bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
History and Evolution of HPAI Viruses in Southeast Asia
Authors: MARTIN VINCENT , SIMS LESLIE , LUBROTH JUAN , KAHN SARAH , DOMENECH JOSEPH , BEGNINO CAROLYN
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been recognized as a serious viral disease of poultry since 1878. The number of outbreaks of this disease globally has increased in the past 10 years culminating in 2004 with the unprecedented outbreak of H5N1 HPAI involving nine countries in East and South East Asia. Apart from the geographical extent of this outbreak and apparent rapid spread, this epidemic has a number of unique features, among which is the carriage of highly pathogenic AI viruses by asymptomatic domestic waterfowl. When this disease first emerged it was recognized almost simultaneously in a number of countries for the first time. This created considerable concern among both veterinary and public health authorities especially as the virus was also shown to cause fatal disease in humans. This article brings together a range of information on H5N1 HPAI viruses in Asia that were collected by FAO during the past year through field projects and explores possible reasons for the emergence of the disease in late 2003 and early 2004. Key epidemiological features of the disease in different Asian countries are described in an attempt to look for, and where possible, explain similarities and differences. This includes assessment of factors that could have contributed to the spread of the disease. Molecular aspects of the viruses are examined to assess relationships between isolates from different locations and times so as to gain insights into the origins of viruses in various countries. It is apparent that the coincidence and grouping of the reports declaring the outbreaks of HPAI did not truly reflect the time course of disease emergence, which was widespread well before the outbreak. The factors that could have led to a change from infection to emergence of widespread disease in 2003–2004 are discussed. There are still some questions that remain unanswered regarding the origins of the 2004 outbreak. This article does not provide answers to all of these, but brings together what is currently known about these outbreaks and the viruses that have caused them.
Vaccines Developed for H5 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in China
Authors: QIAO CHUANLING , TIAN GUOBIN , JIANG YONGPING , LI YANBING , SHI JIANZHONG , YU KANGZHEN , CHEN HUALAN
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Since the first detection of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus from sick goose in Guangdong province in China in 1996, scientists in China started to develop vaccines for avian influenza pandemic preparedness. An H5N2 inactivated vaccine was produced from a low pathogenic virus, A/turkey/England/N‐28/73, and was used for the buffer zone vaccination in the H5N1 outbreaks in 2004 in China. We also generated a low pathogenic H5N1 reassortant virus A/Harbin/Re‐1/2003 (Re‐1) that derives its HA and NA genes from GSGD/96 virus and six internal genes from the high‐growth A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (PR8) virus by using plasmid‐based reverse genetics. The inactivated vaccine derived from Re‐1 strain could induce more than 10 months protective immune response in chickens after one dose inoculation, and most importantly, this vaccine is immunogenic for geese and ducks. An H5N1 fowlpox vectored live vaccine was also generated by inserting the HA and NA genes of GSGD/96 virus in the genome of a fowlpox vaccine strain. Laboratory tests indicated that after one dose of immunization of this vaccine, chickens could develop an over than 40 weeks protective immune response against H5N1 virus challenge.
SEPPIC Vaccine Adjuvants for Poultry
Authors: DUPUIS L. , ASCARATEIL S. , AUCOUTURIER J. , GANNE V.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Two inactivated antigens (Newcastle and Pasteurella Multocida) were formulated with different adjuvants and tested in two separate experiments in poultry. Oil formulations constituting water in oil (W/O) or water in oil in water (W/O/W) emulsions were assessed for antibody response, protection, local reactions, and vaccine physicochemical parameters. Robust, efficacious, and safe formulations were obtained with W/O formulations whereas W/O/W was especially safe with maintained efficacy. Results show that it is possible to improve traditional Tween Span formulations for safety and efficacy parameters by using Montanide™ ISA 70 for W/O formulations and Montanide™ ISA 206 for W/O/W when safety is the priority.
Serological Assessment of West Nile Fever Virus Activity in the Pastoral System of Ferlo, Senegal
Authors: CHEVALIER VÉRONIQUE , LANCELOT RENAUD , DIAITÉ AMADOU , MONDET BERNARD , SALL BABA , DE LAMBALLERIE XAVIER
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The Ferlo area (north‐central Senegal) is characterized by a system of temporary ponds favorable to arboviruses among which West Nile fever (WNF) was already identified. During the rainy season in 2003, a serological study was undertaken on horses to assess the activity of the WNF virus (WNFV) in Barkedji (Ferlo). The observed serological prevalence rate was 78.3% for neutralizing antibodies, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) of [64.0, 92.7]. This prevalence rate significantly increased with age (P= 10−5). This study confirmed that WNF was endemic in the Ferlo. The transmission risks depended on the introduction of the WNFV in the ecosystem—probably with migrating birds, on its amplification in hosts and on the vector‐population dynamic. Further studies are needed to investigate how the cycle is initiated in Barkedji at the beginning of the rainy season and the impact of climatic variations on the risk of transmission of WNF. A surveillance system should be implemented: (a) to assess the clinical impact of the WNF on human and equine populations, (b) to provide an early detection of virulent strains, and (c) to assess the risk of WNF transmission to disease‐free ecosystems via migrating birds.
Descriptive and Spatial Epidemiology of Rift Valley Fever Outbreak in Yemen 2000–2001
Authors: ABDO‐SALEM S. , GERBIER G. , BONNET P. , AL‐QADASI M. , TRAN A. , THIRY E. , AL‐ERYNI G. , ROGER F.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Rift valley fever (RVF) is an arboviral disease produced by a bunyavirus belonging to the genus Phlebovirus. Several species of Aedes and Culex are the vectors of this virus that affects sheep, goats, buffalos, cattle, camels and human beings. The human disease is well known, especially during periods of intense epizootic activity. The initial description of the disease dates back to 1930, when animals and human outbreaks appeared on a farm in Lake Naivasha, in the Great Rift Valley of Kenya. Until 2000, this disease was only described in Africa, and then outbreaks were also declared in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (2000–2001 and 2004) and in Yemen (2000–2001). Animal and human cases were recorded. This work presents a retrospective summary of the data collected on animal RVF cases during this epidemic in Yemen. Results from several RVF surveys were gathered from the Yemeni vet services and FAO experts. Geographical data (topographic maps and data freely available on internet) were used for the location of outbreaks. After cleaning and standardization of location names, all the data were introduced into a GIS database. The spatial distribution of outbreaks was then studied at two scales: at the national level and at a local scale in the particular area of Wadi Mawr in the Tihama plain, Western coast of Yemen.
Generating Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Pseudotype Bearing the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Spike Envelope Glycoprotein for Rapid and Safe Neutralization Test or Cell‐Entry Assay
Authors: GE JINYING , WEN ZHIYUN , WANG XIJUN , HU SEN , LIU YONGGANG , KONG XIANGANG , CHEN HUALAN , BU ZHIGAO
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  We generated a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) pseudotype (VSV Δ G*SG) by replacing the envelope G gene with the GFP gene and complementing with spike glycoprotein (S) of SARS‐CoV in trans. The neutralization and infection blocking tests showed that the VSV Δ G*SG and SARS‐CoV reacted similarly to SARS‐CoV specific antiserum, suggesting the VSVΔ G*SG can be a safe replacement of the live SARS‐CoV for neutralization test and cell‐entry assay.
Prevalence of Salmonella Species in Various Raw Meat Samples of a Local Market in Kathmandu
Authors: MAHARJAN MAHENDRA , JOSHI VANDANA , JOSHI DURGA D. , MANANDHAR POORNIMA
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  A cross‐sectional study of raw meat samples from the local meat market of Kathmandu Metropolitan City was carried out during September 2002 to May 2003 with special emphasis on isolation and identification of Salmonella bacteria. A total of 123 raw meat samples (55 chicken, 37 buffalo, and 31 goat) were collected and analyzed relative to season. Salmonella spp was found in 11.4% (14/123) meat samples. Eight samples of chicken, that is, 14.5%, five samples of buffalo (13.5%), and one sample of goat (3.3%) were found to be positive for Salmonella. Salmonella prevalence revealed Salmonella (S.) pullorum in 3.3% samples, S. gallinarum in 0.8%, S. typhi in 1.6%, S. choleraesuis in 0.8%, and Salmonella of subgenus I or II group in 4.9% samples. More than 80% meat samples microbiologically processed indicated coliform contamination. Seasonal prevalence of Salmonella was highest in the months of April/May. Surveys revealed unsatisfactory conditions of sanitation in the local meat markets of Kathmandu.
Prevalence of Salmonella in Retail Chicken Meat in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: HUONG LUU QUYNH , REINHARD FRIES , PADUNGTOD PAWIN , HANH TRAN THI , KYULE MOSES N. , BAUMANN MAXIMILIAN P.O. , ZESSIN KARL H.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Infection with Salmonella (S.) is the most frequently reported cause of bacterial food‐borne illness worldwide. Poultry are a common source and, in recent years, much attention has been focused in determining the prevalence of Salmonella during the different stages in the poultry production chain. This article was designed to investigate the prevalence of Salmonella serovars in retail chicken meat sold in Hanoi. A total of 262 samples were randomly collected from retail markets and examined for the presence of Salmonella. Of these samples, 48.9% were found to be contaminated with Salmonella. Predominant serotypes were S. Agona, S. Emek, S. London. The prevalence of S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium was considered. These findings have highlighted the magnitude of Salmonella contamination in retail chicken meat in Hanoi. On the basis of these preliminary survey results, it is recommended that a cost‐effective monitoring and surveillance system for Salmonella should be established in Hanoi. This system should be augmented by good agricultural and hygienic practices and well‐designed longitudinal research activities on the whole poultry production chain.
Study of Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Escherichia coli Contamination in Raw Food Available in Factories, Schools, and Hospital Canteens in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: DAO HA THI ANH , YEN PHAM THANH
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  This study on the contamination rates of raw foods available in factory, school, and hospital canteens in Hanoi, Vietnam, with the bacteria of Salmonella, Campylobacter, and Escherichia coli (E. coli) was carried out between 2003 and 2004. A total of 177 raw food samples of vegetables, meat (beef and pork), fish, and poultry were examined to provide baseline data for evaluation of microbiological risks in general, and identification of potential vehicles for pathogenic cross‐contamination in canteens. The study confirmed that unprocessed fish and poultry are likely to be contaminated with Salmonella and in the absence of proper kitchen hygiene and may contaminate processed foods. Raw poultry samples were highly contaminated with E. coli (45%), Campylobacter jejuni (C. jejuni) (28.3%), and Salmonella (8.3%) and classified as high‐risk food. E. coli was also detected in raw meat, fish, and vegetables with the rate of 21.3%, 6.6%, and 18.5%, respectively. This article confirmed the importance of hygienic working practices when preparing food.
Prevalence of Salmonella spp. in Poultry in Vietnam
Authors: HANH TRAN T. , THANH NGUYEN T. , THOA HOANG Q. , THI LE T. , THUAN LAM M. , LY NGUYEN T.H.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The prevalence of Salmonella spp. in chickens and ducks from North, Central, and South Vietnam was followed over a 4 year period. Several different analyses were employed and the current prevalence was shown to be less than in previous studies.
Prevalence and Epidemiology of Salmonella spp. in Small Pig Abattoirs of Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: BAS CÉDRIC LE , HANH TRAN T. , THANH NGUYEN T. , THUONG DANG D. , THUY NGO C.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The prevalence of Salmonella spp. in pigs was evaluated in a survey of small abattoirs in Hanoi, Vietnam. Cecal contents, carcass swabs, and tank water samples were collected for bacterial isolation in various media. Prevalence rates exceeded 50% in pig samples and 62% in water samples. This increased prevalence indicates the need for risk assessment evaluations along the entire production chain.
Study on the Prevalence of Campylobacter spp. from Chicken Meat in Hanoi, Vietnam
Authors: QUYNH HUONG LUU , THI HANH TRAN , DAC CAM PHUNG , THI BE NGUYEN
Published: November 2006

Abstract: 
Campylobacter spp. is considered to be the most common bacterial cause of human gastroenteritis worldwide. In developing countries, Campylobacter spp. diarrhea is an important cause of childhood morbidity. Chicken meat is known to be a major source of Campylobacteriosis infection in the world. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in chicken meat. A total of 100 samples from breast part of chicken carcass were collected from retail market in Hanoi. The samples were taken for bacteriological analysis following the ISO 10272 standards. Thirty one samples (31%) were found positive for Campylobacter spp. The most frequently isolated Campylobacter was Campylobacter jejuni (45.2%) followed by Campylobacter coli (25.8%). Due to high contamination rates of retail chicken products, special attention must be paid to good manufacturing practices of food processors and vendors. Further studies should be done to assess the risk factors of Campylobacter spp. contamination in the Vietnamese fowl production chain.
Bovine Transcriptome Analysis by SAGE Technology during an Experimental Trypanosoma congolense Infection
Authors: BERTHIER DAVID , CHANTAL ISABELLE , THÉVENON SOPHIE , MARTI JACQUES , PIQUEMAL DAVID , MAILLARD JEAN‐CHARLES
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  In central and sub‐Saharan Africa, trypanosomosis is a tsetse fly‐transmitted disease, which is considered as the most important impediment to livestock production in the region. However, several indigenous West African taurine breeds (Bos taurus) present remarkable tolerance to the infection. This genetic capability, named trypanotolerance, results from numerous biological mechanisms most probably under multigenic dependences, among which are control of the trypanosome infection by limitation of parasitemia and control of severe anemia due to the pathogenic effects. Today, some postgenomic biotechnologies, such as transcriptome analyses, allow characterization of the full expressed genes involved in the majority of animal diseases under genetic control. One of them is serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE) technology, which consists of the construction of mRNA transcript libraries for qualitative and quantitative analysis of the entire genes expressed or inactivated at a particular step of cellular activation. We developed four different mRNA transcript libraries from white blood cells on a N'Dama trypanotolerant animal during an experimental Trypanosoma congolense (T. congolense) infection: one before experimental infection (ND0), one at the parasitemia peak (NDm), one at the minimal packed cell volume (NDa), and the last one at the end of the experiment after normalization (NDf). Bioinformatic comparisons in bovine genomic databases allowed us to obtain more than 75,000 sequences, among which are several known genes, some others are already described as expressed sequence tags (ESTs), and the last are completely new, but probably functional in trypanotolerance. The knowledge of all identified named or unnamed genes involved in trypanotolerance characteristics will allow us to use them in a field marker‐assisted selections strategy and in microarrays prediction sets for bovine trypanotolerance.
Detection of T.b. rhodesiense Trypanosomes in Humans and Domestic Animals in South East Uganda by Amplification of Serum Resistance‐Associated Gene
Authors: ENYARU JOHN CHARLES K. , MATOVU ENOCK , NERIMA BARBRA , AKOL MARGARET , SEBIKALI CHARLES
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The human serum resistance‐associated (SRA) gene was identified in 28 (80%) of the 35 T.b. rhodesiense trypanosomes from parasitologically confirmed sleeping sickness cases, using the primers designed by Radwanska and in 27 (77.1%) of the same 35 T.b. rhodesiense trypanosomes using the primers designed by Gibson. However, about 20% of the 35 T.b. rhodesiense trypanosomes could not be detected by SRA—polymerase chain reaction (PCR) even when an aliquot of the first PCR was used in the second PCR, indicating that the gene may be absent in those trypanosomes or the trypanosomes could be having another variant of SRA not detectable by these primers since three variants of SRA genes have so far been identified or the amount of trypanosomal DNA extracted from infected blood was too low to be detected. The trypanosome isolates that are SRA gene negative may indicate the presence of some T.b. rhodesiense trypanosomes with modified or lack SRA genes or simple loss of the SRA gene from the expression site in which it resides during antigenic variation.
Analysis of trypanosomes derived from domestic animals showed that 79 (90.8%) of the 87 trypanosomes isolated from cattle were positive by Trypanosoma brucei (TBR)–PCR, indicating that they were Trypanozoon while 8 (9.2%) of the trypanosome isolates which were negative by TBR–PCR could be T. vivax, T. congolense, or T. theileri. When subjected to SRA–PCR, 10 (11.5%) of the 87 trypanosomes isolates derived from cattle were positive, indicating that there could be T.b. rhodesiense circulating in cattle, which is similar to the percentage of T.b. rhodesiense previously obtained in cattle in Serere, Soroti district.
Trypanosomiasis in Domestic Animals of Makwanpur District, Nepal
Authors: MAHARJAN MAHENDRA , MISHRA DINESH R.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Trypanosomiasis is an infectious emerging hemoprotozoan parasitic disease in domestical animals of Nepal. The prevalence of disease was found in 16 of 240 (6.67%) in domestic animals of Makawanpur district, out of which 9 of 105 were (8.57%) cattle; 5 of 75 (6.67%) buffalos, and 2 of 15 (13.3%) dogs, while none of the goats and pigs acquired infection. The disease was found maximum during rainy season 9 of 82 (10.98%) with higher prevalence among cross breeds than that of local breeds.
Prevalence of Cryptosporidium among Dairy Cows in Thailand
Authors: JITTAPALAPONG SATHAPORN , PINYOPANUWAT NONGNUCH , CHIMNOI WISSANUWAT , SIRIPANTH CHUTATIP , STICH ROGER W.
Published: November 2006

Abstract: 
Cryptosporidium species are frequently associated with diarrhea among AIDS patients in Thailand, and dairy herds are a possible source of some of these infections. A cross‐sectional study was performed to determine if Cryptosporidium is present among dairy cows in Thailand. Fecal samples were randomly collected from 363 Holstein‐Friesian dairy cows from 108 of 860 farms in the Nong Pho region of central Thailand. The average prevalence of Cryptosporidium among dairy cows was 9.4%, according to an assay for Cryptosporidium‐specific antigen (CSA) and 0.6% by microscopic examination of acid‐fast stained feces. CSA was detected in all host age categories tested, but was most prevalent among calves (15.1%). Overall, 31.5% of farms were contaminated with Cryptosporidium infections. Fifty percent of poorly managed farms had CSA‐positive cows, which were more likely to contaminate water and raw milk, while 12.9% of farms with acceptable management practices had CSA‐positive cows. There was no association between the detection of Cryptosporidium and other gastrointestinal parasites. These results indicate that Cryptosporidium is enzootic among Thai dairy cattle, and suggest that cattle could have a role in zoonotic cryptosporidiosis in Thailand.
Toxoplasmosis in Piglets
Authors: THIPTARA ANYARAT , KONGKAEW WANDEE , BILMAD UMAI , BHUMIBHAMON TEERAPHUN , ANAN SOMSAK
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Seventeen‐day‐old piglets in a small holding farm in southern Thailand manifested signs of convulsion, fever, and death. The morbidity and mortality rate were approximately 26.09% (6/23) and 4.35% (1/23), respectively. Impression smear from lungs demonstrated tachyzoite stage of Toxoplasma gondii. Histopathological investigation revealed interstitial pneumonia. Further investigation, blood collection, educating the farmer, and prescribed affected herd with sulfa‐trimethoprim were performed soon after Toxoplasma infection was demonstrated. A serological detection of T. gondii infection among affected herds using latex agglutination test was conducted on 14 serum samples. The overall seroprevalence was 71.43% (10/14). The titers were 1:64 in 3 pigs (21.43%), 1:128 in 4 (28.57%), 1:256 in 2 (14.29%), and 1:512 in 1 (7.14%). A cat in this farm showed antibody titer 1:32 while a dog was seronegative. Data derived from this case indicated two possible routes of transmission: transplacental infection and ingested food or water contaminated with oocysts shed by cat in this farm. However, rodents can not exclude as a role of toxoplasmosis transmission. Serological monitoring at slaughter houses combine with good sanitary practices, rodent and cat control in the farm are important measures to prevent toxoplasma infection and improve human health in the future.
Biological Control of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Nematodes Using Duddingtonia flagrans in Sheep under Natural Conditions in Mexico
Authors: MENDOZA‐DE GIVES PEDRO , ZAPATA NIETO CLAUDIA , LIÉBANO HERNÁNDEZ ENRIQUE , LÓPEZ ARELLANO MARÍA EUGENIA , RODRÍGUEZ DAVID HERRERA , GARDUÑO ROBERTO GONZÁLEZ
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  This investigation was aimed to evaluate the use of an oral bio‐preparation containing Duddingtonia flagrans chlamydospores for the control of sheep gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes under the Mexican cold high plateau conditions. Two groups of gastrointestinal parasitic nematode naturally infected sheep, were randomly selected and located into two free‐gastrointestinal nematode larvae paddocks. Group 1 received once a week a supplement containing D. flagrans chlamydospores mixed with oats and molasses. Group 2 received a similar supplement without any fungal material. After 5 months grazing animals were discarded from the experiment and two groups of free‐nematode “tracer” sheep were located into the same paddocks to collect larvae from the contaminated pastures. Animals were slaughtered and necropsied and the nematodes were obtained and counted. A screening of the number of gastrointestinal nematode larvae present on the grass was performed and compared between the two grazing areas. The results showed 56% reduction in the Ostertagia (Teladorsagia) circumcincta and 94% reduction in the Nematodirus sp. population of the “tracer” sheep who grazed on the D. flagrans‐treated sheep area, compared to the nematode population in animals grazed on the non‐treated area. The results of the number of larvae on the grazing pastures showed a 51.1% reduction for H. contortus, and 100% for Cooperia sp. in the area with fungi. In the case of Trichostrongylus sp. no reduction was observed, when compared to the control group.
Molecular Diagnosis of Granulocytic Anaplasmosis and Infectious Cyclic Thrombocytopenia by PCR‐RFLP
Authors: ALBERTI ALBERTO , SPARAGANO OLIVIER A.E.
Published: November 2006

Abstract: 
Anaplasma phagocytophilum (A. phagocytophilum, formerly Ehrlichia phagocytophila) is a tick‐borne pathogen responsible for tick‐borne fever in ruminants, equine granulocytic ehrlichiosis (EGE) in horses, canine granulocytic ehrlichiosis (CGE) in dogs, and for human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE). Human cases have been registered in many countries with a broad range of symptoms and pathogenicity. This article focused on Sardinia as the prevalence in humans was almost seven times higher than in the rest of Italy. To evaluate the risk, blood samples were collected from dogs and horses on the island. Genomic DNA was extracted from the buffy coat and amplified by heminested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the groEL gene primers. The first PCR reaction amplified a 624‐bp fragment for both A. phagocytophilum and A. platys while the second PCR reaction amplified 573‐bp and 515‐bp fragments for the above two pathogens, respectively. Six A. phagocytophilum samples were PCR positive (3 dogs and 3 horses) while another dog was A. platys PCR positive. A phylogenetic analysis was conducted with A. phagocytophilum sequences in GenBank from the United States, Slovenia, Switzerland, Germany, UK, Austria, and Czech Republic. Surprisingly, the related phylogenetic tree showed that the Sardinian isolates were closer to the American isolates, which were showing highest mortality rates than from the other two European lineages.
Development of an Immunosensor for the Diagnosis of Bovine Anaplasmosis
Authors: SILVA MARTA , WILKOWSKY SILVINA , DE ECHAIDE SUSANA TORIONI , FARBER MARISA , OLIVA ABEL
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  An optical immunosensor based in major surface protein 5 (MSP5) of Anaplasma marginale was developed towards detection of anti‐Anaplasma sp. antibodies in acute infection as well as in vaccinated cattle. This study was performed using recombinant MSP5 covalently immobilised in controlled pore glass (CPG) beads to detect anti‐MSP5 antibodies in serum samples. The quantification is based on the measurement of the Cy5 fluorescence of the detection antibody, anti bovine IgG, after reaction with serum. Sera were collected in enzootic and tick‐free regions of Argentina. The immunosensor showed a detection range of 1.2 g/ml to 48 g/ml of antibody in sera, with a sensitivity of 93% and a specificity of 70%. The optical immunosensor developed is suitable for quantification of antibodies in sera of naturally or experimentally infected animals.
Identification of Common Antigens in Babesia bovis, B. bigemina, and B. divergens
Authors: FIGUEROA JULIO V. , PRECIGOUT ERIC , CARCY BERNARD , GORENFLOT ANDRÉ
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Bovine babesiosis, caused by Babesia bovis, B. bigemina, and B. divergens, is a significant impediment to livestock production in countries with tropical/subtropical and temperate climates. Previous studies conducted on the immunoprophylaxis against the disease and diagnosis of these parasites has demonstrated the presence of similar antigens. The objective of this article was to identify and partially characterize antigens conserved among these three species. Immunochemical analysis using sera from cattle immunized individually with antigens from these three Babesia species revealed a number of antigens recognized by heterologous antisera. Cross‐reactions were more evident in sera from cattle immunized with B. bovis/B. bigemina which recognized several antigens (15 kDa to >200 kDa) in B. divergens. Immunoscreening of a B. divergens cDNA library with bovine serum to B. bigemina allowed the isolation of five clones and DNA sequencing of plasmid BdJF5 showed a 680 bp cDNA insert. Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) analysis of the predicted amino acid sequence revealed 47% identity with a protein identified as αNAC.
Serum from mice immunized with a recombinant Glutathione S‐Transferase‐BdJF5 fusion protein immunoprecipitated a 20 kDa B. bovis antigen. However, 30 kDa and 18 kDa antigens were immunoprecipitated from B. divergens and immunoblotting analysis revealed the recognition of a 35 kDa B. bigemina antigen. An indirect fluorescence antibody assay on merozoites showed strong reaction with B. divergens and weak recognition of B. bovis and B. bigemina. Despite the existent antigenic polymorphism among the Babesia spp., these results demonstrated that common antigens occur between European B. divergens and Mexican B. bovis/B. bigemina.
Comparative Genomics of Three Strains of Ehrlichia ruminantium
Authors: FRUTOS ROGER , VIARI ALAIN , FERRAZ CONCHITA , BENSAID ALBERT , MORGAT ANNE , BOYER FREDERIC , COISSAC ERIC , VACHIÉRY NATHALIE , DEMAILLE JACQUES , MARTINEZ DOMINIQUE
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The tick‐borne Rickettsiale Ehrlichia ruminantium (E. ruminantium) is the causative agent of heartwater in Africa and the Caribbean. Heartwater, responsible for major losses on livestock in Africa represents also a threat for the American mainland. Three complete genomes corresponding to two different groups of differing phenotypes, Gardel and Welgevonden, have been recently described. One genome (Erga) represents the Gardel group from Guadeloupe Island and two genomes (Erwo and Erwe) belong to the Welgevonden group. Erwo, isolated in South Africa, is the parental strain of Erwe, which was maintained for 18 years in Guadeloupe under different culture conditions than Erwo. The three strains display genomes of differing sizes with 1,499,920 bp, 1,512,977 bp, and 1,516,355 bp for Erga, Erwe, and Erwo, respectively. Gene sequences and order are highly conserved between the three strains, although several gene truncations could be pinpointed, most of them occurring within three regions of accumulated differences (RAD). E. ruminantium displays a strong leading/lagging compositional bias inducing a strand‐specific codon usage. Finally, a striking feature of E. ruminantium is the presence of long intergenic regions containing tandem repeats. These repeats are at the origin of an active process, specific to E. ruminantium, of genome expansion/contraction based on the addition or removal of tandem units.
Identification and Characterization of Merozoite Antigens of a Theileria Species Highly Pathogenic for Small Ruminants in China
Authors: MIRANDA JOANA , NASCIMENTO ELISABETE , CRUZ HELDER , HONG YIN , COELHO ANA , AHMED JABBAR S. , OLIVA ABEL
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  A new pathogenic Theileria species transmitted by Haemaphysalis qinghaiensis was identified in the Northwestern part of China and was shown to be highly pathogenic for small ruminants. The present article aimed at identifying merozoite antigens that might be suitable for developing diagnostic methods and designing a potential vaccine. Absence of other theilerial or babesial infections was confirmed by reverse line blot in all antigen samples used. Extensive Western blot analyses using serum from infected and noninfected animals led to the identification of four potential merozoite immunoreactive proteins at different molecular weights. Further protein characterization using peptide mass mapping by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) followed by database searching resulted in two significant hits that identified two proteins of parasite origin, one homologous to a possible MO25‐family protein from Cryptosporidium parvum and the other with an HSP70 from Theileria annulata. Another protein was also identified as a parasite protein but without significant homology. Immunization of rabbits with selected proteins produced antisera that reacted specifically on Western blots with merozoite antigens of the corresponding sizes. This article represents the first identification and characterization of potential antigenic proteins of Theileria sp. (China) for veterinary purposes.
Purification of Macroschizonts of a Sudanese Isolate of Theileria lestoquardi (T. lestoquardi[Atbara])
Authors: BAKHEIT MOHAMMED A. , ENDL ELMAR , AHMED JABBAR S. , SEITZER ULRIKE
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Research on malignant theileriosis is affected by the limited access to biological materials required for studies aiming at controlling the disease through the establishment of diagnostic tools and vaccines. The main aims of this work were to isolate, establish, and characterize a Theileria lestoquardi‐infected cell culture (line) as a source of biological material and to generate a schizont cDNA library for further studies aiming at the identification of antigenic proteins. The T. lestoquardi isolate used originated from a sheep showing typical signs of malignant theileriosis in Atbara town in northern Sudan, and was maintained as an infected cell culture. A high‐quality representative schizont cDNA library was established by isolating and purifying the schizonts using a nocodazole/aerolysin protocol followed by Percoll gradient ultracentrifugation. As a parameter to assess the quality of the schizont library, a provisional estimation of the percentage of recombinant phage clones originating from T. lestoquardi (Atbara) was undertaken. Ten clones with inserts ranging in size between 600 and 1200 bp were selected randomly, sequenced, and subjected to BLAST similarity searches. As 6 of the 10 sequenced clones showed similarities to T. parva, T. annulata, and other apicomplexan genes, it was concluded that the majority of the library phage clones originated from the parasite and not from host cell transcripts. The cDNA library will be used for screening of antigenic proteins using sera from infected sheep.
Identification of Potential Antigenic Proteins of Theileria lestoquardi
Authors: BAKHEIT MOHAMMED , SCHOLZEN THOMAS , AHMED JABBAR S. , SEITZER ULRIKE
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  A PCR strategy was used to identify potential antigenic proteins of T. lestoquardi suitable for the development of an ELISA by searching for homologous proteins previously identified in other theilierial parasites to be antigenic.
The Host Responses in Sheep Artificially Infected with Theileria sp. (China)
Authors: JIAN‐SAN WU , JIAN‐MIN YU , ZHI‐LIAN WANG , CUI‐PING SONG , JIAN‐FONG YUAN , BAO‐AN YAO
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Studies on host responses in sheep artificially infected with Theileria sp. (China) were discussed and summarized mainly on typical high fever periods, merozoits and schizoon observation, antibody response.
Identification of Homologous Genes of T. annulata Proteins in the Genome of Theileria sp. (China)
Authors: MIRANDA JOANA P.G. , BAKHEIT MOHAMMED , SCHNEIDER ILKA , HALLER DANIEL , AHMED JABBAR S. , YIN HONG , OLIVA ABEL G. , SEITZER ULRIKE
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Homologues to previously described Theileria (T.) annulata genes (T. annulata surface protein [TaSP], putative T. annulata membrane protein [TaD]) were successfully amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from Theileria sp. (China) merozoite cDNA, with 88% identity to TaD; TcSP partial cDNA, 94% identity to TaSP. Moreover, homologues to a secretory protein of T. annulata (TaSE), with a sequence identity of 99% on the cDNA level (TcSE partial cDNA) and to a potential membrane protein of T. lestoquardi (Clone‐5), with a sequence identity of 100% on the genomic level (Tc Clone‐5) but lacking an intron at positions 1894–1928 were identified.
Epidemiology of Theileria annulata Infection of Dairy Cattle in the Sudan Using Molecular Techniques
Authors: ALI AWADIA M. , BAKHEIT MOHAMMED A. , MUKHTAR MAOWIA M. , HASSAN SHAWGI M. , AHMED JABBAR S. , SEITZER ULRIKE
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  This study provides the first epidemiological data regarding T. annulata infection of diary cattle in Sudan using a combination of routine microscopic examination and two molecular techniques, PCR and reverse line blot (RLB).
Dermal Mast Cell Counts in F2 Holstein x Gir Crossbred Cattle Artificially Infested with the Tick Boophilus microplus (Acari: Ixodidae)
Authors: ENGRACIA FILHO J.R. , BECHARA G.H. , TEODORO R.L.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The role of dermal mast cells (DMC) in the host resistance to ticks has been studied but it is not totally explained yet. Studies have proposed that zebuine cattle breeds, known as highly resistant to ticks, have more DMC than taurine breeds. In the present study, we compared the number of adult female ticks Boophilus microplus and the mast cells' countings in the skin of F2 crossbred Gir × Holstein cattle, before and after tick infestation. F2 crossbred cattle (n = 148) were divided into seven groups and artificially infested with 1.0 × 104B. microplus larvae and, 21 days afterwards, adult female‐fed ticks attached to the skin were counted. Skin biopsies were taken and examined under light microscopy with a square‐lined ocular reticulum in a total area of 0.0625 mm2 in both the superficial and deep dermis. Results demonstrated that infested F2 crossbred cattle acquired resistance against the cattle‐tick B. microplus probably associated to an increase in the dermal mast cell number. It is concluded that the tick infestation may lead to an environmental modification in the dermis of parasitized hosts due to the massive migration of mast cells or their local proliferation.
Detection of Hepatozoon canis in Stray Dogs and Cats in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: JITTAPALAPONG SATHAPORN , RUNGPHISUTTHIPONGSE OPART , MARUYAMA SOICHI , SCHAEFER JOHN J. , STICH ROGER W.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  A rapidly increasing stray animal population in Bangkok has caused concern regarding transmission of vector‐borne and zoonotic diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine if stray animals in Bangkok are a potential reservoir of Hepatozoon, a genus of tick‐borne parasites that has received little attention in Thailand. Blood samples were collected from stray companion animals near monasteries in 42 Bangkok metropolitan districts. Both dogs and cats were sampled from 26 districts, dogs alone from 4 districts and cats alone from 12 districts. Samples were collected from a total of 308 dogs and 300 cats. Light microscopy and an 18 S rRNA gene‐based PCR assay were used to test these samples for evidence of Hepatozoon infection. Gamonts were observed in blood smears for 2.6% of dogs and 0.7% of cats by microscopy. The PCR assay detected Hepatozoon in buffy coats from 11.4% of dogs and 32.3% of cats tested. The prevalence of infection was the same between male and female dogs or cats, and PCR‐positive dogs and cats were found in 36.6% and 36.8% of the districts surveyed, respectively. There was an association between the percentages of PCR‐positive dogs and cats in districts where both host species were sampled. Sequences of representative amplicons were closest to those reported for H. canis. These results represent the first molecular confirmation that H. canis is indigenous to Thailand. The unexpectedly high prevalence of Hepatozoon among stray cats indicates that their role in the epizootiology of hepatozoonosis should be investigated.
Renitelo Cattle Dermatophilosis and PCR–RFLP Analysis of MHC Gene
Authors: RAZAFINDRAIBE HANTA , RALINIAINA MODESTINE , MAILLARD JEAN‐CHARLES , RAKOTONDRAVAO
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Renitelo breed is a cattle breed created at Kianjasoa station (Madagascar) by a triple crossing Malagasy Zebu × Limousine × Afrikander. This breed besides many valuable advantages, such as rapid growth and drought power, presents a huge disadvantage which is sensitivity to skin disease, dermatophilosis, previously known as streptotrichosis. This disease caused by Dermatophilus congolensis is one of the major threats for the population of Renitelo cattle. An allele of MHC gene has been shown to be dramatically associated to hypersensitivity to the disease in other cattle breed. To bring further information to tick borne disease clinical survey, mainly dermatophilosis, we wanted to verify if such allele could be found in this breed. Renitelo cattle included in this study were chosen for the presence of dermatophilosis lesions in more or less severe form (N = 17). These animals were blood sampled and a genetic analysis on the MHC gene BoLA‐DRB3 was performed, by PCR amplification using BOD 31 & BOD 32 primers. Amplified products were analyzed by RFLP using enzymes. Restriction band profiles were characterized according to previously defined patterns. Three cows out of the 17 cattle analyzed for MHC gene presented the hypersensitive allele FDA. Two out of the three hypersensitive cows were pure breed while one was half breed. All the cows presented dermatophilosis lesions at least during rainy season but one of them particularly suffered from severe lesions covering all its body and died of the illness. This study shows that hypersensitivity allele found in other bovine breeds can be found in Renitelo breed. This result seemed to suggest that this characterization could be utilized in breeding program for this breed.
Polyphasic Taxonomy
Authors: UILENBERG GERRIT , GOFF WILL L.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Several organisms from a number of prokaryotic and eukaryotic groups have presented problems for systematists for a long time. Both phenotypic and genotypic methods for sorting out these relationships have been employed. There are limitations with each method when taken alone. Since the purpose of systematics is to determine the correct genealogical relationships among biological organisms, it is necessary to use all available means to arrive at consensus associations, and polyphasic taxonomy, which takes into consideration both methods, is a rational approach. In this short article, we provide a number of examples where polyphasic taxonomy is serving as the means of arriving at the desired consensus.
Phylogenetic Position of Small‐Ruminant Infecting Piroplasms
Authors: AHMED JABBAR S. , LUO JIANXUN , SCHNITTGER LEONHARD , SEITZER ULRIKE , JONGEJAN FRANS , YIN HONG
Published: November 2006

Abstract: 
Theileria and Babesia are tick‐transmitted protozoa that cause great economical losses in livestock. Recently, interest has risen in sheep‐infecting piroplasms and a number of previously unidentified pathogens were described, particularly in China. To address the phylogenetic relationship of Theileria and Babesia species infecting sheep, the complete sequences of the 18 S small subunit ribosomal RNA genes of a panel of piroplasm isolates, including T. lestoquardi, T. ovis, T. separata, B. ovis, B. motasi, B. crassa, and several novel species, were compared. The classification based on the established phylogenetic tree corresponded with traditional systematics and revealed that sheep/goat piroplasm species are of a polyphyletic origin. In addition, these studies revealed the existence of at least two novel sheep/goat piroplasm species, designated Theileria sp. (China 1) and Theileria sp. (China 2).
Phylogenetics of Theileria Species in Small Ruminants
Authors: SPARAGANO OLIVIER A.E. , SPITALSKA EVA , NAMAVARI MEHDI , TORINA ALESSANDRA , CANNELLA VINCENZA , CARACAPPA SANTO
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Our study is based on the collection of blood and ticks from sheep in Iran and Italy. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing was performed to target the 18S rRNA gene and RLB was performed using previously published probes. In Italy and Iran 78.7% and 76.0% of the sheep were PCR positive, which after sequencing and RLB showed that they were Theileria ovis and Theileria lestoquardi, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using the Clustal W multiple sequence alignment program and our sequences were compared with more than 50 others already published in the EMBL database. Our T. lestoquardi sequences linked with other T. lestoquardi sequences from Iran, Tanzania, and Sudan and Theileria annulata showed the importance of having species‐specific probes between these two species. However, distinctive clades were found between T. lestoquardi ticks and those found in sheep blood. Italian T. ovis seemed to be closer to Theileria spp. from Namibia and Iran than with other T. ovis from Spain, Turkey, Tanzania, and Sudan adding some information to the controversy about this species. However, some confusion was found on the existing database where the location of pathogens, years, and species names was inaccurate and when available sequences were not always appropriately used. This article will discuss our results and some comparisons with other phylogenetic approaches.
Molecular Sequence Evidence for the Reclassification of Some Babesia Species
Authors: ALLSOPP MARIA T. E. P. , ALLSOPP BASIL A.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Taxonomic characterization of organisms in the genera Theileria and Babesia was originally based on observations of morphology and certain general phenotypic characteristics, which enabled many parasites to be unequivocally assigned to a particular genus. However, application of molecular genetic techniques, such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for gene amplification, and DNA sequencing, have revealed gross inconsistencies in the assignation of some parasite genetic variants, particularly those of the B. gibsoni and B. microti complexes, to the genus Babesia. These variants cannot be assigned, on the basis of sequence information and phylogenetic analysis, to either of the genera Theileria and Babesia. The gene for which most sequence information is available for phylogenetic analysis is the small subunit ribosomal RNA (srRNA) gene. This gene allows clear distinction of the genera Theileria and Babesia (sensu stricto) and reveals that many “Babesia” variants are phylogenetically distinct from both genera. This distinction is confirmed, for some of the variants, by β‐tubulin sequence data, suggesting that the organisms should be renamed and reclassified.
Phylogenetic and Biologic Evidence That Babesia divergens Is Not Endemic in the United States
Authors: HOLMAN PATRICIA J.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The causative agent of human babesiosis in a Kentucky case, which was first identified as

Babesia divergens

, is identical to a parasite of eastern cottontail rabbits on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts based on piroplasm size, morphology, and ribosomal RNA sequence analysis. Studies showing differential infectivity for cattle, host erythrocyte specificity

in vitro

, parasite size and morphology

in vitro

, and ribosomal RNA sequences clearly demonstrate that the parasite from the rabbit (conspecific with the human Kentucky agent) is not the same organism as B. divergens.
An Internet Portal Dedicated to Pig Production and Wild Suids in the Tropics
Authors: PORPHYRE VINCENT , GOURMENT CYRICCE , ERWIN THIERRY , NOUAILLE CHRISTINE
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Considering that a wide access to updated and relevant data is a key point for livestock development and research improvement in tropics, The PigTrop web site (http://pigtrop.cirad.fr) is dedicated to pig production and pork commodity chains in developing countries. It mainly addresses stakeholders involved in the pig commodity chain, but also researchers, students, or development agencies with an interest in tropical pig breeding. It is run by the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (CIRAD).
Local Epidemiosurveillance in Swine Diseases in Northern Vietnam
Authors: PORPHYRE VINCENT , NGOC SON NGUYEN , TUAN HA MINH , GENEWE STERENN , HENRY CELINE
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The REMAPORC is an epidemiosurveillance network in swine diseases and an organizational model for local veterinary services in one district of Northern Vietnam. A strong concern was done on quality of the sanitary information chain from field and feedback to local agents. Based on 4,000 declarations provided by veterinarians and animal health workers involved, preliminary results highlighted the major incidence of porcine respiratory disease complex; digestive affections in piglets, and reproductive disorders in newly raised exotic sows have been also noticed.