Stefania Perrucci - Profile on Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Stefania Perrucci

Experimental Parasitology, 2007

The acaricidal activity of Eugenia caryophyllata essential oil was evaluated in vitro and in vivo... more The acaricidal activity of Eugenia caryophyllata essential oil was evaluated in vitro and in vivo on Psoroptes cuniculi, a mange mite. In vitro, diVerent concentrations of the oil were tested and the observed mites mortality was compared with that observed in untreated and treated (Acacerulen R ® ) controls. In vivo, six P. cuniculi infected rabbits were topically treated with the oil diluted at 2.5% and compared with untreated and treated control groups of six rabbits each. In vitro, up to the concentration of 0.10% the oil gave highly signiWcant (P < 0.01) percentages of mite mortality respect to the untreated controls, but only up to 0.16% it showed the same eYcacy of Acacerulen R ® . In vivo, the treatment with the essential oil cured all infested rabbits and no statistical diVerences were observed respect to the treated control group. The untreated rabbits remained infested.

Leishmania infantum and Neospora caninum simultaneous skin infection in a young dog in Italy

Veterinary parasitology, Jan 3, 2001

Leishmania infantum, the agent of canine leishmaniasis in Mediterranean countries, and Neospora c... more Leishmania infantum, the agent of canine leishmaniasis in Mediterranean countries, and Neospora caninum, a recently recognized protozoal pathogen in dogs, were diagnosed in a 9-month-old Argentine Dogo dog. Both skin lesions and neurological signs were present. Histopathology of cutaneous lesions revealed a suppurative, diffuse dermatitis with numerous intracellular protozoa. Serology was positive for both L. infantum (1:640) and N. caninum (1:800). Double-label immunohistochemical staining of skin samples with hyperimmune serum from L. infantum-infected dogs was positive for protozoa within macrophages, while the polyclonal antibody specific for N. caninum showed positive reactions for protozoa in endothelial cells and fibroblasts. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the infection with both protozoa. This is, to the authors' knowledge, the first case of simultaneous infection with L. infantum and N. caninum in a dog. It is possible that the immunosuppressive effect...

RIASSUNTO Nel presente studio è stata eseguita una indagine sulle distomatosi (fasciolosi, dicroc... more RIASSUNTO Nel presente studio è stata eseguita una indagine sulle distomatosi (fasciolosi, dicroceliosi e paramfistomosi) in un allevamento di pecora Zerasca, una razza ovina autoctona mai con- siderata prima in studi parassitologici. Oltre a valutare la presenza di queste infezioni, è stato eseguito uno studio sistematico sulla loro variabilità nel corso dell'anno sia al fine di opera- re un confronto con quanto riportato in letteratura riguardo altre razze ovine italiane, che di valutare la necessità di interventi di controllo terapeutici e profilattici. A tal fine, sono stati sottoposti ad analisi parassitologiche campioni fecali individuali di 40 soggetti non trattati, con cadenza mensile e per un periodo di un anno. Le percentuali di positività mensile e sta- gionale riscontrate nel caso della dicroceliosi e della paramfistomosi sono risultate elevate, dimostrando che l'allevamento si trova in un'area fortemente contaminata ed a rischio di per- dite produttive. L...

Intestinal and lung parasites in owned dogs and cats from central Italy

Veterinary Parasitology, 2013

Prevalence and risk factors of intestinal and lung parasites were investigated in 239 owned dogs ... more Prevalence and risk factors of intestinal and lung parasites were investigated in 239 owned dogs and 81 owned cats from central Italy. In 36 dogs and 20 cats found infected by nematodes, pre and post-treatment faecal egg count (FEC) was also evaluated. About 31% of dogs and about 35% of cats resulted positive for at least one intestinal or lung parasitic species. Helminthic, intestinal and zoonotic infections resulted prevalent in examined animals. Examined dogs resulted infected by Toxocara canis (13.0%), Toxascaris leonina (1.7%), Trichuris vulpis (3.3%), Ancylostoma caninum (2.0%), Uncinaria stenocephala (1.25%), Strongyloides stercoralis (0.8%), Angiostrongylus vasorum (0.4%), Dipylidium caninum (1.25%), Taeniidae eggs (0.4%), Giardia duodenalis (3.8%), and Cystoisospora (Isospora) spp. (7.5%). Examined cats were infected by Toxocara cati (22.2%), Capillaria aerophila (1.2%), Ancylostoma tubaeformae (1.2%), U. stenocephala (3.7%), Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (1.2%), Mesocestoides sp. (1.2%), D. caninum (1.2%), G. duodenalis (1.2%) and Cystoisospora spp. (4.5%). The presence of clinical signs and the young age (less than 6 months) were identified as risk factors by univariate and multivariate statistical analysis. In 63.9% treated dogs and in 80.0% treated cats, percentages of post-treatment FEC reduction higher than 90% were found. Results obtained in this study are discussed.

Veterinary Parasitology, 2011

Cryptosporidium infection was molecularly investigated in mares and in their neonatal foals for w... more Cryptosporidium infection was molecularly investigated in mares and in their neonatal foals for which the occurrence of foal heat diarrhoea was also assessed. Thirty-seven mare/foal pairs were included in the study. All foals were born in the same stud farm during 2006-2008 breeding seasons. Two faecal samples, one prior to and one after delivery were collected from each mare, whereas three faecal samples were taken from each foal, i.e. at 8, 10 and 12 days of age. All samples (74 from mares and 111 from foals) were divided into two aliquots, one of which was examined for the presence of Cryptosporidium by a commercially available microplate ELISA kit, while the second aliquot of all ELISA-positive samples was molecularly examined. Nine out of 37 examined foals presented foal heat diarrhoea and one of them scored positive for Cryptosporidium, together with its mare. More specifically, four samples belonging to the same mare/foal pair resulted positive for Cryptosporidium upon both ELISA and PCR. The sequence analysis of the COWP gene showed the occurrence of the zoonotic species Cryptosporidium parvum. The possibility that foal heat diarrhoea-like episodes may be due to neonatal cryptosporidiosis and their relevance for the health of horses and of humans handling diarrhoeic neonatal foals and their mares are discussed.

The Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology, 1998

Tibetan siskins are birds native to the Himalayan region often imported into Italy for commercial... more Tibetan siskins are birds native to the Himalayan region often imported into Italy for commercial purposes. Fecal examination of 45 imported subjects with clinical signs of diarrhoea revealed the presence of a large number of coccidian oocysts. After sporulation, accomplished by mixing feces with 2.5% (w/v) aqueous K2Cr2O7 at room temperature (22 degrees C +/- 1 degree C), exogenous stages of an Isospora species were revealed. The oocysts of this Isospora are spherical, have a bilayered colorless wall, and average 23.24 microm x 23.05 microm; oocyst residuum and micropyle are absent, while an oval polar granule is rarely present. The elliptical sporocysts average 18.44 microm x 10.97 microm and the Stieda body protrudes slightly from the end of the sporocyst. A spherical sporocyst residuum, is present though it sometimes consists of scattered granules. The spindle-shaped sporozoites average 11.53 microm x 2.86 microm, and have two refractile bodies. The taxonomic position of the tibetan siskin is controversial. Some authors include this species in the genus Serinus, while others include it in the genus Carduelis. The coccidian species isolated from these tibetan siskins was, for this reason, compared with the Isospora species previously described both in the genus Carduelis and in the genus Serinus. As a result of this comparison a new species, Isospora thibetana, was named. In the intestine of dead subjects, oocysts were found only in the ileum where the mucosa was greatly thickened and presented a heavy leucocytic infiltration consisting mainly of lympho-monocytic cells. A similar infiltration was observed in liver and lungs as well.

Phytotherapy Research, 1995

During the in oitro screening of four essential oils and six substances of vegetable origin again... more During the in oitro screening of four essential oils and six substances of vegetable origin against the test fungi Saprolegnia ferax, thyme and savory essential oils, carvacrol and thymol exhibited the best antifungal activity at the lower concentrations. The antimycotic activity of malachite green, formalin and sodium chloride was also tested.

Phytomedicine, 2007

The aim of the present study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo acaricidal effects of an... more The aim of the present study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo acaricidal effects of an essential oil of Cinnamomum zeylanicun leaves on Psoroptes cuniculi, a mange mite. In vitro, 2.5 ml of the essential oil diluted at different concentrations, from 10% to 0.03%, in paraffin oil were added to Petri dishes containing all motile stages of P. cuniculi. Mites mortality observed in these dishes was compared with that observed in untreated and treated (AcaCerulen R s ) control plates. In vivo, one group of six P. cuniculi infected rabbits was topically treated two times at seven days interval with two ml of the essential oil at the concentration of 2.5% in paraffin oil and compared with untreated and treated (AcaCerulen R s ) control groups of six rabbits each. After 24 h of contact, all concentrations of essential oil between 0.10 and 10% showed a good in vitro acaricidal efficacy if compared with the untreated controls (po0:01), but only the concentrations between 0.16 and 10% turned out as active as the drug. In vivo, the treatment with the essential oil cured all infested rabbits and no statistical differences were observed with the treated control group.

Parasitology Research, 2006

The inhibitory activity of mangiferin (50 mg/kg/die and 100 mg/kg/die) on Cryptosporidium parvum ... more The inhibitory activity of mangiferin (50 mg/kg/die and 100 mg/kg/die) on Cryptosporidium parvum was evaluated in a neonatal mouse model and its activity was compared with that of paromomycin (100 mg/kg/die). At 4 days of age, neonatal Swiss conventional outbred mice were experimentally infected by oral administration of 10(4) oocysts/animal of C. parvum and treated orally for 10 consecutive days, starting 7 days after the experimental infection. One group of mice was left untreated. To evaluate the efficacy of mangiferin, from euthanised mice, 3-mum-thick tissue sections of the intestine were stained with haematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid Schiff. Immunohistochemistry was also used by employing a monoclonal anti-C. parvum antibody. Oocysts were counted and results were expressed as mean oocysts number/intestine. Results obtained show that mangiferin at 100 mg/kg/die has a significant anticryptosporidial activity and that its activity is similar to that showed by the same dose (100 mg/kg/die) of paromomycin. However, both mangiferin and paromomycin were not able to completely inhibit intestinal colonization of C. parvum but only to reduce it. This reduction was calculated at over 80% for both mangiferin and paromomycin with respect to the untreated control. A significant activity was found also for mangiferin at 50 mg/kg/die only after the end of treatment.

Parasitology Research, 2008

In this study, some in vitro trials were carried out to evaluate the association between Scopular... more In this study, some in vitro trials were carried out to evaluate the association between Scopulariopsis spp. fungi with Psoroptes cuniculi (Acari: Psoroptidae) and their potential pathogenicity to this mite species. After cultivation on Sabouraud dextrose agar with chloroamphenicol at 26°C for 20 days and macro-and microscopical examinations, from P. cuniculi mites taken from some infested rabbits fungi belonging to the genus Scopulariopsis were isolated. Investigations were carried out to evaluate in vitro the potential pathogenic role of Scopulariopsis to P. cuniculi; to this aim, Scopulariopsis brevicaulis isolated from a cat was tested. In several culture media, the dose-dependant P. cuniculi mortality with different concentrations of S. brevicaulis and the ability of S. brevicaulis to penetrate inside the body of infected mites were evaluated. Results obtained demonstrated that, in the rabbit, Scopulariopsis fungi can be associated with P. cuniculi, and that S. brevicaulis can be an entomopathogen for P. cuniculi in a dose-dependant manner. A more rapid mortality of the mites and a quicker S. brevicaulis growth in plates containing rabbit serum with respect to all other media used were also found. S. brevicaulis demonstrated the ability to invade the body of P. cuniculi.

Parasites & Vectors, 2009

Background: A large survey was carried out in 2008 in Europe to evaluate the efficacy of fenbenda... more Background: A large survey was carried out in 2008 in Europe to evaluate the efficacy of fenbendazole (FBZ), pyrantel (PYR), ivermectin (IVM) and moxidectin (MOX), i.e. the major anthelmintic molecules used in current practice against cyathostomins affecting horses. A total of 102 yards and 1704 horses was studied in three countries: 60 yards and 988 horses from Italy, 22 and 396 from the UK, 20 and 320 from Germany. The survey consisted of Faecal Egg Count Reduction Tests (FECRTs) with a faecal egg count reduction (FECR) categorization of (I) resistance present if FECR <90% and the lower 95% confidence limit (LCL) <90%, (II) resistance suspected if FECR ≥90% and/or LCL <90% and (III) no resistance if FECR ≥90% and LCL >90%.The calculation of FECR data was performed employing bootstrap analysis of group arithmetic means. Results: The testing of FBZ on a total of 80 yards resulted in resistance present on more than 80% of the UK and German yards and on significantly fewer in Italy, i.e. in 38% (p<0.01). PYR, IVM and MOX were tested on a total of 102 yards. For PYR resistance present was found in 25% of the yards with no significant differences between countries. For IVM resistance present was encountered in one Italian and two UK yards (3%), resistance present to MOX was not found in any yard in any country.

Parasites & Vectors, 2009

Mycoses, 2009

... Of the tested oils, those obtained from Cinnamomum qylanicum, Ocimum gra-tissimum, Cymbopogon... more ... Of the tested oils, those obtained from Cinnamomum qylanicum, Ocimum gra-tissimum, Cymbopogon citratus, Eugenia unzflora and Alpinia speciosa were found to be the most active, inhibiting 80% of the dermatophyte strains tested and producing inhibition zones more than ...

Research in Veterinary Science, 2014

Eucoleus aerophilus (syn. Capillaria aerophila) is a trichuroid nematode affecting domestic and w... more Eucoleus aerophilus (syn. Capillaria aerophila) is a trichuroid nematode affecting domestic and wild carnivores and, sometimes, humans. This parasite has a worldwide distribution and may cause significant clinical disease in pet animals. The present paper investigates the sequence variation in partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene of E. aerophilus isolates from pets and wild animals from different countries. Forty-four egg pools of E. aerophilus were collected from dogs, cats and foxes from Italy, while seventeen adult stages of E. aerophilus were obtained from red foxes and beech martens from Portugal, Romania, Serbia and UK. Fifteen different haplotypes were characterized and five were shared between pets in Italy and wildlife from Europe. The remaining haplotypes were either confined only in hosts or countries, or in a given host from a country. The phylogenetic analysis showed that all haplotypes clustered as a monophyletic group with a strong nodal support, indicating that all sequence types represented E. aerophilus. The results here presented have implications for a better understanding of the epidemiology, phylo-geography and clinical impact of E. aerophilus. In particular, the geographic distribution of E. aerophilus haplotypes in different host species and geographic regions, and their variation in terms of pathogenic impact and zoonotic role, warrant further investigations.

Veterinary Parasitology, 2008

Anoplocephala perfoliata (Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea), the commonest intestinal tapeworm of horses, ... more Anoplocephala perfoliata (Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea), the commonest intestinal tapeworm of horses, can cause colic, intussusceptions, ileal impactions and intestinal perforations. Common diagnostic techniques for A. perfoliata infection, i.e. coprology and serology, show inherent limitations in terms of sensitivity and specificity and new approaches are thus required. Hence, the present study compared the reliability of coprological, serological (i.e. ELISA) and molecular (i.e. nested PCR) methods in detecting A. perfoliata infection in naturally infected horses and in horses treated with a combination of ivermectin and praziquantel. Of 42 horses subjected to coprological examination, 16 and 26 resulted negative and positive, respectively for the presence of A. perfoliata eggs at the coprological examination. The 26 coprologically positive animals were also positive by nested PCR. Fifteen out of the 16 horses coprologically negative were negative at the molecular assay, while one yielded a PCR product detectable on an agarose gel. Eighteen out of 26 positive horses were treated with a combination of ivermectin 18.7 mg/g and praziquantel 140.3 mg/g and resulted subsequently negative by coprology and nested PCR performed 2 weeks after treatment. All infected and untreated animals had a high ELISA test optical density indicating high infection intensity and associated risk of colic. However, high optical density values were also obtained in four horses post-treatment and in three horses that were negative on molecular and coprological analysis. The results of the present work indicate that the nested PCR assay represents a valid method for the specific molecular detection of A. perfoliata in faecal samples collected from naturally infected horses and may have advantages over coprological and serological approaches for diagnosing A. perfoliata infection.

PCR-based assay for the mitochondrial cox1 specific amplification of Eucoleus böhmi

Veterinary Parasitology, 2015

Eucoleus böhmi (syn. Capillaria boehmi) is a trichuroid nematode affecting the epithelium of the ... more Eucoleus böhmi (syn. Capillaria boehmi) is a trichuroid nematode affecting the epithelium of the nasal turbinates, frontal and paranasal sinuses of wild and domestic canids. Knowledge of the geographic distribution of nasal eucoleosis is fragmentary, despite the infection has been described from Europe and North America. Moreover, gaps exist in information available on the importance of the disease in canine clinical practice. The lack of knowledge on E. böhmi is likely due to limitations inherent to diagnostic methodologies. The aim of the present work was to assess a PCR-based assay instrumental to the amplification of a species-specific region of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) gene encoding for the subunit 1 (cox1) gene of E. böhmi. Adult worms of E. böhmi from red foxes and dogs from Norway, Serbia and Italy and individual fecal samples from naturally infected dogs from Italy were included in the study. Stool samples from dogs negative for E. böhmi, but positive for other common parasites in both single and mixed infections, and adult stages of common dog parasites, were used to assess the specificity of this genetic assay. Using the panel of faecal samples, the assay showed a sensitivity of 85.14% and a specificity of 100%.

PCR-based assay for the mitochondrial cox1 specific amplification of Eucoleus böhmi

Veterinary Parasitology, 2015

Eucoleus böhmi (syn. Capillaria boehmi) is a trichuroid nematode affecting the epithelium of the ... more Eucoleus böhmi (syn. Capillaria boehmi) is a trichuroid nematode affecting the epithelium of the nasal turbinates, frontal and paranasal sinuses of wild and domestic canids. Knowledge of the geographic distribution of nasal eucoleosis is fragmentary, despite the infection has been described from Europe and North America. Moreover, gaps exist in information available on the importance of the disease in canine clinical practice. The lack of knowledge on E. böhmi is likely due to limitations inherent to diagnostic methodologies. The aim of the present work was to assess a PCR-based assay instrumental to the amplification of a species-specific region of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) gene encoding for the subunit 1 (cox1) gene of E. böhmi. Adult worms of E. böhmi from red foxes and dogs from Norway, Serbia and Italy and individual fecal samples from naturally infected dogs from Italy were included in the study. Stool samples from dogs negative for E. böhmi, but positive for other common parasites in both single and mixed infections, and adult stages of common dog parasites, were used to assess the specificity of this genetic assay. Using the panel of faecal samples, the assay showed a sensitivity of 85.14% and a specificity of 100%.

Medical and Veterinary Entomology, 2004

Arcaricidal properties of decoctions, infusions and macerates of dried flower heads of camomile, ... more Arcaricidal properties of decoctions, infusions and macerates of dried flower heads of camomile, Matricaria chamomilla L. (Asterales: Asteraceae) were tested in vitro against the mite Psoroptes cuniculi Delafond (Parasitiformes: Psoroptidae). This mite species is responsible for otoacariasis in domestic animals. Mites were exposed to the extracts for 24, 48 or 72 h. All the extracts tested showed highly significant acaricidal activity when compared with controls. Among them, a decoction of 10% was the only formulation which gave 100% activity at all the three observations times.

Medical and Veterinary Entomology, 1997

Experimental Parasitology, 2007

The acaricidal activity of Eugenia caryophyllata essential oil was evaluated in vitro and in vivo... more The acaricidal activity of Eugenia caryophyllata essential oil was evaluated in vitro and in vivo on Psoroptes cuniculi, a mange mite. In vitro, diVerent concentrations of the oil were tested and the observed mites mortality was compared with that observed in untreated and treated (Acacerulen R ® ) controls. In vivo, six P. cuniculi infected rabbits were topically treated with the oil diluted at 2.5% and compared with untreated and treated control groups of six rabbits each. In vitro, up to the concentration of 0.10% the oil gave highly signiWcant (P < 0.01) percentages of mite mortality respect to the untreated controls, but only up to 0.16% it showed the same eYcacy of Acacerulen R ® . In vivo, the treatment with the essential oil cured all infested rabbits and no statistical diVerences were observed respect to the treated control group. The untreated rabbits remained infested.

Leishmania infantum and Neospora caninum simultaneous skin infection in a young dog in Italy

Veterinary parasitology, Jan 3, 2001

Leishmania infantum, the agent of canine leishmaniasis in Mediterranean countries, and Neospora c... more Leishmania infantum, the agent of canine leishmaniasis in Mediterranean countries, and Neospora caninum, a recently recognized protozoal pathogen in dogs, were diagnosed in a 9-month-old Argentine Dogo dog. Both skin lesions and neurological signs were present. Histopathology of cutaneous lesions revealed a suppurative, diffuse dermatitis with numerous intracellular protozoa. Serology was positive for both L. infantum (1:640) and N. caninum (1:800). Double-label immunohistochemical staining of skin samples with hyperimmune serum from L. infantum-infected dogs was positive for protozoa within macrophages, while the polyclonal antibody specific for N. caninum showed positive reactions for protozoa in endothelial cells and fibroblasts. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the infection with both protozoa. This is, to the authors' knowledge, the first case of simultaneous infection with L. infantum and N. caninum in a dog. It is possible that the immunosuppressive effect...

RIASSUNTO Nel presente studio è stata eseguita una indagine sulle distomatosi (fasciolosi, dicroc... more RIASSUNTO Nel presente studio è stata eseguita una indagine sulle distomatosi (fasciolosi, dicroceliosi e paramfistomosi) in un allevamento di pecora Zerasca, una razza ovina autoctona mai con- siderata prima in studi parassitologici. Oltre a valutare la presenza di queste infezioni, è stato eseguito uno studio sistematico sulla loro variabilità nel corso dell'anno sia al fine di opera- re un confronto con quanto riportato in letteratura riguardo altre razze ovine italiane, che di valutare la necessità di interventi di controllo terapeutici e profilattici. A tal fine, sono stati sottoposti ad analisi parassitologiche campioni fecali individuali di 40 soggetti non trattati, con cadenza mensile e per un periodo di un anno. Le percentuali di positività mensile e sta- gionale riscontrate nel caso della dicroceliosi e della paramfistomosi sono risultate elevate, dimostrando che l'allevamento si trova in un'area fortemente contaminata ed a rischio di per- dite produttive. L...

Intestinal and lung parasites in owned dogs and cats from central Italy

Veterinary Parasitology, 2013

Prevalence and risk factors of intestinal and lung parasites were investigated in 239 owned dogs ... more Prevalence and risk factors of intestinal and lung parasites were investigated in 239 owned dogs and 81 owned cats from central Italy. In 36 dogs and 20 cats found infected by nematodes, pre and post-treatment faecal egg count (FEC) was also evaluated. About 31% of dogs and about 35% of cats resulted positive for at least one intestinal or lung parasitic species. Helminthic, intestinal and zoonotic infections resulted prevalent in examined animals. Examined dogs resulted infected by Toxocara canis (13.0%), Toxascaris leonina (1.7%), Trichuris vulpis (3.3%), Ancylostoma caninum (2.0%), Uncinaria stenocephala (1.25%), Strongyloides stercoralis (0.8%), Angiostrongylus vasorum (0.4%), Dipylidium caninum (1.25%), Taeniidae eggs (0.4%), Giardia duodenalis (3.8%), and Cystoisospora (Isospora) spp. (7.5%). Examined cats were infected by Toxocara cati (22.2%), Capillaria aerophila (1.2%), Ancylostoma tubaeformae (1.2%), U. stenocephala (3.7%), Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (1.2%), Mesocestoides sp. (1.2%), D. caninum (1.2%), G. duodenalis (1.2%) and Cystoisospora spp. (4.5%). The presence of clinical signs and the young age (less than 6 months) were identified as risk factors by univariate and multivariate statistical analysis. In 63.9% treated dogs and in 80.0% treated cats, percentages of post-treatment FEC reduction higher than 90% were found. Results obtained in this study are discussed.

Veterinary Parasitology, 2011

Cryptosporidium infection was molecularly investigated in mares and in their neonatal foals for w... more Cryptosporidium infection was molecularly investigated in mares and in their neonatal foals for which the occurrence of foal heat diarrhoea was also assessed. Thirty-seven mare/foal pairs were included in the study. All foals were born in the same stud farm during 2006-2008 breeding seasons. Two faecal samples, one prior to and one after delivery were collected from each mare, whereas three faecal samples were taken from each foal, i.e. at 8, 10 and 12 days of age. All samples (74 from mares and 111 from foals) were divided into two aliquots, one of which was examined for the presence of Cryptosporidium by a commercially available microplate ELISA kit, while the second aliquot of all ELISA-positive samples was molecularly examined. Nine out of 37 examined foals presented foal heat diarrhoea and one of them scored positive for Cryptosporidium, together with its mare. More specifically, four samples belonging to the same mare/foal pair resulted positive for Cryptosporidium upon both ELISA and PCR. The sequence analysis of the COWP gene showed the occurrence of the zoonotic species Cryptosporidium parvum. The possibility that foal heat diarrhoea-like episodes may be due to neonatal cryptosporidiosis and their relevance for the health of horses and of humans handling diarrhoeic neonatal foals and their mares are discussed.

The Journal of Eukaryotic Microbiology, 1998

Tibetan siskins are birds native to the Himalayan region often imported into Italy for commercial... more Tibetan siskins are birds native to the Himalayan region often imported into Italy for commercial purposes. Fecal examination of 45 imported subjects with clinical signs of diarrhoea revealed the presence of a large number of coccidian oocysts. After sporulation, accomplished by mixing feces with 2.5% (w/v) aqueous K2Cr2O7 at room temperature (22 degrees C +/- 1 degree C), exogenous stages of an Isospora species were revealed. The oocysts of this Isospora are spherical, have a bilayered colorless wall, and average 23.24 microm x 23.05 microm; oocyst residuum and micropyle are absent, while an oval polar granule is rarely present. The elliptical sporocysts average 18.44 microm x 10.97 microm and the Stieda body protrudes slightly from the end of the sporocyst. A spherical sporocyst residuum, is present though it sometimes consists of scattered granules. The spindle-shaped sporozoites average 11.53 microm x 2.86 microm, and have two refractile bodies. The taxonomic position of the tibetan siskin is controversial. Some authors include this species in the genus Serinus, while others include it in the genus Carduelis. The coccidian species isolated from these tibetan siskins was, for this reason, compared with the Isospora species previously described both in the genus Carduelis and in the genus Serinus. As a result of this comparison a new species, Isospora thibetana, was named. In the intestine of dead subjects, oocysts were found only in the ileum where the mucosa was greatly thickened and presented a heavy leucocytic infiltration consisting mainly of lympho-monocytic cells. A similar infiltration was observed in liver and lungs as well.

Phytotherapy Research, 1995

During the in oitro screening of four essential oils and six substances of vegetable origin again... more During the in oitro screening of four essential oils and six substances of vegetable origin against the test fungi Saprolegnia ferax, thyme and savory essential oils, carvacrol and thymol exhibited the best antifungal activity at the lower concentrations. The antimycotic activity of malachite green, formalin and sodium chloride was also tested.

Phytomedicine, 2007

The aim of the present study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo acaricidal effects of an... more The aim of the present study was to investigate the in vitro and in vivo acaricidal effects of an essential oil of Cinnamomum zeylanicun leaves on Psoroptes cuniculi, a mange mite. In vitro, 2.5 ml of the essential oil diluted at different concentrations, from 10% to 0.03%, in paraffin oil were added to Petri dishes containing all motile stages of P. cuniculi. Mites mortality observed in these dishes was compared with that observed in untreated and treated (AcaCerulen R s ) control plates. In vivo, one group of six P. cuniculi infected rabbits was topically treated two times at seven days interval with two ml of the essential oil at the concentration of 2.5% in paraffin oil and compared with untreated and treated (AcaCerulen R s ) control groups of six rabbits each. After 24 h of contact, all concentrations of essential oil between 0.10 and 10% showed a good in vitro acaricidal efficacy if compared with the untreated controls (po0:01), but only the concentrations between 0.16 and 10% turned out as active as the drug. In vivo, the treatment with the essential oil cured all infested rabbits and no statistical differences were observed with the treated control group.

Parasitology Research, 2006

The inhibitory activity of mangiferin (50 mg/kg/die and 100 mg/kg/die) on Cryptosporidium parvum ... more The inhibitory activity of mangiferin (50 mg/kg/die and 100 mg/kg/die) on Cryptosporidium parvum was evaluated in a neonatal mouse model and its activity was compared with that of paromomycin (100 mg/kg/die). At 4 days of age, neonatal Swiss conventional outbred mice were experimentally infected by oral administration of 10(4) oocysts/animal of C. parvum and treated orally for 10 consecutive days, starting 7 days after the experimental infection. One group of mice was left untreated. To evaluate the efficacy of mangiferin, from euthanised mice, 3-mum-thick tissue sections of the intestine were stained with haematoxylin-eosin and periodic acid Schiff. Immunohistochemistry was also used by employing a monoclonal anti-C. parvum antibody. Oocysts were counted and results were expressed as mean oocysts number/intestine. Results obtained show that mangiferin at 100 mg/kg/die has a significant anticryptosporidial activity and that its activity is similar to that showed by the same dose (100 mg/kg/die) of paromomycin. However, both mangiferin and paromomycin were not able to completely inhibit intestinal colonization of C. parvum but only to reduce it. This reduction was calculated at over 80% for both mangiferin and paromomycin with respect to the untreated control. A significant activity was found also for mangiferin at 50 mg/kg/die only after the end of treatment.

Parasitology Research, 2008

In this study, some in vitro trials were carried out to evaluate the association between Scopular... more In this study, some in vitro trials were carried out to evaluate the association between Scopulariopsis spp. fungi with Psoroptes cuniculi (Acari: Psoroptidae) and their potential pathogenicity to this mite species. After cultivation on Sabouraud dextrose agar with chloroamphenicol at 26°C for 20 days and macro-and microscopical examinations, from P. cuniculi mites taken from some infested rabbits fungi belonging to the genus Scopulariopsis were isolated. Investigations were carried out to evaluate in vitro the potential pathogenic role of Scopulariopsis to P. cuniculi; to this aim, Scopulariopsis brevicaulis isolated from a cat was tested. In several culture media, the dose-dependant P. cuniculi mortality with different concentrations of S. brevicaulis and the ability of S. brevicaulis to penetrate inside the body of infected mites were evaluated. Results obtained demonstrated that, in the rabbit, Scopulariopsis fungi can be associated with P. cuniculi, and that S. brevicaulis can be an entomopathogen for P. cuniculi in a dose-dependant manner. A more rapid mortality of the mites and a quicker S. brevicaulis growth in plates containing rabbit serum with respect to all other media used were also found. S. brevicaulis demonstrated the ability to invade the body of P. cuniculi.

Parasites & Vectors, 2009

Background: A large survey was carried out in 2008 in Europe to evaluate the efficacy of fenbenda... more Background: A large survey was carried out in 2008 in Europe to evaluate the efficacy of fenbendazole (FBZ), pyrantel (PYR), ivermectin (IVM) and moxidectin (MOX), i.e. the major anthelmintic molecules used in current practice against cyathostomins affecting horses. A total of 102 yards and 1704 horses was studied in three countries: 60 yards and 988 horses from Italy, 22 and 396 from the UK, 20 and 320 from Germany. The survey consisted of Faecal Egg Count Reduction Tests (FECRTs) with a faecal egg count reduction (FECR) categorization of (I) resistance present if FECR <90% and the lower 95% confidence limit (LCL) <90%, (II) resistance suspected if FECR ≥90% and/or LCL <90% and (III) no resistance if FECR ≥90% and LCL >90%.The calculation of FECR data was performed employing bootstrap analysis of group arithmetic means. Results: The testing of FBZ on a total of 80 yards resulted in resistance present on more than 80% of the UK and German yards and on significantly fewer in Italy, i.e. in 38% (p<0.01). PYR, IVM and MOX were tested on a total of 102 yards. For PYR resistance present was found in 25% of the yards with no significant differences between countries. For IVM resistance present was encountered in one Italian and two UK yards (3%), resistance present to MOX was not found in any yard in any country.

Parasites & Vectors, 2009

Mycoses, 2009

... Of the tested oils, those obtained from Cinnamomum qylanicum, Ocimum gra-tissimum, Cymbopogon... more ... Of the tested oils, those obtained from Cinnamomum qylanicum, Ocimum gra-tissimum, Cymbopogon citratus, Eugenia unzflora and Alpinia speciosa were found to be the most active, inhibiting 80% of the dermatophyte strains tested and producing inhibition zones more than ...

Research in Veterinary Science, 2014

Eucoleus aerophilus (syn. Capillaria aerophila) is a trichuroid nematode affecting domestic and w... more Eucoleus aerophilus (syn. Capillaria aerophila) is a trichuroid nematode affecting domestic and wild carnivores and, sometimes, humans. This parasite has a worldwide distribution and may cause significant clinical disease in pet animals. The present paper investigates the sequence variation in partial mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene of E. aerophilus isolates from pets and wild animals from different countries. Forty-four egg pools of E. aerophilus were collected from dogs, cats and foxes from Italy, while seventeen adult stages of E. aerophilus were obtained from red foxes and beech martens from Portugal, Romania, Serbia and UK. Fifteen different haplotypes were characterized and five were shared between pets in Italy and wildlife from Europe. The remaining haplotypes were either confined only in hosts or countries, or in a given host from a country. The phylogenetic analysis showed that all haplotypes clustered as a monophyletic group with a strong nodal support, indicating that all sequence types represented E. aerophilus. The results here presented have implications for a better understanding of the epidemiology, phylo-geography and clinical impact of E. aerophilus. In particular, the geographic distribution of E. aerophilus haplotypes in different host species and geographic regions, and their variation in terms of pathogenic impact and zoonotic role, warrant further investigations.

Veterinary Parasitology, 2008

Anoplocephala perfoliata (Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea), the commonest intestinal tapeworm of horses, ... more Anoplocephala perfoliata (Cestoda, Cyclophyllidea), the commonest intestinal tapeworm of horses, can cause colic, intussusceptions, ileal impactions and intestinal perforations. Common diagnostic techniques for A. perfoliata infection, i.e. coprology and serology, show inherent limitations in terms of sensitivity and specificity and new approaches are thus required. Hence, the present study compared the reliability of coprological, serological (i.e. ELISA) and molecular (i.e. nested PCR) methods in detecting A. perfoliata infection in naturally infected horses and in horses treated with a combination of ivermectin and praziquantel. Of 42 horses subjected to coprological examination, 16 and 26 resulted negative and positive, respectively for the presence of A. perfoliata eggs at the coprological examination. The 26 coprologically positive animals were also positive by nested PCR. Fifteen out of the 16 horses coprologically negative were negative at the molecular assay, while one yielded a PCR product detectable on an agarose gel. Eighteen out of 26 positive horses were treated with a combination of ivermectin 18.7 mg/g and praziquantel 140.3 mg/g and resulted subsequently negative by coprology and nested PCR performed 2 weeks after treatment. All infected and untreated animals had a high ELISA test optical density indicating high infection intensity and associated risk of colic. However, high optical density values were also obtained in four horses post-treatment and in three horses that were negative on molecular and coprological analysis. The results of the present work indicate that the nested PCR assay represents a valid method for the specific molecular detection of A. perfoliata in faecal samples collected from naturally infected horses and may have advantages over coprological and serological approaches for diagnosing A. perfoliata infection.

PCR-based assay for the mitochondrial cox1 specific amplification of Eucoleus böhmi

Veterinary Parasitology, 2015

Eucoleus böhmi (syn. Capillaria boehmi) is a trichuroid nematode affecting the epithelium of the ... more Eucoleus böhmi (syn. Capillaria boehmi) is a trichuroid nematode affecting the epithelium of the nasal turbinates, frontal and paranasal sinuses of wild and domestic canids. Knowledge of the geographic distribution of nasal eucoleosis is fragmentary, despite the infection has been described from Europe and North America. Moreover, gaps exist in information available on the importance of the disease in canine clinical practice. The lack of knowledge on E. böhmi is likely due to limitations inherent to diagnostic methodologies. The aim of the present work was to assess a PCR-based assay instrumental to the amplification of a species-specific region of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) gene encoding for the subunit 1 (cox1) gene of E. böhmi. Adult worms of E. böhmi from red foxes and dogs from Norway, Serbia and Italy and individual fecal samples from naturally infected dogs from Italy were included in the study. Stool samples from dogs negative for E. böhmi, but positive for other common parasites in both single and mixed infections, and adult stages of common dog parasites, were used to assess the specificity of this genetic assay. Using the panel of faecal samples, the assay showed a sensitivity of 85.14% and a specificity of 100%.

PCR-based assay for the mitochondrial cox1 specific amplification of Eucoleus böhmi

Veterinary Parasitology, 2015

Eucoleus böhmi (syn. Capillaria boehmi) is a trichuroid nematode affecting the epithelium of the ... more Eucoleus böhmi (syn. Capillaria boehmi) is a trichuroid nematode affecting the epithelium of the nasal turbinates, frontal and paranasal sinuses of wild and domestic canids. Knowledge of the geographic distribution of nasal eucoleosis is fragmentary, despite the infection has been described from Europe and North America. Moreover, gaps exist in information available on the importance of the disease in canine clinical practice. The lack of knowledge on E. böhmi is likely due to limitations inherent to diagnostic methodologies. The aim of the present work was to assess a PCR-based assay instrumental to the amplification of a species-specific region of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) gene encoding for the subunit 1 (cox1) gene of E. böhmi. Adult worms of E. böhmi from red foxes and dogs from Norway, Serbia and Italy and individual fecal samples from naturally infected dogs from Italy were included in the study. Stool samples from dogs negative for E. böhmi, but positive for other common parasites in both single and mixed infections, and adult stages of common dog parasites, were used to assess the specificity of this genetic assay. Using the panel of faecal samples, the assay showed a sensitivity of 85.14% and a specificity of 100%.

Medical and Veterinary Entomology, 2004

Arcaricidal properties of decoctions, infusions and macerates of dried flower heads of camomile, ... more Arcaricidal properties of decoctions, infusions and macerates of dried flower heads of camomile, Matricaria chamomilla L. (Asterales: Asteraceae) were tested in vitro against the mite Psoroptes cuniculi Delafond (Parasitiformes: Psoroptidae). This mite species is responsible for otoacariasis in domestic animals. Mites were exposed to the extracts for 24, 48 or 72 h. All the extracts tested showed highly significant acaricidal activity when compared with controls. Among them, a decoction of 10% was the only formulation which gave 100% activity at all the three observations times.

Medical and Veterinary Entomology, 1997