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Paudel S, Apostolakos I, Vougat Ngom R, Tilli G, de Carvalho Ferreira HC, Piccirillo A. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the efficacy of vaccination against colibacillosis in broiler production. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301029. [PMID: 38517875 PMCID: PMC10959377 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Colibacillosis, a disease caused by Escherichia coli in broiler chickens has serious implications on food safety, security, and economic sustainability. Antibiotics are required for treating the disease, while vaccination and biosecurity are used for its prevention. This systematic review and meta-analysis, conducted under the COST Action CA18217-European Network for Optimization of Veterinary Antimicrobial Treatment (ENOVAT), aimed to assess the efficacy of E. coli vaccination in broiler production and provide evidence-based recommendations. A comprehensive search of bibliographic databases, including, PubMed, CAB Abstracts, Web of Science and Agricola, yielded 2,722 articles. Following a defined protocol, 39 studies were selected for data extraction. Most of the studies were experimental infection trials, with only three field studies identified, underscoring the need for more field-based research. The selected studies reported various types of vaccines, including killed (n = 5), subunit (n = 8), outer membrane vesicles/protein-based (n = 4), live/live-attenuated (n = 16), and CpG oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) (n = 6) vaccines. The risk of bias assessment revealed that a significant proportion of studies reporting mortality (92.3%) or feed conversion ratio (94.8%) as outcomes, had "unclear" regarding bias. The meta-analysis, focused on live-attenuated and CpG ODN vaccines, demonstrated a significant trend favoring both vaccination types in reducing mortality. However, the review also highlighted the challenges in reproducing colibacillosis in experimental setups, due to considerable variation in challenge models involving different routes of infection, predisposing factors, and challenge doses. This highlights the need for standardizing the challenge model to facilitate comparisons between studies and ensure consistent evaluation of vaccine candidates. While progress has been made in the development of E. coli vaccines for broilers, further research is needed to address concerns such as limited heterologous protection, practicability for application, evaluation of efficacy in field conditions and adoption of novel approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surya Paudel
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR
- Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ilias Apostolakos
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization “DIMITRA”, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ronald Vougat Ngom
- Department of Animal Production, School of Veterinary Medicine and Sciences, University of Ngaoundere, Ngaoundéré, Cameroon
- Veterinary Public Health Institute, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Giuditta Tilli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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Souillard R, Allain V, Dufay-Lefort AC, Rousset N, Amalraj A, Spaans A, Zbikowski A, Piccirillo A, Sevilla-Navarro S, Kovács L, Le Bouquin S. Biosecurity implementation on large-scale poultry farms in Europe: A qualitative interview study with farmers. Prev Vet Med 2024; 224:106119. [PMID: 38335830 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Biosecurity is an essential tool for rearing healthy animals. Biosecurity measures (BMs) are well known in poultry production, but it is difficult to assess actual implementation on farms. The aims of this qualitative study were (1) to provide an overview of biosecurity implementation according to poultry farmers in Europe; and (2) to better understand the reported reasons and potential obstacles for not implementing the measures. In seven European Union Member States, 192 farmers (118 under contract with a company and 68 independents) working in seven different categories of poultry production were interviewed on 62 BMs to determine the frequency of implementation and the reasons for non-implementation. Most of the replies (n = 7791) concerning BM implementation were reported by the farmers as "always" implemented (81%), statistically higher for breeders (87%) and layers (82%) and lower for independent farms versus farms under contract with a company (79.5% and 82.5%, respectively). Regardless the poultry production category, the most frequently implemented BMs declared by the farmers were daily surveillance of birds, rodent control and feed storage protection. Standard hygiene practices were also mentioned as high-implementation measures for most production categories, with some deficiencies, such as rendering tank disinfection after each collection and, for meat poultry, disinfection of the feed silo and bacterial control of house cleaning and disinfection between each cycle. The entry of vehicles and individuals onto poultry farms, especially during critical points of eggs collection for breeders and layers, as well as the presence of other animals, such as the "all in/all out" practice, particularly in layers and ducks, were also reported as the least commonly practiced measures. The main reasons for not implementing the measures (n = 1683 replies) were low awareness and poor knowledge of the expected benefits of biosecurity ("no known advantages" 14%, and "not useful" 12%), the lack of training ("not enough training" 5% and "advice" 7%), lack of time (19%), and financial aspects (17%). Despite the good overall biosecurity mentioned by the farmers, these findings highlight certain deficiencies, suggesting room for improvement and the need for targeted and tailored support of poultry farmers in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rozenn Souillard
- Epidemiology, Health and Welfare Unit, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety, Ploufragan, France.
| | - Virginie Allain
- Epidemiology, Health and Welfare Unit, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety, Ploufragan, France.
| | | | - Nathalie Rousset
- French Technical Institute of Poultry Farming, Rabbit Farming, and Aquaculture, Paris, France.
| | - Arthi Amalraj
- Unit of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Annick Spaans
- Southern Agriculture and Horticulture Organization, 's-Hertogenbosch, Netherlands.
| | - Artur Zbikowski
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Legnaro, Italy.
| | | | - László Kovács
- Department of Animal Hygiene, Herd Health and Mobile Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Sophie Le Bouquin
- Epidemiology, Health and Welfare Unit, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety, Ploufragan, France.
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Laconi A, Tilli G, Galuppo F, Grilli G, Souillard R, Piccirillo A. Stakeholders' Perceptions of Biosecurity Implementation in Italian Poultry Farms. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3246. [PMID: 37893970 PMCID: PMC10603624 DOI: 10.3390/ani13203246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The level of implementation of biosecurity measures (BMs), the reasons for not implementing BMs and the effectiveness of BMs were assessed according to the perceptions of stakeholders (i.e., farmers and advisors) in Italian poultry farms. For this purpose, data were collected using a questionnaire administered to advisors (n = 37) and farmers (n = 30) of conventional broiler (n = 13) and layer (n = 13), free-range broiler (n = 8) and layer (n = 10), turkey (n = 13), duck (n = 3) and breeder (n = 7) farms between April and September 2021. The frequency of the implementation of BMs was 66.97% and 81.14% according to the answers provided by the advisors and farmers, respectively, with the breeder sector showing the highest level of implementation (85.71%). "Not knowing advantages" (21.49% for advisors) and "other/specific reasons" (21.49% for advisors and 38.32% for farmers) were the most common answers regarding the lack of implementation of BMs for all poultry sectors. Only 31.09% of farmers acknowledged the effectiveness of not-implemented BMs in contrast to 61.02% of advisors, with the layers' stakeholders being the most aware. The findings of this study may be useful for identifying failures in biosecurity and failures to develop intervention strategies to fulfil the biosecurity gaps still present in Italian poultry farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (A.L.); (G.T.)
| | - Giuditta Tilli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (A.L.); (G.T.)
| | - Francesco Galuppo
- Unità Locale Socio-Sanitaria (ULSS) 6 Euganea, Via Enrico degli Scrovegni 14, 35131 Padua, Italy;
| | - Guido Grilli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy;
| | - Rozenn Souillard
- Epidemiology, Health and Welfare Unit, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety, 22440 Ploufragan, France;
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Italy; (A.L.); (G.T.)
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Delpont M, Salazar LG, Dewulf J, Zbikowski A, Szeleszczuk P, Dufay-Lefort AC, Rousset N, Spaans A, Amalraj A, Tilli G, Piccirillo A, Devesa A, Sevilla-Navarro S, van Meirhaege H, Kovács L, Jóźwiak ÁB, Guérin JL, Paul MC. Monitoring biosecurity in poultry production: an overview of databases reporting biosecurity compliance from seven European countries. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1231377. [PMID: 37649565 PMCID: PMC10465163 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1231377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Compliance with required on-farm biosecurity practices reduces the risk of contamination and spread of zoonotic and economically important diseases. With repeating avian influenza epidemics in the poultry industry, the need to monitor and improve the overall level of biosecurity is increasing. In practice, biosecurity compliance is assessed by various actors (e.g., academic, private and public institutions), and the results of such assessments may be recorded and gathered in databases which are seldom shared or thoroughly analyzed. This study aimed to provide an inventory of databases related to the assessment of biosecurity in poultry farms in seven major poultry-producing European countries to highlight challenges and opportunities associated with biosecurity data collection, sharing, and use. The institutions in charge of these databases were contacted and interviewed using a structured questionnaire to gather information on the main characteristics of the databases and the context of their implementation. A total of 20 databases were identified, covering the gamut of poultry species and production types. Most databases were linked to veterinary health authorities or academia, and to a lesser extent interbranch organizations. Depending on the institutions in charge, the databases serve various purposes, from providing advice to enforcing regulations. The quality of the biosecurity data collected is believed to be quite reliable, as biosecurity is mostly assessed by trained farm advisors or official veterinarians and during a farm visit. Some of the databases are difficult to analyze and/or do not offer information concerning which biosecurity measures are most or least respected. Moreover, some key biosecurity practices are sometimes absent from certain databases. Although the databases serve a variety of purposes and cover different production types, each with specific biosecurity features, their analysis should help to improve the surveillance of biosecurity in the poultry sector and provide evidence on the benefits of biosecurity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jeroen Dewulf
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Artur Zbikowski
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Szeleszczuk
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Nathalie Rousset
- ITAVI, Institut Technique de l'Aviculture, Pisciculture et Cuniculture, Paris, France
| | - Annick Spaans
- Southern Agriculture and Horticulture Organization, Hertogenbosch, Netherlands
| | - Arthi Amalraj
- Department of Internal Medicine, Reproduction and Population Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Giuditta Tilli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Aitor Devesa
- Centro de Calidad Avícola y Alimentación Animal de la Comunidad Valenciana (CECAV), Castellón, Spain
| | - Sandra Sevilla-Navarro
- Centro de Calidad Avícola y Alimentación Animal de la Comunidad Valenciana (CECAV), Castellón, Spain
| | | | - László Kovács
- Department of Animal Hygiene, Herd Health and Mobile Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ákos Bernard Jóźwiak
- Digital Food Chain Education, Research, Development and Innovation Institute, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
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Laconi A, Saracino B, Fattorini E, Pellegrini G, Bucchi M, Bailoni L, Piccirillo A. SARS-CoV-2 and Companion Animals: Sources of Information and Communication Campaign during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy. Vet Sci 2023; 10:426. [PMID: 37505831 PMCID: PMC10386290 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10070426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study analyzed data on the sources and the level of Italians' awareness on the risk of infection by SARS-CoV-2 at the human-animal interface. Data were collected through a survey-type investigation on a representative sample of the Italian population. Forty-five percent of the interviewees were aware that companion animals could be infected by SARS-CoV-2. However, 29.8% were familiar with preventive measures to adopt to avoid viral transmission between infected humans and companion animals, and only 20.7% knew which companion animals could be at risk of infection. Higher awareness regarding the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission between animals and humans (51.7%) and the measures to prevent it (33.3%) was detected among companion animals' owners. Notably, 40.4% of interviewees were not informed at all. Television broadcasts (26.4%) represented the main source of information, while only 3.5% of the interviewees relied on veterinarians, of which 31.9% considered this source of information as the most trustworthy. Overall, 72.4% of Italians recognized that the communication campaign on COVID-19 and companion animals was inadequate. This survey highlights the need for increasing the public awareness of the risk of companion animals being infected with SARS-CoV-2 and the involvement of professionals in the public communication on zoonoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Barbara Saracino
- Department of Political and Social Sciences, University of Bologna, 40125 Bologna, Italy
| | - Eliana Fattorini
- Department of Sociology and Social Research, University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Pellegrini
- Department of Sociology and Social Research, University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
| | - Massimiano Bucchi
- Department of Sociology and Social Research, University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy
| | - Lucia Bailoni
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy
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6
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Laconi A, Tolosi R, Drigo I, Bano L, Piccirillo A. Association between ability to form biofilm and virulence factors of poultry extra-intestinal Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli. Vet Microbiol 2023; 282:109770. [PMID: 37150060 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2023.109770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Campylobacter species are known to be able to produce biofilm, which represents an ideal protective environment for the maintenance of such fragile bacteria. Since the genetic mechanisms promoting biofilm formation are still poorly understood, in this study we assessed the ability of C. jejuni (n = 7) and C. coli (n = 3) strains isolated from diseased poultry, and previously characterized by whole genome sequencing, to form biofilm. The in vitro analyses were carried out by using a microtiter based protocol including biofilm culturing and fixation, staining with crystal violet, and measurement of the optical density (OD570). The ability to form biofilm was categorized into four classes (no, weak, moderate, and strong producers). Potential correlations between OD570 and the presence/absence of virulence determinants were examined. The C. jejuni were classified as no (n = 3), weak (n = 2), and moderate (n = 2) biofilm producers; however, all possessed genes involved in chemotaxis, adhesion, and invasion to the host cells. No genes present exclusively in biofilm producers or in non-biofilm producers were identified. All C. coli were classified as weak producers and showed a similar set of virulence genes between each other. A trend of increased mean OD570 was observed in the presence of flaA and maf7 genes. No association between biofilm production classes and the explanatory variables considered was observed. The results of this study suggest that further investigations are needed to better identify and characterize the genetic determinants involved in extra-intestinal Campylobacter biofilm formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy.
| | - Roberta Tolosi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy
| | - Ilenia Drigo
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 31020 Villorba, TV, Italy
| | - Luca Bano
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 31020 Villorba, TV, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy
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7
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Laconi A, Tolosi R, Apostolakos I, Piccirillo A. Biofilm Formation Ability of ESBL/pAmpC-Producing Escherichia coli Isolated from the Broiler Production Pyramid. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12010155. [PMID: 36671356 PMCID: PMC9855187 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12010155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Escherichia coli able to produce extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) and plasmid-mediated AmpC β-lactamases (pAmpCs) represents a serious threat to public health, since these genes confer resistance to critically important antimicrobials (i.e., third generation cephalosporins) and can be transferred to non-resistant bacteria via plasmids. E. coli are known to be able to form a biofilm, which represents a favorable environment for the exchange of resistance determinants. Here, we assessed the ability of 102 ESBL/pAmpC-producing E. coli isolated from the broiler production pyramid to form a biofilm and to identify genetic factors involved in biofilm formation. All but one of the ESBL/pAmpC-producing E. coli were able to form a biofilm, and this represents a great concern to public health. E. coli belonging to phylogroups D, E, and F, as well as strains harboring the blaCTX-M-type gene, seem to be associated with an increased biofilm capability (p < 0.05). Furthermore, virulence genes involved in adherence and invasion (i.e., csgBAC, csgDEFG, matABCDEF, and sfaX) seem to enhance biofilm formation in E. coli. Efforts should be made to reduce the presence of ESBL/pAmpC- and biofilm-producing E. coli in the broiler production pyramid and, therefore, the risk of dissemination of resistant bacteria and genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Roberta Tolosi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Ilias Apostolakos
- Dairy Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization “DIMITRA”, 45221 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0498-272-793
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Laconi A, Tolosi R, Mughini-Gras L, Cuccato M, Cannizzo FT, Piccirillo A. Amoxicillin and thiamphenicol treatments may influence the co-selection of resistance genes in the chicken gut microbiota. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20413. [PMID: 36437351 PMCID: PMC9701756 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24927-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the dynamics of microbial communities and antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) in the chicken gut following amoxicillin and thiamphenicol treatments and potential co-selection of ARGs. To this purpose, the microbial community composition, using 16S rRNA NGS, and the abundance of ARGs conferring resistance to β-lactams and phenicols, using qPCRs, were determined. Results revealed that the administered antimicrobials did not significantly reduce the gut microbiota diversity, but changed its composition, with taxa (e.g. Gallibacterium and Megamonas) being enriched after treatment and replacing other bacteria (e.g. Streptococcus and Bifidobacterium). Positive correlations were found between ARGs (e.g. cmlA, blaCMY-2, and blaSHV) and the relative abundance of specific taxa (e.g. Lactobacillus and Subdoligranulum). The selective pressure exerted by both amoxicillin and thiamphenicol resulted in an increased abundance of ARGs conferring resistance to β-lactams (e.g. blaTEM-1, blaSHV, and blaCTX-M1-like) and phenicols (e.g. floR and cmlA). These findings, together with the co-occurrence of genes conferring resistance to the two antimicrobial classes (e.g. blaTEM-1 and cmlA), suggest a possible interaction among antimicrobials on resistance emergence, possibly due to the presence of mobile genetic elements (MGEs) carrying multiple resistance determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Laconi
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Legnaro, PD Italy
| | - Roberta Tolosi
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Legnaro, PD Italy
| | - Lapo Mughini-Gras
- grid.5477.10000000120346234Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands ,grid.31147.300000 0001 2208 0118Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Matteo Cuccato
- grid.7605.40000 0001 2336 6580Department of Veterinary Science, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- grid.5608.b0000 0004 1757 3470Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020 Legnaro, PD Italy
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9
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Laconi A, Tolosi R, Mughini-Gras L, Mazzucato M, Ferrè N, Carraro L, Cardazzo B, Capolongo F, Merlanti R, Piccirillo A. Beehive products as bioindicators of antimicrobial resistance contamination in the environment. Sci Total Environ 2022; 823:151131. [PMID: 34695463 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The use of antimicrobials in agricultural, veterinary and medical practice exerts selective pressure on environmental microbiota, promoting the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a global concern for the One Health Initiative Task Force (OHITF). Honeybees have been studied as bioindicators of AMR in the environment, but little is known about beehive products like honey and pollen. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of AMR genes (ARGs) in beehive products and investigated their origins. Specifically, possible associations between ARGs, microbiota and other characteristics of different honey and pollen samples, including country of origin, flower type, type of commercial distribution and environmental factors, such as land use, weather and composition of the environment surrounding the beehives were investigated. We found that beehive products harboured ARGs conferring resistance to β-lactams, macrolides, (fluoro)quinolones and polymyxins. Most samples possessed resistance to multiple antimicrobial classes, with honey and pollen showing similar ARG profiles. Even if Lactobacillus and Acinetobacter genera were common in the microbial communities of both honey and pollen, Bacillus, Clostridium, and Bombella defined honey microbiota, while Pseudomonas and Vibrio were enriched in pollen. ErmB and blaTEM-1 co-occurred with Lactobacillus and Fructobacillus, while positive associations between β-lactams and macrolides and anthropogenic environments (i.e. industrial and commercial areas and non-irrigated arable lands) were found. Altogether, our findings suggest that ARGs in honey and pollen might originate from the honeybee foraging environment, and that the beehive products can be used as bioindicators of the AMR environmental contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy.
| | - Roberta Tolosi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Lapo Mughini-Gras
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 BA Bilthoven, the Netherlands; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 2, De Uithof, 3584 CL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Matteo Mazzucato
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferrè
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Lisa Carraro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Barbara Cardazzo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesca Capolongo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Roberta Merlanti
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
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Tilli G, Laconi A, Galuppo F, Mughini-Gras L, Piccirillo A. Assessing Biosecurity Compliance in Poultry Farms: A Survey in a Densely Populated Poultry Area in North East Italy. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12111409. [PMID: 35681871 PMCID: PMC9179503 DOI: 10.3390/ani12111409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Biosecurity in poultry farms represents the first line of defense against the entry and spread of pathogens that may have animal health, food safety, and economic consequences. The aim of this study was to assess biosecurity compliance in poultry farms located in a densely populated poultry area in North East Italy. A total of 259 poultry farms (i.e., broilers, turkeys, and layers) were surveyed between 2018 and 2019 using standardized checklists, and differences in biosecurity compliance between the poultry sectors and years (only for turkey farms) were tested for significance. Among the three sectors, turkey farms showed the highest compliance. Farm hygiene, infrastructure condition, cleaning and disinfection tools, and procedures were the biosecurity measures most complied with. Some deficiencies were observed in the cleanliness of the farm hygiene lock in broiler farms, as well as the presence of the house hygiene lock in broiler and layer farms and an adequate coverage of built-up litter in turkey and broiler farms. In conclusion, this study highlighted a generally high level of biosecurity in the visited poultry farms (probably due to the stringent national regulation and the integration of the poultry industry) and identified some measures that still need to be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuditta Tilli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (G.T.); (A.L.)
| | - Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (G.T.); (A.L.)
| | - Francesco Galuppo
- Unità Locale Socio-Sanitaria (ULSS) 6 Euganea, via Enrico degli Scrovegni 14, 35131 Padua, Italy;
| | - Lapo Mughini-Gras
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands;
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, 3584 CS Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (G.T.); (A.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-049-8272793
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11
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Ferraresso J, Apostolakos I, Fasolato L, Piccirillo A. Third-generation cephalosporin (3GC) resistance and its association with Extra-intestinal pathogenic Escherichia coli (ExPEC). Focus on broiler carcasses. Food Microbiol 2022; 103:103936. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2021.103936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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12
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Cavicchio L, Laconi A, Piccirillo A, Beato MS. Swine Norovirus: Past, Present, and Future. Viruses 2022; 14:v14030537. [PMID: 35336944 PMCID: PMC8953536 DOI: 10.3390/v14030537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Revised: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Norovirus, an ssRNA + virus of the family Caliciviridae, is a leading disease burden in humans worldwide, causing an estimated 600 million cases of acute gastroenteritis every year. Since the discovery of norovirus in the faeces of swine in Japan in the 1990s, swine norovirus has been reported in several countries on several continents. The identification of the human-associated GII.4 genotype in swine has raised questions about this animal species as a reservoir of norovirus with zoonotic potential, even if species-specific P-types are usually detected in swine. This review summarises the available data regarding the geographic distribution of norovirus in swine, the years of detection, the genotype characterisation, and the prevalence in specific production groups. Furthermore, we discuss the major bottlenecks for the detection and characterisation of swine noroviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Cavicchio
- Diagnostic Virology Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVE), Viale dell’Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy;
| | - Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (A.L.); (A.P.)
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell’Università 16, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy; (A.L.); (A.P.)
| | - Maria Serena Beato
- National Reference Laboratory for African Swine Fever and Ruminant retroviruses, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche (IZSUM), Via G. Salvemini, 1, 06126 Perugia, Italy
- Correspondence:
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13
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Laconi A, Tolosi R, Cuccato M, Gras LM, Cannizzo F, Tilli G, Piccirillo A. Antimicrobial Resistance Dynamics in the Chicken Gut after Amoxicillin and Thiamphenicol Treatments. Int J Infect Dis 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2021.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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14
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Tolosi R, Carraro L, Laconi A, Piccirillo A. Optimization of five qPCR protocols toward the detection and the quantification of antimicrobial resistance genes in environmental samples. MethodsX 2021; 8:101488. [PMID: 34754761 PMCID: PMC8563462 DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2021.101488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we describe the optimization and validation of five quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays by employing the SYBRGreen chemistry paired with melting curve analysis to detect and quantify clinically relevant antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) (i.e. ermB, blaCTXM1-like, blaCMY-2, qnrA and qnrS) from environmental samples (i.e. soil and manure). These five protocols accurately detected and quantified the aforementioned ARGs in complex environmental matrices and represent useful tools for both diagnostic and monitoring activities of resistant bacteria and ARGs into the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberta Tolosi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro, Padua 35020, Italy
| | - Lisa Carraro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro, Padua 35020, Italy
| | - Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro, Padua 35020, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, Legnaro, Padua 35020, Italy
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15
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Enany S, Piccirillo A, Elhadidy M, Tryjanowski P. Editorial: The Role of Environmental Reservoirs in Campylobacter-Mediated Infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:773436. [PMID: 34778113 PMCID: PMC8588804 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.773436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shymaa Enany
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
- Biomedical Research Department, Armed Force College of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padova, Italy
| | - Mohamed Elhadidy
- Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Science and Technology, Zewail City of Science and Technology, Giza, Egypt
- Department of Bacteriology, Mycology and Immunology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Piotr Tryjanowski
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine & Animal Sciences, Poznan University of Life Sciences, Poznan, Poland
- Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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16
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Cecoro G, Piccirillo A, Martuscelli G, Del Fabbro M, Annunziata M, Guida L. Efficacy of locally delivered statins as an adjunct to scaling and root planning in the treatment of periodontitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2021; 25:5737-5754. [PMID: 34604965 DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202109_26792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this systematic review is to assess the efficacy of locally delivered statins used in adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP), compared with SRP alone. MATERIALS AND METHODS An electronic and hand search was carried out up to April 2020. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Clinical attachment level gain (CALgain) and probing depth reduction (PDred), modified sulcular bleeding index reduction (mSBIred), and intrabony defect reduction (IBDred) were the investigated outcomes. Meta-analysis was performed, and the power of the meta-analytic findings was determined by trial sequential analysis (TSA). Studies were also sub-grouped based on the type of statin used. Statistical heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed. RESULTS Twenty RCTs were included (1212 patients, 1289 defects). An overall statistically significant effect size in favor of statins for CALgain and PDred was found. As opposed to atorvastatin and rosuvastatin, simvastatin did not reach statistical significance for these outcomes, as shown by the sub-group analysis. CONCLUSIONS Within the limits of the available studies, the local administration of statins (in particular, atorvastatin and rosuvastatin) in adjunct to SRP may result in additional significant improvement in terms of CALgain and PDred compared with SRP alone. The high heterogeneity of data and the high risk of bias found, however, impose caution. No approved preparations, moreover, exist, and further well-designed RCTs from independent research centers are needed to confirm the beneficial effects of the different statins and their mutual differences in the non-surgical periodontal treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Cecoro
- Department of Medical-Surgical and Dental Specialties, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
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Apostolakos I, Laconi A, Mughini-Gras L, Yapicier ÖŞ, Piccirillo A. Occurrence of Colibacillosis in Broilers and Its Relationship With Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) Population Structure and Molecular Characteristics. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:737720. [PMID: 34568479 PMCID: PMC8456121 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.737720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) causes colibacillosis, the disease with the highest economic loss for the broiler industry. However, studies focusing on the prevalence and population structure of APEC in the broiler production pyramid are scarce. Here, we used genotyping and serotyping data to elucidate the APEC population structure and its changes in different broiler production stages along with whole-genome sequencing (WGS) in a subset of APEC isolates to determine transmission patterns amongst dominant APEC sequence types (STs) and characterize them in detail. Comparison of genotypes encountered in both APEC and avian fecal E. coli (AFEC) provided further insights. Overall, APEC-related mortality, as the proportion of the total sampled mortality in the broiler production, was high (35%), while phylogroup C and serogroup O78 were predominant amongst APEC isolates. We found a low (34.0%) and high (53.3%) incidence of colibacillosis in chicks and end-cycle broilers, respectively, which may be related to a shift in APEC genotypes, suggesting a trend from commensalism to pathogenicity across different broiler production stages. Despite considerable APEC genotypic diversity, there was substantial genotype overlap (40.9%, overall) over the production stages and convergence of STs to the four clusters. Within these clusters, WGS data provided evidence of clonal transmission events and revealed an enriched virulence and resistance APEC repertoire. More specifically, sequenced APEC were assigned to defined pathotypes based on their virulence gene content while the majority (86%) was genotypically multi-drug resistant. Interestingly, WGS-based phylogeny showed that a subset of APEC, which are cephalosporin-resistant, may originate directly from cephalosporin-resistant AFEC. Finally, exploration of the APEC plasmidome indicated that the small fraction of the APEC virulome carried by IncF plasmids is pivotal for the manifestation of the APEC pathotype; thus, plasmid exchange can promote pathogenicity in strains that are at the edge of the commensal and pathogenic states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Apostolakos
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Lapo Mughini-Gras
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, Netherlands.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Özlem Şahan Yapicier
- Republic of Turkey Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Veterinary Control, Central Research Institute, Bacteriology Diagnostic Laboratory, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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18
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Laconi A, Drigo I, Palmieri N, Carraro L, Tonon E, Franch R, Bano L, Piccirillo A. Genomic analysis of extra-intestinal Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli isolated from commercial chickens. Vet Microbiol 2021; 259:109161. [PMID: 34214907 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2021.109161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli have commonly been considered harmless commensal inhabitants of the chicken gut; however, these Campylobacter spp. are known to be able to multiply in the gut and invade other tissues, negatively affecting host health and performance. In this study, fourteen Campylobacter spp. were isolated from chickens showing foci of necrosis on the liver surface resembling lesions observed in cases of avian vibrionic hepatitis/spotty liver disease. The whole genome sequences of the fourteen isolates were analysed and their virulomes compared to those of Campylobacter reference sequences, aiming to investigate the possible association between virulence genes and the observed pathological lesions. Nine C. jejuni and five C. coli were studied. These Campylobacter shared twelve virulence factors with other isolates originated from chicken livers and hosted a higher number of virulence-associated genes in comparison to the reference genomes, including genes encoding for factors involved in adherence to and invasion of the intestinal epithelial cells. Our findings seem to point out that these twelve common virulence-associated genes, together with the presence of a high number of virulence factors involved in adherence, invasion and motility, might be responsible for the extra-intestinal spread of our isolates and the colonization of parenchymatous tissues, possibly causing the pathological lesions observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), 35020, Italy
| | - Ilenia Drigo
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 31020 Villorba (TV), Italy
| | - Nicola Palmieri
- University Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, 1210, Austria
| | - Lisa Carraro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), 35020, Italy
| | - Elena Tonon
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 31020 Villorba (TV), Italy
| | - Raffaela Franch
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), 35020, Italy
| | - Luca Bano
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, 31020 Villorba (TV), Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), 35020, Italy.
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Laconi A, Mughini-Gras L, Tolosi R, Grilli G, Trocino A, Carraro L, Di Cesare F, Cagnardi P, Piccirillo A. Microbial community composition and antimicrobial resistance in agricultural soils fertilized with livestock manure from conventional farming in Northern Italy. Sci Total Environ 2021; 760:143404. [PMID: 33199005 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.143404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobials are commonly used in conventional livestock production and manure is widely applied to agricultural lands as fertilizer. This practice raises questions regarding the effects of fertilization on (i) soil microbiota composition and (ii) spread of antimicrobials and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the environment. This study was conducted in a high-density farming area of Northern Italy and aimed at assessing the impact of (dairy cattle, chickens and swine) manure application on soil microbiome, antimicrobial concentrations and antimicrobial resistance gene (ARG) abundance. We found the microbial community composition in manure to be different and less diverse than in soil, with manure application altering only marginally the soil microbiome. Exceptions were the phyla Firmicutes, Tenericutes and Cloacimonetes, which significantly enriched in fertilized soil. Of the antimicrobials investigated, only flumequine concentrations increased after manure application, albeit non-significantly. ARGs were more abundant in manure, with ermA, ermB, blaOXA-1 and oqxA being significantly enriched in fertilized soil. Positive correlations between oqxA and qnrS abundances and flumequine concentrations were observed, together with the co-occurrence of some ARGs and microbial taxa (e.g. oqxA correlated with Acidobacteria and Gemmatimonadetes). This study showed that manure application has little effect on soil microbiome but may contribute to the dissemination of specific ARGs into the environment. Moreover, flumequine residues seem to enhance the emergence of oqxA and qnrS in soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Lapo Mughini-Gras
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3721 BA Bilthoven, the Netherlands; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 2, De Uithof, 3584 CL Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Roberta Tolosi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Guido Grilli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Angela Trocino
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Lisa Carraro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy
| | - Federica Di Cesare
- Department of Health, Animal Science and Food Safety, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Petra Cagnardi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milano, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro, Padua, Italy.
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20
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Apostolakos I, Feudi C, Eichhorn I, Palmieri N, Fasolato L, Schwarz S, Piccirillo A. High-resolution characterisation of ESBL/pAmpC-producing Escherichia coli isolated from the broiler production pyramid. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11123. [PMID: 32636426 PMCID: PMC7341882 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68036-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) or plasmid-mediated AmpC β-lactamase (pAmpC)-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL/pAmpC-EC) in livestock is a public health risk given the likelihood of their transmission to humans via the food chain. We conducted whole genome sequencing on 100 ESBL/pAmpC-EC isolated from the broiler production to explore their resistance and virulence gene repertoire, characterise their plasmids and identify transmission events derived from their phylogeny. Sequenced isolates carried resistance genes to four antimicrobial classes in addition to cephalosporins. Virulence gene analysis assigned the majority of ESBL/pAmpC-EC to defined pathotypes. In the complex genetic background of ESBL/pAmpC-EC, clusters of closely related isolates from various production stages were identified and indicated clonal transmission. Phylogenetic comparison with publicly available genomes suggested that previously uncommon ESBL/pAmpC-EC lineages could emerge in poultry, while others might contribute to the maintenance and dissemination of ESBL/pAmpC genes in broilers. The majority of isolates from diverse E. coli lineages shared four dominant plasmids (IncK2, IncI1, IncX3 and IncFIB/FII) with identical ESBL/pAmpC gene insertion sites. These plasmids have been previously reported in diverse hosts, including humans. Our findings underline the importance of specific plasmid groups in the dissemination of cephalosporin resistance genes within the broiler industry and across different reservoirs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Apostolakos
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020, Padua, Italy
| | - Claudia Feudi
- Institute of Microbiology and Epizootics, Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Inga Eichhorn
- Institute of Microbiology and Epizootics, Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nicola Palmieri
- Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Luca Fasolato
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020, Padua, Italy
| | - Stefan Schwarz
- Institute of Microbiology and Epizootics, Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, 35020, Padua, Italy.
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21
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Tolosi R, Apostolakos I, Laconi A, Carraro L, Grilli G, Cagnardi P, Piccirillo A. Rapid detection and quantification of plasmid-mediated colistin resistance genes (mcr-1 to mcr-5) by real-time PCR in bacterial and environmental samples. J Appl Microbiol 2020; 129:1523-1529. [PMID: 32510809 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
AIM The aim of the study was to validate a rapid method to detect and quantify colistin resistance genes (mcr-1 to mcr-5) by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) in diverse matrices. METHODS AND RESULTS The detection limit of two newly designed SYBR Green real-time PCR assays for mcr-4 and mcr-5 and of previously published protocols for mcr-1 to mcr-3 was assessed using serial dilutions of reference strains. The assays could detect all five mcr genes with the lower limit of 102 copy numbers. Escherichia coli isolates (n = 1062) and environmental samples (n = 93) were tested for the presence of mcr genes. The assays enabled the detection of colistin resistance genes both in bacterial isolates and in complex environmental samples. CONCLUSIONS This method represents a set of sensitive, rapid and effective assays for the screening of colistin resistance directly from the environment. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Colistin is an antimicrobial commonly used in animals and has recently emerged as a last-resort treatment in humans. Plasmid-mediated mcr genes confer resistance to colistin and represent a major threat for public health since they can be easily disseminated through horizontal gene transfer. The rapid and sensitive detection of mcr genes is of utmost necessity.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Tolosi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - I Apostolakos
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - A Laconi
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - L Carraro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - G Grilli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - P Cagnardi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - A Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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22
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Gratta F, Birolo M, Sacchetto R, Radaelli G, Xiccato G, Ballarin C, Bertotto D, Piccirillo A, Petracci M, Maertens L, Trocino A. Effect of feed restriction timing on live performance, breast myopathy occurrence, and muscle fiber degeneration in 2 broiler chicken genetic lines. Poult Sci 2020; 98:5465-5476. [PMID: 31250001 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pez352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
During recent years, research on meat quality in poultry has aimed to evaluate the presence and consequences of breast myopathies as well as the factors which can affect their occurrence by modifying the growth rate. A total of 900 broiler chickens were reared until slaughter (48 D) to evaluate the effect of 2 genetic lines (A vs. B) and feeding plans (ad libitum [AL], early restricted [ER], from 13 to 23 D of age, and late restricted [LR], from 27 to 37 D of age; restriction rate: 80%) on performance, meat quality, and breast muscle myopathies. Calsequestrin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expressions, and muscle fiber degeneration (MFD) were recorded at 22, 36, and 48 D. Chickens in the AL treatment had greater final live (P < 0.01) and carcass weights and proportion of pectoralis major muscle (P = 0.04) compared to chickens in the LR treatment, whereas chickens in the ER treatment had intermediate final live (3,454 g) and carcass weights, and proportion of pectoralis major muscle (25.6%). Chickens of line A were heavier than chickens of line B (P < 0.001), and had a greater feed conversion rate. Chickens of line A also had a greater dressing out percentage (P < 0.001), but a lower proportion of pectoralis major muscle (P = 0.04), as well as a greater meat pH (P < 0.001), meat cooking losses (P < 0.01), and shear force of the pectoralis major muscle (P = 0.03). Calsequestrin and VEGF mRNA were significantly lower in ER and LR chickens compared to AL chickens after feed restriction and during refeeding (P < 0.05). MFD scores increased with chicken age (P < 0.001) and differed between genetic lines (P < 0.001). Neither feeding plan nor genetic line affected the occurrence of white striping or wooden breast condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Gratta
- Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animal and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - M Birolo
- Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animal and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - R Sacchetto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - G Radaelli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - G Xiccato
- Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animal and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - C Ballarin
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - D Bertotto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - M Petracci
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, I-47521 Cesena (Forlì Cesena), Italy
| | - L Maertens
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Animal Sciences Unit, Scheldeweg 68, B-9090 Melle, Belgium
| | - A Trocino
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
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De Luca C, Iraola G, Apostolakos I, Boetto E, Piccirillo A. Occurrence and diversity of Campylobacter species in captive chelonians. Vet Microbiol 2019; 241:108567. [PMID: 31928704 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2019.108567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 12/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence and diversity of Campylobacter species in chelonians. From July 2016 to September 2017, a total of 452 individuals from a large variety of tortoises (n = 366) and turtles/terrapins (n = 86) kept in private collections and breeding centres, wildlife rescue centres, zoos, pet shops, and veterinary clinics from Northern Italy was sampled and subjected to microbiological examination. Campylobacter genus and species confirmation was performed by single and multiplex PCRs. Out of 452 samples, five (1.1%) tested positive: three for C. iguaniorum (two Testudo graeca and one Testudo hermanni), one for C. fetus subsp. testudinum (Stigmochelys pardalis) and one for C. geochelonis (Testudo hermanni). This study suggests that Campylobacter spp. are not common in chelonians, but a variety of species can be detected in these hosts, including those potentially pathogenic for humans. Further studies are needed to understand the epidemiology and the pathogenic potential for both animals and humans of reptile-associated Campylobacter spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlotta De Luca
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Gregorio Iraola
- Microbial Genomics Laboratory, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay; Center for Integrative Biology, Universidad Mayor, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Ilias Apostolakos
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Elena Boetto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, PD, Italy.
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24
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Carraro L, Marotta F, Janowicz A, Patavino C, Piccirillo A. Draft Whole-Genome Sequences of 16 Campylobacter jejuni Isolates Obtained from Wild Birds. Microbiol Resour Announc 2019; 8:e00359-19. [PMID: 31248999 PMCID: PMC6597683 DOI: 10.1128/mra.00359-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The draft genome sequences of 16 Campylobacter jejuni isolates obtained from wild birds are presented in this study. These genomes provide insights into the genetic features of C. jejuni isolates from wild birds, which are considered common hosts of this microorganism but have scarcely been investigated to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Carraro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Francesca Marotta
- National Reference Laboratory for Campylobacter, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise Giuseppe Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Anna Janowicz
- National Reference Laboratory for Campylobacter, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise Giuseppe Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Claudio Patavino
- National Reference Laboratory for Campylobacter, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise Giuseppe Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Apostolakos I, Mughini-Gras L, Fasolato L, Piccirillo A. Assessing the occurrence and transfer dynamics of ESBL/pAmpC-producing Escherichia coli across the broiler production pyramid. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0217174. [PMID: 31100096 PMCID: PMC6524947 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0217174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)- and plasmid mediated AmpC-type cephalosporinase (pAmpC)-producing Escherichia coli (ESBL/pAmpC E. coli) in food-producing animals is a major public health concern. This study aimed at quantifying ESBL/pAmpC-E. coli occurrence and transfer in Italy’s broiler production pyramid. Three production chains of an integrated broiler company were investigated. Cloacal swabs were taken from parent stock chickens and offspring broiler flocks in four fattening farms per chain. Carcasses from sampled broiler flocks were collected at slaughterhouse. Samples were processed on selective media, and E. coli colonies were screened for ESBL/pAmpC production. ESBL/pAmpC genes and E. coli phylogroups were determined by PCR and sequencing. Average pairwise overlap of ESBL/pAmpC E. coli gene and phylogroup occurrences between subsequent production stages was estimated using the proportional similarity index, modelling uncertainty in a Monte Carlo simulation setting. In total, 820 samples were processed, from which 513 ESBL/pAmpC E. coli isolates were obtained. We found a high prevalence (92.5%, 95%CI 72.1–98.3%) in day-old parent stock chicks, in which blaCMY-2 predominated; prevalence then dropped to 20% (12.9–29.6%) at laying phase. In fattening broilers, prevalence was 69.2% (53.6–81.3%) at the start of production, 54.2% (38.9–68.6%) at slaughter time, and 61.3% (48.1–72.9%) in carcasses. Significantly decreasing and increasing trends for respectively blaCMY-2 and blaCTX-M-1 gene occurrences were found across subsequent production stages. ESBL/pAmpC E. coli genetic background appeared complex and bla-gene/phylogroup associations indicated clonal and horizontal transmission. Modelling revealed that the average transfer of ESBL/pAmpC E. coli genes between subsequent production stages was 47.7% (42.3–53.4%). We concluded that ESBL/pAmpC E. coli in the broiler production pyramid is prevalent, with substantial transfer between subsequent production levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Apostolakos
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - Lapo Mughini-Gras
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Luca Fasolato
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), Italy
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26
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Di Martino G, Piccirillo A, Giacomelli M, Comin D, Gallina A, Capello K, Buniolo F, Montesissa C, Bonfanti L. Microbiological, chemical and physical quality of drinking water for commercial turkeys: a cross-sectional study. Poult Sci 2018; 97:2880-2886. [PMID: 29672773 PMCID: PMC6044312 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pey130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Drinking water for poultry is not subject to particular microbiological, chemical and physical requirements, thereby representing a potential transmission route for pathogenic microorganisms and contaminants and/or becoming unsuitable for water-administered medications. This study assessed the microbiological, chemical and physical drinking water quality of 28 turkey farms in North-Eastern Italy: 14 supplied with tap water (TW) and 14 with well water (WW). Water salinity, hardness, pH, ammonia, sulphate, phosphate, nitrate, chromium, copper and iron levels were also assessed. Moreover, total bacterial count at 22°C, presence and enumeration of Enterococcus spp. and E. coli, presence of Salmonella spp. and Campylobacter spp. were quantified. A water sample was collected in winter and in summer at 3 sampling sites: the water source (A), the beginning (B) and the end (C) of the nipple line (168 samples in total). Chemical and physical quality of both TW and WW sources was mostly within the limits of TW for humans. However, high levels of hardness and iron were evidenced in both sources. In WW vs. TW, sulphate and salinity levels were significantly higher, whilst pH and nitrate levels were significantly lower. At site A, microbiological quality of WW and TW was mostly within the limit of TW for humans. However, both sources had a significantly lower microbiological quality at sites B and C. Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serotype Kentucky was isolated only twice from WW. Campylobacter spp. were rarely isolated (3.6% of farms); however, Campylobacter spp. farm-level prevalence by real-time PCR was up to 43% for both water sources. Winter posed at higher risk than summer for Campylobacter spp. presence in water, whereas no significant associations were found with water source, site, recirculation system, and turkey age. Low salinity and high hardness were significant risk factors for C. coli and C. jejuni presence, respectively. These results show the need of improving sanitization of drinking water pipelines for commercial turkeys.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Di Martino
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - M Giacomelli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - D Comin
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Gallina
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - K Capello
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - F Buniolo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - C Montesissa
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - L Bonfanti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, viale dell'Università 10, 35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
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27
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilias Apostolakos
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, Italy
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28
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Bonaiuto E, Magro M, Fasolato L, Novelli E, Shams S, Piccirillo A, Bakhshi B, Moghadam TT, Baratella D, Vianello F. Versatile nano-platform for tailored immuno-magnetic carriers. Anal Bioanal Chem 2018; 410:7575-7589. [PMID: 30267275 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-018-1382-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2018] [Revised: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Custom immuno-magnetic devices are desirable tools for biomedical and biotechnological applications. Herein, surface active maghemite nanoparticles (SAMNs) are proposed as a versatile platform for developing tailored immuno-magnetic nano-carriers by simple wet reactions. Two examples for conjugating native and biotinylated antibodies were presented along with their successful applications in the recognition of specific foodborne pathogens. Nanoparticles were functionalized with rhodamine B isothiocyanate (RITC), leading to a fluorescent nano-conjugate, and used for binding anti-Campylobacter fetus antibodies (SAMN@RITC@Anti-Cf). The microorganism was selectively captured in the presence of two other Campylobacter species (C. jejuni and C. coli), as verified by PCR. Alternatively, SAMNs were modified with avidin, forming a biotin-specific magnetic nano-carrier and used for the immobilization of biotinylated anti-Listeria monocytogenes antibodies (SAMN@avidin@Anti-Lm). This immuno-magnetic carrier was integrated in piezoelectric quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor for the detection of L. monocytogenes in milk, showing a detection limit of 3 bacterial cells. The present work presents a new category of customized immuno-magnetic nano-carriers as a competitive option for suiting specific applications. Graphical abstract ᅟ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Bonaiuto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Magro
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy.,Regional Centre of Advanced Technologies and Materials, Palacký University, Šlechtitelů 27, 78371, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Luca Fasolato
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Enrico Novelli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Saeed Shams
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, No. 83, 4th Alley, 1.1th Alley, Safashahr St., Qom, Iran
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Bita Bakhshi
- Department of Medical Bacteriology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Al Ahmad Street, No. 7, Jalal, P.O. Box: 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Tohidi Moghadam
- Department of Nanobiotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal AleAhmad, Nasr, P.O.Box: 14115-111, Tehran, Iran
| | - Davide Baratella
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Fabio Vianello
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università 16, 35020, Legnaro, PD, Italy.
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Piccirillo A, Giacomelli M, Niero G, De Luca C, Carraro L, Ortali G, Mughini-Gras L. Multilocus sequence typing of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli to identify potential sources of colonization in commercial turkey farms. Avian Pathol 2018; 47:455-466. [PMID: 29897783 DOI: 10.1080/03079457.2018.1487529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Poultry are the main reservoir for thermophilic Campylobacter spp., which is the most common causative agent of human bacterial gastroenteritis. The epidemiology of Campylobacter in poultry, particularly in turkeys, is not completely understood. This study aimed at identifying potential sources and transmission routes of thermophilic Campylobacter spp. in commercial turkey farms. C. jejuni and C. coli isolates from breeders (n = 29, 20 C. jejuni and 9 C. coli) and their progeny (n = 51, 18 C. jejuni and 33 C. coli) reared in two different farms for three sequential production cycles were analysed by multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Strains (n = 88, 42 C. jejuni and 46 C. coli) isolated from environmental (i.e. anteroom and in-house overshoes), water (i.e. drinkers and water line), and pest (i.e. flies, Alphitobius diaperinus, and mice) sources were also examined. MLST of C. jejuni and C. coli isolates resulted in 13 and 12 different sequence types (STs) belonging to six and one previously-described clonal complexes (CCs), respectively. Three novel STs were identified. Genetic similarities were detected between isolates from fattening turkeys and the considered environmental, water, and pest sources, and with the breeders to a lesser extent. Source attribution analysis estimated that environmental and water sources accounted for most (∼75%) of fattening turkey isolates and were therefore identified as the most likely sources of flock colonization, followed by pests (∼20%) and breeders (∼5%). These sources may thus be targeted by control measures to mitigate the risk of Campylobacter colonization in commercial turkeys. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS High occurrence of C. jejuni and C. coli in commercial turkey flocks. High genetic diversity of C. jejuni and C. coli in commercial turkey flocks. Horizontal transmission responsible for Campylobacter colonization of commercial turkey flocks. Environmental and water sources involved in Campylobacter colonization of commercial turkey flocks. Strategies for prevention and control of Campylobacter colonization of commercial turkey flocks are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Piccirillo
- a Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science , University of Padua , Legnaro , Italy
| | - Martina Giacomelli
- a Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science , University of Padua , Legnaro , Italy
| | - Giulia Niero
- a Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science , University of Padua , Legnaro , Italy
| | - Carlotta De Luca
- a Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science , University of Padua , Legnaro , Italy
| | - Lisa Carraro
- a Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science , University of Padua , Legnaro , Italy
| | | | - Lapo Mughini-Gras
- c Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) , Bilthoven , the Netherlands.,d Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , Utrecht University , Utrecht , The Netherlands
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30
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Salata C, Lisotto P, Boldrin C, De Canale E, Piccirillo A, Calistri A, Palù G. A first molecular characterization of Listeria monocytogenes isolates circulating in humans from 2009 to 2014 in the Italian Veneto region. New Microbiol 2018; 41:232-234. [PMID: 30028474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Listeriosis is a disease usually associated with the consumption of low-processed ready-to-eat food products contaminated by Listeria monocytogenes. In Italy, listeriosis has an incidence of 0.19-0.27 cases per 100000 persons. Since detailed information concerning the molecular characterization of listeriosis in the Italian Veneto region is currently lacking, we analyzed 36 L. monocytogenes clinical isolates collected between 2009 and 2014. Results show that the serotype 1/2a was the most represented among the tested samples. No antimicrobial resistance was detected in selected isolates representing the main pulsotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Salata
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gabelli 63, 35121 - Padova, Italy
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padova University Hospital, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128 - Padova
| | - Paola Lisotto
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gabelli 63, 35121 - Padova, Italy
| | - Caterina Boldrin
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padova University Hospital, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128 - Padova
| | - Ettore De Canale
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padova University Hospital, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128 - Padova
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, viale dell'Università 16, 35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - Arianna Calistri
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gabelli 63, 35121 - Padova, Italy
| | - Giorgio Palù
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padova, Via Gabelli 63, 35121 - Padova, Italy
- Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padova University Hospital, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35128 - Padova
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31
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Shams S, Hashemi A, Esmkhani M, Kermani S, Shams E, Piccirillo A. Imipenem resistance in clinical Escherichia coli from Qom, Iran. BMC Res Notes 2018; 11:314. [PMID: 29776449 PMCID: PMC5960099 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-018-3406-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The emergence of metallo-β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae is a worldwide health concern. In this study, the first evaluation of MBL genes, blaIMP and blaVIM, in Escherichia coli resistant to imipenem isolated from urine and blood specimens in Qom, Iran is described. Three hundred urine and blood specimens were analysed to detect the presence of E. coli. Resistance to imipenem and other antimicrobials was determined by disk diffusion and MIC. MBL production was screened using CDDT. PCR was also carried out to determine the presence of blaIMP and blaVIM genes in imipenem-resistant isolates. Results In total, 160 E. coli isolates were collected from March to May 2016. According to disk diffusion, high-level of resistance (20%) to cefotaxime was observed, whereas the lowest (1%) was detected for tetracycline. In addition, five isolates showed resistance to imipenem with a MIC ≥ 4 µg/mL. CDDT test confirmed that five isolates were MBL-producing strains, but no blaIMP and blaVIM genes were detected. Results of this study show a very low level of resistance to imipenem in our geographical area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Shams
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran.
| | - Ali Hashemi
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Somaye Kermani
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Elham Shams
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Niero G, Bortolaia V, Vanni M, Intorre L, Guardabassi L, Piccirillo A. High diversity of genes and plasmids encoding resistance to third-generation cephalosporins and quinolones in clinical Escherichia coli from commercial poultry flocks in Italy. Vet Microbiol 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2018.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Sandri C, Sammarini C, Regaiolli B, Spiezio C, Piccirillo A. Reproduction and monogamy in captive flock of greater flamingos (Phoenicopterus Roseus). J APPL ANIM WELF SCI 2017; 21:256-266. [PMID: 29185798 DOI: 10.1080/10888705.2017.1404466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Due to the great number of greater flamingos in captivity and their long life span, studying their behavior and welfare might be useful to improve the husbandry and breeding of this species in zoos. This study aimed to investigate factors affecting the breeding activity of captive greater flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus) from 2012 to 2016. To estimate reproductive success, the number of pairs, eggs laid, and hatchlings were recorded. In addition, information on age, egg-laying history of the partners, and pair composition was collected. An increase in the number of pairs, eggs, and hatchlings was reported over the years. For each breeding season, there were pairs who laid more than once, especially in 2014 and 2015. Approximately 50% of pairs were monogamous between consecutive years; however, the percentage dropped gradually when comparing nonconsecutive years. Senescence and previous experience seemed to affect the reproductive success of the study flamingos. In conclusion, different factors can influence the reproduction of greater flamingos in zoos. All these factors are related to nonhuman animal welfare and need to be considered in developing and improving management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camillo Sandri
- a Department of Animal Care and Health Management , Parco Natura Viva-Garda Zoological Park , Bussolengo , Italy
| | - Carolina Sammarini
- a Department of Animal Care and Health Management , Parco Natura Viva-Garda Zoological Park , Bussolengo , Italy
| | - Barbara Regaiolli
- b Research & Conservation Department , Parco Natura Viva-Garda Zoological Park , Bussolengo , Italy
| | - Caterina Spiezio
- b Research & Conservation Department , Parco Natura Viva-Garda Zoological Park , Bussolengo , Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- c Department of Comparative Biomedicine & Food Science , University of Padua , Padua , Italy
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Iraola G, Forster SC, Kumar N, Lehours P, Bekal S, García-Peña FJ, Paolicchi F, Morsella C, Hotzel H, Hsueh PR, Vidal A, Lévesque S, Yamazaki W, Balzan C, Vargas A, Piccirillo A, Chaban B, Hill JE, Betancor L, Collado L, Truyers I, Midwinter AC, Dagi HT, Mégraud F, Calleros L, Pérez R, Naya H, Lawley TD. Distinct Campylobacter fetus lineages adapted as livestock pathogens and human pathobionts in the intestinal microbiota. Nat Commun 2017; 8:1367. [PMID: 29118316 PMCID: PMC5678084 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-01449-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Campylobacter fetus is a venereal pathogen of cattle and sheep, and an opportunistic human pathogen. It is often assumed that C. fetus infection occurs in humans as a zoonosis through food chain transmission. Here we show that mammalian C. fetus consists of distinct evolutionary lineages, primarily associated with either human or bovine hosts. We use whole-genome phylogenetics on 182 strains from 17 countries to provide evidence that C. fetus may have originated in humans around 10,500 years ago and may have "jumped" into cattle during the livestock domestication period. We detect C. fetus genomes in 8% of healthy human fecal metagenomes, where the human-associated lineages are the dominant type (78%). Thus, our work suggests that C. fetus is an unappreciated human intestinal pathobiont likely spread by human to human transmission. This genome-based evolutionary framework will facilitate C. fetus epidemiology research and the development of improved molecular diagnostics and prevention schemes for this neglected pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregorio Iraola
- Unidad de Bioinformática, Institut Pasteur Montevideo, 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay. .,Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay. .,Host-Microbiota Interactions Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, CB10 1SA, Hinxton, UK.
| | - Samuel C Forster
- Host-Microbiota Interactions Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, CB10 1SA, Hinxton, UK.,Centre for Innate Immunity and Infectious Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Nitin Kumar
- Host-Microbiota Interactions Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, CB10 1SA, Hinxton, UK
| | - Philippe Lehours
- Bordeaux Research in Translational Oncology, INSERM UMR1053, University of Bordeaux, 33076, Bordeaux, France.,French National Reference Center for Campylobacters and Helicobacters, University of Bordeaux, 33076, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sadjia Bekal
- Laboratoire de Santé Publique du Québec, Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada, H9X 3Y3.,Départment de Microbiologie, Immunologie et Infectiologie, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada, H3T 1J4
| | - Francisco J García-Peña
- Departamento de Bacteriología, Laboratorio Central de Veterinaria de Algete (MAGRAMA), 28110, Algete, Spain
| | - Fernando Paolicchi
- Laboratorio de Bacteriología, EEA-INTA Balcarce, Balcarce, 7620, Argentina
| | - Claudia Morsella
- Laboratorio de Bacteriología, EEA-INTA Balcarce, Balcarce, 7620, Argentina
| | - Helmut Hotzel
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Po-Ren Hsueh
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine and Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 10617, Taiwan
| | - Ana Vidal
- Animal and Plant Health Association (APHA), Addlestone, KT15 3NB, UK
| | - Simon Lévesque
- Laboratoire de Santé Publique du Québec, Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, QC, Canada, H9X 3Y3
| | - Wataru Yamazaki
- Department of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki, 889-2192, Japan
| | - Claudia Balzan
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Agueda Vargas
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, 97105-900, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padova, Padova, 35122, Italy
| | - Bonnie Chaban
- Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, 4556, Australia
| | - Janet E Hill
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan, SK, Canada, S7N 5A2
| | - Laura Betancor
- Instituto de Higiene, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, 11600, Uruguay
| | - Luis Collado
- Instituto de Bioquímica y Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Austral de Chile, 5090000, Valdivia, Chile
| | - Isabelle Truyers
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Anne C Midwinter
- EpiLab, Infectious Disease Research Centre, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4442, New Zealand
| | - Hatice T Dagi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Selçuk University, Selçuklu, 42250, Turkey
| | - Francis Mégraud
- Bordeaux Research in Translational Oncology, INSERM UMR1053, University of Bordeaux, 33076, Bordeaux, France.,French National Reference Center for Campylobacters and Helicobacters, University of Bordeaux, 33076, Bordeaux, France
| | - Lucía Calleros
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ruben Pérez
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Hugo Naya
- Unidad de Bioinformática, Institut Pasteur Montevideo, 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay.,Departamento de Producción Animal y Pasturas, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de la República, 12900, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Trevor D Lawley
- Host-Microbiota Interactions Laboratory, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, CB10 1SA, Hinxton, UK.
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Sandri C, Vallarin V, Sammarini C, Regaiolli B, Piccirillo A, Spiezio C. How to be a great dad: parental care in a flock of greater flamingo ( Phoenicopterus roseus). PeerJ 2017; 5:e3404. [PMID: 28584728 PMCID: PMC5452960 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last years, studies on captive greater flamingos have increased. Research on zoo animals is important to improve the knowledge on these species and to improve their ex-situ and in-situ conservation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the parental behaviour of a captive colony of greater flamingo hosted at Parco Natura Viva, an Italian zoological garden, to improve the knowledge on this species in zoos. In particular, the present study investigated and compared the parental care of females and males in 35 breeding pairs of greater flamingos. For each pair, we collected durations of parental care behaviour of both females and males, recording their position in relation to the nest (near the nest, on the nest, away from the nest) and individual and social behaviours performed. First, both partners were involved in parental care and displayed species-specific behaviours reported in the wild. The main results were that males spent more time than females on the nest (P = 0.010) and near it (P = 0.0001) and were more aggressive toward other flamingos than females, both when sitting on the nest (P = 0.003) and when near the nest (P = 0.0003). Therefore, male flamingos seem to be more involved in incubation duties and nest protection than females. This kind of research is important not only to expand the knowledge on bird species such as flamingos, but also to improve their husbandry and breeding in controlled environment. Indeed, understanding animal behaviour allows us to gain insights into their individual and social needs, addressing potential animal welfare issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camillo Sandri
- Department of Animal Health Care and Management, Parco Natura Viva - Garda Zoological Park, Verona, Italy
| | - Vittoria Vallarin
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, della Vita e della Sostenibilità Ambientale, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Carolina Sammarini
- Department of Animal Health Care and Management, Parco Natura Viva - Garda Zoological Park, Verona, Italy
| | - Barbara Regaiolli
- Research and Conservation Department, Parco Natura Viva - Garda Zoological Park, Verona, Italy
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Caterina Spiezio
- Research and Conservation Department, Parco Natura Viva - Garda Zoological Park, Verona, Italy
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Iraola G, Pérez R, Betancor L, Marandino A, Morsella C, Méndez A, Paolicchi F, Piccirillo A, Tomás G, Velilla A, Calleros L. A novel real-time PCR assay for quantitative detection of Campylobacter fetus based on ribosomal sequences. BMC Vet Res 2016; 12:286. [PMID: 27978826 PMCID: PMC5159996 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-016-0913-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2016] [Accepted: 12/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Campylobacter fetus is a pathogen of major concern for animal and human health. The species shows a great intraspecific variation, with three subspecies: C. fetus subsp. fetus, C. fetus subsp. venerealis, and C. fetus subsp. testudinum. Campylobacter fetus fetus affects a broad range of hosts and induces abortion in sheep and cows. Campylobacter fetus venerealis is restricted to cattle and causes the endemic disease bovine genital campylobacteriosis, which triggers reproductive problems and is responsible for major economic losses. Campylobacter fetus testudinum has been proposed recently based on genetically divergent strains isolated from reptiles and humans. Both C. fetus fetus and C. fetus testudinum are opportunistic pathogens for immune-compromised humans. Biochemical tests remain as the gold standard for identifying C. fetus but the fastidious growing requirements and the lack of reliability and reproducibility of some biochemical tests motivated the development of molecular diagnostic tools. These methods have been successfully tested on bovine isolates but fail to detect some genetically divergent strains isolated from other hosts. The aim of the present study was to develop a highly specific molecular assay to identify and quantify C. fetus strains. Results We developed a highly sensitive real-time PCR assay that targets a unique region of the 16S rRNA gene. This assay successfully detected all C. fetus strains, including those that were negative for the cstA gene-based assay used as a standard for molecular C. fetus identification. The assay showed high specificity and absence of cross-reactivity with other bacterial species. The analytical testing of the assay was determined using a standard curve. The assay demonstrated a wide dynamic range between 102 and 107 genome copies per reaction, and a good reproducibility with small intra- and inter-assay variability. Conclusions The possibility to characterize samples in a rapid, sensitive and reproducible way makes this assay a good option to establish a new standard in molecular identification and quantification of C. fetus species. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12917-016-0913-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregorio Iraola
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Iguá 4225, Montevideo, 11400, Uruguay.,Unidad de Bioinformática, Institut Pasteur Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ruben Pérez
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Iguá 4225, Montevideo, 11400, Uruguay
| | - Laura Betancor
- Departamento de Bacteriología y Virología, Instituto de Higiene, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ana Marandino
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Iguá 4225, Montevideo, 11400, Uruguay
| | - Claudia Morsella
- Laboratorio de Bacteriología, Unidad Integrada INTA-Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Alejandra Méndez
- Laboratorio de Bacteriología, Unidad Integrada INTA-Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Fernando Paolicchi
- Laboratorio de Bacteriología, Unidad Integrada INTA-Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Dipartimento di Biomedicina Comparata e Alimentazione, Università degli Studi di Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gonzalo Tomás
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Iguá 4225, Montevideo, 11400, Uruguay
| | - Alejandra Velilla
- Laboratorio de Bacteriología, Unidad Integrada INTA-Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Lucía Calleros
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Iguá 4225, Montevideo, 11400, Uruguay.
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38
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Piccirillo A, Niero G, Calleros L, Pérez R, Naya H, Iraola G. Campylobacter geochelonis sp. nov. isolated from the western Hermann's tortoise (Testudo hermanni hermanni). Int J Syst Evol Microbiol 2016; 66:3468-3476. [DOI: 10.1099/ijsem.0.001219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Giulia Niero
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Lucía Calleros
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Ruben Pérez
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Hugo Naya
- Unidad de Bioinformática, Institut Pasteur Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departamento de Producción Animal y Pasturas, Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Gregorio Iraola
- Sección Genética Evolutiva, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Unidad de Bioinformática, Institut Pasteur Montevideo, Uruguay
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39
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Radaelli G, Piccirillo A, Birolo M, Bertotto D, Gratta F, Ballarin C, Vascellari M, Xiccato G, Trocino A. Effect of age on the occurrence of muscle fiber degeneration associated with myopathies in broiler chickens submitted to feed restriction. Poult Sci 2016; 96:309-319. [PMID: 27566729 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pew270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate muscle fiber degeneration (MFD) associated with white striping and wooden breast, pectoralis major of 192 broilers differing for genotype (standard vs. high breast yield), gender, and feeding regime (ad libitum vs. restricted rate 80% from 13 to 21 d of age) were sampled at 14, 21, 28, 35, and 46 d of age for histological analyses by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining to evaluate tissue morphology, Masson's trichrome to identify collagen presence, and Oil red and Nile blue for lipid presence. Microvessels (diameter ≤15 μm), nuclei positive to anti-cleaved lamin A and monoclonal proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) antisera were counted to assess apoptotic and regenerative processes, respectively. Significant differences were found according to feeding system, age, and their interactions. The frequency of chickens with MFD was higher with ad libitum than restricted feeding (75.0% vs. 62.5%; P = 0.01) and increased with age (18.8%, 28.1%, 75.1%, 96.9%, and 96.9% at 14, 21, 28, 35, and 46 d). However, at 14 d a similar frequency (18.8%) was found in all broilers; at 21 d, MFD occurred more in broilers fed ad libitum than in those under restriction (50.0% vs. 6.3%; P < 0.01); at 28 d differences were reduced (87.5% vs. 62.5%; P = 0.10) to disappear by 35 (100% and 93.8%) and 46 d (96.9% and 96.9%). The number of microvessels decreased with age (20.7 to 9.46; P < 0.001) and the number of nuclei positive to the anti-cleaved lamin A antibody increased. At histology, MFD at 46 d corresponded to loss of typical cross striations, massive necrotic process, degenerating fibers surrounded by inflammatory cells, scattered fibers in an abundant collagen-rich connective tissue, numerous adipose cells; necrotic fibers showed a high percentage of apoptotic nuclei, and regenerating fibers appeared positive to anti-PCNA antibody. In conclusion, MFD soon occurred after 2 wk of growth and increased dramatically within 28 d. Early feed restriction reduced MFD as long as animals were restricted, but no residual effect was recorded after re-alimentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Radaelli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - M Birolo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - D Bertotto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - F Gratta
- Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animal and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - C Ballarin
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - M Vascellari
- Italian Health Authority and Research Organization for Animal Health and Food Safety, Viale dell'Università 14, I-35020, Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - G Xiccato
- Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animal and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro (Padova), Italy
| | - A Trocino
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
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Rampin F, Piccirillo A, Schiavon E, Poppi L, Grilli G. Detection of pathological lesions in slaughtered rabbits. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2016. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2008.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Schiavon E, Piccirillo A, Baruchello M, Mutinelli F. Case ReportCeruminous otitis in native chicken breeders belonging toRobusta Lionatabreed. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2016. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2006.312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Piccirillo A, Lavezzo E, Niero G, Moreno A, Massi P, Franchin E, Toppo S, Salata C, Palù G. Full Genome Sequence-Based Comparative Study of Wild-Type and Vaccine Strains of Infectious Laryngotracheitis Virus from Italy. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0149529. [PMID: 26890525 PMCID: PMC4758665 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0149529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Infectious laryngotracheitis (ILT) is an acute and highly contagious respiratory disease of chickens caused by an alphaherpesvirus, infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV). Recently, full genome sequences of wild-type and vaccine strains have been determined worldwide, but none was from Europe. The aim of this study was to determine and analyse the complete genome sequences of five ILTV strains. Sequences were also compared to reveal the similarity of strains across time and to discriminate between wild-type and vaccine strains. Genomes of three ILTV field isolates from outbreaks occurred in Italy in 1980, 2007 and 2011, and two commercial chicken embryo origin (CEO) vaccines were sequenced using the 454 Life Sciences technology. The comparison with the Serva genome showed that 35 open reading frames (ORFs) differed across the five genomes. Overall, 54 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and 27 amino acid differences in 19 ORFs and two insertions in the UL52 and ORFC genes were identified. Similarity among the field strains and between the field and the vaccine strains ranged from 99.96% to 99.99%. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a close relationship among them, as well. This study generated data on genomic variation among Italian ILTV strains revealing that, even though the genetic variability of the genome is well conserved across time and between wild-type and vaccine strains, some mutations may help in differentiating among them and may be involved in ILTV virulence/attenuation. The results of this study can contribute to the understanding of the molecular bases of ILTV pathogenicity and provide genetic markers to differentiate between wild-type and vaccine strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padua, Legnaro (Padua), Italy
- * E-mail:
| | - Enrico Lavezzo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua (DMM), Padua, Italy
| | - Giulia Niero
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padua, Legnaro (Padua), Italy
| | - Ana Moreno
- Department of Virology, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Brescia, Italy
| | - Paola Massi
- Department of Diagnostics, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Forlì, Italy
| | - Elisa Franchin
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua (DMM), Padua, Italy
| | - Stefano Toppo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua (DMM), Padua, Italy
| | - Cristiano Salata
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua (DMM), Padua, Italy
| | - Giorgio Palù
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Padua (DMM), Padua, Italy
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Heidari A, Mancin M, Nili H, Pourghanbari GH, Lankarani KB, Leardini S, Cattoli G, Monne I, Piccirillo A. Serological evidence of H9N2 avian influenza virus exposure among poultry workers from Fars province of Iran. Virol J 2016; 13:16. [PMID: 26817813 PMCID: PMC4728806 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-016-0472-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Since the 1990s, influenza A viruses of the H9N2 subtype have been causing infections in the poultry population around the globe. This influenza subtype is widely circulating in poultry and human cases of AI H9N2 have been sporadically reported in countries where this virus is endemic in domestic birds. The wide circulation of H9N2 viruses throughout Europe and Asia along with their ability to cause direct infection in mammals and humans, raises public health concerns. H9N2 AI was reported for the first time in Iran in 1998 and at present it is endemic in poultry. This study was carried out to evaluate the exposure to H9N2 AI viruses among poultry workers from the Fars province. Methods 100 poultry workers and 100 healthy individuals with no professional exposure to poultry took part in this study. Serum samples were tested for antibodies against two distinct H9N2 avian influenza viruses, which showed different phylogenetic clustering and important molecular differences, such as at the amino acid (aa) position 226 (Q/L) (H3 numbering), using haemagglutination inhibition (HI) and microneutralization (MN) assays. Results Results showed that 17 % of the poultry workers were positive for the A/chicken/Iran/10VIR/854-5/2008 virus in MN test and 12 % in HI test using the titer ≥40 as positive cut-off value. Only 2 % of the poultry workers were positive for the A/chicken/Iran/12VIR/9630/1998 virus. Seroprevalence of non exposed individuals for both H9N2 strains was below 3 % by both tests. Statistical analyses models showed that exposure to poultry significantly increases the risk of infection with H9N2 virus. Conclusions The results have demonstrated that exposure to avian H9N2 viruses had occurred among poultry workers in the Fars province of Iran. Continuous surveillance programmes should be implemented to monitor the presence of avian influenza infections in humans and to evaluate their potential threat to poultry workers and public health. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12985-016-0472-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Heidari
- Research and Innovation Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, OIE/FAO and National Reference Laboratory for Newcastle Disease and Avian Influenza, OIE collaborating Center for Diseases at the Human-Animal Interface, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy. .,Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, PD, Italy.
| | - M Mancin
- Food safety department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie (IZSVe), Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy.
| | - H Nili
- Avian Diseases Research Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - G H Pourghanbari
- Avian Diseases Research Center, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran. .,School of Veterinary Medicine, Ardakan University, Yazd, Iran.
| | - K B Lankarani
- Health Policy Research Center of Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - S Leardini
- Research and Innovation Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, OIE/FAO and National Reference Laboratory for Newcastle Disease and Avian Influenza, OIE collaborating Center for Diseases at the Human-Animal Interface, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy.
| | - G Cattoli
- Research and Innovation Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, OIE/FAO and National Reference Laboratory for Newcastle Disease and Avian Influenza, OIE collaborating Center for Diseases at the Human-Animal Interface, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy.
| | - I Monne
- Research and Innovation Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, OIE/FAO and National Reference Laboratory for Newcastle Disease and Avian Influenza, OIE collaborating Center for Diseases at the Human-Animal Interface, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, PD, 35020, Italy.
| | - A Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro, PD, Italy.
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Trocino A, Piccirillo A, Birolo M, Radaelli G, Bertotto D, Filiou E, Petracci M, Xiccato G. Effect of genotype, gender and feed restriction on growth, meat quality and the occurrence of white striping and wooden breast in broiler chickens. Poult Sci 2015; 94:2996-3004. [PMID: 26475069 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pev296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 08/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to their importance for the control of meat quality in broiler chickens, the present study aimed at identifying the factors associated with the occurrence of myopathies and characterizing the meat properties when affected by myopathies. To this aim, a total of 768 broiler chickens were reared until slaughter (46 d) to evaluate the effect of genotype, gender, and feeding regime (ad libitum vs. restricted rate, 80% from 13 to 21 d of age) on performance and meat quality. Standard broilers were heavier (3,270 vs. 3,139 g; P<0.001) and showed lower feed conversion (1.56 vs. 1.61; P<0.001) than the high-yield broilers. Males showed higher final live weight (3,492 vs. 2,845 g) and lower feed conversion (1.54 vs. 1.63) than females (P<0.001). Feed restriction decreased final live weight (3,194 vs. 3,142 g; P<0.01) and feed conversion (1.60 vs. 1.57; P<0.01) compared to ad libitum feeding. At gross examination, feed restriction tended to increase white-striped breasts (69.5 vs. 79.5%; P<0.10), whereas females showed less wooden breasts than males (8.0 vs. 16.3%; P<0.05). White-striped fillets had higher pHu (5.87 vs. 5.83), and lower a* (-0.81 vs. -0.59) and b* color indexes (13.7 vs. 14.5) (P<0.05), whereas wooden breast fillets exhibited higher cooking losses (25.6 vs. 22.1%) and AK-shear force (4.23 vs. 2.84 kg/g) compared with normal fillets (P<0.001). At histological examination, 3.1% of pectoralis major were normal, 26.6% mildly degenerated, 45.3% moderately degenerated, and 25.0% severely degenerated. In conclusion, genotype had a moderate effect on growth without modifying myopathy occurrence. In contrast, gender and feed restriction affected performance, meat quality, and breast abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Trocino
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - A Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - M Birolo
- Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animal and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - G Radaelli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - D Bertotto
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science (BCA), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - E Filiou
- Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animal and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
| | - M Petracci
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, I-47521Cesena, Forlì Cesena, Italy
| | - G Xiccato
- Department of Agronomy Food Natural Resources Animal and Environment (DAFNAE), University of Padova, Viale dell'Università 16, I-35020 Legnaro, Padova, Italy
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Cavicchio L, Dotto G, Giacomelli M, Giovanardi D, Grilli G, Franciosini MP, Trocino A, Piccirillo A. Class 1 and class 2 integrons in avian pathogenic Escherichia coli from poultry in Italy. Poult Sci 2015; 94:1202-8. [DOI: 10.3382/ps/pev095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Giacomelli M, Follador N, Coppola LM, Martini M, Piccirillo A. Survey of Campylobacter spp. in owned and unowned dogs and cats in Northern Italy. Vet J 2015; 204:333-7. [PMID: 25951986 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2015.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2014] [Revised: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Campylobacteriosis is among the most common bacterial causes of human gastroenteritis worldwide and pet ownership has been identified as a risk factor for Campylobacter infection in humans. Since canine and feline prevalence data are scarce in Italy, the present study was carried out to assess the prevalence, species distribution and risk factors for Campylobacter infection in dogs and cats under different husbandry conditions. Rectal swabs were collected from 171 dogs (household pets, n = 100; shelter-housed dogs, n = 50; dogs from breeding kennels, n = 21) and 102 cats (household pets, n = 52; shelter-housed cats, n = 21; free-roaming cats n = 29) in Northern Italy. Campylobacter was isolated from 17% (n = 29) of dogs and 14.7% (n = 15) of cats. C. jejuni was the most common isolate in both species (Campylobacter spp.-positive dogs, 55.2%; Campylobacter spp.-positive cats, 53.3%), followed by C. upsaliensis (Campylobacter spp.-positive dogs, 27.6%; Campylobacter spp.-positive cats, 40%). Other Campylobacter species were rarely detected, but included C. hyointestinalis subsp. hyointestinalis, C. lari and C. coli in dogs and C. coli and C. helveticus in cats. Among considered variables (sex, age, origin, diarrhoea, season of sampling), origin was identified as a risk factor for dogs, with shelter-housed dogs at higher risk than household dogs (odds ratio, 2.84; 95% CI 1.17, 6.92; P = 0.021). The results of this study, particularly the high prevalence of C. jejuni in Campylobacter-positive animals, demonstrated that household and stray dogs and cats in Northern Italy might pose a zoonotic risk for humans. Moreover, biosecurity measures should be improved in dog shelters.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Giacomelli
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università, 16-35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy.
| | - N Follador
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università, 16-35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - L M Coppola
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università, 16-35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - M Martini
- Department of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università, 16-35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
| | - A Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Viale dell'Università, 16-35020 Legnaro (PD), Italy
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Errichetti E, Lacarrubba F, Micali G, Piccirillo A, Stinco G. Differentiation of pityriasis lichenoides chronica from guttate psoriasis by dermoscopy. Clin Exp Dermatol 2015; 40:804-6. [DOI: 10.1111/ced.12580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Errichetti
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine; Institute of Dermatology; University of Udine; Italy
| | | | - G. Micali
- Dermatology Clinic; University of Catania; Italy
| | - A. Piccirillo
- SOC Dermatologia e Malattie Sessualmente Trasmesse; San Carlo Hospital; Potenza Italy
| | - G. Stinco
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine; Institute of Dermatology; University of Udine; Italy
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Machacova T, Bártová E, Sedlak K, Budikova M, Piccirillo A. Risk factors involved in transmission of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infection in rabbit farms in Northern Italy. Ann Agric Environ Med 2015; 22:677-679. [PMID: 26706976 DOI: 10.5604/12321966.1185774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE In Italy, rabbits are frequently reared for meat production. The aim of the study was to find the seroprevalence of T. gondii and N. caninum parasites, and risk factors of infection in rabbit farms. MATERIAL AND METHODS Blood samples from 260 apparently healthy breeding rabbits were collected on 13 commercial farms in Northern Italy. Rabbits were divided into categories according to age, number of births, breed, province and size of farm. Samples were tested for antibodies to T. gondii and N. caninum using the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT); samples with a titre ≥ 50 were considered positive. RESULTS Antibodies to T. gondii and N. caninum were found in 38 (14.6 %) and 3 (1.2 %) rabbits, respectively. A statistically significant difference (p-value ≤ 0.05) was found only in T. gondii prevalence among different rabbit breeds and provinces. CONCLUSION Rabbits from Northern Italy are at risk of T. gondii and N. caninum infection; however, it is lower compared to seroprevalence noted in other animal species or in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Machacova
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Bártová
- Department of Biology and Wildlife Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Hygiene and Ecology, University of Veterinary and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Sedlak
- Department of Virology and Serology, State Veterinary Institute Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Marie Budikova
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (Padua), Italy
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Dotto G, Franzo G, Grilli G, Piccirillo A. Multilocus Sequence Typing of Commensal and Enteropathogenic Escherichia Colifrom Domestic and Wild Lagomorphs in Italy. Italian Journal of Animal Science 2015. [DOI: 10.4081/ijas.2015.4139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Piccirillo A, Giacomelli M, Salata C, Bettanello S, De Canale E, Palù G. Multilocus sequence typing of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli from humans and chickens in North-Eastern Italy. New Microbiol 2014; 37:557-562. [PMID: 25387294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2014] [Accepted: 07/26/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports the multilocus sequence typing (MLST) of 57 C. jejuni and C. coli isolates from humans and chickens in Italy and the identification of 17 new sequence types (STs). A high genetic diversity was detected among C. jejuni/C. coli and human/chicken isolates, with a predominance of clonal complexes CC21 and CC828. Although human STs were not the same as those found in chickens, 3 CCs overlapped between human and chicken isolates. Genotyping of Campylobacter strains by MLST should be encouraged in order to implement surveillance and con- trol of infection in humans and in animal reservoirs in Italy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Piccirillo
- Department of Comparative Biomedicine and Food Science, University of Padua, Legnaro (PD), Italy
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