Veterinaria italiana最新文献

The aim of this study was to evaluate cadmium (Cd) concentrations in horses imported from various European Union countries and slaughtered in Italy. In addition, we assessed the potential correlation between Cd levels in tissues and organs, and Cd-related gross and histological lesions. The animals were divided into six groups based on age and geographical origin. Among the 430 animals examined, gross renal lesions were observed in only two kidney samples from Polish horses, which also had the highest Cd concentrations: 9.1 mg/kg w/w and 8.23 mg/kg w/w, respectively. Further histological alterations were identified in the same group, in 19 kidney samples with Cd concentrations exceeding 5.72 mg/kg w/w. These findings raise important food safety concerns, as Regulation (EC) No. 1881/2006 and its subsequent amendments establish strict maximum limits for Cd in horse meat and offal. Considering the EU precautionary principle, the results of this study underscore that only the integration of chemical analyses with histological examinations can provide a comprehensive assessment of the risks, ensuring compliance with EU food safety legislation and international trade standards.

The present work investigates the genetic relatedness and antibiotic susceptibility of Salmonella strains collected from the red meat supply chain, highlighting the public health significance of these pathogens. Pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE-XbaI) was applied to genotype a collection of 84 Salmonella strains isolated from slaughterhouses. The antibiotic susceptibility of these strains to fourteen antimicrobial agents was determined using the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) method. The isolates were classified into 22 fingerprints, with two strains being non-typable. The predominant PFGE types identified were Mu1 (n=18), I2 (n=10), and K2 (n=8), indicating a high level of genetic similarity among isolates (>80%). All Salmonella strains exhibited resistance to at least two antimicrobials, with approximately 34.5% displaying resistance to three or more classes of antibiotics. Twelve distinct resistant patterns were identified, and notably, only one colistin-resistant Salmonella strain was detected. These findings underscore the need for ongoing surveillance and control measures in the red meat industry.

Bluetongue is an emerging, non-contagious, vector-borne disease that affects both domestic and wild ruminants. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Bluetongue virus (BTV) in four Egyptian governorates and to evaluate the associated risk factors. A total of 740 serum samples were collected from 380 sheep and 360 goats and tested using a commercial competitive ELISA (cELISA). The overall BTV seroprevalence was 16.2%, with 17.1% in sheep and 15.3% in goats. Although the seroprevalence did not differ significantly across the studied regions, the highest prevalence was recorded in Kafr El-Sheikh (20.7%). Univariable analysis revealed a significant association between BTV seropositivity and several factors, including sex, age, presence of vectors, history of abortion, and contact with cattle. According to the multivariable logistic regression model, females, animals older than 2 years, and those with a history of abortion were respectively 2.3, 2.6, and 1.6 times more likely to be seropositive. Furthermore, the presence of insect vectors and close contact with cattle increased the risk of BTV infection by 1.6 and 2.1 times, respectively. This study highlights the significant risk factors associated with BTV seropositivity, with a slightly higher prevalence observed in sheep compared to goats. These findings underscore the need for effective disease surveillance, management, and control strategies targeting both sheep and goat populations.

One of the most critical aspects of PRRS outbreak control in swine herds is the reliable virus detection in both newly introduced animals and replacement gilts. In present study we compared the effectiveness of different biological specimens which - alone or in combination - allow to detect PRRSv carrier animals by mean of Reverse Transcriptase nested PCR (RT-nPCR). Five different matrices (serum, nasal swab, oral fluid, tracheobronchial swab and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid - BALF), known to be effective for PRRSv detection, were included in diagnostic efficacy comparison. Thirty-five pigs newly introduced into a fattening unit of a PRRS chronically affected farm were randomly selected to be submitted to serial sampling of each of the matrices above described, during the first three months of fattening period. A Bayesian approach was used to analyze the RT-nPCR results (i.e., positive or negative) of each sampling method and their respective sensitivity was estimated. PRRSv was detected by RT-nPCR in at least one matrix from 58% to 100% of the pigs. Tracheobronchial swabbing, as well as the combination of tracheobronchial swabbing plus bronchoalveolar washing, or tracheobronchial swabbing plus serum sampling were proved to be the most sensitive sampling methods to detect PRRSv in naturally infected live pigs. This study enlightens as the tracheobronchial swabbing associated with RT-nPCR could be the most recommended diagnostic tool for assessing infection dynamics in pig herds.

Bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) is one of several fatal neurodegenerative diseases caused by misfolded, infectious prion proteins. Polymorphisms in the prion protein gene (PRNP) associated with BSE susceptibility have been reported in various cattle breeds. However, no studies have been conducted to investigate these genetic variations in the Nguni cattle breed, an indigenous breed in the Kingdom of Eswatini, Southern Africa. The present study aimed to genetically characterize the PRNP gene in Nguni cattle. Both the coding region and regulatory elements-specifically the promoter and intron 1 regions-were analyzed. Three synonymous polymorphisms were identified: Q78Q, P113P, and I226I. Additionally, the Nguni breed exhibited a higher frequency of deletion alleles in two known insertion/deletion (indel) polymorphisms: a 23-bp deletion in the promoter region and a 12-bp deletion in intron 1, compared to insertion alleles. These findings suggest that Nguni cattle may be genetically susceptible to BSE. The results underscore the importance of implementing selective breeding strategies aimed at enhancing resistance to BSE within this indigenous cattle population.

This study aimed to identify and determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites through faecal egg detection in children and dogs from three rural hamlets - La Chorrera, Cruz Pampa, and Chugurmayo - located in the Sorochuco district, Celendín province, Cajamarca region, Peru, at an altitude exceeding 3,400 meters above sea level. Faecal samples were collected from school-aged children and domestic dogs and analysed using direct smear, natural sedimentation, Faust, and Sheather techniques. Parasitic infection was detected in 59.80% of children (95% CI: 50.29-69.32) and 55.00% of dogs (95% CI: 44.10-65.90). No statistically significant differences in prevalence were observed between hamlets (p = 0.630). Among children, the highest prevalence was noted in males aged >6 to 9 years; in dogs, it was observed in males aged 0 to 1 year. However, age and sex were not significantly associated with infection in either group (p > 0.05). Parasitic stages identified in children included Giardia spp., Hymenolepis spp., Fasciola hepatica, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Diphyllobothrium spp. In dogs, Giardia spp., Ancylostomatidae, Sarcocystis spp., Toxocara spp., and Taenia spp. were found. One parasite - Giardia spp. - were common to both species, although no significant overall correlation of infection between children and dogs was observed (p > 0.05). These findings highlight the need for enhanced epidemiological surveillance, medical attention, and further research in these underserved rural communities. Increased awareness and integrated public health efforts are essential to address the burden of parasitic infections in these high-altitude areas.

Non-typhoidal salmonellosis is a globally prevalent zoonotic disease, often associated with the growing concern of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This persistent issue underscores the urgent need for novel strategies for prevention and control. Although conventional approaches such as drug or vaccine development are widely explored, they are often time-consuming, costly, and subject to potential bacterial resistance over time. As an alternative, egg-derived antibodies (IgY) offer a promising solution. IgY can be produced in large quantities without the need for complex infrastructure or environmental risk. Their production is characterized by a favorable safety profile, scalability, high antibody yield per egg yolk, cost-effectiveness, and lack of cross-reactivity in mammals-attributes that collectively make this technology highly advantageous. The present investigation aimed to establish a standardized protocol for hyperimmunization, production, and isolation of IgY antibodies from the yolk of immunized hens targeting multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. The study further focused on the characterization and specificity assessment of the purified IgY. The findings suggest that the resulting IgY holds strong potential as a therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic agent against MDR S. Typhimurium.

Leishmaniases are zoonotic diseases, and the risk of human transmission of leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum in endemic areas is increasing public health concerns.This study sought to determine the knowledge of dog owners in the province of Tiaret regarding Human Visceral Leishmaniasis (HVL) and Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis (CVL), and to carry out serological detection of HVL, using a variety of serological diagnostic methods, including enzyme immunosorbent assay (ELISA), indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT), immunochromatographic test (IT-LEISH), and Western Blot (WB), this study sought to determine the knowledge of dog owners in Tiaret Province regarding Human Visceral Leishmaniasis (HVL) and Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis (CVL). To establish the risk  between owning a Leishmania positive dog and the human infection, serological screening of the owners' dogs using IFAT was carried out. Every single participant, who ranged in age from 21 to 66, was male. The majority were farmers and ignorant. A questionnaire regarding HVL and CVL was completed by each of them. Only a small percentage of respondents accurately completed the questionnaire; most were unaware of these illnesses, and some mistook them for other diseases. Additionally, the existence of doubtful cases (3%) by IFAT was discovered during the serological screening of dog owners for HVL. Finally, five of the nine people whose dogs tested positive and who were subjected to the Western Blot method were found to be positive. Finally, we can highlight the ignorance of leishmaniasis among dog owners, and the importance of making these people aware of the risks of this disease for dogs and humans.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is one of the primary pathogens in domestic felines, causing significant immunosuppression, lymphomas, and even death. Various subtypes of this virus have been described, with FeLV-A being the least pathogenic and the most widely distributed subtype. Conversely, the recombination of FeLV-A with endogenous retroviral sequences has resulted in variant B, which is associated with the development of leukemias and lymphomas. FeLV transmission occurs primarily through grooming between individuals, facilitating its distribution and circulation. The aim of this study was to characterize subtype B and analyze risk factors associated with viral infection in a sample of felines from Colombia. To achieve this, blood samples were taken from the cephalic or jugular veins of 151 felines in four municipalities of Antioquia, and data on age, sex, and area of origin were collected. PCR was performed on a region of the pol gene (306 bp), and only FeLV-positive feline samples underwent a second PCR for the env gene (1400 bp). Only env-positive PCR products were sequenced, and phylogenetic and recombination analyses were performed. Logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratios (OR) for each variable (age, sex, and area of origin). The overall FeLV positivity rate was 33.77%, with an association found between male sex and FeLV infection (OR = 2.23, p = 0.038), as well as between the area of origin and FeLV infection (OR = 0.22, p = 0.035). Of the total samples, only 11 (7.3%) amplified for FeLV-B, with seven samples from Buriticá and four from Medellín. The recombination analyses confirmed that all sequences belonged to the FeLV-B subtype and were unique recombinants. The molecular presence of the virus in the study area demonstrates that the circulation of this retrovirus remains active. Additionally, the area of origin and male sex are risk factors for FeLV infection. Finally, an increase in FeLV positivity was observed, and while the B variants are generated de novo in each feline, it is crucial to continue health monitoring, especially in regions distant from major urban centers.

Table eggs are widely favored for their affordability, simplicity, and appeal across all age groups. They are a rich source of high-quality proteins, essential amino acids, minerals, and vitamins-nutrients vital for maintaining good health. The hygienic quality of table eggs is influenced by several factors, including the type of housing system and the level of biosecurity implemented on farms. This study evaluated the hygienic quality of table eggs produced in Egyptian layer farms, examining egg production across different housing systems and biosecurity levels. A total of 70 egg samples (both eggshell and egg content) were collected from seven layer farms representing diverse housing conditions and biosecurity standards. Samples were analyzed for total aerobic plate count (TAPC) and the presence of hygiene-indicating bacteria, including Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Shigella. The results showed that farms with higher biosecurity scores (up to 97.5%), particularly those using closed battery systems, had significantly lower TAPC values and a reduced prevalence of pathogenic bacteria. In contrast, farms operating under open deep litter and backyard systems, with biosecurity scores of 30% and 22.5% respectively, exhibited notably higher microbial contamination. These findings underscore the crucial role of robust biosecurity practices and effective housing management in ensuring the hygienic quality of table eggs and protecting public health.