Recent ucd_pmi_oapdeposits items

Microplastics can transport zoonotic pathogens in coastal waters

Tue, 8 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Microplastics can transport zoonotic pathogens in coastal waters

Analytical validation of a highly accurate and reliable next-generation sequencing-based urine assay.

Mon, 7 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are diagnosed based on symptoms and confirmed by urine culture, despite its limitations in sensitivity. False-negative cultures can lead to inappropriate antimicrobial use or urosepsis in high-risk patients. Next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based metagenomics offers a comprehensive and precise alternative but is rarely applied clinically. We developed and validated BIOTIA-ID, a clinical-grade NGS-based diagnostic pipeline for pathogen detection in urine. Remnant clinical and spiked urine samples underwent extraction, metagenomic library preparation, and Illumina NextSeq 550 sequencing. We trained and applied a bioinformatic pipeline that uses machine learning to identify pathogens and resistance markers. BIOTIA-DX was intentionally designed and trained to increase stringency and reduce false positive detection of urogenital commensals or opportunistic microbes present at colonization levels. Internal controls ensured standardized, high-stringency...

Analytical validation of a metagenomic next-generation diagnostic platform for urinary tract infection in a Thai tertiary hospital setting: a BI-Biotia UTI cohort study.

Mon, 7 Sep 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Background

The BIOTIA-DX platform (BDX), a commercially available clinical-grade mNGS-based test in the United States, has not been analytically validated for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in a Southeast Asian cohort, where microbial epidemiology and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) patterns differ significantly.

Objective

Our primary objective was to evaluate the analytical performance and concordance with standard urine culture of the BIOTIA-DX platform in a Thai tertiary hospital setting, thereby assessing its transportability to a Southeast Asian population with distinct microbial epidemiology.

Methods

We analyzed 398 retrospectively collected urine samples from patients with suspected UTI at a private hospital in Bangkok. Each sample was processed in parallel using standard-of-care urine culture and the BDX mNGS workflow. After excluding 30 samples with insufficient sequencing reads (<500 non-human reads), 368 samples (231 culture-positive, 137 culture-negative)...

Multisystemic Streptococcus gallinaceus infection in a six-banded armadillo from a zoo collection.

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0000

A six-banded armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus) from a zoo collection in central California developed acute neurologic signs followed by death. Postmortem examination revealed multisystemic bacterial disease (fibrinosuppurative meningoencephalomyelitis, splenitis, and endocarditis) with fibrinous necrotizing vasculitis and thrombosis. Streptococcus gallinaceus was isolated from the heart, lung, and meninges. To our knowledge, this microorganism has not been reported previously in association with systemic disease in an armadillo. Although the source of infection remains unknown, the animal was housed in the same building as chickens, a species that historically is associated with outbreaks of this bacterial infection. This case further broadens our understanding of the possible host range of S. gallinaceus and emphasizes the risk of interspecies pathogen transmission in captive environments.

Ulcerative dermatitis, tendinitis, tenosynovitis, and desmitis caused by chronic infection with Serratia odorifera in a racehorse.

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0000

We investigated a case of severe Serratia odorifera infection in a racehorse. The horse had developed progressive lameness associated with swelling of the left tarsal region, which progressed to ulcerative dermatitis, tendinitis, tenosynovitis, and desmitis. The plantar side of the superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendon was visible through the skin ulcer, and coalescing nodules were present in the dermis. The horse was euthanized and an autopsy was performed. Grossly, in addition to the changes described above, severe edema of the soft tissues was associated with the ulcer. Microscopically, necrotizing and ulcerative, chronic-active dermatitis with granulation tissue was noted, along with lymphoplasmacytic and suppurative tendinitis (SDF), tenosynovitis (SDF and lateral digital flexor), and desmitis (long plantar ligament and flexor retinaculum [FR]), with collagen degradation and intralesional gram-negative bacteria. Serratia odorifera was isolated in pure culture...

Degenerative temporomandibular joint disease in a lioness (Panthera leo)

Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a synovial joint that consists of two articulating surfaces, the mandibular head on the condylar process ventrally and the mandibular fossa of the squamous temporal bone dorsally, with a thin fibrocartilage disc that separates the joint into two non-communicating compartments. Degenerative joint disease (DJD) of the TMJ has been evaluated in other carnivorous species; however, it has not previously been described in the lion (Panthera leo). This study characterized the histological, biomechanical and biochemical properties of the TMJ in health and disease in a lioness. The components of the articulating surface and general features of the disc of the TMJ were comparable to other carnivorous species described previously. Spontaneous DJD was observed unilaterally, revealing comparable features with other carnivores. Tensile strength and stiffness differed substantially between the diseased and healthy disc, with the diseased disc having altered...

Multiple visceral cysts in a goat.

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Multiple visceral cysts in a goat.

An outbreak of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis at a zoo aviary in central California: case series and field investigation

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Here, we detail the pathology findings in a hooded pitta ( Pitta sordida ), a beautiful fruit dove ( Ptilinopus pulchellus ), and a golden-crested myna ( Ampeliceps coronatus ), all housed together in a mixed-species aviary at a zoo in central California that experienced mortalities over 3 mo. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis was identified as the primary pathogen, responsible for necrotizing heterophilic and histiocytic hepatitis, splenitis, pneumonia, nephritis, myositis, myocarditis, and enteritis. We also share the results of a field investigation to identify the source(s) of Y. pseudotuberculosis infection in the aviary; no bacteria were detected in samples of water, soil, feces, earthworms, earwigs, or organs from mice and fox squirrels, leading to the suspicion that the hooded pitta...

Author Correction: Predicting the potential for zoonotic transmission and host associations for novel viruses

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Author Correction: Predicting the potential for zoonotic transmission and host associations for novel viruses

Equine genital and ocular squamous cell carcinomas: clinical, histopathological, molecular and viral characterization with proposed histopathological classification system.

Wed, 8 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Equine squamous cell carcinomas (eSCCs) are common, and a proportion are likely induced by Equus caballus papillomavirus 2 (EcPV-2). Accurate prediction of clinical outcomes is challenging with no recognized prognostic criteria or consistent histopathological classification scheme for eSCC. The aims of this study were to histopathologically subtype a large case series of eSCCs (genital and ocular) and correlate them with p16 and HER-2 expression, equine papillomavirus infection status, and various clinical and histopathological parameters to predict tumour behavior and prognosis. One hundred and eighty-five samples were examined and subtyped histologically. HER-2 and p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH) for the EcPV-2 E6/E7 oncogenes were performed on a subset of cases, and follow-up survival data were analyzed. The results were compared and correlated with published guidelines on the categorization of human SCC. Six histopathological subtypes...

Caudal esophageal achalasia in a Quarter Horse colt.

Fri, 3 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Achalasia is the most common motility disorder of the esophagus in humans and has been diagnosed in cats and dogs. We describe a 4-month-old Quarter Horse colt with failure to thrive, recurrent colic episodes, and aspiration pneumonia, in which fluoroscopic evaluation identified a caudal esophageal motility disorder consistent with achalasia. Necropsy examination confirmed achalasia.

Response to “Field Trials Need Genetic Localization, Not Geographic Isolation”

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Response to “Field Trials Need Genetic Localization, Not Geographic Isolation”

Congenital goiter in sibling goat kids

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

History: Nine, adult, female Boer goats were presented to the University of California, Davis, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for timed artificial insemination. To synchronize their estrous cycles, the owner gave each doe 7.5 mg dinoprost tromethamine (Lutalyse®) intramuscularly 12 hours prior to presentation and 24 hours prior to removal of the doe’s progesterone controlled intravaginal drug release device (EAZI-BREED™ CIDR®). Approximately 52 hours after prostaglandin administration, one of the does delivered two live kids, one female and one male, without complication. The neonates were unexpectedly premature by approximately two weeks. Both kids exhibited bilateral, smooth swelling at the laryngotracheal junction and generalized alopecia. Both kids were euthanized, and they were sent to the UC Davis Anatomic Pathology Service for necropsy.

It doesnt require blood!: Perceptions around non-invasive malaria testing tools in Indonesia, Peru, and Rwanda.

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Malaria remains a major global health challenge. Prompt, accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective case management. Current diagnostic approaches rely on invasive or minimally invasive sampling via venous or fingerpick blood draw, posing a risk to healthcare workers via the handling of potentially infectious body fluids. They may also be a barrier to recipients, particularly in malaria-endemic areas where there is routine testing of non-symptomatic individuals. Non-invasive tests based on saliva, exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and transdermal detection have the potential to increase case detection and linkage to care while reducing biosafety risks. Knowledge gaps exist regarding the feasibility and acceptability of these tools. This qualitative study, conducted in Indonesia, Peru, and Rwanda, aimed to generate evidence from end-users around the potential adoption of non-invasive diagnostic technologies, to determine whether these technologies are fit for purpose....

Microglial transcriptional profiles of a transgenic rat model closely model Alzheimer's disease

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Single-cell RNA-sequencing has identified that Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology in humans is associated with activation of disease-associated microglia (DAM). Microglial signatures of human AD have not been consistently identified in AD mouse models. Since the inflammatory response of rats is more like humans, we profiled microglial transcriptomes in aging TgF344-AD rats, which overexpress two human AD risk genes. Classic DAM gene activation (ApoE, Trem2, Gpnmb), and upregulation (MHC class-II) and downregulation (Ifngr1 and Fkbp5) of human AD microglial genes were identified in aging TgF344-AD rats. Thus, the TgF344-AD rat better recapitulates the microglial gene signature observed in human AD.

The early human interferon gamma response to Toxoplasma gondii is driven by Vγ9Vδ2 T-cell sensing of host phosphoantigens and subsequent NK-cell activation

Thu, 8 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Toxoplasma gondii is a globally prevalent intracellular parasite that infects ~40 million Americans. The murine immune response to Toxoplasma relies on both toll-like receptor (TLR) 11/12 and immunity related GTPase-mediated (IRGs) responses, which humans lack, making it unclear how the human immune response detects and responds to the parasite. We investigated whether human Vγ9Vδ2 T cells, which detect phosphoantigens through the BTN3A1 receptor, shape the early immune response to the parasite. Using primary human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), we show that Vγ9Vδ2 T cells are activated by Toxoplasma-infected cells in a BTN3A1-dependent manner leading to secretion of interferon gamma (IFNγ) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα). Additionally, these T cells potentiate IFNγ production by natural killer (NK) cells, via TNFα and interleukin (IL)-12 produced during infection. Active parasite invasion is required to stimulate the IFNγ response, and inhibition of the host...

Rhesus macaques model human Mayaro virus disease and transmit to Aedes aegypti mosquitoes

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Mayaro virus (MAYV) is a mosquito-borne alphavirus endemic to Latin America that causes fever and arthritis. Unlike the related chikungunya virus, MAYV has not caused widespread, human-amplified epidemics. One possible explanation is that human viremia levels are too low to support transmission to urban Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti mosquitoes. We used rhesus macaques (RM) to model human-to-Ae. aegypti transmission and to further expand understanding of their relevance to human MAYV disease. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Twelve RM were inoculated with a genotype D lineage MAYV from an infectious clone using one of 3 dose and route combinations: 7 log10 plaque forming units (PFU) intravenously (IV), 7 log10 PFU subcutaneously (SC), or 3 log10 PFU SC. Viremia was measured daily in plasma and RM were euthanized 10- or 12-days post-inoculation (dpi). On 2, 3, 5, and 7 dpi, Ae. aegypti were allowed to bloodfeed on RM, incubated for 10 days, then dissected and tested to detect...

A Ketogenic Diet Extends Longevity and Healthspan in Adult Mice

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Main Text: (Cell Metabolism 26, 539–546; September 5, 2017) In the original version of this paper, a graduate student in the Cortopassi lab who had input on some of the methods and data provided by their group was inadvertently left off the author list. To correct this oversight, we now include Marissa Z. McMackin as an author on the paper. The author list and Author Contributions of the online article have been updated. All co-authors on the manuscript have approved this addition. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Is Gene Drive Research Losing Traction?

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Significant progress has been made in developing gene drives, especially for mosquito vectors of malaria. It is widely agreed that a critical next step in advancing this technology is to evaluate it through small-scale field trials. However, obtaining permission to move forward with these trials has stalled, threatening this potentially transformative line of research. In this paper, roadblocks delaying progress are identified from the perspective of a developer group tasked with translating this technology to the field. We suggest that groups engaged in long-running discussions about risk and the formulation of a global regulatory framework are hindering progress. This is because these groups conflate large-scale deployment with small-scale trials, which have very different risk landscapes. Here we argue that confined field trials are essential for accurately assessing risk and should be conducted soon, with regulation by authorities in the country in which they will be conducted.

Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Study of Neoplastic Cell Heterogeneity in Early and Advanced Ovine Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma (OPA) is a naturally occurring lung neoplasia in sheep caused by jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (JSRV). JSRV infects alveolar type II pneumocytes (ATII) and club cells (CC), and the expression of viral oncoproteins induces a lung adenocarcinoma. The gross pathology of OPA exhibits differences in the anatomical patterns known as classical and atypical forms. Thirty natural OPA tumors, divided equally into early OPA tumors (Group A, GA), atypical tumors (Group B, GB), and classical tumors (Group C, GC), were obtained from adult sheep (2-9 years old). Tumor heterogeneity was studied comparing the histopathology (growth patterns, local invasion, mitotic figures, myxoid nodules), together with immunohistochemistry (IHC) using markers of JSRV-ENV, epithelial cells (ATII cells, CC, ki67), progenitor-stem epithelial cells (K5, p63, CD44), and the anterior grade protein 2 (AGR2). Papillary pattern was predominant in all groups. Lepidic pattern was also relevant...

Growth and development of two predator species fed a diet of genetically engineered mosquitoes

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BackgroundGenetically engineered mosquitoes (GEMs) with gene drives have been developed for malaria control but remain untested in natural environments. Upon release, GEMs are expected to modify or replace wild-type counterparts, potentially uniquely interacting with nontarget organisms (NTOs). Concerns exist over possible negative effects on NTOs and broader ecological harm. Predators consuming GEMs represent a group that interacts closely with these modified mosquitoes.MethodsHere, we examine the effect of GEM and wild-type Anopheles coluzzii diets on the growth of two predator species: the aquatic mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) and the terrestrial bold jumping spider (Phidippus audax). Gambusia affinis was fed lyophilized gravid mosquitoes, and growth was measured using length and mass. Phidippus audax was fed live semi-gravid mosquitoes, with growth tracked via eye size, body size, and mass.ResultsNo adverse effects were found in either predator species fed GEM diets. Gambusia...

High-Grade, Stage 2 Mast Cell Tumors: Outcome in Dogs With Local and Systemic Therapy.

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Canine mast cell tumors (MCTs) have highly variable clinical behavior, and predicting outcomes in individual dogs remains challenging. Many studies combine dogs with varying tumor grades, clinical stage, or treatments, confounding those results. The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine outcome and prognostic factors in a specific subset of dogs with high-grade, stage 2, cutaneous MCTs treated with adequate local control via surgery with or without radiation therapy and adjuvant cytotoxic chemotherapy. Seventeen dogs met the inclusion criteria, and the median survival time was 259 days. Development of local recurrence, tumor location, and presence of ulceration were all associated with shorter survival times. Tumor size, mitotic count, chemotherapy protocol, lymph node classification, and radiation therapy were not significantly associated with outcome. In this study, a specific population of dogs characterized by high-grade MCTs with local lymph node metastasis...

Prospective comparison of prostatic aspirate culture and cystocentesis urine culture for detection of bacterial infection in dogs with prostatic neoplasia

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0000

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether prostatic aspirate culture is a superior method to detect infection compared to culture of urine collected by cystocentesis in dogs with prostatic neoplasia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study was conducted and dogs with suspected or confirmed prostatic neoplasia were enrolled. Urinalysis was done and culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed on paired urine and prostatic aspirate samples collected at a single timepoint. RESULTS: Ten dogs with prostatic neoplasia were enrolled. All dogs had one or more clinical sign consistent with lower urinary tract disease. One dog (10%) had a positive urine culture, but negative prostatic aspirate culture, one dog (10%) had a positive prostatic aspirate culture, but negative urine culture, and one dog (10%) had both positive urine and prostatic aspirate cultures. Using prostatic aspirate culture as the reference standard, urine culture had a sensitivity...

Swollen neck in 3 lambs.

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Swollen neck in 3 lambs.

Meeting Report on an Integrated Research Agenda for Mosquito-Borne Arboviruses

Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The emergence and re-emergence of mosquito-borne arbovirus (MBV) diseases pose a rapidly expanding global health threat fueled by the convergence of multiple ecologic, economic, and social factors, including climate change, land use, poverty, deficiencies of water storage and sanitation, and limitations of vector control programs. On December 6, 2023, the Wellcome Trust and the University of Minnesota's Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy held a meeting titled "An integrated approach to mosquito-borne arboviruses: a priority research agenda." The meeting comprised presentations, panels, and facilitated discussions aimed at describing the state of the field, highlighting recent accomplishments, identifying novel strategies, and defining priority research goals and approaches for addressing MBV disease preparedness and response. This report summarizes meeting discussions in 3 key areas: the changing epidemiology of MBV disease, current and potential transmission- and...

A retrospective study of oral tumors in cats in Switzerland identifies squamous cell carcinoma as the predominant tumor type.

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Objective: The study investigated the distribution, types, and geographic distribution of oral tumors in cats in Switzerland, providing insights into demographics, tumor features, and emerging trends. Methods: We analyzed pathology records of oral tumors in cats diagnosed between 2012 and 2022 from diagnostic laboratories in Switzerland. Only histologically confirmed neoplasms were included; inflammatory and cystic lesions were excluded. Geographic distributions were assessed using postal addresses. Results: Among 339 reports of oral tumors in cats, 294 met inclusion criteria. Malignant tumors dominated 82.0% (241 of 294), with squamous cell carcinoma most prevalent (70.5% [170 of 241]), followed by fibrosarcoma (7.2% [19 of 241]), melanoma (4.6% [11 of 241]), and adenocarcinoma (4.6% [11 of 241]). Benign tumors represented 18.0% (53 of 294), mostly with peripheral odontogenic fibroma (8.2% [24 of 294]). Squamous cell carcinoma was commonly located on the tongue (24.0% [33 of...

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Variant Infection Dynamics and Pathogenesis in Transgenic K18-hACE2 and Inbred Immunocompetent C57BL/6J Mice

Mon, 4 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), persists in part due to the emergence of new variants. Understanding variant-specific infection dynamics and pathogenesis in murine models is crucial for identifying phenotypic changes and guiding the development of countermeasures. To address the limitations of earlier studies that investigated only a few variants or used small sample sizes, we evaluated clinical disease, infection kinetics, viral titers, cellular localization, and histopathologic changes in the lungs and brains of transgenic B6.Cg-Tg(K18-ACE2)2Prlmn/J ("K18") and corresponding genetic control (C57BL/6J) mice expressing human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2). Six SARS-CoV-2 variants were assessed: B.1 (WA1-like), alpha, beta, delta, omicron, and omicron XBB.1.5, using cohorts of ≥18 mice. Following intranasal inoculation with B.1, alpha, beta, or delta variants, K18 mice experienced...

Classification performance and reproducibility of GPT-4 omni for information extraction from veterinary electronic health records

Fri, 1 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Large language models (LLMs) can extract information from veterinary electronic health records (EHRs), but performance differences between models, the effect of hyperparameter settings, and the influence of text ambiguity have not been previously evaluated. This study addresses these gaps by comparing the performance of GPT-4 omni (GPT-4o) and GPT-3.5 Turbo under different conditions and by investigating the relationship between human interobserver agreement and LLM errors. The LLMs and five humans were tasked with identifying six clinical signs associated with feline chronic enteropathy in 250 EHRs from a veterinary referral hospital. When compared to the majority opinion of human respondents, GPT-4o demonstrated 96.9% sensitivity [interquartile range (IQR) 92.9-99.3%], 97.6% specificity (IQR 96.5-98.5%), 80.7% positive predictive value (IQR 70.8-84.6%), 99.5% negative predictive value (IQR 99.0-99.9%), 84.4% F1 score (IQR 77.3-90.4%), and 96.3% balanced accuracy (IQR 95.0-97.9%)....

Establishment and characterization of an hACE2/hTMPRSS2 knock-in mouse model to study SARS-CoV-2

Fri, 1 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Despite a substantial body of research, we lack fundamental understanding of the pathophysiology of COVID-19 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) including pulmonary and cardiovascular outcomes, in part due to limitations of murine models. Most models use transgenic mice (K18) that express the human (h) angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), ACE2 knock-in (KI) mice, or mouse-adapted strains of SARS-CoV-2. Further, many SARS-CoV-2 variants produce fatal neurologic disease in K18 mice and most murine studies focus only on acute disease in the first 14 days post inoculation (dpi). To better enable understanding of both acute (<14 dpi) and post-acute (>14 dpi) infection phases, we describe the development and characterization of a novel non-lethal KI mouse that expresses both the ACE2 and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) genes (hACE2/hTMPRSS2). The human genes were engineered to replace the...

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cell therapy improves immune recovery in a feline model of severe coronavirus infection

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Severe coronavirus infections, including SARS-CoV-2, are marked by systemic inflammation, T-cell exhaustion, lymphopenia, and chronic immune dysfunction, with limited therapeutic options for recovery. Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a naturally occurring feline coronavirus infection, mirrors these immune pathologies, providing a valuable translational model. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of allogeneic mesenchymal stem/stromal cell (MSC) therapy combined with antiviral treatment in cats with effusive FIP. Hematologic, virologic, and immunologic analyses were conducted over 12 weeks. Antiviral therapy reduced cytotoxic T-cell exhaustion by downregulating inhibitory receptors PD-1, TIM-3, and LAG-3. MSC-treated cats demonstrated enhanced immune recovery, evidenced by reduced expression of exhaustion-related transcription factors (IKZF2, ZEB2, PRDM1) and increased regulatory T-cell populations, promoting immune homeostasis. Single-cell RNA sequencing of mesenteric...

Delayed isolation and cryopreservation have significant effects on the yield and proliferation of feline peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Objective: To determine the temporal effects of feline peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) isolation delay and cryopreservation over multiple time points on cell yields and PBMC proliferation. Methods: PBMCs from whole feline blood were isolated immediately upon blood collection or stored at 4 °C for 72 hours before isolation. Peripheral blood mononuclear cell proliferation was assessed on freshly isolated PBMCs and after 2-week, 2-month, 6-month, and 12-month cryopreservation time points. Peripheral blood mononuclear cell recovery yield was recorded at every time point. Results: Delaying PBMC isolation by 72 hours leads to an approximately 50% reduction in PBMC count and a significant increase in PBMC proliferation (43.1%; n = 6 donors) compared to freshly isolated PBMCs (25.4%; n = 13 donors; 17.7 Effect size; 95% CI, 0.9827 to 34.42 Range). Cryopreserving freshly isolated PBMCs results in approximately 50% cell loss upon thawing. The 2-month cryopreservation time point...

Polyomavirus and Naturally Occuring Neuroglial Tumors in Raccoons (Procyon Lotor)

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Polyomavirus (PyV) infections are widespread in human populations and, although generally associated with silent persistence, rarely cause severe disease. Among diseases convincingly associated with natural PyV infections of humans, there are remarkably different tissue tropisms and outcomes, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, transient or progressive nephropathy, and cancer. The variable character and unpredictable outcomes of infection attest to large gaps in our basic understanding of PyV biology. In particular, the rich history of research demonstrating the oncogenic potential of PyVs in laboratory animals begs the question of why cancer is not more often associated with infection. Raccoon polyomavirus (RacPyV), discovered in 2010, is consistently identified in neuroglial tumors in free-ranging raccoons in the western United States. Exposure to RacPyV is widespread, and RacPyV is detected in tissues of raccoons without tumors. Studying the relationship of...

Single cell RNA-sequencing of feline peripheral immune cells with V(D)J repertoire and cross species analysis of T lymphocytes

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: The domestic cat (Felis catus) is a valued companion animal and a model for virally induced cancers and immunodeficiencies. However, species-specific limitations such as a scarcity of immune cell markers constrain our ability to resolve immune cell subsets at sufficient detail. The goal of this study was to characterize circulating feline T cells and other leukocytes based on their transcriptomic landscape and T-cell receptor repertoire using single cell RNA-sequencing. Methods: Peripheral blood from 4 healthy cats was enriched for T cells by flow cytometry cell sorting using a mouse anti-feline CD5 monoclonal antibody. Libraries for whole transcriptome, αβ T cell receptor transcripts and γδ T cell receptor transcripts were constructed using the 10x Genomics Chromium Next GEM Single Cell 5' reagent kit and the Chromium Single Cell V(D)J Enrichment Kit with custom reverse primers for the feline orthologs. Results: Unsupervised clustering of whole transcriptome data...

Spatial Transcriptomic Landscape of Canine Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Canine oral squamous cell carcinoma (COSCC) is the second most common oral tumor in dogs and the most relevant for comparative human trials as a spontaneous large animal model of disease. Historical genomic work has focused primarily on bulk sequencing. The present study describes the complete transcriptomic landscape of COSCC with spatial distinction between the surface tumor, deep invasive tumor, peritumoral dysplastic epithelium, and tumor microenvironment compared to matched normal oral samples. Each region demonstrated distinct molecular signatures. Genes related to epithelial growth factor (EGFR) and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (EMT) were upregulated in both peritumoral dysplasia and surface cancer. Additionally, the KRAS gene set, KRT17, and SSP1 were enriched in cancer. We identified five genes that represent dysplastic lesion with high potential for malignant transformation (FZD4, GAS1, HACD2, NOG, and SLC39A6). Also, three genes, SFRP4, FZD1, and IL34 represented...

Retrospective Study of Malignant Cutaneous Tumors in Dog Populations in Northwest Mexico from 2019 to 2021

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Cutaneous neoplasia is among the most common illnesses in dogs and can pose significant risks. Accurate morphological diagnosis of these conditions is vital for effective treatment and management. In this retrospective study, a total of 3746 canine skin biopsies were submitted to a veterinary reference diagnostic laboratory and evaluated using histopathology. The variables assessed included age, sex, breed, lesion, location, and histopathological diagnosis. Non-neoplastic lesions accounted for 61% of all analyzed samples, while neoplastic tumors accounted for 39%. When looking at age, dogs ranging 3-6 years and 7-9 years had at least six times higher risk of developing malignant neoplasia compared to those aged 0-2 years. Among the malignant neoplasms, mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma, and squamous cell carcinoma were the most observed, representing 30%, 18%, and 12% of cases, respectively. The breeds most frequently affected by malignant neoplasms included Pit Bull Terriers,...

Characterization of the temporomandibular joint of the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in health and disease

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study aimed to characterize the histological, biomechanical and biochemical properties of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of the gray wolf (Canis lupus). We also sought to discern the structure-function relationships of the TMJ disc and identify and describe joint pathology that may be found naturally in the wolf. TMJs (n = 22) of fresh cadaver heads (n = 11) of wild gray wolves were examined grossly and microscopically. Two skulls underwent cone beam computed tomography (one male and one female) to assess spatial detail and orientation. The TMJ discs were evaluated for their biomechanical and biochemical properties. One wolf had gross erosive changes of the mandibular head articular surface. Six of 11 wolves had articular surface changes including fibrillation and fissuring seen histologically, and six of 11 wolves had subchondral bone sclerosis. All TMJ discs appeared healthy and without gross or histological pathology. Anisotropy of tensile properties...

A Review of Aedes aegypti Control in Peru: Approaches and Lessons Learned

Wed, 4 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Dengue is the most widespread vector-borne viral infection globally and a serious public health problem. The 2023-2024 dengue outbreak across Latin America has drastically impacted Peru, including previously unaffected areas such as metropolitan Lima and Amazonian rural communities, presumably due to climate change. Research studies conducted in Iquitos, the largest city in the Peruvian Amazon, showed that ultra-low-volume pyrethroid spray applications against the dengue vector Aedes aegypti were effective when adequate coverage and quality control were carried out. Insecticide-treated curtains were not effective at controlling dengue transmission in Iquitos, whereas the use of passive spatial repellent emanators demonstrated 34% protective efficacy against Aedes-borne virus infection. In modeling studies, targeted indoor residual spray strategies showed promising reductions in dengue transmission, which require empirical evaluation. Trials conducted in Iquitos have shown that...

Spatial transcriptomics defines the cell-specific RNA landscape of equine dorsal root ganglia

Wed, 7 May 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Equine spinal neurodegenerative conditions are frequently encountered in sport and racing horses and may be career-ending diagnoses. To further define the spatial transcriptomic landscape of equine dorsal root ganglia (DRG) in healthy adult horses, we investigated gene expression differences in distinct DRG regions using the GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiling from NanoString. Four human cell markers demonstrated high fidelity for equine cells; microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2), myelin basic protein (MBP), allograft inflammatory 104 factor 1/ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA1/AIF1), and Syto83 nuclear marker. Geometric regions of interest were then selected as MBP-rich, IBA1-high, and IBA1-low, and gene expression was compared. Experimental validation was achieved, with genes involved in myelination enriched in MBP-rich regions, and the identification of glia-specific genes enriched in IBA1-high regions. Thus, spatial transcriptomics with human cell markers was...

Immune mechanisms affected by cyclooxygenase inhibition combined with antiviral treatment in calves infected with bovine respiratory syncytial virus

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) infection is a part of the bovine respiratory disease complex. This is one of the most significant problems in both the dairy and beef production sector, inflicting severe economic damage to the industry. BRSV manifests clinically as a respiratory syndrome, affecting both upper and lower respiratory tract, including bronchiolitis with dyspnea and wheezing. It has been shown previously that these symptoms caused by IL-4/IL-13 domination in the immune response are associated with an antibody isotype switch to IgE. Prostaglandin production, such as PGE2 is another factor contributing to the pathogenesis of the disease. In this work we demonstrated the effects of ibuprofen and antiviral fusion protein inhibitor (FPI) separately and combined. We showed the synergistic effect of ibuprofen in combination with FPI on antiviral effects and suppression of PGE2, resulting in improved cytoplasmic toll-like receptor recognition and humoral immune responses...

Viviparity and obligate blood feeding: tsetse flies as a unique research system to study climate change

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Tsetse flies (Glossina species) are unique organisms that combine several remarkable traits: they are obligate blood feeders, serve as critical vectors for African trypanosomes, and reproduce through adenotrophic viviparity - a process in which offspring are nourished with milk-like secretions before being born live. Here, we explore how climate change will impact the physiological processes associated with live birth in tsetse. This includes considerations of how blood feeding, host-pathogen interactions, and host-symbiont dynamics are likely to be impacted by thermal shifts. The highly specialized biology of tsetse flies suggests that this system is likely to have a distinctive response to climate change. Thus, detailed empirical research into these unique features is paramount for predicting tsetse population dynamics under climate change, with caution required when generalizing from other well-studied vectors with contrasting ecology and life histories such as mosquitoes and...

Black oil sunflower seed ingestion and suspected acute lipid toxicity in 4 alpacas

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Four adult female alpacas from the same property in Loomis, CA developed clinical signs of recumbency, lethargy, anorexia, and had abdominal pain at least 48 h after incidental ingestion of a large volume of black oil sunflower seeds. One alpaca died, one was euthanized and necropsied, and two alpacas were treated by Loomis Equine Medical Center. The necropsied alpaca was found to have ingested numerous black oil sunflower seeds along with erosion and ulceration of the distal esophagus, C1, and C2 chambers. Ancillary tests performed were without significant findings. Treatment for the suspected acute toxicity in two alpacas included IV fluids, injectable antibiotics, and activated charcoal by orogastric tube. Sunflower seeds and lipid containing fluid were recovered from one of the alpacas that was euthanized due to poor prognosis. Overall, three of the four alpacas died or were euthanized, and one survived with outpatient treatment. Our current case series shows significant morbidity...

Role of non-human primate models in accelerating research and developing countermeasures against Zika virus infection

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Zika virus, a mosquito-transmitted orthoflavivirus, has become a pathogen of global health concern ever since the virus caused an epidemic in Brazil in 2015 associated with approximately 700 000 laboratory-confirmed cases of congenital microcephaly. The subsequent spread of the epidemic in 2016 resulted in a wide spectrum of congenital neurological, ophthalmological, and developmental abnormalities across the Americas, Africa, and Asia. In this context, non-human primate models have become essential tools for Zika virus research to understand the pathogenesis of congenital brain injury and perinatal complications and for developing and testing medical countermeasures such as vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Fetal brain injury has been observed across various non-human primate species and is influenced by factors such as the Zika virus strain, gestational age at inoculation, and inoculation dose and route. Miscarriages are also seen as common outcomes of first trimester...

Pulmonary lymphoid tissue induced after SARS-CoV-2 infection in rhesus macaques

Sat, 12 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction: Lung diseases are widespread worldwide. Pulmonary immunity plays a vital role against lung pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2 infection. Understanding the pathogenesis, including the development of local immune responses to infection, is fundamental for developing interventions to control the viral infection. Methods: Using immunohistochemistry, we investigated the distribution of immune cells in the lungs of rhesus macaques experimentally infected with SARS-CoV-2 and euthanized 11-14 days later. Results: Tertiary lymphoid tissue was found in all SARS-CoV-2 infected animals. The number (13.9 vs 1.5 iPLT number/ lung cm²), size (25992 vs 13946 µm²) and total area (0.46 vs 0.02 mm² iPLT/ lung cm²) of the lymphoid tissue aggregations were significantly higher in SARS-CoV-2 infected animals than that of normal controls. This induced pulmonary lymphoid tissues comprised B cells, T cells, CD169 macrophages, and follicular dendritic...

Spontaneous branchioblastoma in a koi carp

Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Gill neoplasia in fish is rare but has been reported in multiple elasmobranch and teleost species. Although more commonly a site of metastatic disease, primary neoplasms of the gill may occur, and both spontaneous and chemically induced tumors have been reported. Here we describe a spontaneous branchioblastoma in a koi carp (Cyprinus rubrofuscus) with no known history of chemical exposure. A soft-tissue mass on the inner surface of the dorsal opercular chamber appeared to originate from either a gill arch or a pseudobranch. Histologically, the mass was comprised of 3 well-differentiated cell types: blastemal cells, epithelial cells arranged in a lamellar fashion, and islands of cartilage resembling those present in gill filaments. To our knowledge, this is only the fourth case of spontaneous branchioblastoma recorded in koi.

Spatiotemporal perturbations of the plasminogen activation system in a rat model of acute organophosphate intoxication

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Neuroinflammation is widely posited to be a key pathogenic mechanism linking acute organophosphate (OP)-induced status epilepticus (SE) to persistent brain injury and abnormal electrical activity that contribute to epilepsy and cognitive impairment. The plasminogen activation system (PAS) promotes neuroinflammation in diverse neurological diseases but whether it is activated following acute OP intoxication has yet to be evaluated. To address this data gap, we characterized the spatiotemporal expression patterns of multiple components of the PAS in a rat model of acute intoxication with the OP, diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP). Adult male Sprague Dawley rats administered DFP (4 mg/kg, sc), atropine sulfate (2 mg/kg, im) and 2-pralidoxime (25 mg/kg, im) went into SE that persisted for hours. One day after acute DFP-induced SE, plasmin activity and protein concentrations of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) in the plasma were increased, though not significantly....

Fatal septicemia in 2 South American camelids with caudal C3-pyloric-duodenal adenocarcinoma

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Gastrointestinal adenocarcinomas are often reported in South American camelids (SAC). We describe here cases of gastroduodenal adenocarcinoma in an adult alpaca (Vicugna pacos) and a llama (Llama glama); both SACs were anorectic and lethargic before death. At autopsy, a prominent and firm caudal C3-pyloric-duodenal junction with stricture and ulceration was present in both animals, as were hemorrhages in various organs and hydrothorax. Microscopically, scattered nests, cords, and tortuous acini of neoplastic epithelial cells were embedded in desmoplastic stroma and invaded the submucosa and muscle layers of the gastroduodenal junction. The mucosa was necrotic, with gram-negative rods in the alpaca and colonies of gram-positive cocci in the llama. No tumor metastases were observed. The neoplastic cells immunolabeled for pancytokeratin. Escherichia coli was isolated from the alpaca and Streptococcus lutetiensis from the llama; septicemia was the cause...

The human gut microbiome in health and disease: time for a new chapter?

Mon, 7 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The gut microbiome, composed of the colonic microbiota and their host environment, is important for many aspects of human health. A gut microbiome imbalance (gut dysbiosis) is associated with major causes of human morbidity and mortality. Despite the central part our gut microbiome plays in health and disease, mechanisms that maintain homeostasis and properties that demarcate dysbiosis remain largely undefined. Here we discuss that sorting taxa into meaningful ecological units reveals that the availability of respiratory electron acceptors, such as oxygen, in the host environment has a dominant influence on gut microbiome health. During homeostasis, host functions that limit the diffusion of oxygen into the colonic lumen shelter a microbial community dominated by primary fermenters from atmospheric oxygen. In turn, primary fermenters break down unabsorbed nutrients into fermentation products that support host nutrition. This symbiotic relationship is disrupted when host functions...

Spatiotemporal perturbations of the plasminogen activation system in a rat model of acute organophosphate intoxication

Fri, 4 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Antimicrobial resistance of Vibrio spp. from the coastal California system: discordance between genotypic and phenotypic patterns

Fri, 4 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Antimicrobial resistance in Vibrio species poses risks to both human and marine mammal health. Whole genome sequencing of Vibrio spp. can be utilized to screen for antimicrobial resistance genes and allelic variants to provide mechanistic insights in ways that PCR screening and phenotypic interpretation cannot. Our goals were to (i) characterize antimicrobial resistance patterns of Vibrio spp. pathogens isolated from southern sea otters (Enhydra lutris nereis), northern sea otters (Enhydra lutris kenyoni), and environmental samples from the central California coast using whole genome sequencing, and (ii) compare the presence of antimicrobial resistance genes with phenotypic interpretation from antibiotic susceptibility testing. Unexpectedly, genomic classification identified an understudied species, Vibrio diabolicus, in sea otter and environmental isolates that were previously identified as Vibrio alginolyticus. A total of 489...

Congenital neoplasms in cattle: a literature review and multi-institutional case series

Thu, 3 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Congenital neoplasms are rare and sporadic in cattle and can cause losses due to abortions and perinatal or neonatal deaths. The etiopathogenesis of congenital tumors in bovine fetuses and neonates is largely unknown, and their diagnosis is often challenging. Here we review the literature on congenital tumors in cattle and report 11 additional cases diagnosed at veterinary diagnostic laboratories in Argentina, Uruguay, the United States, and the United Kingdom, namely 4 congenital lymphomas, 3 mesotheliomas, 2 adenomatoid tumors, 1 lymphangioma, and 1 ovarian sex cord-stromal tumor in bovine fetuses and/or neonatal calves. Lymphomas, mesotheliomas, melanomas, and mast cell tumors were reported most commonly in the literature.

Yersinia pseudotuberculosis and Y. enterocolitica abortions in sheep and goats in California: a series of cases diagnosed at CAHFS laboratories, 2002–2023

Thu, 3 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abortion in small ruminants poses a significant economic threat and can have zoonotic risk. Although the association between yersiniosis and reproductive complications is known, systematic studies and case series on abortion in sheep and goats are scarce. Here we describe epidemiologic and pathologic findings in 34 cases of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis- and Y. enterocolitica-associated abortions in sheep and goats, contributing to the understanding of these zoonotic diseases in California. We conducted a 22-y retrospective study to examine microbiologic and pathologic findings in abortion submissions, as well as the geographic and seasonal distribution of the analyzed cases. Yersiniosis-induced abortion was diagnosed in 22 goats and 12 sheep, with all abortions occurring in the last third of gestation. Samples from lung, liver, placenta, and abomasal contents were submitted for aerobic culture; the highest recovery of Yersinia spp. was from abomasal contents....

Detection of Mycoplasmopsis (Mycoplasma) bovis in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded bovine lung sections by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization

Wed, 2 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The bovine respiratory disease complex (BRDC) is a multifactorial disease of economic importance in cattle involving viral and bacterial agents and several environmental and host-associated predisposing factors. Mycoplasmopsis (Mycoplasma) bovis is frequently detected in BRDC cases, but the role of this bacterium in the pathogenesis of BRDC is not completely understood. We explored the utility of routine histopathology and compared immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH) in pneumonic bovine lung tissue samples for the detection of M. bovis infection. Samples were analyzed for M. bovis using mycoplasma bacterial culture (screening test), H&E staining, IHC, and ISH. We found that "compatible histologic lesions" are not entirely predictive of the presence of M. bovis on culture, IHC, or ISH, and also that there was no statistical difference between IHC and ISH for detecting M. bovis. We conclude that IHC and...

Enterotoxemia in a 2-day-old lamb produced by a Clostridium perfringens type D lambda toxin–positive strain

Wed, 2 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Clostridium perfringens type D is a gram-positive bacterium that causes enterotoxemia in sheep, goats, and, less frequently, other animals. This microorganism encodes 2 major toxins, alpha (CPA) and epsilon (ETX). Enterotoxemia occurs when epsilon prototoxin (pETX) is produced in the intestine and is activated by one or more proteases before being absorbed into the general circulation. Traditionally, it was believed that neonatal animals were not susceptible to type D enterotoxemia due to the trypsin-inhibitory action of colostrum in the intestinal tract and the lack of protease activation of pETX, although cases of enterotoxemia have been reported in 2 neonatal goat kids. A 2-d-old lamb, with a history of frailty, hunched posture, shallow breathing, and diarrhea followed by death, was submitted for postmortem examination and diagnostic workup. Autopsy revealed hydropericardium, pulmonary edema, and congested intestines. Histologically, there was pulmonary congestion and...

The Nucleoside Analog GS-441524 Effectively Attenuates the In Vitro Replication of Multiple Lineages of Circulating Canine Distemper Viruses Isolated from Wild North American Carnivores

Wed, 2 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Canine distemper is a severe and lethal viral disease of dogs and wild carnivores with an urgent need for the identification of effective antiviral agents against canine distemper virus (CDV). We assessed multiple agents for their ability to block the replication of three different lineages of CDV isolated from wild carnivores in the United States. Six antiviral compounds were selected after preliminary experiments that excluded ribavirin, hesperidin and rutin: a protease inhibitor (nirmatrelvir), a polymerase inhibitor (favipiravir) and four nucleoside analogs (remdesivir, GS-441524, EIDD2801 and EIDD1931). Antiviral efficacy was determined by the attenuation of the cytopathic effect in a CDV-susceptible cell line and the inhibition of viral RNA replication. The nucleoside analog GS-441524 effectively blocked the replication of CDV at pharmacologically relevant concentrations. Four other antiviral agents inhibited CDV replication to a lesser degree (remdesivir, nirmatrelvir,...

Clinicopathologic, molecular, and ultrastructural features of Sarcocystis pinnipedi infection in 2 California sea lions with fatal necrotizing hepatitis

Wed, 2 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Sarcocystis pinnipedi is an apicomplexan protozoal parasite that was first recognized during a mass mortality event in juvenile grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) in the northwest Atlantic Ocean. Since its identification, this parasite has been reported in various pinniped species and has been associated with fatal necrotizing hepatitis. Little is known of the host range of S. pinnipedi. Here we report 2 cases of California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) in managed care that died following an 8-d history of inappetence, vomiting, diarrhea, and progressive lethargy with elevated hepatic enzyme activities. Postmortem examination identified hepatitis and icterus. Sarcocystis schizonts and zoites were identified in regions of necrosis. Molecular and ultrastructural findings demonstrated the close relatedness of this Sarcocystis to S. canis, which produces a similar lesion in bears.

Antimicrobial drug use and its association with antimicrobial resistance in fecal commensals from cows on California dairies

Wed, 2 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The current study objective was to investigate the risk factors associated with the isolation of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli, Enterococcus spp., and Streptococcus spp. (ES) from the feces of dairy cows in California (CA). A longitudinal study was conducted on ten dairies, and a random sample of cattle (late pregnant heifers and dry cows) stratified by each herd's parity distribution were followed monthly from close-up to 120 days in milk during fall to winter 2018 (winter season) and spring to summer 2019 (summer season). Gastrointestinal commensals were isolated from fecal samples and tested for antimicrobial susceptibility using the broth microdilution method against a selected panel of antimicrobial drugs (AMD). Eight dairies used blanket AMD therapy at dry-off for all lactating cows, while the remaining two dairies did not use any AMD treatment at dry-off. Clinical mastitis was identified as the most common indication for AMD use across the...

Botulism in fish: a review

Tue, 1 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Published information about fish botulism is scant. We review here the current literature on fish botulism. Freshwater fish are susceptible to botulism. Only anecdotal evidence exists about possible botulism cases in saltwater fish. With only a few exceptions, the etiology of all cases of fish botulism reported is Clostridium botulinum type E, although fish are sensitive to, and may carry, various C. botulinum types. Clinical signs of botulism in fish include loss of equilibrium and motion, abducted opercula, open mouths, dark pigmentation, and head up/tail down orientation in which attempts to swim result in breaching the surface of the water. Dark pigmentation is thought to be associated with acetylcholine imbalance in botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT)-affected fish. Rarely, but similar to the situation in other animal species, fish can recover from botulism. Fish botulism can cause secondary outbreaks of the disease in birds, as botulism-affected fish stand out from...

Gingival squamous cell carcinoma in 2 lions under managed care

Tue, 1 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Neoplasia is one of the main causes of euthanasia in geriatric captive nondomestic felids. However, few studies have examined oral tumors in these animals. We describe here the clinicopathologic features of gingival squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in 2 lions (Panthera leo) from separate zoologic collections. In both cases, the lions had a history of sialorrhea, bloody oral discharge, and anorexia. Autopsy findings in both lions were similar and were characterized by poorly circumscribed, friable, and bloody gingival masses with grossly apparent invasion of the mandibular bone; a pathologic fracture was observed in 1 case. Histologically, the masses consisted of poorly circumscribed, unencapsulated, densely cellular proliferations of neoplastic epithelial cells arranged in irregular islands, cords, and anastomosing trabeculae with formation of keratin pearls, which, coupled with positive immunohistochemistry for pancytokeratin, were diagnostic for SCC. Although no metastases...

Artificial intelligence-based quantification of lymphocytes in feline small intestinal biopsies

Tue, 1 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Feline chronic enteropathy is a poorly defined condition of older cats that encompasses chronic enteritis to low-grade intestinal lymphoma. The histological evaluation of lymphocyte numbers and distribution in small intestinal biopsies is crucial for classification and grading. However, conventional histological methods for lymphocyte quantification have low interobserver agreement, resulting in low diagnostic reliability. This study aimed to develop and validate an artificial intelligence (AI) model to detect intraepithelial and lamina propria lymphocytes in hematoxylin and eosin-stained small intestinal biopsies from cats. The median sensitivity, positive predictive value, and F1 score of the AI model compared with the majority opinion of 11 veterinary anatomic pathologists, were 100% (interquartile range [IQR] 67%-100%), 57% (IQR 38%-83%), and 67% (IQR 43%-80%) for intraepithelial lymphocytes, and 89% (IQR 71%-100%), 67% (IQR 50%-82%), and 70% (IQR 43%-80%) for lamina propria...

Advancing One Health education: integrative pedagogical approaches and their impacts on interdisciplinary learning

Tue, 1 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

One Health is an integrative approach that emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, advocating for collaborative, multidisciplinary efforts to address health challenges, particularly amid globalization and emerging threats. This paper examines the integration of One Health principles into global health education, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovative pedagogical approaches. It evaluates various teaching methods, including problem-based learning (PBL), team-based learning (TBL), simulation-based education (SBE), case-based learning (CBL), interdisciplinary workshops and seminars (IWS), and service-learning (SL), analyzing their strengths and weaknesses in fostering interdisciplinary understanding and practical application of One Health concepts. While these methods enhance learning by promoting critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world application, they also face challenges such as resource constraints,...

Ultrastructural Description of Sarcocystis Sp. in Cardiac Muscle of Naturally Infected Alpacas (Vicugna pacos).

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Recently, it was proposed the name of Sarcocystis masoni n. sp. for the Sarcocystis that causes microcyst in skeletal muscle of South American camelids. However, there are no ultrastructural reports of microcysts of Sarcocystis in cardiac muscle of alpacas. This study reports ultrastructural features of microcysts of Sarcocystis sp. from cardiac muscle of naturally infected alpacas. METHODS: Thirty alpacas (age range: three to five years) from the province of Junin, Peruvian Central Andes, were included in this study in January 2015. Cardiac muscle samples were evaluated by histology and transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS: Bradyzoites in cysts had typical characteristics of Apicomplexa including organelles, a large nucleus, micronemes, dense bodies, and polysaccharide granules. Moreover, cysts had a thin wall with numerous, short, finger-like shapes with rounded tip protrusions (0.51 × 0.17 μm). CONCLUSION: Sarcocystis sp. from the heart and S. masoni n. sp....

Hepatic and renal lesions in sheep intoxicated with Urochloa hybrid Mulato II in Argentina

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

A flock of 48 sheep in Argentina grazing on a pasture of hybrid Urochloa (formerly Brachiaria) Mulato II (Urochloa ruziziensis × Urochloa decumbens × Urochloa brizantha) developed facial dermatitis, severe jaundice, and weakness after brief physical activity. Blood biochemistry of 3 animals revealed azotemia, elevated aspartate aminotransferase activity, and increased direct, indirect, and total bilirubin concentrations. The urine was markedly turbid and contained large concentrations of bile pigments and protein. At autopsy of 2 animals, there was severe jaundice and subcutaneous submandibular edema. The livers were enlarged, intensely yellow, and had a marked acinar pattern. Gallbladders were distended, and the kidneys were diffusely dark in one animal and yellow-green in the other. Microscopically, there was lymphoplasmacytic and histiocytic cholangiohepatitis with abundant crystals in the lumen of bile ducts and in the cytoplasm of macrophages....

“Zika is everywhere”: A qualitative exploration of knowledge, attitudes and practices towards Zika virus among women of reproductive age in Iquitos, Peru

Fri, 7 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Zika virus was reported in the rainforest city of Iquitos, Peru in 2016. The potential associations between Zika and fetal neurological disorders were reported extensively in the media regarding neighboring Brazil, and led to great concern about the impact Zika could have on people's health in Iquitos when it arrived. The aim of this study was to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and preventative practices related to Zika virus and its transmission among women of childbearing age in Iquitos, Peru. Six focus group discussions with 46 women of ages 20-35 from an Iquitos district with confirmed Zika cases were conducted to explore: 1) knowledge of Zika transmission, its symptoms, and treatment, 2) attitudes regarding Zika, including perceptions of risk for and severity of Zika, and 3) preventative practices, including awareness of health promotion activities. Participants were knowledgeable about Zika symptoms and knew it was transmitted by mosquitoes, and about half had heard about...

Voices from the Amazon: exploring implementor and user perceptions of non-invasive malaria diagnostics in Peru

Fri, 7 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BackgroundMalaria burden remains high in some Peruvian regions, especially in the Northeast Amazon rainforest state of Loreto and the tropical coastal state of Tumbes. Novel non-invasive diagnostic tools for malaria are being developed, and formative research in malaria-endemic areas with community members and health professionals who would potentially use these devices is vital for this process. This study aimed to examine the acceptability and feasibility of four new non-invasive malaria diagnostic tools in development in two regions of Peru with significant malaria burden.MethodsThe research team conducted focus group discussions and key informant interviews in Spanish to assess acceptability and ascertain questions and concerns regarding the non-invasive diagnostic tools. Focus group discussions included a range of community members (pregnant women, parents), professionals (health, education), and community leaders in Loreto. Vector control authorities and health professionals...

Postmortem Findings in Free-Ranging North American Beavers (Castor canadensis) Reveal Potential Threats to California’s Freshwater Ecosystems

Mon, 3 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

North American beavers (Castor canadensis) are semi-aquatic rodents recognized as keystone species because they increase the diversity of freshwater ecosystems. This study aimed to characterize the mortality and pathological findings in free-ranging beavers in California and, based on these results, identify potential threats to freshwater ecosystems. This study included 18 beavers submitted for postmortem examination at the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory, UC Davis, between 2008 and 2024. Gross and microscopic examinations, and bacteriological, parasitological, immunohistochemical, and molecular techniques, were used as tools to diagnose the cause of death/reason for euthanasia and comorbidities in the beavers. Baylisascaris spp.-associated or -suspected encephalitis was the most prevalent (9/18, 50%) cause of mortality/reason for euthanasia, followed by bacterial infections in six individuals. In these six animals, bacterial bronchopneumonia...

Do Pre‐Treatment Biopsy Characteristics Predict Early Tumour Progression in Feline Diffuse Large B Cell Nasal Lymphoma Treated With Radiotherapy?

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The standard of care treatment for localised feline nasal lymphoma (FeNL) is radiation therapy (RT). Early local or systemic failure occurs in 17%-45% of cats treated with RT with or without chemotherapy. The aim of this study was to determine if pre-treatment biopsy characteristics could predict early tumour progression in FeNL. Inclusion criteria consisted of histologically confirmed FeNL, available paraffin blocks of diagnostic quality, localised to the sinonasal cavity on staging pre-RT, treated with IMRT/IGRT (10 × 4.2 Gy) without chemotherapy and at least 1 year follow-up. All pre-RT biopsies were reviewed and evaluated with CD3, CD20, CD79a, pan-CK and Ki-67 immunohistochemistry and the mitotic activity index was determined. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS) at 1 year and hazard-ratios (HR) with confidence interval (CI) were calculated. Twenty-eight cats fit the inclusion criteria, and all had diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Seventeen cats (61%) were...

Campylobacter jejuni hepatitis in a horse: case report and literature review

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Campylobacter spp. can cause gastroenteritis, hepatitis, bacteremia, and abortions in domestic animals and humans. Some Campylobacter spp. are zoonotic. To our knowledge, hepatitis caused by Campylobacter jejuni has not been reported in horses. Here we present a case of acute necrosuppurative hepatitis caused by C. jejuni infection in a 3-y-old gelding, and we review the literature on C. jejuni infections in various animal species. The horse had a one-week history of weight loss and weakness before becoming recumbent and dying. Grossly, the liver had rounded edges and was mottled. There were ecchymoses on the gastric serosa, and a large amount of mucoid, pale, green-to-yellow content adhered to the mucosa of the small and large intestines. Microscopically, random areas in the liver were necrotic and infiltrated by large numbers of neutrophils, and fewer lymphocytes and plasma cells. Other changes in the liver included neutrophilic cholangitis...

Ex situ and in situ demonstration of amyloid fibrils for confirmation of amyloidosis using transmission electron microscopy

Thu, 27 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Confirmation of extracellular amyloid deposition across various animal species and tissue types has been a long-standing challenge in veterinary diagnostic pathology. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) has historically been used to advance the understanding of amyloid fibril morphology and confirm amyloid fibril deposition when histologic methods provide unclear results. We assessed the feasibility of utilizing TEM for routine confirmation of amyloidosis as an addition to histology. We analyzed ex situ amyloid fibrils with direct, negative-contrast TEM and in situ amyloid fibrils with aldehyde-fixed, plastic-embedding TEM to confirm amyloidosis in a variety of cases in which amorphous extracellular amyloid deposits had been identified by H&E and Congo red staining. We compared the 2 TEM methods and documented amyloid fibril morphology and morphometry in 7 species (goat, guinea pig, kudu, fox, sheep, flamingo, and duck). Ex situ fibrils had helical morphology and widths...

Intoxication of sheep by Astragalus arequipensis in northwestern Argentina

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Spontaneous intoxication by Astragalus arequipensis was diagnosed in a flock of 300 sheep in Jujuy province, northwestern Argentina, that grazed an area heavily invaded by this plant. The main clinical signs were intention tremors, ataxia, and progressive loss of condition. Autopsy of 2 affected animals revealed loss of body condition. The main microscopic changes were fine cytoplasmic vacuolation of cells in the cerebrum, cerebellum, thyroid and adrenal glands, kidney, liver, pancreas, urinary bladder, and lymph nodes, and swollen axons in the cerebellum. Ultrastructurally, the cytoplasmic vacuoles consisted of dilated secondary lysosomes. Composite leaf and stem samples of A. arequipensis analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography contained 0.05% swainsonine. The diagnosis of intoxication by A. arequipensis was made based on the clinical history and signs; gross, microscopic, and ultrastructural changes; and detection of swainsonine in the plant.

Aspergillosis in 41 wild bird species in the eastern United States: a 22-year retrospective review

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Aspergillosis is the most commonly and widely reported fungal infection in birds. Disease development is often secondary to stressors that cause immunocompromise, and it is typically regarded as a disease of captivity. We retrospectively evaluated data from 133 birds diagnosed with aspergillosis at the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study from 2001-2023 to assess diversity and relative frequency across avian taxa, gross and histologic lesion patterns, and comorbidities. Of 10 taxonomic orders represented, Charadriiformes (shorebirds; n = 35) and Accipitriformes (raptors; n = 32) were most common. Among them, the laughing gull (Leucophaeus atricilla; n = 20) and bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus; n = 14) were infected most commonly. Gross lesions were most frequent in lung (n = 80), air sac (n = 71), or celomic cavity lining (n = 42). Four distinct gross lesion patterns were identified: 1)...

Mixed histiocytic sarcoma in a Bernese Mountain Dog

Thu, 13 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

An 8-y-old, spayed female Bernese Mountain Dog was presented to a referral center for evaluation of right thoracic limb lameness and previously suspected Evans syndrome that had been poorly responsive to immunosuppressive therapy. Based on review of examination findings and laboratory data, Evans syndrome was deemed unlikely and hemophagocytic histiocytic sarcoma (HHS) was strongly suspected. On blood smear evaluation, atypical, histiocytic cells were noted, some of which exhibited siderophagia. Considering that circulating cells are not typically observed in dogs with HHS, additional diagnostic investigation was performed. Autopsy and histopathology revealed that the dog had a mixed form of HS (dendritic-cell origin HS in the lung, and HHS in the spleen, liver, and bone marrow), and immunocytochemical characterization of cultured cells derived from blood suggested that the cells were of dendritic HS origin, rather than HHS origin, as originally suspected. Whole-exome sequencing...

An update on oral manifestations of systemic disorders in dogs and cats

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Oral lesions are common in dogs and cats, and determining the underlying etiology of these lesions can be challenging. A wide range of systemic ailments may lead to lesions in the oral cavity, including immune-mediated diseases, adverse drug reactions, viral and bacterial infections, and metabolic and autoimmune diseases. A complete history and thorough physical examination (including a fundic examination) should be obtained in affected patients. It is critical to perform a detailed oral examination, which in some patients may need to be performed under sedation or general anesthesia. Tailored diagnostic plans and a multidisciplinary approach are necessary to fully characterize co-morbid disorders in affected patients. This narrative review aims to aid veterinarians in recognizing oral manifestations of systemic disorders based on the most recent reports and available research.

Intestinal pathology in goats challenged with Clostridium perfringens type D strain CN1020 wild-type and its genetically modified derivatives

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Clostridium perfringens type D is the causative agent of enterotoxemia in sheep, goats, and cattle. Although in sheep and cattle, the disease is mainly characterized by neurological clinical signs and lesions, goats with type D enterotoxemia frequently have alterations of the alimentary system. Epsilon toxin (ETX) is the main virulence factor of C. perfringens type D, although the role of ETX in intestinal lesions in goats with type D enterotoxemia has not been fully characterized. We evaluated the contribution of ETX to C. perfringens type D enteric pathogenicity using an intraduodenal challenge model in young goats, with the virulent C. perfringens type D wild-type strain CN1020; its isogenic etx null mutant; an etx-complemented strain; and sterile, non-toxic culture medium. The intestinal tract of each animal was evaluated grossly, microscopically, and immunohistochemically for activated caspase-3. Both ETX-producing strains induced...

Open label clinical trial of orally administered molnupiravir as a first‐line treatment for naturally occurring effusive feline infectious peritonitis

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Before the discovery of effective antiviral drugs, feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) was a uniformly fatal disease of cats. Multiple antiviral treatments have been recognized, but optimization of treatment protocols is needed. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of PO molnupiravir (MPV; EIDD-2801) to treat effusive FIP. ANIMALS: Ten cats with naturally occurring effusive FIP and 10 historical control cats with effusive FIP treated with PO GS-441524. METHODS: A single-center, prospective, open-label longitudinal, non-inferiority trial with historical controls. Ten cats with FIP were enrolled and treated with PO MPV (10-15 mg/kg PO q12h) for 84 days. Cats were evaluated at 0, 6, and 16 weeks, and the proportion of cats in clinical remission at 16 weeks was determined. Survival and clinicopathologic features were compared with historical control cats with effusive FIP treated with PO GS-441524. RESULTS: Eight of the 10 cats treated with MPV survived and were in remission...

Vaccine-Boosted CCP Decreases Virus Replication and Hastens Resolution of Infection Despite Transiently Enhancing Disease in SARS-CoV-2–Infected Hamsters

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Definitive data demonstrating the utility of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) convalescent plasma (CCP) for treating immunocompromised patients remains elusive. To better understand the mechanism of action of CCP, we studied viral replication and disease progression in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)-infected hamsters treated with CCP obtained from recovered COVID-19 patients that were also vaccinated with an mRNA vaccine, hereafter referred to as Vaxplas. Vaxplas transiently enhanced disease severity and lung pathology in hamsters treated near peak viral replication due to immune complex and activated complement deposition in pulmonary endothelium, and recruitment of M1 proinflammatory macrophages into the lung parenchyma. However, aside from one report, transient enhanced disease has not been reported in CCP recipient patients, and the transient enhanced disease in Vaxplas hamsters may have been due to mismatched species IgG-FcR interactions,...

Acute Fatal Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus in a Captive Adult Linnaeus’s Two-Toed Sloth (Choloepus didactylus) in Amazon Biome

Mon, 6 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to report the dietary and daily management, clinical signs, complementary exams, and pathological findings related to an acute and fatal case of gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV) in a captive Linnaeus's two-toed sloth (Choloepus didactylus) in the Amazon Biome. An adult female sloth, rescued after being electrocuted, was housed at the Wildlife Section of the Veterinary Hospital (WSVH) of the Institute of Veterinary Medicine (IVM) at the Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA). It was fed a diverse diet that included animal protein, fruits, vegetables, and greens, with vitamin and mineral supplementation. After five years, the sloth was found in its enclosure hyporesponsive, dehydrated, hypothermic, and hyperventilating, with an abdominal dilation of firm consistency. During emergency care, the animal died. Fecal samples collected two days before death were positive only for Clostridium perfringens type A. Necropsy findings included dilatation of the...

Case report: Clinical and immunohistochemical manifestations of suspected Sjogren's disease in a dog

Fri, 3 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Sjogren's disease, well-described in people, is rarely identified in veterinary species. In people, Sjogren's disease is one of the most common systemic autoimmune disorders with an incidence of 0.5% in the female population. The hallmark histopathologic finding of primary Sjogren's disease is lymphomononuclear cell infiltrates aggregating as periductal infiltrate in salivary glands. Sjogren's-like disease has been reported in a domestic shorthair cat and golden retriever dog. However, both lacked positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) titers and the dog showed no clinical evidence of dry eye disease. The following case report describes the clinical and immunohistochemical findings suggestive of Sjogren's disease in a 3-year-old spayed female German shepherd cross that was presented for medically refractory absolute dry eye, xerostomia confirmed with oral atropine response tests, and bilateral mandibular salivary gland enlargement. Routine topical lacrostimulants, anti-inflammatories,...

The status of insecticide resistance of Anopheles coluzzii on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe, after 20 years of malaria vector control

Thu, 2 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

BackgroundInsecticide-based malaria vector control has been implemented on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe (STP) for more than 20 years. During this period malaria incidence was significantly reduced to pre-elimination levels. While cases remained low since 2015, these have significantly increased in the last year, challenging the commitment of the country to achieve malaria elimination by 2025. To better understand the reasons for increasing malaria cases, levels and underlying mechanisms of insecticide resistance in the local Anopheles coluzzii populations were characterized.MethodsMosquito larval collections were performed in the rainy and dry seasons, between 2022 and 2024, in two localities of São Tomé and one locality in Príncipe. Susceptibility to permethrin, α-cypermethrin, pirimiphos-methyl and DDT was assessed using WHO bioassays and protocols. Intensity of resistance and reversal by PBO pre-exposure were determined for pyrethroid insecticides. The kdr locus...

Evaluating the Risk Landscape of Hawaiian Monk Seal Exposure to Toxoplasma gondii

Sun, 29 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Toxoplasmosis is a disease of primary concern for Hawaiian monk seals (Neomonachus schauinslandi), due to its apparently acute lethality and especially heavy impacts on breeding female seals. The disease-causing parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, depends on cats to complete its life cycle; thus, in order to understand how this pathogen infects marine mammals, it is essential to understand aspects of the terrestrial ecosystem and land-to-sea transport. In this study, we constructed a three-tiered model to assess risk of Hawaiian monk seal exposure to T. gondii oocysts: (1) oocyst contamination as a function of cat population characteristics; (2) land-to-sea transport of oocysts as a function of island hydrology, and (3) seal exposure as a function of habitat and space use. We were able to generate risk maps highlighting watersheds contributing the most to oocyst contamination of Hawaiian monk seal habitat. Further, the model showed that free-roaming cats most associated with humans (pets...

Spontaneous natural killer cell lymphoproliferative disorder in a rhesus macaque

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Lymphoproliferative disorders of natural killer (NK)-cell lineage are well documented in humans but have yet to be documented in non-human primates (NHPs). Here we describe a case of NK-cell lymphoproliferative disorder/leukemia in a 20-y-old captive female rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta). The animal clinically had mild splenomegaly and marked lymphocytosis with small-to-medium lymphocytes in blood smears. By flow cytometry and cluster differentiation, the lymphocytes were CD3-negative, CD8-positive, CD4-negative, and CD20-negative for cell surface markers; immunohistochemistry revealed the presence of intracellular CD3 and granzyme B. This immunoprofile is consistent with a NK-cell phenotype. Histologically, these cells were predominantly intravascular within the splenic red pulp, liver sinusoids, and to a lesser degree bone marrow. Oncogenic viruses, such as Mason-Pfizer monkey viruses (MPMV; formerly, and commonly known as, simian retroviruses or SRV; Retroviridae,...

Differential Gene Expression Associated with Idiopathic Epilepsy in Belgian Shepherd Dogs

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: Idiopathic epilepsy (IE) disproportionately affects Belgian shepherd dogs and although genomic risk markers have been identified previously in the breed, causative variants have not been described. METHODS: The current study analyzed differences in whole blood RNA expression associated with IE and with a previously identified IE risk haplotype on canine chromosome (CFA) 14 using a transcriptomics RNA-seq approach. RESULTS: MFSD2A and a likely pseudogene of RPL19, both of which are genes implicated in seizure activity, were upregulated in dogs with IE. Genes in the interferon signaling pathway were downregulated in Belgian shepherds with IE. The CFA14 risk haplotype was associated with upregulation of CLIC1, ACE2, and PIGN and downregulation of EPDR1, all known to be involved with epilepsy or the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS: These results highlight the value of assessing gene expression in canine IE research...

Pollen beetle (Astylus atromaculatus)-associated gastroenteric disease in cattle: report of 6 natural outbreaks

Mon, 9 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Astylus atromaculatus is a pollen beetle native to South America, commonly found in crop flowers. Experimental intoxication of sheep and guinea pigs by this beetle resulting in fibrinonecrotizing enteritis has been reported. We describe here 6 natural outbreaks of intoxication in cattle associated with consumption of alfalfa (5 of 6) and mixed native (1 of 6) pastures heavily contaminated with A. atromaculatus. The outbreaks occurred during the summer (January-February) of 2023 in Argentina (n = 4) and Uruguay (n = 2), in beef cattle under extensive or semi-extensive rearing systems, with overall cumulative incidence and mortality of 22.3% and 17.8%, respectively. The main clinical signs included acute onset of anorexia, lethargy, hyperthermia, hindlimb weakness, reluctance to move, and diarrhea, for up to 15 d. In 2 outbreaks, sudden death was observed. Eight Hereford, Angus, and/or crossbreed heifers, cows, steers, and/or calves were...

Use of Principal Components Analysis and Protein Microarray to Explore the Association of HIV-1-Specific IgG Responses with Disease Progression

Sat, 7 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The role of HIV-1-specific antibody responses in HIV disease progression is complex and would benefit from analysis techniques that examine clusterings of responses. Protein microarray platforms facilitate the simultaneous evaluation of numerous protein-specific antibody responses, though excessive data are cumbersome in analyses. Principal components analysis (PCA) reduces data dimensionality by generating fewer composite variables that maximally account for variance in a dataset. To identify clusters of antibody responses involved in disease control, we investigated the association of HIV-1-specific antibody responses by protein microarray, and assessed their association with disease progression using PCA in a nested cohort design. Associations observed among collections of antibody responses paralleled protein-specific responses. At baseline, greater antibody responses to the transmembrane glycoprotein (TM) and reverse transcriptase (RT) were associated with higher viral loads,...

Patterns of Gene Flow in Anopheles coluzzii Populations From Two African Oceanic Islands

Fri, 6 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The malaria vector Anopheles coluzzii is widespread across West Africa and is the sole vector species on the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe. Our interest in the population genetics of this species on these islands is part of an assessment of their suitability for a field trial involving the release of genetically engineered A. coluzzii. The engineered construct includes two genes that encode anti-Plasmodium peptides, along with a Cas9-based gene drive. We investigated gene flow among A. coluzzii subpopulations on each island to estimate dispersal rates between sites. Sampling covered the known range of A. coluzzii on both islands. Spatial autocorrelation suggests 7 km to be the likely extent of dispersal of this species, whereas estimates based on a convolutional neural network were roughly 3 km. This difference highlights the complexity of dispersal dynamics and the value of using multiple approaches. Our analysis also revealed weak heterogeneity...

Borrelia burgdorferi infection induced persistent IgM secretion controls bacteremia but not bacterial dissemination or tissue burden

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Infection with Borrelia burgdorferi causes Lyme disease in humans. In small rodents, the natural reservoir species of this spirochete, infections lead to only modest disease manifestations, despite causing persistence infection. Although B cell responses are central for controlling bacterial tissue burden and disease manifestations, they lack classical aspects of T-dependent responses, such as sustained IgG affinity maturation and longevity, corresponding with a rapid collapse of germinal centers. Instead, the Ab response is characterized by strong and ongoing secretion of IgM, whose origins and impact on protective immunity to B. burgdorferi remain unknown. In this article, we demonstrate that B. burgdorferi infection-induced IgM in mice was produced continuously, mainly by conventional B, not B-1 cells, in a T-independent manner. Although IgM was passively protective and restricted early bacteremia, its production had no effects on bacterial dissemination into solid tissues,...

Systemic Acanthamoeba T17 infection in a free-ranging two-toed sloth: case report and literature review of infections by free-living amebas in mammals

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

A free-ranging, adult female two-toed sloth (Choloepus hoffmanni) was brought to a wildlife rescue center in Costa Rica with ocular and auricular myiasis and numerous skin lesions. After one month of unsuccessful systemic and topical antimicrobial treatment, the patient died. A postmortem examination was performed, and tissues were examined histologically, confirming disseminated amebic infection with intralesional trophozoites and cysts in the lungs, liver, eye, heart, spleen, and stomach. Immunohistochemistry identified the ameba as Acanthamoeba sp. A multiplex real-time PCR assay, 18S ribosomal DNA PCR, and sequencing performed on formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded lung tissue confirmed the Acanthamoeba T17 genotype. The Acanthamoeba genus is in the group of free-living amebas that cause infection in humans and animals, and it is ubiquitous in the environment. Acanthamoeba T17 has been isolated from water and soil, but to our knowledge, this...

Bacillary hemoglobinuria in beef cattle infected with Fascioloides magna in Missouri

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Bacillary hemoglobinuria (BH) is an infectious disease, mostly affecting cattle, caused by Clostridium haemolyticum (C. novyi type D), with acute hepatic necrosis and intravascular hemolysis. Cattle are typically predisposed to BH by liver injury caused by Fasciola hepatica, although cases have been reported in cattle without evidence of this parasite. Here we describe a cluster of 14 BH cases from 7 counties in north-central to central Missouri submitted to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory between December 2020 and April 2023. Postmortem examination in all cases revealed hemoglobinuria and acute hepatic necrosis with large numbers of gram-positive bacilli with terminal-to-subterminal spores. Flukes, fluke ova, and/or fluke pigment consistent with Fascioloides magna were identified in 12 of 14 cases. Sequences of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) from one fluke had 100% identity to F. magna. C. novyi was detected by...

Cas9/guide RNA-based gene-drive dynamics following introduction and introgression into diverse anopheline mosquito genetic backgrounds

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

BackgroundNovel technologies are needed to combat anopheline vectors of malaria parasites as the reductions in worldwide disease incidence has stalled in recent years. Gene drive-based approaches utilizing Cas9/guide RNA (gRNA) systems are being developed to suppress anopheline populations or modify them by increasing their refractoriness to the parasites. These systems rely on the successful cleavage of a chromosomal DNA target site followed by homology-directed repair (HDR) in germline cells to bias inheritance of the drive system. An optimal drive system should be highly efficient for HDR-mediated gene conversion with minimal error rates. A gene-drive system, AgNosCd-1, with these attributes has been developed in the Anopheles gambiae G3 strain and serves as a framework for further development of population modification strains. To validate AgNosCd-1 as a versatile platform, it must perform well in a variety of genetic backgrounds.ResultsWe introduced or introgressed AgNosCd-1...

Helicosporidium sp. infection in a California kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae): Spillover of a pathogen of invertebrates to a vertebrate host

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Helicosporidium is a genus of nonphotosynthetic, green algae in the family Chlorellaceae, closely related to Prototheca. It is a known pathogen of invertebrates, and its occurrence in vertebrates has not been documented. A captive, 10-month-old, male, albino California kingsnake (Lampropeltis californiae) was submitted for necropsy. Gross examination revealed hemorrhagic laryngitis and a red mottled liver. Histologically, intravascular, intramonocytic/macrophagic and extracellular, eukaryotic organisms were observed in all tissues. These organisms stained positive with Grocott-Gomori methenamine silver and periodic acid-Schiff and were variably acid-fast and gram-positive. Ultrastructural analysis revealed approximately 4 µm vegetative multiplication forms and cysts with 3 parallel ovoid cells and a helically coiled filamentous cell. A polymerase chain reaction with primers targeting Prototheca, amplicon sequencing, and Bayesian phylogenetic...

A Microneedle Patch for Measles and Rubella Vaccination Is Immunogenic and Protective in Infant Rhesus Macaques.

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

BACKGROUND: New methods to increase measles and rubella (MR) vaccination coverage are needed to achieve global and regional MR elimination goals. METHODS: Here, we developed microneedle (MN) patches designed to administer MR vaccine by minimally trained personnel, leave no biohazardous sharps waste, remove the need for vaccine reconstitution, and provide thermostability outside the cold chain. This study evaluated the immunogenicity of MN patches delivering MR vaccine to infant rhesus macaques. RESULTS: Protective titers of measles neutralizing antibodies (>120 mIU/mL) were detected in 100% of macaques in the MN group and 75% of macaques in the subcutaneous (SC) injection group. Rubella neutralizing antibody titers were >10 IU/mL for all groups. All macaques in the MN group were protected from challenge with wild-type measles virus, whereas 75% were protected in the SC group. However, vaccination by the MN or SC route was unable to generate protective immune responses to...

Reorganization and expansion of the nidoviral family Arteriviridae

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The family Arteriviridae presently includes a single genus Arterivirus. This genus includes four species as the taxonomic homes for equine arteritis virus (EAV), lactate dehydrogenase-elevating virus (LDV), porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome virus (PRRSV), and simian hemorrhagic fever virus (SHFV), respectively. A revision of this classification is urgently needed to accommodate the recent description of eleven highly divergent simian arteriviruses in diverse African nonhuman primates, one novel arterivirus in an African forest giant pouched rat, and a novel arterivirus in common brushtails in New Zealand. In addition, the current arterivirus nomenclature is not in accordance with the most recent version of the International Code of Virus Classification and Nomenclature. Here we outline an updated, amended, and improved arterivirus taxonomy based on current data. Taxon-specific sequence cut-offs are established relying on a newly established open reading frame 1b phylogeny...

Arboviral Bottlenecks and Challenges to Maintaining Diversity and Fitness during Mosquito Transmission