Papers by Veterinaria Italiana
Objective To validate the Italian translation of the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale
– Short... more Objective To validate the Italian translation of the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale
– Short Form (ICMPS‑SF) in order to assess acute pain in dogs. The original English‑version
of the scale (the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale – Short Form ‑ CMPS‑SF) was
translated into Italian according to a standard protocol to ensure linguistic and cultural
validity. Nine Italian veterinary surgeons then recorded pain scores in dogs undergoing
orthopaedic or soft tissue surgery using the ICMPS‑SF at 2, 6, and 24 hours post‑extubation.
Construct validity was demonstrated using hypothesis testing. A total of 95 dogs were
recruited into the study. Thirty‑seven dogs underwent orthopaedic procedures and 58 dogs
underwent soft tissue procedures. Twenty‑three, 45, and 27 procedures were classified as
mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. Statistically significant differences in the median
pain scores were demonstrated between orthopaedic and soft tissue cases as well as among
mild, moderate, and severe cases. Median pain scores decreased with time and changes were
statistically significant. The ICMPS‑SF demonstrated construct validity similar to the original
English‑language scale, resulting in a valid and reliable instrument for the assessment of
acute pain in dogs by Italian veterinarians.
Zika Virus (ZIKV) is a RNA virus belonging to the genus Flavivirus, family Flaviviridae. This vir... more Zika Virus (ZIKV) is a RNA virus belonging to the genus Flavivirus, family Flaviviridae. This virus
is transmitted through bite of Aedes mosquitoes, in particular Ae. aegypti. On February 1st 2016,
the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared ZIKV a Public Health Emergency of
International Concern. Successively, considering the establishment of Ae. albopictus, WHO
has classified Italy as having a moderate likelihood of local transmission of ZIKV, preceded
in Europe only by France. For this reason an entomological surveillance plan was been
activated in Sardinia in 2016. BG Sentinel Mosquito Traps have been positioned in 29 sites,
comprising urban areas and points of entry, as ports and airports. Mosquitoes were collected
fortnightly from April to December. A total of 3,089 mosquitoes were collected belonging
to 10 species. The most numerous species have been Cx. pipiens s.l. and Ae. albopictus. All
mosquitoes sampled have been assayed by real time reverse transcriptase PCR for detection
of ZIKV RNA. A total of 584 pool have been analyzed and have been reported no evidence
of ZIKV. A permanent entomological surveillance should be implemented principally in the
urban areas and points of entry, as ports and airports, because Ae. albopictus, susceptible to
ZIKV, is established in Sardinia and also know the recent introduction of invasive mosquitoes
species Ae. koericus and Ae. japonicus in Italy.
Canine leishmaniasis (CanL) is a systemic zoonotic disease caused by the protozoan Leishmania,
an... more Canine leishmaniasis (CanL) is a systemic zoonotic disease caused by the protozoan Leishmania,
an intracellular macrophage parasite, transmitted by the bite of phlebotomine sandflies. In dogs,
the clinical disease is mostly characterised by symptoms associated with viscerocutaneous
lesions such as lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, skin lesions, and renal and ocular disease
caused by the deposition of immune complexes. The parasite may provoke mucosal lesions
which cause atypical clinical signs. The aim of this study is to describe an atypical nostril mass
in a dog infected by Leishmania. Clinical examination did not show any systemic clinical signs,
while haematological, biochemical, and urinary parameters demonstrated a mild disease
stage. Diagnosis was confirmed through the isolation of cultured live parasites by biopsy. The
dog was treated with a combination of miltefosine and allopurinol, showing full remission of
clinical symptoms after 2 months. The authors outline the importance of considering CanL in
the differential diagnosis of mucous and tumour-like lesions.
The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2)
v... more The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2)
vaccination on the levels of viremia, the number of viremic-positive pigs, and production
performance [i.e. nursery mortality, post-weaning mortality, and average daily weight
gain (ADWG)] under field conditions. There were 140 farrow-to-finish pig herds involved in
this study. The vaccination of piglets was implemented in 82 of the 140 herds. In each herd
blood samples were collected from sows and pigs in different age category. In addition, a
questionnaire regarding the production performance was provided for each herd. Results
demonstrate that the vaccination of piglets prevented the development of viremia in 23.2% of
herds. Significant decreases in the levels of PCV2 DNA in serum and in the number of viremic
pigs were also noted. These results indicate that the vaccination of piglets against PCV2 is a
useful tool in controlling the PCV2 infection in herds with a high risk of a wide range of viral
and bacterial agents, poor management strategies, and a low level of biosecurity practices.
Contagious agalactia (CA) is a serious disease of small ruminants that occurs in many countries, ... more Contagious agalactia (CA) is a serious disease of small ruminants that occurs in many countries, and is usually characterized by mastitis, arthritis, keratoconjunctivitis, pleuropneumonia, and septicemia. Mycoplasma agalactiae (Ma) is the main causative agent in sheep and goats but other pathogens including Mycoplasma mycoides subsp. capri (Mmc, which incorporates the former M. mycoides subsp. mycoides Large Colony type), Mycoplasma capricolum subsp. capricolum (Mcc), and Mycoplasma putrefaciens (Mp) might be involved. They are all usually associated with infections in goats and may cause similar clinical signs. A total of 116 sheep and 16 goats suffering from the acute form of the disease were included in this study. They were recruited following a number of outbreaks suspected to be CA in the Ardebil province of Iran. Milk, lachrymal or synovial fluid were collected exclusively from the affected animals in order to identify the pathogen involved. Of the 132 collected samples, 33 (25%) were positive for Mycoplasma species by culture in PPLO broth and agar. The polymerase chain reaction followed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR/DGGE) method identified 18 (12 sheep and 6 goats) of the 33 Mycoplasma positive samples with mixed Mycoplasma population. In particular, 25 Ma (47.2%), 23 Mp (43.4%), 4 Mcc (7.5%), and 1 Mmc (1.9%) were identified. This confirms that the several Mycoplasma species rather than the Ma only are in circulation, and are able to cause CA in sheep and goats in Iran. This is the first report on the isolation and identification of Mp, Mmc and Mcc in infected small ruminant flocks in Iran.
In this study 252 poultry samples comprised of poultry meat (n = 228) and poultry eggs
(n = 24) w... more In this study 252 poultry samples comprised of poultry meat (n = 228) and poultry eggs
(n = 24) were screened for the isolation of Escherichia coli (E. coli). A total of 62 E. coli isolates
were recovered from poultry meat. The E. coli isolates belonged to different serogroups
based on ‘O’ serotyping of the isolates viz O29 (10.8%), O8 (7.7%), O40 (6.15%), O2 (4.61%),
O60 (3.08%), O106 (3.08%), 42 (1.54%), O 87 (1.54%), and 01 serotypes of O1, O7, O30, O45,
O59, O66, O105, O1116, O136, O141, O147, O148, O166, and O172. Sixteen (24.62%) of the
isolates were UT (untypable) and 6 (9.23 %) were rough types. Molecular characterisation of
the isolates was performed, targeting stx1 and stx2 virulence gene fragment. Out of 62 E. coli
isolates, 10 (16.12%) were carrying virulence gene stx2, whereas none of the isolate was
carrying stx1 gene. The E. coli isolates showed wide variation in resistance pattern against
the antimicrobial agents that we used (9-90%). Among E. coli isolates, maximum resistance
was observed against cefuroxime (89.1%) and penicillin (89.4%), followed by ampicillin
(80.43%), vancomycin (74.1%), co-trimoxazole (73.1%), cephalothin (60.8%), ceftriaxone
(28.2%), tetracycline (17.4%), gentamicin (13%), amikacin (13.04%), ofloxacin (13%), and
ciprofloxacin (6.5%). A high degree of susceptibility was observed against amikacin (84.7%)
and ciprofloxacin (76%) followed by gentamicin (71.73) and ofloxacin (60.86%). High multiple
antibiotic resistances were observed and a total of 34 resistance patterns were identified.
The virulence gene profile of 26 rabbit enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strains, isolated from ... more The virulence gene profile of 26 rabbit enteropathogenic Escherichia coli strains, isolated from 17 colibacillosis outbreaks located in two regions of Northern Italy, was determined using an Echerichia coli virulence DNA microarray. All strains were classified according to their determined biotype, sero-and phylo-group. The distribution of virulence genes encoding for the Locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE), LEE type III secretion system (T3SS), non-LEE T3SS translocated proteins and adherence factors was also determined. All strains but one belonged to phylogroups A and B1. A prevalent association between the O103 serogroup with the rhamnose-negative phenotype (biotype 12 or 14) was found. The most prevalent LEE profile found in tested strains was ler/cesT/espA-1/espB-3/tir-1/eae(beta)/espD-2/escN/eprJ. All strains possessed either the adhesive factor rabbit-2 (afr/2) or the plasmid Rabbit adherence locus (ral) gene and 24 of them an additional individual or combined set of colonization factors efa1/lifA, lpfA and paa genes. Finally, the combined or single presence of a set of LEE and/or non-LEE effector proteins encoding genes, namely espG, cif, map and nle family genes, attested to the genetic potential of investigated strains to induce pathologic lesions to the host. The application of microarray-based technologies in assessing the genetic profile of rabbit E. coli is a reliable, cost-effective candidate for large scale investigations in monitoring programs aimed to survey the circulation of pathogenic strains within rabbit production units, their zoonotic genetic potential and to select E. coli strains eligible for vaccinal prophylaxis in fattening rabbit production.
Large game animals play an important role as carriers and transmitters of O157:H7 and non‑O157:H7... more Large game animals play an important role as carriers and transmitters of O157:H7 and non‑O157:H7 Shiga toxin‑producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in nature. Fresh meat obtained from game animals has been identified as an important source of food‑borne STEC infections. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of the top 6 non‑O157 STEC strains (serogroups O26, O45, O103, O111, O121, and O145) in Namibian game meat based on testing for stx, eae, and O‑group‑specific genes. Meat samples from gemsboks (Oryx gazella) (n = 75), springboks (Antidorcas marsupialis) (n = 41), greater kudus (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) (n = 5), and wildebeests (Connochaetes taurinus) (n = 5) were collected from 2 Namibian abattoirs and tested for STEC using real‑time PCR techniques. Both Shiga toxin (stx) and intimin (eae) virulence genes were detected in 94 out of 126 samples (74.6%). Five of the top 6 STEC serogroup‑specific genes were also detected in samples that were positive for both the stx and eae genes. The results of this study show a high incidence of non‑O157 STEC O‑group genes in Namibian game meat, which suggests that further scrutiny and testing may be necessary to avoid foodborne outbreaks.
According to European Union (EU) regulations, the serological tests for the eradication of bovine... more According to European Union (EU) regulations, the serological tests for the eradication of bovine and ovine brucellosis are the Rose Bengal Test, Complement Fixation Test, and i‑ELISA. These methods, also recommended by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) for international trades, have limitations related to the use of suspensions of smooth Brucellae or LPS extracts. Limitations include false‑positive serological reactions to brucellosis, which in turn impedes accurate diagnosis in some herds. False positive reactions should be considered carefully during the final stages of an eradication programme and for surveillance purposes in brucellosis‑free areas. In this study, we produced specific sera through the experimental infection of sheep with Y. enterocolitica O:9 and E. coli O157:H7. These are the most important cross‑reactive bacteria with Brucella. We then evaluated the antibody response of groups of sheep that had been immunised towards homologous antigens and official antigens for brucellosis, in order to identify a differential diagnostic protocol to distinguish cross‑reaction in Brucella‑infected animals. Cross‑reactivity in serological tests for brucellosis: a comparison of immune response of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Yersinia enterocolitica O:9 vs Brucella spp.
The present case study concerns a case of predation of 4 individuals of captive pink flamingo in ... more The present case study concerns a case of predation of 4 individuals of captive pink flamingo in Emilia Romagna Region, Northeastern Italy. The pink flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus) is a species included in the Red List of Threatened Species established by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) which lists species in danger of extinction. During the Winter of 2013, 4 flamingos (2 in the Comacchio area, and 2 from Argenta and Codigoro oases – Ferrara province) were found dead some of them headless, with their bodies severely bitten. At first, a fox (Vulpes vulpes) was suspected to be the predator responsible for the killing and the birds were taken to the laboratory for further investigations. The investigations included: field observations, study of the predator behaviour, necropsy examinations, assessment of the intercanine distance, and genetic analysis on the predator's traces. The intercanine distance indicated that the predator could not have been a fox. The analysis of salivary DNA samples enabled us to establish that the predator was in fact a dog. This case highlights the importance of co‑operation among the various branches of forensic sciences and the great usefulness of the roles filled by other veterinary forensic experts involved in solving crime. Veterinary forensic sciences to solve a fatal case of predation on flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus)
Reproductive disorders are responsible for significant economic losses in canary aviculture due t... more Reproductive disorders are responsible for significant economic losses in canary aviculture due to embryo and newborn chick mortality. Most of the time, deaths are caused by bacterial pathogens, however little published data exist about the prevalence of bacterial isolates that are identified during diagnostic protocols. This study reports on data collected from previous investigations carried out on cloacal swabs (n 456), unhatched eggs (n 52), and dead newborn chicks (n 68) collected from canary aviaries with a history of reproductive disorders. Of the examined samples, 41% were positive for the presence of pathogenic or potentially pathogenic bacteria, with particular regard to Gram negative species during bacteriological investigations. The most prevalent microorganisms were Gram‑negative (55%). A predominance of Klebsiella, Escherichia, and Pantoea genera was observed. These are usually associated to pathological conditions in pet birds. Among Gram‑positive bacteria, Bacillus spp. and Staphylococcus spp. were most prevalent. The antimicrobial susceptibility testing carried out on bacterial isolates showed a multiple resistance, especially against amoxycillin, erythromycin, spiramycin, tiamulin, and tylosin. This study represents a first attempt to provide an update on microbial causes of embryonic and neonatal mortality in canary aviaries in Italy; in addition, it provides further understandings about the efficacy of antimicrobial therapy. Reproductive disorders in domestic canaries (Serinus canarius domesticus): a retrospective study on bacterial isolates and their antimicrobial resistance in Italy from 2009 to 2012
In this study we examined macroscopic and microscopic lesions in the mitral valves of 50 regularl... more In this study we examined macroscopic and microscopic lesions in the mitral valves of 50 regularly slaughtered horses in Italy. Macroscopically the results were minor. Microscopic lesions to the valve were found in both young and elderly subjects, confirming that there is no correlation between age and onset of lesions. We set out to evaluate whether the lesions correspond to valve disorder during the life of the animal.
Pteropine Orthoreoviruses (PRVs) are fusogenic bat‑borne orthoreoviruses that cause flu‑like uppe... more Pteropine Orthoreoviruses (PRVs) are fusogenic bat‑borne orthoreoviruses that cause flu‑like upper respiratory tract infections in humans. The presence of this group of viruses in bats and humans has been well documented in areas where their biological reservoirs – fruit bats (family Pteropodidae) – live densely. In the present study, a serum neutralization (SN) assay to detect neutralizing antibodies against PRV Indonesia/2010 isolate was set up and used to assess the seroprevalence of this virus in Italian domestic animals. The new developed assay was able of detecting PRV neutralizing antibodies in the hyper‑immune polyclonal serum produced in rabbits (titer of 1:160). The negative serum was negative at all tested dilutions. No cross‑reactions have been evidenced neither against reference MRVs nor against their respective hyper‑immune sera. Eight hundred and fifty‑three serum samples collected from 524 bovines, 271 small ruminants, and 58 horses (all used as sentinel animals in the Bluetongue and West Nile disease National surveillance program) were also tested with the new developed SN assay. According to the results of this survey, neither PRV nor PRV cross‑reacting viruses antibodies have been demonstrated in Italian domestic animals. However, the new developed SN assay could be a very valuable diagnostic tool to detect infection in animals and humans.
The healing of wounds located on the equine distal limbs can often be impaired, which can result ... more The healing of wounds located on the equine distal limbs can often be impaired, which can result in exuberant granulation tissue and its associated aesthetic alteration and functional failures. Although a number of therapies have been developed and assessed, the treatment of these wounds still presents challenges. This report describes the treatment of exuberant granulation tissue in a horse using an intra‑lesional injection of 4% formaldehyde solution. The successful outcome of this treatment suggests that further investigations are required in order to better evaluate its efficacy, as well as the incidence and the severity of any adverse reaction.
Noroviruses and hepatitis A virus are the pathogens most frequently involved in non‑bacterial gas... more Noroviruses and hepatitis A virus are the pathogens most frequently involved in non‑bacterial gastroenteritis and hepatitis worldwide. They are mainly transmitted via the faecal–oral route, direct person‑to‑person contact or through the consumption of contaminated water and foods. In food virology, detection methods of these viruses are currently based on real‑time reverse transcription‑polymerase chain reaction (RT‑PCR). A crucial step in this process is the acid nucleic extraction, since its performance can negatively influence viral detection and thus give false negative results. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of 2 automated extraction systems, MagMAX Express and EZ1 Advanced XL, in recovering hepatitis A virus and norovirus RNA from mussels. In the present study, we used mengovirus as a process control to assess the efficiency of the extraction process. Samples were tested for mengovirus, hepatitis A, and norovirus by real time one‑step RT‑PCR assay. Our data indicates the MagMax Express is the better system to extract hepatitis A and norovirus RNA from mussels since its extraction efficiency was higher (p < 0.05) than EZ1 Advanced XL.
In the last decades, adverse food reactions have increased considerably in dogs and cats. In this... more In the last decades, adverse food reactions have increased considerably in dogs and cats. In this study we report on the possible onset of food intolerances symptoms, including otitis, diarrhoea, generalised anxiety, and dermatitis in a cohort of 8 dogs consuming commercial diets. All dogs received an organic chicken‑based diet for 15 days. We performed analysis of blood biochemical parameters, kibble composition, and oxytetracycline (OTC) serum concentration before and after 15 days of organic chicken‑based diet supplementation. We hypothesised that a chronic intake of contaminated food enhanced by the presence of nanoparticle aggregates might be at the base of the onset of pharmacologic or idiopathic food intolerances. At the end of the evaluation period, an overall significant reduction of otitis, diarrhoea, generalised anxiety, and dermatitis was observed. Biochemical analyses indicate a significant increase in the alkaline phosphatase, from 41 to 52.5 U/L, after 15 days (**p < 0.01), while a significant decrease in Gamma‑glutamyl transferase and urea, from 9.37 to 6.25 U/L and from 32.13 ± 8.72 to 22.13 ± 7.8 mg/dL, respectively, was observed (*p < 0.05). A significant decrease, from 0.22 to 0.02 μg/mL, in mean OTC serum concentration was also observed (**p < 0.01). Composition analysis revealed the presence of OTC, calcium, aluminium, silicon, and phosphorous nanoparticle aggregates. Further research on a wider sample size would help to confirm the hypothesis proposed here.
This study aimed to isolate, define the genetic profile, assess potential pathogenicity and evalu... more This study aimed to isolate, define the genetic profile, assess potential pathogenicity and evaluate the seasonal distribution of Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus, and Vibrio vulnificus strains isolated from the Vibrata river (Abruzzo Region, Italy) during a monitoring period of one year. Detection was performed according to ISO/TS 21872-1-2:2007. Species identification and characterisation were achieved using molecular methods. Vibrio spp. were detected in 50% (23) of the water samples. In particular, V. cholerae, V. parahaemolyticus, and V. vulnificus were isolated in 18 (39.1%), 4 (8.7%), and 2 (4.3%) samples, respectively. All V. parahaemolyticus strains were tdh gene negative, 75% were positive for trh gene. In 30 V. cholerae isolates, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for detecting virulence and regulatory genes (ctxA, toxR, tcpA, ompU, hlyA, tcpI, zot, and stn/sto) revealed 6 genotypes associated to different levels of pathogenicity. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) characterisation of the V. cholerae strains identified 13 different pulsotypes. A greater degree of similarity was shown for strains isolated in the same period of the year. Results of our study reveal a potential health risk associated with the waters of the Vibrata river, which are used for irrigation and next to the swimming areas of Abruzzo coastline.
Widely spread in nature, Yersinia enterocolitica (YE) is a foodborne pathogen of major health
and... more Widely spread in nature, Yersinia enterocolitica (YE) is a foodborne pathogen of major health
and economic significance in developed countries. The aim of this study is to analyse YE strains
isolated from 400 slaughtered pigs from the Abruzzo region, Italy, using biochemical tests
and a multiplex polymerase chain reaction PCR detecting 6 chromosomal genes (ystA, irp2,
16s, ail, inv, hemR) and one plasmid‑borne virulence gene (yadA). Antimicrobial susceptibility
was evaluated and pulsed‑field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was also performed in order to
assess phylogenetic diversity. In total, 56 samples of porcine tonsils (14%) were found to be
positive for the presence of pathogenic YE. All YE belonged to the pathogenic bioserotype
4/O:3. All YE samples were positive for the chromosomal virulence genes ystA, ail, and inv,
whereas results for the presence of yadA and hemR were variable. This study found that YE
isolates were resistant to ampicillin (100%), streptomycin (26.79%), sulfisoxazole (19.65%),
tetracycline (16.08%), nalidixic acid (14.30%), and chloramphenicol (10.72%). The strains
characterised by PFGE showed a high similarity. This study demonstrates the usefulness of
multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) compared with conventional phenotypic assays
for the identification of pathogenic YE isolates and the limitations of PFGE for the molecular
typing of YE bioserotype 4/O:3.
In the South Mediterranean and Middle East region, interactions between humans, animals, and the ... more In the South Mediterranean and Middle East region, interactions between humans, animals, and the surrounding environment are frequently close. This fact is mainly manifested in traditional farming settings (by sedentary, semi‑sedentary, and nomadic communities) as well as where livestock intensification has been introduced. A combination of complex factors in these settings (e.g. challenges in country infrastructures and cross‑sectoral collaboration/ coordination, traditional habits, poor social information, etc.) contribute to the emergence and, occasionally, to the endemic pattern of zoonoses. The phenomenal growth of international travel and trade, population displacement, and unhygienic settlements has increased the speed and ease with which pathogens and vectors can cross continents and cause outbreaks and epidemics. Programmes for the prevention and control of zoonoses have been implemented in several countries in this region; however, the expected results have not always been realised. The conflicts and civil unrest affecting certain countries in this region during the last decade, together with the mass displacement of people seeking refuge, have resulted in serious epidemiological and social impacts. Zoonoses and related food‑borne diseases are, indeed, a worldwide challenge, whose prevention and control mainly depend on the actions of national authorities. Once peace has been established in this region, authorities need to address the burden of these diseases through resource mobilisation, the implementation of international agencies' technical guidance, and inter‑country collaboration.
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Papers by Veterinaria Italiana
– Short Form (ICMPS‑SF) in order to assess acute pain in dogs. The original English‑version
of the scale (the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale – Short Form ‑ CMPS‑SF) was
translated into Italian according to a standard protocol to ensure linguistic and cultural
validity. Nine Italian veterinary surgeons then recorded pain scores in dogs undergoing
orthopaedic or soft tissue surgery using the ICMPS‑SF at 2, 6, and 24 hours post‑extubation.
Construct validity was demonstrated using hypothesis testing. A total of 95 dogs were
recruited into the study. Thirty‑seven dogs underwent orthopaedic procedures and 58 dogs
underwent soft tissue procedures. Twenty‑three, 45, and 27 procedures were classified as
mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. Statistically significant differences in the median
pain scores were demonstrated between orthopaedic and soft tissue cases as well as among
mild, moderate, and severe cases. Median pain scores decreased with time and changes were
statistically significant. The ICMPS‑SF demonstrated construct validity similar to the original
English‑language scale, resulting in a valid and reliable instrument for the assessment of
acute pain in dogs by Italian veterinarians.
is transmitted through bite of Aedes mosquitoes, in particular Ae. aegypti. On February 1st 2016,
the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared ZIKV a Public Health Emergency of
International Concern. Successively, considering the establishment of Ae. albopictus, WHO
has classified Italy as having a moderate likelihood of local transmission of ZIKV, preceded
in Europe only by France. For this reason an entomological surveillance plan was been
activated in Sardinia in 2016. BG Sentinel Mosquito Traps have been positioned in 29 sites,
comprising urban areas and points of entry, as ports and airports. Mosquitoes were collected
fortnightly from April to December. A total of 3,089 mosquitoes were collected belonging
to 10 species. The most numerous species have been Cx. pipiens s.l. and Ae. albopictus. All
mosquitoes sampled have been assayed by real time reverse transcriptase PCR for detection
of ZIKV RNA. A total of 584 pool have been analyzed and have been reported no evidence
of ZIKV. A permanent entomological surveillance should be implemented principally in the
urban areas and points of entry, as ports and airports, because Ae. albopictus, susceptible to
ZIKV, is established in Sardinia and also know the recent introduction of invasive mosquitoes
species Ae. koericus and Ae. japonicus in Italy.
an intracellular macrophage parasite, transmitted by the bite of phlebotomine sandflies. In dogs,
the clinical disease is mostly characterised by symptoms associated with viscerocutaneous
lesions such as lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, skin lesions, and renal and ocular disease
caused by the deposition of immune complexes. The parasite may provoke mucosal lesions
which cause atypical clinical signs. The aim of this study is to describe an atypical nostril mass
in a dog infected by Leishmania. Clinical examination did not show any systemic clinical signs,
while haematological, biochemical, and urinary parameters demonstrated a mild disease
stage. Diagnosis was confirmed through the isolation of cultured live parasites by biopsy. The
dog was treated with a combination of miltefosine and allopurinol, showing full remission of
clinical symptoms after 2 months. The authors outline the importance of considering CanL in
the differential diagnosis of mucous and tumour-like lesions.
vaccination on the levels of viremia, the number of viremic-positive pigs, and production
performance [i.e. nursery mortality, post-weaning mortality, and average daily weight
gain (ADWG)] under field conditions. There were 140 farrow-to-finish pig herds involved in
this study. The vaccination of piglets was implemented in 82 of the 140 herds. In each herd
blood samples were collected from sows and pigs in different age category. In addition, a
questionnaire regarding the production performance was provided for each herd. Results
demonstrate that the vaccination of piglets prevented the development of viremia in 23.2% of
herds. Significant decreases in the levels of PCV2 DNA in serum and in the number of viremic
pigs were also noted. These results indicate that the vaccination of piglets against PCV2 is a
useful tool in controlling the PCV2 infection in herds with a high risk of a wide range of viral
and bacterial agents, poor management strategies, and a low level of biosecurity practices.
(n = 24) were screened for the isolation of Escherichia coli (E. coli). A total of 62 E. coli isolates
were recovered from poultry meat. The E. coli isolates belonged to different serogroups
based on ‘O’ serotyping of the isolates viz O29 (10.8%), O8 (7.7%), O40 (6.15%), O2 (4.61%),
O60 (3.08%), O106 (3.08%), 42 (1.54%), O 87 (1.54%), and 01 serotypes of O1, O7, O30, O45,
O59, O66, O105, O1116, O136, O141, O147, O148, O166, and O172. Sixteen (24.62%) of the
isolates were UT (untypable) and 6 (9.23 %) were rough types. Molecular characterisation of
the isolates was performed, targeting stx1 and stx2 virulence gene fragment. Out of 62 E. coli
isolates, 10 (16.12%) were carrying virulence gene stx2, whereas none of the isolate was
carrying stx1 gene. The E. coli isolates showed wide variation in resistance pattern against
the antimicrobial agents that we used (9-90%). Among E. coli isolates, maximum resistance
was observed against cefuroxime (89.1%) and penicillin (89.4%), followed by ampicillin
(80.43%), vancomycin (74.1%), co-trimoxazole (73.1%), cephalothin (60.8%), ceftriaxone
(28.2%), tetracycline (17.4%), gentamicin (13%), amikacin (13.04%), ofloxacin (13%), and
ciprofloxacin (6.5%). A high degree of susceptibility was observed against amikacin (84.7%)
and ciprofloxacin (76%) followed by gentamicin (71.73) and ofloxacin (60.86%). High multiple
antibiotic resistances were observed and a total of 34 resistance patterns were identified.
and economic significance in developed countries. The aim of this study is to analyse YE strains
isolated from 400 slaughtered pigs from the Abruzzo region, Italy, using biochemical tests
and a multiplex polymerase chain reaction PCR detecting 6 chromosomal genes (ystA, irp2,
16s, ail, inv, hemR) and one plasmid‑borne virulence gene (yadA). Antimicrobial susceptibility
was evaluated and pulsed‑field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was also performed in order to
assess phylogenetic diversity. In total, 56 samples of porcine tonsils (14%) were found to be
positive for the presence of pathogenic YE. All YE belonged to the pathogenic bioserotype
4/O:3. All YE samples were positive for the chromosomal virulence genes ystA, ail, and inv,
whereas results for the presence of yadA and hemR were variable. This study found that YE
isolates were resistant to ampicillin (100%), streptomycin (26.79%), sulfisoxazole (19.65%),
tetracycline (16.08%), nalidixic acid (14.30%), and chloramphenicol (10.72%). The strains
characterised by PFGE showed a high similarity. This study demonstrates the usefulness of
multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) compared with conventional phenotypic assays
for the identification of pathogenic YE isolates and the limitations of PFGE for the molecular
typing of YE bioserotype 4/O:3.
– Short Form (ICMPS‑SF) in order to assess acute pain in dogs. The original English‑version
of the scale (the Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale – Short Form ‑ CMPS‑SF) was
translated into Italian according to a standard protocol to ensure linguistic and cultural
validity. Nine Italian veterinary surgeons then recorded pain scores in dogs undergoing
orthopaedic or soft tissue surgery using the ICMPS‑SF at 2, 6, and 24 hours post‑extubation.
Construct validity was demonstrated using hypothesis testing. A total of 95 dogs were
recruited into the study. Thirty‑seven dogs underwent orthopaedic procedures and 58 dogs
underwent soft tissue procedures. Twenty‑three, 45, and 27 procedures were classified as
mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. Statistically significant differences in the median
pain scores were demonstrated between orthopaedic and soft tissue cases as well as among
mild, moderate, and severe cases. Median pain scores decreased with time and changes were
statistically significant. The ICMPS‑SF demonstrated construct validity similar to the original
English‑language scale, resulting in a valid and reliable instrument for the assessment of
acute pain in dogs by Italian veterinarians.
is transmitted through bite of Aedes mosquitoes, in particular Ae. aegypti. On February 1st 2016,
the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared ZIKV a Public Health Emergency of
International Concern. Successively, considering the establishment of Ae. albopictus, WHO
has classified Italy as having a moderate likelihood of local transmission of ZIKV, preceded
in Europe only by France. For this reason an entomological surveillance plan was been
activated in Sardinia in 2016. BG Sentinel Mosquito Traps have been positioned in 29 sites,
comprising urban areas and points of entry, as ports and airports. Mosquitoes were collected
fortnightly from April to December. A total of 3,089 mosquitoes were collected belonging
to 10 species. The most numerous species have been Cx. pipiens s.l. and Ae. albopictus. All
mosquitoes sampled have been assayed by real time reverse transcriptase PCR for detection
of ZIKV RNA. A total of 584 pool have been analyzed and have been reported no evidence
of ZIKV. A permanent entomological surveillance should be implemented principally in the
urban areas and points of entry, as ports and airports, because Ae. albopictus, susceptible to
ZIKV, is established in Sardinia and also know the recent introduction of invasive mosquitoes
species Ae. koericus and Ae. japonicus in Italy.
an intracellular macrophage parasite, transmitted by the bite of phlebotomine sandflies. In dogs,
the clinical disease is mostly characterised by symptoms associated with viscerocutaneous
lesions such as lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, skin lesions, and renal and ocular disease
caused by the deposition of immune complexes. The parasite may provoke mucosal lesions
which cause atypical clinical signs. The aim of this study is to describe an atypical nostril mass
in a dog infected by Leishmania. Clinical examination did not show any systemic clinical signs,
while haematological, biochemical, and urinary parameters demonstrated a mild disease
stage. Diagnosis was confirmed through the isolation of cultured live parasites by biopsy. The
dog was treated with a combination of miltefosine and allopurinol, showing full remission of
clinical symptoms after 2 months. The authors outline the importance of considering CanL in
the differential diagnosis of mucous and tumour-like lesions.
vaccination on the levels of viremia, the number of viremic-positive pigs, and production
performance [i.e. nursery mortality, post-weaning mortality, and average daily weight
gain (ADWG)] under field conditions. There were 140 farrow-to-finish pig herds involved in
this study. The vaccination of piglets was implemented in 82 of the 140 herds. In each herd
blood samples were collected from sows and pigs in different age category. In addition, a
questionnaire regarding the production performance was provided for each herd. Results
demonstrate that the vaccination of piglets prevented the development of viremia in 23.2% of
herds. Significant decreases in the levels of PCV2 DNA in serum and in the number of viremic
pigs were also noted. These results indicate that the vaccination of piglets against PCV2 is a
useful tool in controlling the PCV2 infection in herds with a high risk of a wide range of viral
and bacterial agents, poor management strategies, and a low level of biosecurity practices.
(n = 24) were screened for the isolation of Escherichia coli (E. coli). A total of 62 E. coli isolates
were recovered from poultry meat. The E. coli isolates belonged to different serogroups
based on ‘O’ serotyping of the isolates viz O29 (10.8%), O8 (7.7%), O40 (6.15%), O2 (4.61%),
O60 (3.08%), O106 (3.08%), 42 (1.54%), O 87 (1.54%), and 01 serotypes of O1, O7, O30, O45,
O59, O66, O105, O1116, O136, O141, O147, O148, O166, and O172. Sixteen (24.62%) of the
isolates were UT (untypable) and 6 (9.23 %) were rough types. Molecular characterisation of
the isolates was performed, targeting stx1 and stx2 virulence gene fragment. Out of 62 E. coli
isolates, 10 (16.12%) were carrying virulence gene stx2, whereas none of the isolate was
carrying stx1 gene. The E. coli isolates showed wide variation in resistance pattern against
the antimicrobial agents that we used (9-90%). Among E. coli isolates, maximum resistance
was observed against cefuroxime (89.1%) and penicillin (89.4%), followed by ampicillin
(80.43%), vancomycin (74.1%), co-trimoxazole (73.1%), cephalothin (60.8%), ceftriaxone
(28.2%), tetracycline (17.4%), gentamicin (13%), amikacin (13.04%), ofloxacin (13%), and
ciprofloxacin (6.5%). A high degree of susceptibility was observed against amikacin (84.7%)
and ciprofloxacin (76%) followed by gentamicin (71.73) and ofloxacin (60.86%). High multiple
antibiotic resistances were observed and a total of 34 resistance patterns were identified.
and economic significance in developed countries. The aim of this study is to analyse YE strains
isolated from 400 slaughtered pigs from the Abruzzo region, Italy, using biochemical tests
and a multiplex polymerase chain reaction PCR detecting 6 chromosomal genes (ystA, irp2,
16s, ail, inv, hemR) and one plasmid‑borne virulence gene (yadA). Antimicrobial susceptibility
was evaluated and pulsed‑field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) was also performed in order to
assess phylogenetic diversity. In total, 56 samples of porcine tonsils (14%) were found to be
positive for the presence of pathogenic YE. All YE belonged to the pathogenic bioserotype
4/O:3. All YE samples were positive for the chromosomal virulence genes ystA, ail, and inv,
whereas results for the presence of yadA and hemR were variable. This study found that YE
isolates were resistant to ampicillin (100%), streptomycin (26.79%), sulfisoxazole (19.65%),
tetracycline (16.08%), nalidixic acid (14.30%), and chloramphenicol (10.72%). The strains
characterised by PFGE showed a high similarity. This study demonstrates the usefulness of
multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) compared with conventional phenotypic assays
for the identification of pathogenic YE isolates and the limitations of PFGE for the molecular
typing of YE bioserotype 4/O:3.
analysis of 9 viral genes (Seg1, Seg2, Seg3, Seg4, Seg5, Seg6, Seg8, Seg9, and Seg10) from 8 Israeli BTV‑24 isolates and relate the genotype of the BTV‑24 isolates to their phenotype with regard to clinical manifestations. The high level of genetic identity (> 99.6%) between
Seg2, Seg4 and Seg5 in all 8 BTV‑24 isolates indicated that these segments shared the same viral ancestor. Phylogenetic analysis of Seg1, Seg3, Seg5, Seg8, Seg9, and Seg10 revealed that the Israeli BTV‑24 strains comprised 4 variants. Five of the viruses revealed high identity among all 9 segments, and represented variant 1. A second variant (BTV24/3027/6/10), isolated in 2010, showed significant variation from variant 1 in 3 gene segments (VP‑1,
VP‑3, and NS‑3 genes). A third variant (BTV24/3027/1/10) showed significant variation from variant 1 in 6 segments (VP‑1, VP‑3, VP‑6 and NS‑1, NS‑2 and NS‑3 genes), while a fourth variant (BTV24/2214/1/10) showed significant variation from variant 1 in 4 segments (VP‑1, NS‑1, NS‑2 and NS‑3 genes). These marked differences in sequence identity indicate that a high level of genetic reassortment is occurring between co‑circulating BTV strains in Israel.
Culicoides propagation, and susceptible sheep breeds may be contributing to the higher incidence of Bluetongue (BT) in Southern states of India. Sheep farming in this part of the country is nomadic in nature and BT is one of the major infectious diseases inflicting huge losses. Andhra Pradesh is one of the Southern states with high sheep population in India. Although isolation studies in this
region were started in 1993, concerted efforts only began in 2002. More than 50 isolates were obtained in the last decade, and 7 Bluetongue virus (BTV) serotypes (1, 2, 9, 10, 12, 16 and 21) were isolated. Among them, BTV-10, BTV-12, and BTV-21 were reported for the first time from India and the genome analysis of these viruses revealed that BTV-10 and BTV-12 have high sequence identity with the modified live virus (MLV) vaccines used in USA and
South Africa, respectively. At the same time, BTV-21 has probably originated from Southeast Asia. Furthermore, some of the BTV isolated from Europe have high sequence identity with viruses isolated from Andhra Pradesh indicating common ancestry. The analysis of different
isolates involved in outbreaks revealed that more than 1 BTV serotype is involved and that mixed infections with different serotypes is not uncommon. In a limited study conducted during 2005-2009, it was observed that most of the sheep seroconverted to more than
1 serotype, which further supports circulation of multiple serotypes and mixed infections in Andhra Pradesh. Based on the virus isolation data, in this study it was observed that a few serotypes dominate for 3-4 years followed by domination of others. Continuous monitoring
of circulating serotypes is essential to understand the distribution and spread BTV in endemic areas and for devising suitable control measures.
during 1982 with regular occurrence thereafter. In 1989-1990, 1997-1998 and 2005-2006, there was wide spread occurrence of BT resulting in huge mortality of sheep. The present study had the goal of isolating the BTV from outbreaks in sheep occurred in Tamil Naadu
between 2003-2011 and comparing the VP2 gene sequences of the BTV isolates involved in such outbreaks. Serotypes 1, 2, 16, and 23 of the Bluetongue virus (BTV) have been isolated from sheep during BT outbreaks. BTV-16 has also been isolated in goats and cattle in the
region; BTV-2 isolated in Tamil Nadu has homology with BTV-2 isolated in Africa; whereas the BTV-23 isolated in this area has homology with BTV-23 from South East Asia, indicating that both Eastern and Western topotypes of BTV are circulating in ruminant population in Tamil Nadu.
ulceration and hyperaemia of the oral mucosa which is characteristic of this viral infection in sheep. The diagnosis was confirmed by virus isolation in embryonated eggs and subsequent sequencing of the extracted RNA. Assembled sequences were subjected to Blast analysis and two of the isolates could be verified as BTV 3. These cases, originating from the Western Cape Province of South Africa, represents the first official report of BTV infection in alpacas in Africa and demonstrates the susceptibility of the species to this disease when maintained in BTV endemic areas.
forming the Obsoletus complex. This study presents the findings made over the last decade and more, within the Italian entomological surveillance program for Bluetongue. It describes the integrated morphological and molecular approach used to identify the species of the ‘C. obsoletus group’, maps in detail their relative abundances and geographic ranges in Italy, clarifies the hitherto unknown comparative seasonal abundances of C. obsoletus s.s.
and C. scoticus in a site in Central Italy, and provides further details on the potential vector status of five species of the ‘C. obsoletus group’, with emphasis on C. obsoletus s.s., C. scoticus and
C. montanus. Unlike the situation in Northern Europe, Culicoides dewulfi
and C. chiopterus are uncommon to rare in Italy. In contrast, the Obsoletus complex occurs abundantly throughout Italy, with
C. obsoletus s.s. being the most prevalent and ecologically adaptive of the three species making up the complex. A longitudinal study conducted at a site in Central Italy revealed that: (i) species of the Obsoletus complex prefer horses to sheep; (ii) their parity rates range from 10% (March) to 56% (November); (iii) throughout the year C. scoticus is consistently more abundant than C. obsoletus s.s.
; (iv) abundances in both, C. obsoletus s.s. and C. scoticus,
peak in May-June, with the peak of the latter species being more evident. Bluetongue virus was first isolated from wild caught midges of the Obsoletus complex in 2002. Thereafter,
pools of selected parous midges collected across Italy, and during multiple outbreaks of BT, have been found consistently PCR-positive for the virus. More recently, viral RNA has been detected in field specimens of C. dewulfi, C. obsoletus s.s., C. scoticus and C. montanus.
Russia in 2013. A total of 9,272, 2,457, and 10,245
Culicoides
midges were collected from farms
in Smolenskaya, Pskovskaya, and Vladimirskaya provinces, respectively. More than 99% of
collected midges belonged to either the Obsoletus or Pulicaris complexes. Species belonging to the Obsoletus complex were the most abundant in Pskovskaya, whereas species from the Pulicaris complex dominated the catches in Vladimirskaya and Smolenskaya provinces. The seasonal duration of adult activity in all 3 regions was approximately 4.5 months.
in Sardinia causing a limited number of outbreaks. Due to impossibility of implementing a
vaccination campaign, the BTV-1 then spread all over the island in 2013 with about 7,000
outbreaks and, in September 2013, the virus reached Central Italy, with a limited number
of outbreaks located along the Tyrrhenian coast. The surveillance system in place in Italy
detected viral circulation during the following winter, when a few seroconversions were
notified. Starting from mid July 2014, a huge number of outbreaks were reported and the
disease spread toward inland territories, affecting Umbria, Abruzzo and Marche. In 2014,
BTV-1 affected areas where
Culicoides
species belonging to the Obsoletus and Pulicaris
complexes were identified as main vectors. The analysis of temperature and rainfall in Central
Italy revealed a significant warmer winter (2013-2014) and a cooler and rainy summer season
(2014). These climatic aspects might have certainly favored the overwintering of the virus in
local vector or host populations in the Tyrrhenian coast, and, then, the spread of the virus to
the rest of Central Italy. However, the heavy circulation of BTV-1 and the severity of clinical
outbreaks recorded leave a number of ‘open questions’ that are currently under investigations.
Culicoides obsoletus s.s. resulted the most widely distributed species across the peninsula (51 sites). This species was collected in many eco-climatic conditions, at a wide range of temperature and
altitudes, mainly in anthropogenic landscape. Conversely C. scoticus
collection sites were dominated by natural vegetated areas or forest, at medium higher altitudes, preferably in a wilder and more pristine environment (predominant species in 8 sites). Culicoides montanus was a rarer species, statistically predominant in only 3 sites located in Southern Italy, characterized by temperatures higher than the other species. These results, together with other on-
going researches on the vector competence of the species belonging to the Obsoletus complex, and with investigation of larval and breeding habitats, could greatly improve epidemiological knowledge of possible spreading Culicoides-borne viruses.
underestimate worldwide. The National Reference Centre for Leptospirosis (NRCL), at
the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna, Brescia
(Italy), with the cooperation of all the other Istituti Zooprofilattici Sperimentali (IIZZSS),
evaluated the distribution of such important zoonosis in Italy. Serological data obtained
between 2010‑2011 by each laboratory were collected by the NRCL and discussed. Serum
samples collected from 43,935 animal specimens were analysed by the Microscopic
Agglutination Test (MAT), using a panel of 8 serogroups as antigens (Australis, Ballum,
Canicola, Grippotyphosa, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Pomona, Sejroe, Tarassovi). A MAT cut‑off
of 1:100 was used to identify the serological positivities, 6,279 sera showed positive titers.
Bovine (46.9%), swine (27.5%), ovine and goat (7.4%), dog (6.9%), and wild boar (4.5%)
samples were delivered to the Laboratories more frequently than equine and other species
sera. Data analysis showed that the most common serogroups in Italy are: Australis present
in dogs, wild boars, horses, hares, swine, foxes, and rodents; Sejroe detected in cattle, sheep,
goats, and buffaloes; Icterohaemorrhagiae present in dogs, goats, and foxes; Pomona
detected in swine, cattle, and wild species; Grippotyphosa reported in hares.
Many surface proteins of the pathogen including the Apical Membrane Antigen 1 (AMA-1) -
have been analysed for vaccine and diagnostic purposes. This study focused on B. bigemina
AMA-1 and on its use for the assessment of diagnostic tests. After bioinformatic analyses,
AMA-1 codifying region was amplified and cloned into an expression vector used to induce
protein synthesis in Escherichia coli cells. AMA-1 was purified by affinity chromatography
and used to set up the best condition for an ELISA protocol. Bovine field sera positive to B.
bigemina were used to evaluate the presence of anti-AMA-1 antibodies. In order to verify
the assay specificity, sera positive to Babesia bovis or to the piroplasm Theileria annulata
were also included. Significant differences were obtained between sera negative to both B.
bigemina and B. bovis and samples positive to B. bigemina, to B. bovis or to both pathogens.
No significant reaction was observed with T. annulata positive sera. The results showed that
AMA-1 protein is suitable to be used as antigen in diagnostic assays for babesiosis diagnosis
in cattle, as it does not show any cross reaction with anti-T. annulata antibodies
large breed dogs and breed predisposition has been reported. Many surgical techniques are
available for correction of patellar luxation in dogs. However, recent studies reported an 8%
incidence of reluxation when traditional techniques are used. The relatively high frequency
of major complications and patellar reluxation may be partially caused by inadequate
appreciation of the underlying skeletal deformity and subsequent incorrect selection and
application of traditional techniques. The aims of this study were to report the normal values
of the anatomic and mechanical joint angles of the femur and tibia in small breed dogs and
to compare these data to a population of small breed dogs affected by different degrees
of MPL. Normal values of the anatomic and mechanical angles of the femur are similar to
the ones reported in literature in Pomeranian dogs. Normal values of the anatomic and
mechanical angles of the tibia have been described for the first time. Significant differences
were found between normal population and dogs affected by grade 4 MPL in relation to
anatomical Lateral Distal Femoral Angle (aLDFA), mechanical Medial Proximal Tibial Angle
(mMPTA), and mechanical Caudal Proximal Tibial Angle (mCaPTA).
species, we decided to investigate the related muscles in the grey heron (Ardea cinerea), in
the eurasian buzzard (Buteo buteo), and in the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus). Therefore
we performed a stratigraphic dissection of the wing in 3 subjects. The pars major and minor
of the musculus deltoideus, despite being roughly in line with those reported by other
authors in other species, displayed unique features. Concerning the pars propatagialis of the
musculus deltoideus, from what was observed in the grey heron, we believe this structure can
contribute to maintain the propatagial tension. In this way vibrations of this structure, which
could cause diminished lift, are avoided. Moreover the peculiarity evidenced in the distal
insertion of the common kestrel could influence the control of the pronation‑supination of
the wing during hovering. With respect to the musculus flexor carpi ulnaris, we believe the
presence of a sesamoid‑like structure at the base tendon, found in the grey heron and in the
eurasian buzzard, may help complete the articular surfaces of the elbow. This study shows
interesting data on species not previously examined and provides a possible functional
correlation between the peculiarity observed and the kind of flight of each species.
this study we report on the possible onset of food intolerances symptoms, including otitis,
diarrhoea, generalised anxiety, and dermatitis in a cohort of 8 dogs consuming commercial
diets. All dogs received an organic chicken‑based diet for 15 days. We performed analysis
of blood biochemical parameters, kibble composition, and oxytetracycline (OTC) serum
concentration before and after 15 days of organic chicken‑based diet supplementation.
We hypothesised that a chronic intake of contaminated food enhanced by the presence of
nanoparticle aggregates might be at the base of the onset of pharmacologic or idiopathic
food intolerances. At the end of the evaluation period, an overall significant reduction of
otitis, diarrhoea, generalised anxiety, and dermatitis was observed. Biochemical analyses
indicate a significant increase in the alkaline phosphatase, from 41 to 52.5 U/L, after 15 days
(**p < 0.01), while a significant decrease in Gamma‑glutamyl transferase and urea, from
9.37 to 6.25 U/L and from 32.13 ± 8.72 to 22.13 ± 7.8 mg/dL, respectively, was observed
(*p < 0.05). A significant decrease, from 0.22 to 0.02 μg/mL, in mean OTC serum concentration
was also observed (**p < 0.01). Composition analysis revealed the presence of OTC, calcium,
aluminium, silicon, and phosphorous nanoparticle aggregates. Further research on a wider
sample size would help to confirm the hypothesis proposed here.
upper respiratory tract infections in humans. The presence of this group of viruses in bats
and humans has been well documented in areas where their biological reservoirs – fruit bats
(family Pteropodidae) – live densely. In the present study, a serum neutralization (SN) assay
to detect neutralizing antibodies against PRV Indonesia/2010 isolate was set up and used to
assess the seroprevalence of this virus in Italian domestic animals. The new developed assay
was able of detecting PRV neutralizing antibodies in the hyper-immune polyclonal serum
produced in rabbits (titer of 1:160). The negative serum was negative at all tested dilutions.
No cross-reactions have been evidenced neither against reference MRVs nor against their
respective hyper-immune sera. Eight hundred and fifty-three serum samples collected
from 524 bovines, 271 small ruminants, and 58 horses (all used as sentinel animals in the
Bluetongue and West Nile disease National surveillance program) were also tested with the
new developed SN assay. According to the results of this survey, neither PRV nor PRV crossreacting
viruses antibodies have been demonstrated in Italian domestic animals. However,
the new developed SN assay could be a very valuable diagnostic tool to detect infection in
animals and humans.
2006 and 2007. Bird samples collected across the country were submitted through the
free‑of‑charge (FOC) program to the National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom (NVRI‑Vom)
laboratory. The present article describes the spatial distributions and evaluated clustering of
the FOC submissions from poultry farms at the global, local, and focal levels between 2006
and 2007 epidemic in Nigeria. Spatial statistics evaluating clustering of the FOC submissions
were implemented using the Moran’s I test, the purely spatial cluster analysis with the
SaTScan Poisson model, and the Bithell's linear score test. A significant global clustering of
the FOC submissions was observed. Significant local clusters of submissions were observed
in the North‑East, North‑Central, and South‑West zones. There was significant decline in
FOC submissions with increasing distance from NVRI‑Vom. These results indicated that
the geographic area of influence of the FOC submission program in Nigeria was limited to
regions closer to the diagnostic laboratory. This work provides a detailed insight into the
surveillance activities during the HPAI outbreaks in Nigeria, and should assist policy‑makers
and field veterinarians to improve the effectiveness of national eradication plans in the face
of any outbreak of animal diseases.
other Northern African countries in 2006. The objective of the present study was to investigate
whether EHDV circulated in Tunisian livestock before and after the officially‑reported outbreak
of 2006. Thus, serum samples from cattle and dromedaries collected in different time periods
(before and after 2006) and from different regions of Tunisia were screened for the presence
of EHDV antibodies. Serological investigations conducted on cattle and dromedary sera
collected in 2000 and 2001 demonstrated no virus circulation on these dates. However, viral
circulation was evidenced in 2012 and 2013, although no EHDV cases were officially reported
in these years. Serum‑neutralization assessed on few ELISA positive samples, confirmed the
presence of antibodies against EHDV serotype 6, which was the serotype involved in the
EHDV outbreak in the Maghreb region in 2006.
acquired by veterinarians during a national training course. The study analyses 694 press
releases written during the training course. Textual variables and indexes were considered to
identify the linguistic structures used by veterinarians. At first, the analysis of press releases
focused on the descriptive demographic variables, then stylistic and editorial variables were
considered, and finally a lexicographic analysis was performed on the textual variables.
The texts were found to have a moderate level of readability due to the use of scientific
and technical terms. This study shows the need to improve training activities to develop
effective risk communication, especially in terms of the language used, in order to facilitate
interactions among veterinarians, mass media, and citizens
species (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) were compared on a livestock farm in Northern Spain
during the Summer of 2013. A total of 6,082 specimens representing 26 species were
collected with sweep nets in 4 areas at different heights (ground level, 1.5 m, and 3 m),
and 8,463 specimens representing 28 species with a single white light trap. Eight species -
Culicoides brunnicans, Culicoides punctatus, Culicoides obsoletus/Culicoides scoticus, Culicoides
lupicaris, Culcoides picturatus, Culicoides achrayi, and Culicoides simulator - were dominant and
accounted for 97.4% and 97.2% of the total specimens collected with both methods, sweep
nets, and light traps, respectively. The sex ratios with sweep netting and light trapping were
strongly female biased (78.4% and 97.1%, respectively). Nulliparous and parous females were
predominantly captured with both methods. A high percentage (17%) of gravid females was,
however, captured on manure at ground level while sweeping. Searches for male swarms
revealed the presence of several C. punctatus swarms consisting of 26 to 196 males and 3
swarms of C. obsoletus that ranged from 1 to 12 males in size. This study suggested that both
methods are suitable and complementary tools for Culicoides sampling.
phase, during the period of breeding and before slaughtering. Given the behaviour of these
animals during transfers, a particular tool has been designed to manage them in this phase. A
total number of 48 animals, divided in 4 groups, were moved without use of the tool (control
groups) and by using the tool described in this article. The time required by the control groups
to leave the pen ranges from 21 to 125 seconds; while, when the proposed tool was used, the
time for the movement of the animals ranged between 10 and 17 seconds. In particular, in
the groups where the tool was deployed the ‘waiting phase’ (before the first animal goes out)
lasted less than half of the time of the ‘waiting phase’ of the control group, thus showing a
minimization of the effects of the ‘panic phenomenon’ among the animals. Thus, the studied
device can be considered as valid guide technique, both for the quick exit of the first animal
and for those that follow. Once the row has been formed, the animals continue neatly to
leave the box. This study also shows that this solution can also be considered appropriate for
reducing the identified critical issues in the traditional handling. The need of only 1 worker
to move the group of pigs is important to achieve economic saving. The deployment of this
tool, thus, make possible to consider the movement of animals no longer a ‘critical stage’, but
as a routine step of the production cycle of pork’s meat.
genera: Rhipicephalus (72.4%), Haemaphysalis (11.4%), Dermacentor (8.1%), and Hyalomma
(8.1%). They included the following species: Rhipicephalus annulatus (50.7%), Rhipicephalus
turanicus (18.8%), Hyalomma anatolicum (8.1%), Haemaphylasis punctata (11.4%),
Dermacentor marginatus (8.1%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus (2.5%), and Rhipicephalus bursa
(0.4%). Rhipicephalus turanicus and H. anatolicum were found on cattle, sheep, and goats,
R. annulatus on cattle and sheep, R. sanguineus, D. marginatus and Hea. punctata on sheep
and goats, while R. bursa was collected only on sheep. Tick species involved in pathogen
transmission were found and some of the identified species were recorded in Lebanon for
the first time.
under favourable conditions they can be very abundant under favourable conditions. At
times, their larvae shift from a scavenging behaviour to a parasitic/predatory one, entering
nestling’s plumage and feeding on skin and feathers, and finally provoking skin damages
and blood losses. These episodes mainly involve species of the genus Dermestes, but the
tenebrionid Alphitobius diaperinus h also been reported to be responsible of similar cases.
In June 2014, a mortality of caged young pigeons occurred in a family farm in Central Italy.
Post-mortem examination of 1 of the dead nestlings revealed the presence, near the cloacal
orifice, of a triangular shaped hole of about 1 cm side, with rounded edges facing inward
and with bleeding from the cavity. Five coleoptera larvae 0.5-2 cm long were collected from
the edges of the hole. Bacteriological examination of liver, intestine, and lungs revealed
the presence of Escherichia coli in the lung samples. The 5 larvae were morphologically
identified as Dermestes bicolor (4) and Alphitobius diaperinus (1). This is the first reported
case of pigeon nestling’s mortality caused by Dermestidae and Tenebrionidae larvae acting
as parasites/predators in Italy.
a high economic market. Ostrich hide is tanned in South Africa and sold all over the
world. Besides, the ostrich meat is considered a niche production in the marketplace, thus
allowing for another profit for the ostrich breeding. Theorical analysis of skinning process
has been carried out, and an automatic measurement system has been designed to record
the drawing-force on the animal’s body during skinning tests. The aim of this study was to
indentify the best animal position and provide values of drawing-force in order to design
a specific machine for ostrich skinning. Experimental results partially confirm the proposed
analysis. They point out that the angle of inclination of drawing-force with back-line mostly
influences the value of drawing-force and that this influence tends to increase as the angle
is near to 90° or exceeds this limit. In any case, the applied drawing-force must not exceed
350.0 daN. Therefore, with respect to their anatomy structure and the tensile strenght of
the hide, ostrich skinning should be done with vertical-drawing machines and the animal
should be suspended by its wings at the rail. In case of low working capacity (8-10 heads
per hour), given the difficoulties highlighted during the experiments run in this study, the
animal should be skinned suspended by the legs.
reported zoonotic disease in humans in Europe, since 2005. Handling or consuming
contaminated/undercooked meat (especially poultry) are the most important sources of
human campylobacteriosis. However, in recent years, the role of dogs as a source of infection
for humans has been amply demonstrated. Approximately 6% of human campylobacteriosis
cases are due to contact with pets. This review analyses the current literature related to risk
factors at the dog‑human interface.
products was evaluated. Seventy‑three samples were collected at retail level from
supermarkets and discount stores, obtaining 61.6% positivity. Of 133 Campylobacter isolates,
86 strains (Campylobacter coli, 58.1% and Campylobacter jejuni, 41.9%) were selected for
characterisation on the basis of their SmaI and kpnI pulsed field gel‑electrophoresis (PFGE)
profiles, to exclude clonal replicates. Campylobacters resulted highly resistant to tetracycline,
ciprofloxacin, and nalidixic acid (79.1%, 72.1% and 65.1%, respectively); 50% of C. coli and
13.9% of C. jejuni were resistant to ciprofloxacin and erythromycin, the most important
antimicrobials for human campylobacteriosis therapy. Five C. coli were resistant to 5/7 of
the tested antimicrobials. HS4c was the prevailing C. jejuni serotype group (22.3%), whereas
8 other serotypes were identified in low percentages. SmaI and kpnI profiles showed a
wide variability. The survey showed a high Campylobacter contamination of poultry meat
and poultry products at retail level in Tuscany, Italy. A wide strains’ heterogeneity and a
remarkable level of strains’ antimicrobial resistance have been reported, confirming the need
for an improvement of specific preventive measures along the production chain.
and wildlife. Veterinary epidemiology studies evaluate bTB using geographic information
systems (GIS), which can characterise the spatial and temporal distribution of diseases and
identify the geographic areas and animal populations at risk of contracting a disease. The
present study used space‑time permutation scan statistic to identify the spatial and temporal
distribution of bTB from 2005 to 2010 in the State of Mexico with the goal of creating a
similarity model using Mahalanobis Distance to identify areas suitable for bTB occurrence.
Three significant clusters were identified using space‑time permutation scan statistic and
the similarity model identified several areas with suitable environmental and demographic
characteristics. The results demonstrate that the occurrence of bTB in the State of Mexico is
not randomly distributed.