod vectors within a closed population of dogs on ectoparasiticides

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-06-2023

DOI: 10.1038/S41598-023-37079-Z

Abstract: Dog-infecting haemotropic mycoplasmas (haemoplasmas), such as Mycoplasma haemocanis and Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum are common blood-borne pathogens of canines that can potentially inflict a substantial burden of disease, particularly in immunosuppressed in iduals. Nonetheless, the transmission of these pathogens remains debated as more evidence emerges that they may not be transmitted by vectors, but instead use alternative methods such as aggressive interactions and vertical transmission. Here, we treated forty dogs with two different topically-acting ectoparasiticide products able to prevent vector-borne pathogen infections during an 8-month community trial in Cambodia. A total absence of ectoparasites were observed at all time points, and no new infections caused by pathogens confirmed as being vectorially-transmitted were detected, i.e., Babesia vogeli , Ehrlichia canis , Anaplasma platys , and Hepatozoon canis . Conversely, the number of haemoplasma infections in dogs on both ectoparasiticides rose significantly, with an incidence of 26 infections per 100 dogs at risk per year, providing strong evidence of non-vectorial transmission. Over the study period, dog aggression and fighting were frequently observed, highlighting a different potential mode of transmission. This study presents the first robust evidence that canine haemoplasmas may be transmitted without arthropod vectors drawing attention to the need for new methods to prevent their transmission.

Zoonotic Ancylostomiasis: An Update of a Continually Neglected Zoonosis.

Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Date: 08-07-2020

DOI: 10.4269/AJTMH.20-0060

Vector-borne and other pathogens of potential relevance disseminated by relocated cats

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 08-11-2022

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-022-05553-8

Abstract: Large populations of unowned cats constitute an animal welfare, ecological, societal and public health issue worldwide. Their relocation and homing are currently carried out in many parts of the world with the intention of relieving suffering and social problems, while contributing to ethical and humane population control in these cat populations. An understanding of an in idual cat’s lifestyle and disease status by veterinary team professionals and those working with cat charities can help to prevent severe cat stress and the spread of feline pathogens, especially vector-borne pathogens, which can be overlooked in cats. In this article, we discuss the issue of relocation and homing of unowned cats from a global perspective. We also review zoonotic and non-zoonotic infectious agents of cats and give a list of practical recommendations for veterinary team professionals dealing with homing cats. Finally, we present a consensus statement consolidated at the 15th Symposium of the Companion Vector-Borne Diseases (CVBD) World Forum in 2020, ultimately to help veterinary team professionals understand the problem and the role they have in helping to prevent and manage vector-borne and other pathogens in relocated cats. Graphical Abstract

Hippobosca longipennis - A potential intermediate host of a species of Acanthocheilonema in dogs in northern India

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-07-2011

DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-4-143

Comparison of the modified agglutination test and real-time PCR for detection of Toxoplasma gondii exposure in feral cats from Phillip Island, Australia, and risk factors associated with infection

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2020

DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPPAW.2020.05.006

A survey of canine tick-borne diseases in India

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 19-07-2011

DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-4-141

Comparison between Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction and Sodium Nitrate Flotation Microscopy in Diagnosing Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections

Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Date: 03-11-2021

DOI: 10.4269/AJTMH.21-0227

Abstract: There is evolving interest in alternate microscopy techniques and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to evaluate soil-transmitted helminth (STH) burden. Using data from a cross-sectional survey of 540 schoolchildren across six primary schools in three municipalities of Timor-Leste, we compared the performance of microscopy using sodium nitrate flotation (SNF) and qPCR in determining STH prevalence and infection intensity. Prevalence by qPCR was higher than SNF for Ascaris lumbricoides (17.5% versus 11.2%), hookworm (8.3% versus 1.2%), and Trichuris trichiura (4.7% versus 1.6%). Agreement between SNF and qPCR was fair for hookworm (κ = 0.21) and moderate for A. lumbricoides (κ = 0.59) and T. trichiura (κ = 0.44). Moderate or heavy intensity infections were identified in 15.9% of infections detected by SNF, whereas qPCR identified 36.1% as moderate or heavy infections using cycle threshold to eggs per gram conversion formulas. Quantitative PCR is a promising diagnostic technique, though further studies validating infection intensity correlates are required.

Canine vector-borne pathogens in semi-domesticated dogs residing in northern Cambodia

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 10-05-2016

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-016-1552-Z

A global genotyping survey of Strongyloides stercoralis and Strongyloides fuelleborni using deep amplicon sequencing

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 16-09-2019

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0007609

Application of a species-specific PCR-RFLP to identify Ancylostoma eggs directly from canine faeces

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2004

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2004.05.026

Molecular Characterization of Coccidia Associated with an Epizootic in Green Sea Turtles (Chelonia mydas) in South East Queensland, Australia

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 22-02-2016

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0149962

Canine gastrointestinal parasitic zoonoses in India

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.PT.2004.10.011

Abstract: Although well recognized and studied in developed countries, canine parasitic zoonoses pose a lowly prioritized public health problem in developing countries such as India, where conditions are conducive for transmission. A study of the most recent parasite survey determining prevalence and epidemiology of canine parasitic zoonoses among tea-growing communities of northeast India demonstrated the endemicity of the problem. This particular study serves as a model using conventional, as well as molecular parasitological, tools to provide novel insights into the role of dogs as mechanical transmitters of human parasites such as Ascaris and Trichuris, and discusses the risks dogs pose with regards to zoonotic transmission of hookworms and Giardia.

Zoonotic Parasites of Sheltered and Stray Dogs in the Era of the Global Economic and Political Crisis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.PT.2017.05.013

Abstract: Sheltered and stray dogs, exposed to zoonotic parasites, including protozoa, helminths, and arthropods, may represent a major threat to public health. Resources for addressing health problems in these animals are not on the priority list of veterinary and public health authorities. Thus, dogs continue to represent an important reservoir for zoonotic parasites. In this article, we review the importance of sheltered and stray dogs as reservoirs of zoonotic parasites in different parts of the world, especially in the context of the current global political and economic crisis.

Molecular Evidence Supports the Role of Dogs as Potential Reservoirs forRickettsia felis

Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc

Date: 08-2011

DOI: 10.1089/VBZ.2010.0270

Abstract: Rickettsia felis causes flea-borne spotted fever in humans worldwide. The cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, serves as vector and reservoir host for this disease agent. To determine the role of dogs as potential reservoir hosts for spotted fever group rickettsiae, we screened blood from 100 pound dogs in Southeast Queensland by using a highly sensitive genus-specific PCR. Nine of the pound dogs were positive for rickettsial DNA and subsequent molecular sequencing confirmed lification of R. felis. A high prevalence of R. felis in dogs in our study suggests that dogs may act as an important reservoir host for R. felis and as a potential source of human rickettsial infection.

Knowledge of Mongolian veterinarians towards canine vector-borne diseases.

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.ONEHLT.2022.100458

Re-evaluation of the species of hookworms infecting dogs in Central Vietnam

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 28-07-2015

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-015-1015-Y

A Host-Specific Blocking Primer Combined with Optimal DNA Extraction Improves the Detection Capability of a Metabarcoding Protocol for Canine Vector-Borne Bacteria

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 04-2020

DOI: 10.3390/PATHOGENS9040258

Abstract: Bacterial canine vector-borne diseases are responsible for some of the most life-threatening conditions of dogs in the tropics and are typically poorly researched with some presenting a zoonotic risk to cohabiting people. Next-generation sequencing based methodologies have been demonstrated to accurately characterise a erse range of vector-borne bacteria in dogs, whilst also proving to be more sensitive than conventional PCR techniques. We report two improvements to a previously developed metabarcoding tool that increased the sensitivity and ersity of vector-borne bacteria detected from canine blood. Firstly, we developed and tested a canine-specific blocking primer that prevents cross-reactivity of bacterial primer lification on abundant canine mitochondrial sequences. Use of our blocking primer increased the number of canine vector-borne infections detected (five more Ehrlichia canis and three more Anaplasma platys infections) and increased the ersity of bacterial sequences found. Secondly, the DNA extraction kit employed can have a significant effect on the bacterial community characterised. Therefore, we compared four different DNA extraction kits finding the Qiagen DNeasy Blood and Tissue Kit to be superior for detection of blood-borne bacteria, identifying nine more A. platys, two more E. canis, one more Mycoplasma haemocanis infection and more putative bacterial pathogens than the lowest performing kit.

Canine tick‐borne pathogens and associated risk factors in dogs presenting with and without clinical signs consistent with tick‐borne diseases in northern Australia

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 24-02-2015

DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12293

Abstract: To estimate the proportion of canine tick-borne disease (CTBD) pathogens in dogs from northern states of Australia presenting with and without clinical signs/laboratory abnormalities suggestive of CTBD and to evaluate associated risk factors. Client-owned dogs presented to a general practice clinic in the Northern Territory (NT n = 138) and five referral hospitals in south-east Queensland (SEQ n = 100) were grouped into CTBD-suspect and -control groups based on clinical and laboratory criteria. Blood and sera were screened for haemotropic Mycoplasma spp., Babesia spp., Anaplasma spp., Ehrlichia spp. and Hepatozoon spp. using microscopic examination, in-clinic ELISA testing and PCR assays. Dog-specific risk factors associated with the presence of CTBD pathogens were evaluated. Overall, 24.4% of the suspect group and 12.2% of the control group dogs were infected. The proportions of M. haemocanis, B. vogeli, A. platys, Candidatus Mycoplasma haematoparvum, and C. Mycoplasma haemobos were 7.1%, 5.0%, 3.8%, 1.7% and 0.4%, respectively. Dogs originating from the NT were 3.6-fold (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.51-8.62 P = 0.004) more likely to be infected with CTBD pathogens than those from SEQ. Male dogs were 2.3-fold (95% CI 1.17-4.80, P = 0.024) more likely to be PCR-positive to CTBD pathogens than female dogs. Dogs presenting with clinical signs consistent with CTBD and thrombocytopenia were more likely to be infected by CTBD pathogens (odds ratio 2.85 95% CI 1.16, 7.02 P = 0.019). Haemotropic mycoplasmas were the most common tick-borne pathogen infecting client-owned dogs. Subclinical cases were common in dogs from the NT. Veterinary practitioners should be aware of the proportion of CTBD pathogens and the presenting features of clinical and subclinical disease in their area.

Metabarcoding using nanopore long‐read sequencing for the unbiased characterization of apicomplexan haemoparasites

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 14-10-2023

DOI: 10.1111/1755-0998.13878

Heartworm adulticide treatment: a tropical perspective.

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 28-04-2023

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-023-05690-8

Abstract: Dirofilaria immitis (the canine heartworm) is widespread in the tropics, with prevalence surpassing 30% in high-risk areas. In addition to the suitable climatic conditions that favour mosquito abundance and filarial larva development, there is low compliance with the recommended year-round use of preventives in these transmission hotspots. This represents a major concern, considering that melarsomine (first-line heartworm adulticide) is unavailable in several tropical countries, resulting in the so-called slow-kill protocol being the only available adulticide treatment option. In this article, the members of TroCCAP (Tropical Council for Companion Animal Parasites) review the current distribution of heartworm in the tropics and the availability of melarsomine, and discuss alternatives for the management of heartworm infections in dogs. Graphical Abstract

Novel High-Throughput Multiplex qPCRs for the Detection of Canine Vector-Borne Pathogens in the Asia-Pacific.

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 19-05-2021

DOI: 10.3390/MICROORGANISMS9051092

Abstract: The Asia-Pacific hosts a large ersity of canine vector-borne pathogens (VBPs) with some of the most common and most pathogenic, generating significant mortality as well as a spectrum of health impacts on local dog populations. The VBPs Anaplasma platys, Babesia gibsoni, Babesia vogeli, Ehrlichia canis, Hepatozoon canis and haemotropic Mycoplasma spp. are all endemic throughout the region, with many exhibiting shifting geographical distributions that warrant urgent attention. Moreover, many of these species cause similar clinical signs when parasitising canine hosts, whilst knowledge of the exact pathogen is critical to ensure treatment is effective. This is complicated by frequent coinfection that can exacerbate pathology. Here, we describe the development, optimisation and validation of two novel quadruplex Taq-Man based real-time PCRs (qPCRs) for the specific and sensitive detection of the aforementioned VBPs. To ensure accurate evaluation of diagnostic performance, results of our qPCRs were evaluated on field s les from Thai dogs and compared with both conventional PCR (cPCR) results and next-generation sequencing (NGS) metabarcoding. Our qPCRs were found to be more sensitive at detecting canine VBP than cPCR and generated results similar to those achieved by NGS. These qPCRs will provide a valuable high-throughput diagnostic tool available to epidemiologists, researchers and clinicians for the diagnosis of key canine VBPs in the Asia-Pacific and further afield.

Epidemiological and molecular evidence supports the zoonotic transmission of Giardia among humans and dogs living in the same community

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 03-2004

DOI: 10.1017/S0031182003004505

Abstract: Giardia duodenalis isolates recovered from humans and dogs living in the same locality in a remote tea-growing community of northeast India were characterized at 3 different loci the SSU-rDNA, elongation factor 1-alpha (ef1-α) and triose phosphate isomerase (tpi) gene. Phylogenetic analysis of the SSU-rDNA and ef1-α genes provided poor genetic resolution of the isolates within various assemblages, stressing the importance of using multiple loci when inferring genotypes to Giardia . Analysis of the tpi gene provided better genetic resolution and placed canine Giardia isolates within the genetic groupings of human isolates (Assemblages A and B). Further evidence for zoonotic transmission was supported by epidemiological data showing a highly significant association between the prevalence of Giardia in humans and presence of a Giardia -positive dog in the same household (odds ratio 3·01, 95% CI, 1·11, 8·39, P =0·0000).

The veterinary and public health significance of hookworm in dogs and cats in Australia and the status of A. ceylanicum

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2006.12.018

Abstract: There is no current information regarding the prevalence of hookworm in Australian dogs and cats and based on the results of studies conducted over 20 years ago, where high prevalences of helminths were recorded, the prophylactic administration of broad spectrum anthelmintics has been advocated. During this study, faecal s les were collected from dogs (n=1391) and cats (n=1027) across Australia. S les were examined by microscopy and information regarding the demographics of each animal, and the management practices they experienced were recorded. A highly sensitive and species-specific PCR-RFLP technique was utilized to differentiate the various hookworm species which can infect dogs and cats directly from eggs in faeces. The prevalence of hookworm in dogs and cats was found to be 6.9% and 1.4%, respectively. Ancylostoma ceylanicum was detected for the first time in Australia in 10.9% of the dogs found positive for hookworm. Significantly, A. ceylanicum is capable of causing a patent infection in humans. After adjusting for other factors with multiple logistic regression, dogs from refuges, dogs originating from a tropical climatic zone, dogs aged 1 year or less, and those dogs which had not received anthelmintics were significantly more likely to be parasitized. Only univariate analysis was conducted for the cats as there were too few s les positive for hookworm. Cats were more likely to be infected with hookworm if they were from refuges, originated from a tropical climatic zone, and had not received treatment with anthelmintics. The results of this study demonstrates the importance of having current information regarding the prevalence of parasites of dogs and cats and the risk factors associated with infection, as well as the need to reassess the veterinary and public health concerns regarding hookworm infection and its control, which are currently based on out-dated information.

Blastocystis subtypes in symptomatic and asymptomatic family members and pets and response to therapy

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 11-2012

DOI: 10.1111/J.1445-5994.2011.02626.X

Abstract: Blastocystis is a common, enteric parasite. The pathogenicity of the organism is uncertain, but subtypes (ST) 1 and 3 have been reported more likely to cause irritable bowel-like symptoms. We treated symptomatic patients positive for Blastocystis with conventional therapy and analysed 16 small-subunit (SSU) rDNA to assess clearance and carriage rates and ST prevalence of the parasite in the asymptomatic household members. In a longitudinal, prospective case study, 11 symptomatic patients positive for Blastocystis underwent outpatient clinical assessment to exclude other diagnoses before 14 days of either metronidazole 400 mg three times daily or trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole 160/800 mg twice-daily therapy. Faecal specimens were collected from patients at baseline, day 15, 28 and 56 after therapy and from 17 family members and eight pets at day 15. Specimens were analysed using faecal smear, culture and polymerase chain reaction analysis of 16SSU rDNA. No patient cleared the organism following therapy. ST 1 (45%), 3 (36%), 4 (36%) and 6 (9%) were found in the symptomatic Blastocystis patients, and ST identified before and after therapy were identical in each in idual. All household contacts were positive for Blastocystis and 16/17 (94%) contacts showed identical Blastocystis ST to the symptomatic family member. All pets were positive for Blastocystis with polymerase chain reaction testing, 7/8 (88%) demonstrating ST concordance with the symptomatic Blastocystis patients. Conventional therapy is ineffective for symptomatic Blastocystis infection. The high prevalence of Blastocystis infection within households suggested transmission between humans and their pets. Subtyping analysis of SSU rDNA alone in Blastocystis does not appear to predict pathogenicity.

Colonization and risk factors for Brachyspira aalborgi and Brachyspira pilosicoli in humans and dogs on tea estates in Assam, India

Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)

Date: 27-01-2004

DOI: 10.1017/S095026880300116X

Abstract: The prevalence of colonization with the anaerobic intestinal spirochaetes Brachyspira aalborgi and Brachyspira pilosicoli was investigated in humans ( n =316) and dogs ( n =101) living on three tea estates in Assam, India. Colonization was detected using PCR on DNA from faeces. Nineteen (6%) human faecal s les contained B. aalborgi DNA, 80 (25·3%) contained B. pilosicoli DNA, and 10 (3·2%) contained DNA from both species. One canine s le contained DNA from B. pilosicoli . Significant factors for B. aalborgi colonization in logistic regression were: infection of family members with B. aalborgi ( P ·001), being a resident of Balipara ( P =0·03), and use of water treatment ( P =0·03). For B. pilosicoli , significant factors were: other family members being positive for B. pilosicoli ( P ·001), water obtained from a well ( P =0·006), water treatment ( P =0·03), and not having visited a doctor in the previous 12 months ( P =0·03).

The veterinary public health significance of Giardia and Cryptosporidium: Getting things in perspective

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2008

DOI: 10.1016/J.TVJL.2008.06.013

Complexities and Perplexities: A Critical Appraisal of the Evidence for Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infection-Related Morbidity

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 19-05-2016

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0004566

Development and Evaluation of a Multiplex Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction for Hookworm Species in Human Stool

Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Date: 07-11-2018

DOI: 10.4269/AJTMH.18-0276

Blastocystis: Subtyping isolates using pyrosequencing™ technology

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.EXPPARA.2006.12.002

Abstract: Blastocystis is a prevalent single-celled enteric parasite of unresolved clinical significance. Efforts based on molecular methodologies to establish whether pathogenicity is linked to specific isolates of the genetically erse genus of Blastocystis have been scarce and so far yielded ambiguous results which can be difficult to interpret. To alleviate some of the problems related to unravelling the molecular epidemiology of Blastocystis infections we developed and evaluated a simple and high-throughput sequence analysis (SQA) pyrosequencing technique based on the detection of genotype-specific nucleotide polymorphisms in the 18S small subunit rRNA gene for a rapid and cost-effective post-PCR screening of Blastocystis genotypes. The method was effectively capable of genotyping 48/48 isolates positive by nested PCR in approximately one hour, and in 94% of the cases the isolate detected by PCR and pyrosequencing was also detected by one of two different PCR assays with subsequent dideoxy sequencing.

A New PCR-Based Approach Indicates the Range of Clonorchis sinensis Now Extends to Central Thailand

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 20-01-2009

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PNTD.0000367

Translational Research of Zoonotic Parasites: Toward Improved Tools for Diagnosis, Treatment and Control

Publisher: MDPI AG

Date: 11-2021

DOI: 10.3390/PATHOGENS10111416

Abstract: A range of factors, including social, demographic and economic transformation and human-induced environmental changes, are influencing the emergence or re-emergence of zoonoses, posing new challenges in how we detect, treat and prevent such diseases [...]

Humans, dogs and parasitic zoonoses - Unravelling the relationships in a remote endemic community in northeast India using molecular tools

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 07-2003

DOI: 10.1007/S00436-003-0925-3

Abstract: Canine parasitic zoonoses pose a continuing public health problem, especially in developing countries and communities that are socioeconomically disadvantaged. Our study combined the use of conventional and molecular epidemiological tools to determine the role of dogs in transmission of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites such as hookworms, Giardiaand Ascarisin a parasite endemic tea-growing community in northeast India. A highly sensitive and specific PCR-RFLP was developed to detect and differentiate the zoonotic species of canine hookworm eggs directly from faeces. This allowed epidemiological screening of canine hookworm species in this community to be conducted with ease and accuracy. Seventy two percent of dogs were found to harbour A. caninum, 60% A. braziliense and 37% harboured mixed infections with both hookworms. No A. ceylanicum was detected in the dog population. The zoonotic potential of canine Giardiawas also investigated by characterising Giardia duodenalisrecovered from humans and dogs living in the same locality and households, at three different loci. Phylogenetic and epidemiological analysis provided compelling evidence to support the zoonotic transmission of canine Giardia. Molecular tools were also used to identify the species of Ascarisegg present in over 30% of dog faecal s les. The results demonstrated the role of dogs as a significant disseminator and environmental contaminator of Ascaris lumbricoidesin communities where promiscuous defecation practices exist. Our study demonstrated the usefulness of combining conventional and molecular parasitological and epidemiological tools to help solve unresolved relationships with regards to parasitic zoonoses.

A cluster-randomised controlled trial integrating a community-based water, sanitation and hygiene programme, with mass distribution of albendazole to reduce intestinal parasites in Timor-Leste: the WA

Publisher: BMJ

Date: 12-2015

DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2015-009293

The association between diet of periurban wild dogs and zoonotic pathogen carriage

Publisher: CSIRO Publishing

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1071/AM18042

Abstract: Established wildlife populations in periurban environments provide an opportunity to spread zoonotic pathogens within human-associated environments. Characteristics of prevalent pathogens harboured by periurban wild dogs suggest that dietary preference could influence their infection status however, data comparing diet composition and pathogen presence are rarely available. We analysed the stomach contents of 170 periurban wild dogs (Canis familiaris) for the occurrence and biomass of prey items, and then associated this with their known infection status of key zoonotic pathogens. The staple prey items detected were mammalian prey species, most commonly sw wallabies (Wallabia bicolor) (20.6±6.1%), canines (C. familiaris) (prey) (10.6±4.6%), eastern grey kangaroos (Macropus giganteus) (10.0±4.5%), and deer (various species) (10.0±4.5%). Unidentified bird species (10.0±4.5%) were also common. Wild dogs that were positive for Echinococcus granulosus were significantly more likely to have consumed sw wallabies. These findings demonstrate the importance of managing both the definitive and intermediate stages of E. granulosus, and suggest that diet correlates with pathogen presence in some cases. This information may assist the development of specific strategies to manage zoonotic pathogens of wild dogs, which are currently lacking.

Use of quantitative PCR to assess the efficacy of albendazole against Necator americanus and Ascaris spp. in Manufahi District, Timor-Leste

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 28-06-2018

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-018-2838-0

Leadership for evidence-based practice—Enforcing or enabling implementation?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.COLEGN.2019.04.004

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification test for Trypanosoma vivax based on satellite repeat DNA

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2011.03.021

Abstract: Trypanosoma vivax is major cause of animal trypanosomiasis and responsible for enormous economic burden in Africa and South America animal industry. T. vivax infections mostly run low parasitaemia with no apparent clinical symptoms, making diagnosis a challenge. This work reports the design and evaluation of a loop-mediated isothermal lification (LAMP) test for detecting T. vivax DNA based on the nuclear satellite repeat sequence. The assay is rapid with results obtained within 35 min. The analytical sensitivity is ∼ 1 trypanosome/ml while that of the classical PCR tests ranged from 10 to 10(3)trypanosomes/ml. The T. vivax LAMP test reported here is simple, robust and has future potential in diagnosis of animal trypanosomiasis in the field.

Field trial investigating the efficacy of a long-acting imidacloprid 10%/flumethrin 4.5% polymer matrix collar (Seresto®, Elanco) compared to monthly topical fipronil for the chemoprevention of canine tick-borne pathogens in Cambodia

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2022

DOI: 10.1016/J.CRPVBD.2022.100095

Emergence of neural angiostrongyliasis in eastern Australia

Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc

Date: 03-2015

DOI: 10.1089/VBZ.2014.1622

Abstract: Despite an apparent increase in cases of angiostrongyliasis in humans and animals in Australia, the epidemiology of infection with the two species of Angiostrongylus that co-exist in this country, namely A. cantonensis and A. mackerrasae, is poorly understood. This knowledge gap is particularly important with respect to A. mackerrasae, a species evidently native to Australia, as its ability to cause disease in humans is unknown. Likewise, there is little information on the roles of native and introduced species of rodents and molluscs as hosts of Angiostrongylus species in Australia. This review focuses on the gaps in the knowledge about the two species, highlighting the need for epidemiological and pathogenesis studies on the native lungworm A. mackerrasae.

Incidence and Risk Factors of Hookworm Infection in a Rural Community of Central Thailand

Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Date: 05-04-2011

DOI: 10.4269/AJTMH.2011.10-0189

Molecular characterization of potentially zoonotic isolates of Giardia duodenalis in horses

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2005.02.011

Abstract: Giardia isolates from eight horses from New York State (NY), USA and two horses from Western Australia (WA) were genetically characterized at the SSU-rDNA and triose-phosphate isomerase (TPI) genes. Phylogenetic analysis of the TPI gene provided strong support for the placement of both isolates of Giardia from horses in WA and a single isolate from a horse in NY within the assemblage AI genotype of G. duodenalis. Another two isolates from horses in NY placed within the assemblage AII genotype of G. duodenalis. Phylogenetic analysis of the TPI gene also provided strong bootstrap support for the placement of four G. duodenalis isolates from horses in NY into a potentially host-specific sub-assemblage of assemblage BIV. The results of this study are consistent with previous studies showing that assemblages AI and AII of G. duodenalis provide the greatest potential zoonotic risk to humans. Horses may therefore constitute a potential source for human infection of Giardia either directly or via watersheds.

Evaluation of ELISA coupled with Western blot as a surveillance tool for Trichinella infection in wild boar (Sus scrofa)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2013.10.012

Abstract: Trichinella surveillance in wildlife relies on muscle digestion of large s les which are logistically difficult to store and transport in remote and tropical regions as well as labour-intensive to process. Serological methods such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) offer rapid, cost-effective alternatives for surveillance but should be paired with additional tests because of the high false-positive rates encountered in wildlife. We investigated the utility of ELISAs coupled with Western blot (WB) in providing evidence of Trichinella exposure or infection in wild boar. Serum s les were collected from 673 wild boar from a high- and low-risk region for Trichinella introduction within mainland Australia, which is considered Trichinella-free. Sera were examined using both an 'in-house' and a commercially available indirect-ELISA that used excretory-secretory (E/S) antigens. Cut-off values for positive results were determined using sera from the low-risk population. All wild boar from the high-risk region (352) and 139/321 (43.3%) of the wild boar from the low-risk region were tested by artificial digestion. Testing by Western blot using E/S antigens, and a Trichinella-specific real-time PCR was also carried out on all ELISA-positive s les. The two ELISAs correctly classified all positive controls as well as one naturally infected wild boar from Gabba Island in the Torres Strait. In both the high- and low-risk populations, the ELISA results showed substantial agreement (k-value=0.66) that increased to very good (k-value=0.82) when WB-positive only s les were compared. The results of testing sera collected from the Australian mainland showed the Trichinella seroprevalence was 3.5% (95% C.I. 0.0-8.0) and 2.3% (95% C.I. 0.0-5.6) using the in-house and commercial ELISA coupled with WB respectively. These estimates were significantly higher (P<0.05) than the artificial digestion estimate of 0.0% (95% C.I. 0.0-1.1). Real-time PCR testing of muscle from seropositive animals did not detect Trichinella DNA in any mainland animals, but did reveal the presence of a second larvae-positive wild boar on Gabba Island, supporting its utility as an alternative, highly sensitive method in muscle examination. The serology results suggest Australian wildlife may have been exposed to Trichinella parasites. However, because of the possibility of non-specific reactions with other parasitic infections, more work using well-defined cohorts of positive and negative s les is required. Even if the specificity of the ELISAs is proven to be low, their ability to correctly classify the small number of true positive sera in this study indicates utility in screening wild boar populations for reactive sera which can be followed up with additional testing.

Integrated morphological and molecular identification of cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) and dog fleas (Ctenocephalides canis) vectoring Rickettsia felis in central Europe

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.VETPAR.2015.03.029

Abstract: Fleas of the genus Ctenocephalides are the most common ectoparasites infesting dogs and cats world-wide. The species Ctenocephalides felis and Ctenocephalides canis are competent vectors for zoonotic pathogens such as Rickettsia felis and Bartonella spp. Improved knowledge on the ersity and phylogenetics of fleas is important for understanding flea-borne pathogen transmission cycles. Fleas infesting privately owned dogs and cats from the Czech Republic (n=97) and Romania (n=66) were subjected to morphological and molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis. There were a total of 59 (60.82%) cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis felis), 30 (30.93%) dog fleas (Ctenocephalides canis), 7 (7.22%) European chicken fleas (Ceratophyllus gallinae) and 1 (1.03%) northern rat flea (Nosopsyllus fasciatus) collected in the Czech Republic. Both C. canis and C. felis felis were identified in Romania. Mitochondrial DNA sequencing at the cox1 gene on a cohort of 40 fleas revealed the cosmopolitan C. felis felis clade represented by cox1 haplotype 1 is present in the Czech Republic. A new C. felis felis clade from both the Czech Republic and Romania is also reported. A high proportion of C. canis was observed from dogs and cats in the current study and phylogeny revealed that C. canis forms a sister clade to the oriental cat flea Ctenocephalides orientis (syn. C. felis orientis). Out of 33 fleas tested, representing C. felis felis, C. canis and Ce. gallinae, 7 (21.2%) were positive for R. felis using diagnostic real-time PCR targeting the gltA gene and a conventional PCR targeting the ompB gene. No s les tested positive for Bartonella spp. using a diagnostic real-time PCR assay targeting ssrA gene. This study confirms high genetic ersity of C. felis felis globally and serves as a foundation to understand the implication for zoonotic disease carriage and transmission by the flea genus Ctenocephalides.

Features of Blastocystis spp. in xenic culture revealed by deconvolutional microscopy

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-05-2015

DOI: 10.1007/S00436-015-4540-X

Toward the formation of a Companion Animal Parasite Council for the Tropics (CAPCT)

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-05-2015

DOI: 10.1186/S13071-015-0884-4

Murdoch University

Location: Australia

View Organisation

ARC Future Fellowships - Grant ID: FT200100732

Start Date: 06-2021

End Date: 06-2026

Amount: $1,087,328.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP110100569

Start Date: 04-2011

End Date: 09-2015

Amount: $130,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP170100187

Start Date: 03-2018

End Date: 12-2021

Amount: $247,239.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP0454006

Start Date: 06-2004

End Date: 06-2009

Amount: $240,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP130100565

Start Date: 02-2014

End Date: 08-2017

Amount: $259,070.00

Funder: Australian Research Council