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Journal Summary
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Molecular characterization of a novel coronavirus associated with epizootic catarrhal enteritis (ECE) in ferrets
Author: Wise, A. G.; Kiupel, M.; Maes, R. K.
Year: 2006
Abstract: A novel coronavirus, designated as ferret enteric coronavirus (FECV), was identified in feces of domestic ferrets clinically diagnosed with epizootic catarrhal enteritis (ECE). Initially, partial sequences of the polymerase, spike, membrane protein, and nucleocapsid genes were generated using coronavirus consensus PCR assays. Subsequently, the complete sequences of the nucleocapsid gene and the last two open reading frames at the 3' terminus of the FECV genome were obtained. Phylogenetic analyses based on predicted partial amino acid sequences of the polymerase, spike, and membrane proteins, and full sequence of the nucleocapsid protein showed that FECV is genetically most closely related to group 1 coronaviruses. FECV is more similar to feline coronavirus, porcine transmissible gastroenteritis virus, and canine coronavirus than to porcine epidemic diarrhea virus and human coronavirus 229E. Molecular data presented in this study provide the first genetic evidence for a new coronavirus associated with clinical cases of ECE.
Notes: 0042-6822 (Print)
Journal article
Virology. 2006 Feb 22;.
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Soft surfaces: a factor in feline psychological well-being
Journal: Contemp Top Lab Anim Sci
Author: Crouse, S. J.; Atwill, E. P.; Lagana, M.; Houpt, K. A.
Volume: 34 Issue: 6 Pages: 94-7. Date: Nov Year: 1995
Abstract: longer periods of REM sleep when cats were on soft versus hard surfaces.
Notes: 1060-0558 (Print)
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Canine coronavirus-associated puppy mortality without evidence of concurrent canine parvovirus infection
Journal: J Vet Diagn Invest
Author: Evermann, J. F.; Abbott, J. R.; Han, S.
Volume: 17 Issue: 6 Pages: 610-4. Date: Nov Year: 2005
Abstract: This report presents 2 cases in which puppy fatalities were associated with canine coronavirus (CCV), but no evidence of concurrent canine parvovirus (CPV-2) disease was observed. Case 1 involved a 7-week-old, male short-haired Chihuahua, which had become lethargic 24 hours after purchase from a pet store. Within 72 hours, the puppy began to vomit, had diarrhea, and was admitted to the veterinary clinic, where it was placed on IV fluids. The parvovirus Cite test was negative. The puppy died within 12 hours of admission and was submitted for diagnostic workup. Gross pathology revealed an enteritis suggestive of CPV-2. Histopathology on intestines showed scattered dilated crypts with necrotic cellular debris and neutrophils. There was moderate depletion and necrosis of lymphoid follicles. Electron microscopy (EM) on intestinal contents was positive for coronavirus and negative for parvovirus. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) on gut sections was positive for CCV and negative for CPV-2. Case 2 was an 8-week-old, male Shih Tzu, which was admitted to the veterinary clinic exhibiting symptoms of severe gastroenteritis with abdominal pain. The referring veterinarian euthanized the puppy, and the entire body was submitted for diagnostic evaluation. Necropsy revealed a severe ileo-cecal intussusception and segmental necrotic enteritis of the small intestine. Electron microscopy of the intestinal contents was positive for coronavirus and negative for parvovirus. Immunohistochemistry on sections of affected gut were positive for CCV and negative for CPV-2. These cases emphasize the importance of pursuing a diagnosis of CCV in young puppies when CPV-2 disease has been ruled out by IHC.
Notes: 1040-6387 (Print)
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Returning a recently adopted companion animal: adopters' reasons for and reactions to the failed adoption experience
Journal: J Appl Anim Welf Sci
Author: Shore, E. R.
Volume: 8 Issue: 3 Pages: 187-98. Year: 2005
Abstract: The return of a recently adopted companion animal places the nonhuman animal in jeopardy and may be painful and frustrating to the humans involved. However, if returners learn from the failed adoption experience, future adoptions may be more satisfactory for all concerned. In this study, 78 people who had adopted and returned dogs or cats to an animal shelter in a U.S. Midwestern city were interviewed regarding their reasons for return, reactions to the experience, and plans for future adoptions. Although some returners adjusted their pet ownership plans in potentially beneficial ways, most reacted by counseling greater forethought and planning before adopting. The last, although sound advice, had little to do with reasons for return, which primarily were problems that arose postadoption: pet behavior such as not getting along with other pets or children. Changing expectations about the development of new pet-family relationships and the provision of postadoption services might help adopters tolerate the adjustment period and handle problems without resorting to returning the animal.
Notes: 1088-8705 (Print)
Journal Article
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Persistence of caliciviruses on environmental surfaces and their transfer to food
Journal: International Journal of Food Microbiology
Author: D'Souza, D. H.; Sair, A.; Williams, K.; Papafragkou, E.; Jean, J.; Moore, C.; Jaykus, L.
Year: 2006
Abstract: The noroviruses (NoV) are a common cause of human gastroenteritis whose transmission by foodborne routes is well documented. Fecally contaminated surfaces are likely to contribute to this foodborne transmission and to the propagation of viral disease outbreaks. The purpose of this study was to (i) investigate the stability of NoV on various food preparation surfaces; and (ii) evaluate the degree of virus transfer from these surfaces to a model-ready-to-eat (RTE) food. For the virus persistence experiments, stainless steel, formica and ceramic coupons were artificially contaminated with Norwalk virus (NV), the prototype genogroup I NoV; NV RNA; or feline calicivirus (FCV) F9 (a NoV surrogate), stored at ambient temperature for up to 7 d, and periodically assayed for detection. In the transfer experiments, stainless steel coupons were inoculated with NV or FCV F9 and allowed to dry for 10, 30 and 60 min, after which lettuce leaves were exposed to the surface of the coupons at various contact pressures (10, 100, and 1000 g/9 cm(2)). Virus recovery was evaluated by RT-PCR (for NV and NV RNA) or by plaque assay (for FCV F9) using Crandell Reese Feline Kidney (CRFK) cells. NV and FCV were detected on all three surfaces for up to 7 d post-inoculation; for FCV, there was an approximate 6 to 7-log(10) drop in virus titer over the 7 d evaluation period. By contrast, when stainless steel was inoculated with purified NV RNA, RT-PCR detection was not possible beyond 24 h. Transfer of both NV and FCV from stainless steel surfaces to lettuce occurred with relative ease. This study confirms lengthy NoV persistence on common food preparation surfaces and their ease of transfer, confirming a potential role for environmental contamination in the propagation of viral gastroenteritis.
Notes: 0168-1605 (Print)
Journal article
Int J Food Microbiol. 2006 Feb 10;.
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Moral stress: synthesis of a concept
Journal: Nurs Ethics
Author: Lutzen, K.; Cronqvist, A.; Magnusson, A.; Andersson, L.
Volume: 10 Issue: 3 Pages: 312-22. Date: May Year: 2003
Original Publication: Bioethics and Professional Ethics
Empirical Approach
Abstract: The aim of this article is to describe the synthesis of the concept of moral stress and to attempt to identify its preconditions. Qualitative data from two independent studies on professional issues in nursing were analysed from a hypothetical-deductive approach. The findings indicate that moral stress is independent of context-given specific preconditions: (1) nurses are morally sensitive to the patient's vulnerability; (2) nurses experience external factors preventing them from doing what is best for the patient; and (3) nurses feel that they have no control over the specific situation. The findings from this analysis are supported by recent research on stress in the workplace but differ that the imperatives directing work are moral in nature. Stress researchers have found that persons who experience that they have no control over their work situation and at the same time experience high demands may be prone to cardiovascular diseases. An important question raised by this study is whether moral stress should be recognized as a health risk in nursing. Further research is required in order to generate intervention models to prevent or deal with moral stress.
Notes: filed under behavior, welfare (PDF)
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Virucidal activity of a new hand disinfectant with reduced ethanol content: comparison with other alcohol-based formulations
Journal: Journal of Hospital Infection
Author: Kramer, A.; Galabov, A.S.; Sattar, S.A.; Dohner, L.; Pivert, A.; Payan, C.; Wolff, M.H.; Yilmaz, A.; Steinmann, J.
Volume: 62 Issue: 1 Pages: 98-106 Date: 2006/1 Year: 2006
Abstract: A new formula with reduced ethanol content (55%) in combination with 10% propan-1-ol, 5.9% propan-1.2-diol, 5.7% butan-1.3-diol and 0.7% phosphoric acid exhibited a broad spectrum of virucidal activity. In quantitative suspension tests, with and without protein load, this formulation reduced the infectivity titre of seven enveloped (influenza A and B, herpes simplex 1 and 2, bovine corona, respiratory syncytial, vaccinia, hepatitis B, bovine viral diarrhoea) and four non-enveloped (hepatitis A, polio, rota, feline calici) viruses >103-fold within 30 s. In comparative testing, only 95% ethanol showed similar levels of activity.
In fingerpad tests, the formulation produced a log10 reduction factor of the titre of poliovirus type 1 (Sabin) of 3.04 in 30 s compared with 1.32 by 60% propan-2-ol. Testing against feline calicivirus produced a log10 reduction factor of 2.38 by the test formulation; in contrast, the log10 reduction factors with 70% ethanol and 70% propan-1-ol were 0.68 and 0.70, respectively.
Notes: TY - JOUR
URL: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6WJP-4HMFJ2N-1/2/38e65b333752e9fd7494c1e57017268c
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Comparison of floor sanitation methods
Journal: Journal of Hospital Infection
Author: De Lorenzi, S.; Finzi, G.; Parmiggiani, R.; Cugini, P.; Cacciari, P.; Salvatorelli, G.
Volume: 62 Issue: 3 Pages: 346-348 Date: 2006/3 Year: 2006
Abstract:
Two methods for cleaning waxed polyvinylchloride and porcelain grès hospital room floors were compared in order to determine their decontamination capacity: dry wiping followed by damp washing, and damp washing followed by dry wiping. Dry wiping followed by damp washing did not produce any significant reduction in the average bacterial load. However, damp washing followed by dry wiping reduced the bacterial load for both types of flooring. The difference was statistically significant.
Notes: TY - JOUR
URL: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6WJP-4J0XRYB-2/2/f07143ccb9368c96216e48aaf964b4fc
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Comparison of floor sanitation methods
Journal: Journal of Hospital Infection
Author: De Lorenzi, S.; Finzi, G.; Parmiggiani, R.; Cugini, P.; Cacciari, P.; Salvatorelli, G.
Volume: 62 Issue: 3 Pages: 346-348 Date: 2006/3 Year: 2006
Abstract:
Two methods for cleaning waxed polyvinylchloride and porcelain grès hospital room floors were compared in order to determine their decontamination capacity: dry wiping followed by damp washing, and damp washing followed by dry wiping. Dry wiping followed by damp washing did not produce any significant reduction in the average bacterial load. However, damp washing followed by dry wiping reduced the bacterial load for both types of flooring. The difference was statistically significant.
Notes: TY - JOUR
URL: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6WJP-4J0XRYB-2/2/f07143ccb9368c96216e48aaf964b4fc
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Virus diffusion in isolation rooms
Journal: Journal of Hospital Infection
Author: Kao, P.H.; Yang, R.J.
Volume: 62 Issue: 3 Pages: 338-345 Date: 2006/3 Year: 2006
Notes: TY - JOUR
URL: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6WJP-4HTBKRH-1/2/d157a7cf22f2325615fef932031613d6
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The preparation of a polyvalent feline calicivirus antiserum
Journal: Can J Comp Med
Author: Povey, R. C.
Volume: 43 Issue: 2 Pages: 187-93. Date: Apr Year: 1979
Abstract: A polyvalent antiserum capable of neutralizing 82 isolates of feline calicivirus made from cats in various parts of North America was produced by the sequential inoculation of SPF cats at three-week intervals with feline calicivirus strains F-9, 68-2024 and FS, followed by a final booster inoculation two weeks after the third inoculation with all three strains combined. Sera raised against the same strains but individually and then pooled failed to show such broad cross-neutralizing capacity. The polyvalent serum should prove useful for the confirmation of an isolation of feline calicivirus.
Notes: 0008-4050 (Print)
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Feline calicivirus associated with convulsion in a cat.
Journal: Aust Vet J
Author: Love, D. N.
Volume: 5 Issue: 29 Year: 1975
Abstract: .
Notes: 0005-0423 (Print)
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Pathogenicity of a strain of feline calicivirus for domestic kittens
Journal: Aust Vet J
Author: Love, D. N.
Volume: 51 Issue: 12 Pages: 541-6. Date: Dec Year: 1975
Abstract: A strain of feline calicivirus, isolated from a cheetah exhibiting ulcerative glossitis and conjunctivitis, was administered by aerosol to 4 domestic cats and by contact to a fifth cat. Despite the limited number of animals available for the experiment, the pathogenicity of the virus strain for domestic cats was established. In aerosol-infected animals, clinical signs were referable to infection of both upper and lower respiratory tracts. The virus produced an interstitial pneumonia which, early in infection, was uncomplicated by secondary bronchopneumonia. The in-contact cat exhibited clinical signs referable to infection of the oral cavity only and no lesions were noted in the lower respiratory tract at autopsy. Ulcerative glossitis was a feature of the disease in aerosol-infected and in-contact cats. The virus was isolated from the pharynx of all cats for up to 21 days after infection and from the tonsils at autopsy. The tonsils were considered to be a probable site of multiplication of virus in "carrier" cats.
Notes: 0005-0423 (Print)
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Vaccine design, evaluation, and community-based use for antigenically variable infectious agents
Journal: Lancet
Author: Anderson, R. M.; Donnelly, C. A.; Gupta, S.
Volume: 350 Issue: 9089 Pages: 1466-70. Date: Nov 15 Year: 1997
Abstract: A major challenge for vaccine design and development, and for trials of new vaccines, is to tackle antigenically variable infectious agents. Here we outline a few general conceptual issues and then discuss new frameworks that are being developed to help understand how vaccination might change the distribution, abundance, and type of strains in a population. Herd Immunity is a key concept in population-based immunisation programmes and has to be considered in vaccine design and use even though it may cause a conflict between the needs of the individual versus those of the community. This issue is of increasing importance since once common infections are becoming rare due to effective vaccination. Concomitantly, adverse effects arising from immunisation are becoming more apparent as infection-induced morbidity declines to very low levels. Efficacy is widely regarded as a key criterion in vaccine design but duration of protection is of equal importance. Whether it is possible to produce effective vaccines to antigenically diverse pathogens remains uncertain but progress towards this goal will be enhanced by a better understanding of the population genetics of the target infectious agent facilitated by molecular epidemiological studies to assess the genetic constitution of pathogen populations and changes therein over time.
Notes: In file under vaccines, general
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Communicating risk and uncertainty in relation to development and implementation of disease control policies
Journal: Veterinary Microbiology
Author: Pfeiffer, D.U.
Volume: 112 Issue: 2-4 Pages: 259-264 Date: 2006/2/25 Year: 2006
Abstract: Abstract
Scientific evidence is one of the key factors to be considered in the development of disease control policies. It is generated using investigations into cause–effect relationships, which usually produce results that are associated with a varying degree of uncertainty. Experience has shown that taking account of these uncertainties can become a formidable challenge for policy makers when devising the strategies and when communicating them to stakeholders. The situation has been further complicated by a reduction in public trust in scientific evidence. It is now recognised that this challenge cannot be managed by simply providing more information, but it is also necessary to consider the influence that variation in risk perception amongst stakeholders has on their response to and commitment towards the policies.
Notes: filed on computer under protocols
URL: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/B6TD6-4HNS6B6-2/2/5b2f9994137cd4f0fa2fac1516a8e99a |
Effects of a single dose of an intranasal feline herpesvirus 1, calicivirus, and panleukopenia vaccine on clinical signs and virus shedding after challenge with virulent feline herpesvirus 1
Journal: Journal of Feline Medicine & Surgery
Author: Lappin, M. R.; Sebring, R. W.; Porter, M.; Radecki, S. J.; Veir, J.
Year: 2006
Abstract: The objective of this study was to determine whether intranasal administration of a commercially available FVRCP vaccine to kittens lessened clinical signs and feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1) viral shedding when compared to unvaccinated control kittens after FHV-1 challenge. Three groups of 10 unvaccinated kittens were administered one dose of vaccine 6 days (group 1), 4 days (group 2), or 2 days (group 3) before challenge, respectively. One group was maintained as unvaccinated controls (group 4). FHV-1 challenge was then induced and the kittens were observed for 14 days. When the grouped vaccinated kitten results (groups 1-3) were compared to group 4 results, clinical scores following challenge were significantly lower (P<0.05) and significantly lower body temperatures (P<0.05) were detected on days 0, 5 and 9 post-challenge. When evaluated by individual group, group 1 and group 2 kittens had significantly lower clinical scores (P<0.05) than group 4 kittens post-challenge. In addition, FHV-1 shedding was lower in group 1 kittens when compared to group 4 kittens on day 6 after challenge (P<0.05). Administration of this vaccine within several days prior to exposure lessened clinical signs of disease and FHV-1 shedding compared to unvaccinated kittens.
Notes: USDA licensure referenced re adverse effects: transient sneezing in 30% of 501; 52% of those sneezed for 1-3 days. Nasal or oral ulcers only reported in 1.2%.
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Comparative efficacy of ethanol and isopropanol against feline calicivirus, a norovirus surrogate
Journal: Am J Infect Control
Author: Malik, Y. S.; Maherchandani, S.; Goyal, S. M.
Volume: 34 Issue: 1 Pages: 31-5. Date: Feb Year: 2006
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Improper disinfection of environmental surfaces contaminated by the feces or vomitus of infected patients is believed to be a major cause of the spread of noroviruses (NoV) in close institutional settings. Although several disinfectants are available, the search for safe and effective disinfectant continues. Because alcohol and alcohol-based products have been used as antiseptics and their efficacy against several enveloped viruses has been documented, we wanted to determine their efficacy against nonenveloped calicivirus. METHODS: Feline calicivirus (FCV) was used as a surrogate for NoVs, using the carrier test. We evaluated the virucidal efficacy of various concentrations of ethanol and isopropanol against FCV, dried on an inanimate, nonporous contact surface for contact times of 1, 3, and 10 minutes. The virus was eluted after alcohol treatment and titrated in feline kidney cells. Percentage virus inactivation was calculated by comparing these titers with those obtained with virus eluted from controls. RESULTS: Ethanol at 70% and 90% and isopropanol at 40% to 60% concentrations were found to be the most effective, killing 99% of FCV within a short contact time of 1 minute. CONCLUSION: Isopropanol was more efficacious than ethanol at 40% to 60% concentrations, suggesting that the use of an appropriate concentration of isopropanol or ethanol would help in controlling the transmission of NoVs from environmental contact surfaces.
Notes: 0196-6553 (Print)
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Survival on uncommon fomites of feline calicivirus, a surrogate of noroviruses
Comparative efficacy of ethanol and isopropanol against feline calicivirus, a norovirus surrogate
Evaluation of five different antigens in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the detection of avian pneumovirus antibodies
The effect of pooling sera on the detection of avian pneumovirus antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test
Occurrence of Escherichia coli, noroviruses, and F-specific coliphages in fresh market-ready produce
RNA profile and structural protein analysis of rotaviruses isolated from diarrhoeal calves in India
Journal: Am J Infect Control
Author: Clay, S.; Maherchandani, S.; Malik, Y. S.; Goyal, S. M.; Patnayak, D. P.; Munoz-Zanzi, C. A.; Lauer, D.; Allwood, P. B.; Vought, K.; Johnson, L. A.; Braymen, C.; Hedberg, C. W.; Gulati, B. R.; Pandey, R.
Volume: 34 Issue: 1 Pages: 41-3. Date: Feb
Jan
Nov
Mar Year: 2006
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Norovirus (NoV) transmission occurs mainly through food and fomites. Contaminated human fingers can transfer the virus to inanimate objects, which may then spread the virus to susceptible persons. However, no information is available on the survival of NoVs on fomites, which may be of importance in the transmission of NoVs in institutional settings such as hospitals and nursing homes. METHODS: In the absence of any in vitro cultivation system for NoVs, feline calicivirus (FCV) was used as a surrogate. Several fomites such as computer mouse, keyboard keys, telephone wire, telephone receiver, telephone buttons, and brass disks representing faucets and door handle surfaces were artificially contaminated with known amounts of FCV. Samples were taken at regular time intervals, and virus was titrated in feline kidney cells to determine its survival on these surfaces. RESULTS: Survivability of FCV varied with fomite type. The virus survived for up to 3 days on telephone buttons and receivers, for 1 or 2 days on computer mouse, and for 8 to 12 hours on keyboard keys and brass. The time for 90% virus reduction was <4 hours on computer keys, mouse, brass, and telephone wire; 4 to 8 hours on telephone receiver; and 12 to 24 hours on telephone buttons. CONCLUSION: The results of this study confirm that FCV (and perhaps NoV) can survive on fomites such as computers, telephones, and faucets and may be transmitted to humans using these contaminated materials. This may necessitate regular cleaning or disinfection of these items, especially in hospitals and nursing homes and after known outbreaks of NoVs.
BACKGROUND: Improper disinfection of environmental surfaces contaminated by the feces or vomitus of infected patients is believed to be a major cause of the spread of noroviruses (NoV) in close institutional settings. Although several disinfectants are available, the search for safe and effective disinfectant continues. Because alcohol and alcohol-based products have been used as antiseptics and their efficacy against several enveloped viruses has been documented, we wanted to determine their efficacy against nonenveloped calicivirus. METHODS: Feline calicivirus (FCV) was used as a surrogate for NoVs, using the carrier test. We evaluated the virucidal efficacy of various concentrations of ethanol and isopropanol against FCV, dried on an inanimate, nonporous contact surface for contact times of 1, 3, and 10 minutes. The virus was eluted after alcohol treatment and titrated in feline kidney cells. Percentage virus inactivation was calculated by comparing these titers with those obtained with virus eluted from controls. RESULTS: Ethanol at 70% and 90% and isopropanol at 40% to 60% concentrations were found to be the most effective, killing 99% of FCV within a short contact time of 1 minute. CONCLUSION: Isopropanol was more efficacious than ethanol at 40% to 60% concentrations, suggesting that the use of an appropriate concentration of isopropanol or ethanol would help in controlling the transmission of NoVs from environmental contact surfaces.
Five different antigens were evaluated in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests for the detection of avian pneumovirus (APV) antibodies. Two of the 5 antigens were prepared from recent APV isolates from Minnesota. The 2 older isolates were passage 63 of a strain currently used as a live, attenuated vaccine and a Colorado strain isolated for the first time in the United States and currently used in an ELISA test. The fifth antigen is based on an APV recombinant N-protein. Basic parameters and positive-negative threshold of the assays were established for all 5 antigens on the basis of data obtained by testing 46 known negative and 46 known positive serum samples. Subsequently, 449 field samples were tested by all 5 ELISAs. The optical density difference (ODD) was calculated by subtracting optical density of the sample in the negative antigen well from that in the positive antigen well. In the current ELISA test based on the Colorado strain, an ODD of 0.2 is considered to be the cutoff value to classify samples as negative or positive. In this study, however, use of different cutoffs, based on ODD of negative control plus 3 SD or values estimated from Receiver operating characteristic analysis, was considered to be more appropriate for the various antigens used. Overall person-to-person and day-to-day variability was found to be large for all tests using either ODD or sample to positive ratio to report results. In addition, results suggest that antigenicity of the APV isolates in the United States has not changed between 1997 and 2000.
Pooling of samples is a cost-effective approach to estimate disease prevalence and to identify infected individuals. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of serum pools for the detection of avian pneumovirus infection in turkey flocks by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, so that a minimum number of tests can be performed without compromising the sensitivity and specificity of the test. A total of 900 field samples were tested; 20 samples from each of 45 flocks. All samples were tested individually followed by pool testing in groups of 3, 4, 5, and 7 samples each. The number of positive pools for a given pool size was positively associated with the number of positive samples. In a separate experiment, the effect of dilution was examined by pooling 1 positive sample with different numbers of negative samples to form pools of sizes 2-7. These laboratory results were analyzed and integrated into a simulation model aimed at evaluating cost-efficient testing procedures. The probability of detecting an infected flock depended on prevalence of infection, size of serum pool, and the cutoff value used for optical density difference. At a theoretical prevalence of 20%, the probability of detecting an infected flock was 0.93 and 0.86 for a pool of 2 and 7, respectively. The probability of detecting positive flocks increased with increased prevalence and decreased cutoff. Pooling of samples represented a significant reduction in the cost of testing, suggesting that pooling is more advantageous and cost effective than testing individual samples.
Forty samples of fresh produce collected from retail food establishments were examined to determine the occurrence of Escherichia coli, F-specific coliphages, and noroviruses. An additional six samples were collected from a restaurant undergoing investigation for a norovirus outbreak. Nineteen (48%) of the retail samples and all outbreak samples were preprocessed (cut, shredded, chopped, or peeled) at or before the point of purchase. Reverse transcription-PCR, with the use of primers JV 12 and JV 13, failed to detect norovirus RNA in any of the samples. All six outbreak samples and 13 (33%) retail samples were positive for F-specific coliphages (odds ratio undefined, P = 0.003). Processed retail samples appeared more likely to contain F-specific coliphages than unprocessed samples (odds ratio 3.8; 95% confidence interval 0.8 to 20.0). Only two (5.0%) retail samples were positive for E. coli; outbreak samples were not tested for E. coli. The results of this preliminary survey suggest that F-specific coliphages could be useful conservative indicators of fecal contamination of produce and its associated virological risks. Large-scale surveys should be conducted to confirm these findings.
Two isolates of group A rotaviruses (CR129 and CR156) were isolated from faecal samples of diarrhoeal calves reared in two dairy farms at Hisar (Haryana, India) by using MA-104 cell lines. These isolates were compared with three standard reference bovine rotaviruses, UK, NCDV and B223, to reveal differences, if any, in their genome and protein migration profiles. The migration of RNA segment 4 of CR129 was slower than that of NCDV, but faster than that of UK. Segment 10 of CR156 moved faster than that of the reference viruses. The segments 2 and 3 co-migrated in CR129, but resolved separately in CR156. Five protein bands of size 116-120 KD (VP1), 95 KD (VP2), 90 KD (VP3/VP4), 44 KD (VP6) and 34 KD (VP7) were detected by protein analysis. No significant difference was observed in the protein profile of these two bovine rotavirus isolates by immunoblotting. However, VP1 was of approximately 116 KD size in the two isolates, compared to 120 KD in the reference strains. These findings indicate that these rotaviruses isolated from diarrhoeic Indian calves differed from the 3 reference strains.
Notes: 0196-6553 (Print)
Journal Article
1040-6387 (Print)
Evaluation Studies
0362-028X (Print)
0253-8768 (Print)
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A modified live canine parvovirus vaccine with novel plaque characteristics. 1. Viral attenuation and dog response.
Journal: Cornell Vet
Author: Carmichael, L. E.; Joubert, J. C.; Pollock, R. V.
Volume: 73 Issue: 1 Pages: 13-29. Date: Jan Year: 1983
Abstract: A canine parvovirus strain (C-780916) was found attenuated for pups at 80, but not after 51 serial passages in dog kidney cell cultures. A variant viral population ('large plaque') emerged after prolonged cultivation in DKC cultures that may be associated with reduced native virulence. Dogs vaccinated with modified CPV develop high hemagluttination inhibition titers within four days of innoculation and antibody persisted. Vaccinated animals shed small amounts of virus in feces that spread to contact dogs. After five back passages in dogs, the modified strain was not pathogenic for pups and the plaque characteristics of the virus isolated in feces were typical of the attenuated strain. The modified live vaccine did not cause infection of the fetus when inoculated parenterally into pregnant bitches at various stages of gestation. It was non-pathogenic for neonatal pups. These results suggest that a safe and effective live homologous (CPV) vaccine has been developed which should aid substantially in controlling CPV infection.
Notes: 0010-8901
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Effect of group size and feeder type on growth performance and feeding patterns in growing pigs
Journal: J. Anim Sci.
Author: Hyun, Y.; Ellis, M.
Volume: 79 Issue: 4 Pages: 803-810 Date: April 1, 2001 Year: 2001
Alternate Journal: J. Anim Sci.
Abstract: http://jas.fass.org/cgi/content/abstract/79/4/803
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