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Richards S, Bailey KE, Scarborough R, Gilkerson JR, Browning GF, Hur B, Ierardo J, Awad M, Chay R, Hardefeldt LY. Cross-sectional evaluation of a large-scale antimicrobial stewardship trial in Australian companion animal practices. Vet Rec 2024; 194:e3268. [PMID: 37518680 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.3268] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASPs) are critically important for improving the appropriate use of antimicrobial agents in veterinary practice. METHODS One of three ASPs was implemented in 135 Australian general veterinary practices in 2018-2020. The ASP interventions and the perceived impact they had on antimicrobial prescribing were assessed by the veterinarians working in these veterinary practices. An online survey was distributed to all 520 veterinarians working in the trial practices and 267 responses were analysed. RESULTS Most veterinarians (174/267, 65%) thought they had an ASP at their clinic and most respondents who said that they were aware that they had an ASP at their clinic indicated that they had changed the way they prescribed antimicrobials because of the trial (125/170, 74%). Antimicrobial prescribing guidelines, the traffic light system for indicating antimicrobial importance, delayed prescribing and antimicrobial stewardship champions were reported to have had the biggest impact. LIMITATIONS All practices in the trial belong to a single corporate group, which may impact the external validity of these results when applied to general small animal practice. CONCLUSION Antimicrobial stewardship has a positive impact on antimicrobial prescribing in veterinary medicine and future interventions should focus on the implementation of the effective interventions identified in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanna Richards
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute, National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kirsten E Bailey
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute, National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ri Scarborough
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute, National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute, National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Glenn F Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute, National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brian Hur
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute, National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jessica Ierardo
- Greencross Pet Wellness Company, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Magdoline Awad
- Greencross Pet Wellness Company, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachel Chay
- Greencross Pet Wellness Company, North Ryde, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Laura Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute, National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
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Hur B, Verspoor KM, Baldwin T, Hardefeldt LY, Pfeiffer C, Mansfield C, Scarborough R, Gilkerson JR. Using natural language processing and patient journey clustering for temporal phenotyping of antimicrobial therapies for cat bite abscesses. Prev Vet Med 2024; 223:106112. [PMID: 38176151 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106112] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Temporal phenotyping of patient journeys, which capture the common sequence patterns of interventions in the treatment of a specific condition, is useful to support understanding of antimicrobial usage in veterinary patients. Identifying and describing these phenotypes can inform antimicrobial stewardship programs designed to fight antimicrobial resistance, a major health crisis affecting both humans and animals, in which veterinarians have an important role to play. OBJECTIVE This research proposes a framework for extracting temporal phenotypes of patient journeys from clinical practice data through the application of natural language processing (NLP) and unsupervised machine learning (ML) techniques, using cat bite abscesses as a model condition. By constructing temporal phenotypes from key events, the relationship between antimicrobial administration and surgical interventions can be described, and similar treatment patterns can be grouped together to describe outcomes associated with specific antimicrobial selection. METHODS Cases identified as having a cat bite abscess as a diagnosis were extracted from VetCompass Australia, a database of veterinary clinical records. A classifier was trained and used to label the most clinically relevant event features in each record as chosen by a group of veterinarians. The labeled records were processed into coded character strings, where each letter represents a summary of specific types of treatments performed at a given visit. The sequences of letters representing the cases were clustered based on weighted Levenshtein edit distances with KMeans+ + to identify the main variations of the patient treatment journeys, including the antimicrobials used and their duration of administration. RESULTS A total of 13,744 records that met the selection criteria was extracted and grouped into 8436 cases. There were 9 clinically distinct event sequence patterns (temporal phenotypes) of patient journeys identified, representing the main sequences in which surgery and antimicrobial interventions are performed. Patients receiving amoxicillin and surgery had the shortest duration of antimicrobial administration (median of 3.4 days) and patients receiving cefovecin with no surgical intervention had the longest antimicrobial treatment duration (median of 27 days). CONCLUSION Our study demonstrates methods to extract and provide an overview of temporal phenotypes of patient journeys, which can be applied to text-based clinical records for multiple species or clinical conditions. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach to derive real-world evidence of treatment impacts using cat bite abscesses as a model condition to describe patterns of antimicrobial therapy prescriptions and their outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Hur
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Biomedical Informatics and Medical Education, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Karin M Verspoor
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; School of Computing Technologies, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy Baldwin
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia; Department of Natural Language Processing, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Laura Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caitlin Pfeiffer
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caroline Mansfield
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Riati Scarborough
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Flash ML, Shrestha K, Stevenson MA, Gilkerson JR. National participation levels in the 2017-2018 Australian thoroughbred racing season. Aust Vet J 2023. [PMID: 37158480 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13242] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The social licence of the Australian thoroughbred (TB) industry relies on the general public's perception of how they manage the animal in their care. METHOD This study examines the horse, race and activity records for the 37,704 horses racing and training in Australia from 1 August 2017 to 31 July 2018. Three-quarters (75%, n = 28,184) of TBs started in one of the 180, 933 race starts that occurred during the 2017-2018 Australian racing season. RESULTS Horses participating in the 2017-2018 Australian racing season had a median age of 4 years, with geldings more likely to be aged 5 years and older. The majority of the TB racehorse population were geldings (51%, n = 19,210), with 44% (n = 16,617) females and only 5% (n = 1877) entire males. Horses aged 2 years were three times more likely to not start in a race in that year compared with older horses. At the end of the 2017-2018 racing season, 34% of the population had an inactive status recorded. Horses aged 2 years (median two starts) and 3 years (median five starts) had fewer starts than older horses (median seven starts). Eighty-eight percent (n = 158,339) of race starts were over distances of 1700 metres or less. Race starts by horses aged 2 years (46%, 3264 of 7100) were more likely to have occurred at a metropolitan meeting compared with starts by older horses. CONCLUSION This study provides a national overview of the racing and training activities and TBs participating in the 2017-2018 Australian racing season.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Flash
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Shrestha
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - M A Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Chapman GR, Wells B, Gilkerson JR, Flash ML. Descriptive analysis of horses and ponies attending horse auctions in Victoria from July 2019 to March 2020. Aust Vet J 2023; 101:1-8. [PMID: 36176071 PMCID: PMC10087768 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13210] [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: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In recent years there has been public speculation about the breed, destination and number of horses being sold by public auction at livestock saleyards in Australia. Currently, there is little objective information available about the breed and condition of horses sold through this medium. With little publicly available objective data on these horses, the horse industry has been left vulnerable to misinformation. Accurate information regarding the composition and condition of horses attending saleyards is important to identify and address any welfare issues and to inform public debate. METHOD Data were collected on 312 horses and ponies presented for sale through the Pakenham Horse Sales between July 2019 and March 2020. All horses and ponies were inspected at the saleyards and information on breed, age, body condition score (BCS), purchaser and sale price were recorded as the animals were auctioned. RESULTS Crossbred horses and ponies were the largest groups presented for sale. Ponies were more likely to be sold to private buyers. Quarter horses and riding ponies were as likely to be sent to slaughter as thoroughbreds and standardbreds. Entire males and females sold for lower prices than geldings. Most horses and ponies (64%) were sold to private buyers. More than three-quarters (77%) of horses and ponies presented for sale had a BCS greater than or equal to three out of five. CONCLUSION This pilot study challenges perceptions that thoroughbreds are the primary breed to attend public sales or that animals attending the sales are in poor condition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - B Wells
- Bairnsdale, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - M L Flash
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Hur B, Hardefeldt LY, Verspoor K, Baldwin T, Gilkerson JR. Overcoming challenges in extracting prescribing habits from veterinary clinics using big data and deep learning. Aust Vet J 2022; 100:220-222. [DOI: 10.1111/avj.13145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- B Hur
- Asia‐Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
- School of Computing and Information Systems University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - LY Hardefeldt
- Asia‐Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - K Verspoor
- School of Computing and Information Systems University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
- School of Computing Technologies RMIT University Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - T Baldwin
- School of Computing and Information Systems University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - JR Gilkerson
- Asia‐Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School University of Melbourne Melbourne Victoria Australia
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Thursky KA, Hardefeldt LY, Rajkhowa A, Ierano C, Bishop J, Hawes L, Biezen R, Saha SK, Dowson L, Bailey KE, Scarborough R, Little SB, Gotterson F, Hur B, Khanina A, Urbancic K, Crabb HK, Richards S, Sri A, James R, Kong DCM, Marshall C, Mazza D, Peel T, Stuart RL, Manski-Nankervis JA, Friedman ND, Bennett N, Schulz T, Billman-Jacobe H, Buono E, Worth L, Bull A, Richards M, Ayton D, Gilkerson JR, Browning GF, Buising KL. Antimicrobial stewardship in Australia: the role of qualitative research in programme development. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2021; 3:dlab166. [PMID: 34806005 PMCID: PMC8600289 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlab166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in Australia is supported by a number of factors, including enabling national policies, sectoral clinical governance frameworks and surveillance programmes, clinician-led educational initiatives and health services research. A One Health research programme undertaken by the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship (NCAS) in Australia has combined antimicrobial prescribing surveillance with qualitative research focused on developing antimicrobial use-related situational analyses and scoping AMS implementation options across healthcare settings, including metropolitan hospitals, regional and rural hospitals, aged care homes, general practice clinics and companion animal and agricultural veterinary practices. Qualitative research involving clinicians across these diverse settings in Australia has contributed to improved understanding of contextual factors that influence antimicrobial prescribing, and barriers and facilitators of AMS implementation. This body of research has been underpinned by a commitment to supplementing 'big data' on antimicrobial prescribing practices, where available, with knowledge of the sociocultural, technical, environmental and other factors that shape prescribing behaviours. NCAS provided a unique opportunity for exchange and cross-pollination across the human and animal health programme domains. It has facilitated synergistic approaches to AMS research and education, and implementation of resources and stewardship activities. The NCAS programme aimed to synergistically combine quantitative and qualitative approaches to AMS research. In this article, we describe the qualitative findings of the first 5 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karin A Thursky
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
- Guidance Group, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Laura Y Hardefeldt
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Arjun Rajkhowa
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Courtney Ierano
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Jaclyn Bishop
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Pharmacy Department, Ballarat Health Services, 1 Drummond Street North, Ballarat, Victoria 3353, Australia
| | - Lesley Hawes
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, 1/270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Ruby Biezen
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, 1/270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, Victoria 3168, Australia
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, 780 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Sajal K Saha
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, 1/270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Leslie Dowson
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Kirsten E Bailey
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Ri Scarborough
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Stephen B Little
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Fiona Gotterson
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Brian Hur
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Anna Khanina
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Karen Urbancic
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Helen K Crabb
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Suzanna Richards
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Anna Sri
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Rodney James
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Guidance Group, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - David C M Kong
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Pharmacy Department, Ballarat Health Services, 1 Drummond Street North, Ballarat, Victoria 3353, Australia
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Caroline Marshall
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Danielle Mazza
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, 1/270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Trisha Peel
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred and Central Clinical School, Burnet Institute, Monash University and Alfred Health, 85 Commercial Road, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - Rhonda L Stuart
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Departments of Infectious Diseases and Infection Control and Epidemiology, Monash Medical Centre, Monash Health, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Jo-Anne Manski-Nankervis
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of General Practice, University of Melbourne, 780 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - N Deborah Friedman
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital Geelong, Barwon Health, Bellerine Street, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia
| | - Noleen Bennett
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Guidance Group, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- VICNISS Coordinating Centre, Melbourne Health, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Thomas Schulz
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Helen Billman-Jacobe
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Evette Buono
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- New South Wales Clinical Excellence Commission, 1 Reserve Road, St Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia
| | - Leon Worth
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, University of Melbourne and Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Ann Bull
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- VICNISS Coordinating Centre, Melbourne Health, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Michael Richards
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
- VICNISS Coordinating Centre, Melbourne Health, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - Darshini Ayton
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Glenn F Browning
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Corner Park Drive and Flemington Road, Building 400, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Kirsty L Buising
- NHMRC National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, 300 Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
- Guidance Group, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne Health, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Peter Doherty Institute of Infection and Immunity, 792 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne Victoria, 3000, Australia
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7
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Flash ML, Crabb HK, Hitchens PL, Firestone SM, Stevenson MA, Gilkerson JR. Factors associated with racing performance and career duration for Victorian-born Thoroughbreds. Aust Vet J 2021; 100:48-55. [PMID: 34651302 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The number of horses leaving the Australian Thoroughbred (TB) racing industry each year is of concern to animal welfare advocates, public and regulators. A horse's previous athletic performance is a significant driver of retirement from racing. Racehorse performance can be measured in terms of the total number of starts, duration of racing and prize money earned. This study investigated Australian racing records for the 2005 and 2010 Victorian TB foal crops to identify factors associated with total number of starts, racing career duration, prize money earned and age of last race start-up to the 10-year-old racing season. Racing Australia registered 4,577 TB horses born in Victoria in 2005 (n = 2,506) and 2010 (n = 2,071) that raced in Australia. Horses that started racing at 2-years of age had fewer race starts in their first racing season but an increased total number of starts, prize money and duration of racing. The median age of last start (LS) was five (Q1 4; Q3 7) years. Horses that had won a race, had a maximum handicap rating of 61 or above and those racing over distances of more than 2,400 m had an increased racing career duration and an age of last race start greater than 6-years of age. Horses participating in jumps races (n = 63) had the longest careers and older age of LS. These horses were more likely to have had a handicap rating over 80 and were just as likely to start their racing careers as 2-years-olds.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Flash
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - H K Crabb
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - P L Hitchens
- Equine Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - S M Firestone
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - M A Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Flash ML, Crabb HK, Hitchens PL, Firestone SM, Stevenson MA, Gilkerson JR. Participation of Victorian Thoroughbreds in the racing industry: a whole-of-population benchmark. Aust Vet J 2021; 100:40-47. [PMID: 34595748 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Received: 01/08/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The proportion of Thoroughbred (TB) horses that commence training and eventually race, is an important industry-level indicator of how successful it is at producing horses suitable for racing. It is also of interest to the wider community and is central to the issue of whether there is overbreeding in the Australian TB industry. This study investigated the training and racing records for the 2005 and 2010 Victorian TB foal crops to determine the proportion of TBs that train and race, and the age of entering training and first race start. Subsets of the foal crop were also examined to determine if premier yearling sale cohorts would produce selection bias. The Australian Stud Book (ASB) registered 7662 TB horses born in Victoria in 2005 (n = 4116) and 2010 (n = 3546). Of these, 5614 (73%) entered training and 4868 (64%) started in at least one race. Fourteen percent (n = 1045) of the study cohort had their first race start as 2-year-olds and 35% (n = 2644) had their first start as 3-year-olds. A higher proportion of TB horses that attended premier yearling sales entered training (93%) and raced (84%). This study established a baseline for training and racing milestones, such as the proportion and age that horses commenced training, and age of first start using population-level data. It also established that the use of subsets of the population can introduce selection bias.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Flash
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - H K Crabb
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - P L Hitchens
- Equine Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - S M Firestone
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - M A Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
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Shrestha K, Gilkerson JR, Stevenson MA, Flash ML. Drivers of exit and outcomes for Thoroughbred racehorses participating in the 2017-2018 Australian racing season. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257581. [PMID: 34547036 PMCID: PMC8454983 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The destinations of Thoroughbred (TB) racehorses exiting the racing industry is a high-profile issue with ethical and welfare implications of interest to both animal welfare groups and racing regulators. This cross-sectional study investigated the reasons that TBs temporarily or permanently exited racing and training in Australia in the 2017–2018 racing season and the outcomes for these horses post-racing. An online questionnaire was sent to the last registered trainers of a representative sample of 2,509 ‘inactive’ TBs. Inactive horses were defined as those horses that were recorded as ‘active’ but had not trialled or raced in the last 6 months of the racing season or had an inactive status recorded in the Racing Australia database. Of the 1,750 responses received, the largest group of inactive TBs had permanently exited the racing industry (45% retired, 5.3% deceased). A relatively large group exited racing temporarily (43%) but participated in the racing industry in the following season. The reasons for retirement were predominantly voluntary, such as poor performance or owner’s request. Almost one third of retirements were due to injuries with tendon or ligament problems the most frequently conditions listed. The median age at retirement was five (Q1 4; Q3 7) years. Extrapolation of the survey results to the population of horses racing or training in Australia in 2017–2018 (n = 37,750) show that that 17% of the population retire each year and 2.1% die. These estimates provide benchmarks for industry and animal welfare organisations to resource and measure the effectiveness of interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kshitiz Shrestha
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A. Stevenson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Meredith L. Flash
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Mitchell C, Steward KF, Charbonneau ARL, Walsh S, Wilson H, Timoney JF, Wernery U, Joseph M, Craig D, van Maanen K, Hoogkamer-van Gennep A, Leon A, Witkowski L, Rzewuska M, Stefańska I, Żychska M, van Loon G, Cursons R, Patty O, Acke E, Gilkerson JR, El-Hage C, Allen J, Bannai H, Kinoshita Y, Niwa H, Becú T, Pringle J, Guss B, Böse R, Abbott Y, Katz L, Leggett B, Buckley TC, Blum SE, Cruz López F, Fernández Ros A, Marotti Campi MC, Preziuso S, Robinson C, Newton JR, Schofield E, Brooke B, Boursnell M, de Brauwere N, Kirton R, Barton CK, Abudahab K, Taylor B, Yeats CA, Goater R, Aanensen DM, Harris SR, Parkhill J, Holden MTG, Waller AS. Globetrotting strangles: the unbridled national and international transmission of Streptococcus equi between horses. Microb Genom 2021; 7:mgen000528. [PMID: 33684029 PMCID: PMC8190609 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.000528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The equine disease strangles, which is characterized by the formation of abscesses in the lymph nodes of the head and neck, is one of the most frequently diagnosed infectious diseases of horses around the world. The causal agent, Streptococcus equi subspecies equi, establishes a persistent infection in approximately 10 % of animals that recover from the acute disease. Such 'carrier' animals appear healthy and are rarely identified during routine veterinary examinations pre-purchase or transit, but can transmit S. equi to naïve animals initiating new episodes of disease. Here, we report the analysis and visualization of phylogenomic and epidemiological data for 670 isolates of S. equi recovered from 19 different countries using a new core-genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) web bioresource. Genetic relationships among all 670 S. equi isolates were determined at high resolution, revealing national and international transmission events that drive this endemic disease in horse populations throughout the world. Our data argue for the recognition of the international importance of strangles by the Office International des Épizooties to highlight the health, welfare and economic cost of this disease. The Pathogenwatch cgMLST web bioresource described herein is available for tailored genomic analysis of populations of S. equi and its close relative S. equi subspecies zooepidemicus that are recovered from horses and other animals, including humans, throughout the world. This article contains data hosted by Microreact.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Karen F. Steward
- Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, UK
- Present address: Technology Networks, Sudbury, UK
| | | | - Saoirse Walsh
- Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, UK
- Present address: University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hayley Wilson
- Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, UK
- Present address: University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Ulli Wernery
- Central Veterinary Research Laboratory, Dubai, UAE
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Lucjan Witkowski
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Rzewuska
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ilona Stefańska
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Żychska
- Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Ray Cursons
- University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | | | - Els Acke
- Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - John Pringle
- Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Bengt Guss
- Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | | | - Lisa Katz
- University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Ellen Schofield
- Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, UK
- Present address: University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | | | - Roxane Kirton
- Redwings Horse Sanctuary, Norwich, UK
- Present address: Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, Horsham, UK
| | | | - Khalil Abudahab
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ben Taylor
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Corin A. Yeats
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Richard Goater
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - David M. Aanensen
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
| | - Simon R. Harris
- Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
- Present address: Microbiotica Limited, Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Matthew T. G. Holden
- Centre for Genomic Pathogen Surveillance, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, UK
- University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK
| | - Andrew S. Waller
- Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, UK
- Department of Biomedical Science and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
- Intervacc AB, Stockholm, Sweden
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11
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Akter R, Sansom FM, El-Hage CM, Gilkerson JR, Legione AR, Devlin JM. A 25-year retrospective study of Chlamydia psittaci in association with equine reproductive loss in Australia. J Med Microbiol 2021; 70:001284. [PMID: 33258756 PMCID: PMC8131020 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 01/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Chlamydia psittaci is primarily a pathogen of birds but can also cause disease in other species. Equine reproductive loss caused by C. psittaci has recently been identified in Australia where cases of human disease were also reported in individuals exposed to foetal membranes from an ill neonatal foal in New South Wales.Hypothesis/Gap Statement. The prevalence of C. psittaci in association with equine reproductive over time and in different regions of Australia is not known.Aim. This study was conducted to detect C. psittaci in equine abortion cases in Australia using archived samples spanning 25 years.Methodology. We tested for C. psittaci in 600 equine abortion cases reported in Australia between 1994 to 2019 using a Chlamydiaceae real-time quantitative PCR assay targeting the 16S rRNA gene followed by high-resolution melt curve analysis. Genotyping and phylogenetic analysis was performed on positive samples.Results. The overall prevalence of C. psittaci in material from equine abortion cases was 6.5 %. C. psittaci-positive cases were detected in most years that were represented in this study and occurred in Victoria (prevalence of 7.6 %), New South Wales (prevalence of 3.9 %) and South Australia (prevalence of 15.4 %). Genotyping and phylogenetic analysis showed that the C. psittaci detected in the equine abortion cases clustered with the parrot-associated 6BC clade (genotype A/ST24), indicating that infection of horses may be due to spillover from native Australian parrots.Conclusion. This work suggests that C. psittaci has been a significant agent of equine abortion in Australia for several decades and underscores the importance of taking appropriate protective measures to avoid infection when handling equine aborted material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rumana Akter
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Department of Medicine (Royal Melbourne Hospital), The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Fiona M. Sansom
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Charles M. El-Hage
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Alistair R. Legione
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Joanne M. Devlin
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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12
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Abstract
Background As antimicrobial prescribers, veterinarians contribute to the emergence of MDR pathogens. Antimicrobial stewardship programmes are an effective means of reducing the rate of development of antimicrobial resistance. A key component of antimicrobial stewardship programmes is selecting an appropriate antimicrobial agent for the presenting complaint and using an appropriate dose rate for an appropriate duration. Objectives To describe antimicrobial usage, including dose, for common indications for antimicrobial use in companion animal practice. Methods Natural language processing (NLP) techniques were applied to extract and analyse clinical records. Results A total of 343 668 records for dogs and 109 719 records for cats administered systemic antimicrobials from 1 January 2013 to 31 December 2017 were extracted from the database. The NLP algorithms extracted dose, duration of therapy and diagnosis completely for 133 046 (39%) of the records for dogs and 40 841 records for cats (37%). The remaining records were missing one or more of these elements in the clinical data. The most common reason for antimicrobial administration was skin disorders (n = 66 198, 25%) and traumatic injuries (n = 15 932, 19%) in dogs and cats, respectively. Dose was consistent with guideline recommendations in 73% of cases where complete clinical data were available. Conclusions Automated extraction using NLP methods is a powerful tool to evaluate large datasets and to enable veterinarians to describe the reasons that antimicrobials are administered. However, this can only be determined when the data presented in the clinical record are complete, which was not the case in most instances in this dataset. Most importantly, the dose administered varied and was often not consistent with guideline recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Hur
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Corresponding author. E-mail:
| | - Laura Y. Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karin M. Verspoor
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- School of Computing Technologies, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy Baldwin
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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13
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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14
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Liu Y, Bailey KE, Dyall-Smith M, Marenda MS, Hardefeldt LY, Browning GF, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H. Faecal microbiota and antimicrobial resistance gene profiles of healthy foals. Equine Vet J 2020; 53:806-816. [PMID: 33030244 DOI: 10.1111/evj.13366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human and domestic animal faecal microbiota can carry various antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs), especially if they have been exposed to antimicrobials. However, little is known about the ARG profile of the faecal microbiota of healthy foals. A high-throughput qPCR array was used to detect ARGs in the faecal microbiota of healthy foals. OBJECTIVES To characterise the faecal microbiota and ARG profiles in healthy Australian foals aged less than 1 month. STUDY DESIGN Observational study. METHODS The faecal microbiota and ARG profiles of 37 Thoroughbred foals with no known gastrointestinal disease or antimicrobial treatment were determined using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and a high-throughput ARG qPCR array. Each foal was sampled on one occasion. RESULTS Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were dominant in the faecal microbiota. Foals aged 1-2 weeks had significantly lower microbiota richness than older foals. Tetracycline resistance genes were the most common ARGs in the majority of foals, regardless of age. ARGs of high clinical concern were rarely detected in the faeces. The presence of ARGs was associated with the presence of class I integron genes. MAIN LIMITATIONS Samples were collected for a case-control study so foals were not sampled longitudinally, and thus the development of the microbiota as individual foals aged could not be proven. The history of antimicrobial treatment of the dams was not collected and may have affected the microbiota of the foals. CONCLUSION The ARGs in foal faeces varied concomitantly with age-related microbiota shifts. The high abundance of tetracycline resistance genes was likely due to the dominance of Bacteroides spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhong Liu
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kirsten E Bailey
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Michael Dyall-Smith
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marc S Marenda
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Laura Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Glenn F Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Helen Billman-Jacobe
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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15
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Flash ML, Renwick M, Gilkerson JR, Stevenson MA. Descriptive analysis of Thoroughbred horses born in Victoria, Australia, in 2010; barriers to entering training and outcomes on exiting training and racing. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241273. [PMID: 33112903 PMCID: PMC7592779 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The reasons for Thoroughbred (TB) horses not entering training or exiting the racing industry, are of interest to regulators, welfare groups and the broader community. Speculation about the outcomes of these horses threatens the community acceptance, or social license, of the TB breeding and racing industries. A representative survey of the 2010 Victorian born TB foal crop was used to determine the outcomes and reasons for exit for horses that had not entered training, or had exited training and racing by eight years of age. Horses exported for racing or breeding (4%), or that were still actively racing (7%) at the start of the follow up period were excluded from the study. An online questionnaire was sent to breeders or trainers of 3,176 TB horses eligible for enrolment in the study. Of the 2,005 (63%) responses received, the two most frequent outcomes were that the horse had either been retired or rehomed (65%), or deceased (16%). For the 1,637 TB horses that had entered training, the majority of retirements were voluntary (59%), followed by involuntary retirements due to health disorders (28%). For TBs that did not have an industry record of entering training (n = 368), death (34%), or retirement or being rehomed (27%), were the most frequent barriers to entering training. The median age of retirement for TBs that raced was five (Q1 4; Q3 6) years regardless of sex, or whether their first race start was at two, three or four years of age. Relatively large numbers of horses voluntarily retiring at five-years of age suggests that industry-level, rather than individual horse-level factors are the predominant influences on racing career duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith L. Flash
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Michelle Renwick
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A. Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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16
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Akter R, Stent AW, Sansom FM, Gilkerson JR, Burden C, Devlin JM, Legione AR, El-Hage CM. Chlamydia psittaci: a suspected cause of reproductive loss in three Victorian horses. Aust Vet J 2020; 98:570-573. [PMID: 32830314 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia psittaci was detected by PCR in the lung and equine foetal membranes of two aborted equine foetuses and one weak foal from two different studs in Victoria, Australia. The abortions occurred in September 2019 in two mares sharing a paddock northeast of Melbourne. The weak foal was born in October 2019 in a similar geographical region and died soon after birth despite receiving veterinary care. The detection of C. psittaci DNA in the lung and equine foetal membranes of the aborted or weak foals and the absence of any other factors that are commonly associated with abortion or neonatal death suggest that this pathogen may be the cause of the reproductive loss. The detection of C. psittaci in these cases is consistent with the recent detection of C. psittaci in association with equine abortion in New South Wales. These cases in Victoria show that C. psittaci, and the zoonotic risk it poses, should be considered in association with equine reproductive loss in other areas of Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Akter
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia.,Department of Medicine (RMH), The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - A W Stent
- The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, 3030, Australia
| | - F M Sansom
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - C Burden
- Goulburn Valley Equine Hospital, Congupna, Victoria, 3633, Australia
| | - J M Devlin
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - A R Legione
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - C M El-Hage
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
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Flash ML, Wong ASM, Stevenson MA, Gilkerson JR. Barriers to entering race training before 4 years of age for Thoroughbred horses born in the 2014 Australian foal crop. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237003. [PMID: 32756576 PMCID: PMC7406052 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, there is a paucity of data on the barriers for Australian Thoroughbred horses transitioning from stud farm to racetrack. This paper reports the reasons why horses failed to enter race training and documents their exit destinations. Biographical records of Australian Thoroughbred horses born in 2014 were investigated to determine the number of horses that had not officially entered race training by the start of the 4-year old racing season (1 August 2018). Of the 13,677 foals born in 2014, 66% had commenced training and 51% had raced before the beginning of their 4-year-old season in Australia. A sampling frame based on the post code of the premises where foals were born and records from Racing Australia were used to select a geographically representative sample of the 2014 Australian Thoroughbred foal crop (n = 4,124). From the population eligible for sampling 1,275 horses that had not entered training were enrolled in the survey and their breeders were sent an online questionnaire with follow-up phone calls for those who had not responded. Of the 633 responses (50% of 1275) the most frequent outcomes for horses were: death (38%, n = 239), participation in the racing industry in their 4-year old racing season (24%, n = 154) and retirement (16%, n = 100) either as Australian Stud Book (ASB) bloodstock (n = 17), or as horses rehomed outside the Thoroughbred industry (n = 83). Illness or injury was the most frequent reason for horses not entering race training that were ASB bloodstock, rehomed or deceased. There was a loss of traceability at the point of sale with most horses sold at 1 year of age. This study provides important information on the reasons, alternative outcomes and gaps in traceability for horses not entering training prior to the 4-year-old racing season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith L. Flash
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Adelene S. M. Wong
- Equine Centre, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A. Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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El-Hage CM, Bamford NJ, Gilkerson JR, Lynch SE. Ross River Virus Infection of Horses: Appraisal of Ecological and Clinical Consequences. J Equine Vet Sci 2020; 93:103143. [PMID: 32972681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Ross River virus (RRV) is a mosquito-borne arbovirus of the genus Alphavirus that causes disease in humans and horses in Australia. A temporal association of RRV infection in horses with clinical signs including pyrexia, malaise, and polyarthralgia has been reported, along with reduced athletic performance, often for extended periods. Despite these reports, disease due to RRV remains somewhat controversial as experimental infection of horses has resulted in obvious viraemia yet minimal signs of clinical disease. The relatively high viraemia demonstrated by horses infected with RRV has led to speculation that they could act as an important reservoir host of the virus, although this remains unclear. This review sought to appraise the existing literature relating to RRV infection of horses and to summarize the ecological and clinical consequences of RRV of relevance to the equine industry and to public health more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles M El-Hage
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Nicholas J Bamford
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stacey E Lynch
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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19
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Hur BA, Hardefeldt LY, Verspoor KM, Baldwin T, Gilkerson JR. Describing the antimicrobial usage patterns of companion animal veterinary practices; free text analysis of more than 4.4 million consultation records. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0230049. [PMID: 32168354 PMCID: PMC7069610 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0230049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [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: 07/13/2019] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial Resistance is a global crisis that veterinarians contribute to through their use of antimicrobials in animals. Antimicrobial stewardship has been shown to be an effective means to reduce antimicrobial resistance in hospital environments. Effective monitoring of antimicrobial usage patterns is an essential part of antimicrobial stewardship and is critical in reducing the development of antimicrobial resistance. The aim of this study is to describe how frequently antimicrobials were used in veterinary consultations and identify the most frequently used antimicrobials. Using VetCompass Australia, Natural Language Processing techniques, and the Australian Strategic Technical Advisory Group’s (ASTAG) Rating system to classify the importance of antimicrobials, descriptive analysis was performed on the antimicrobials prescribed in consultations from 137 companion animal veterinary clinics in Australia between 2013 and 2017 (inclusive). Of the 4,400,519 consultations downloaded there were 595,089 consultations where antimicrobials were prescribed to dogs or cats. Antimicrobials were dispensed in 145 of every 1000 canine consultations; and 38 per 1000 consultations involved high importance rated antimicrobials. Similarly with cats, 108 per 1000 consultations had antimicrobials dispensed, and in 47 per 1000 consultations an antimicrobial of high importance rating was administered. The most common antimicrobials given to cats and dogs were cefovecin and amoxycillin clavulanate, respectively. The most common topical antimicrobial and high-rated topical antimicrobial given to dogs and cats was polymyxin B. This study provides a descriptive analysis of the antimicrobial usage patterns in Australia using methods that can be automated to inform antimicrobial use surveillance programs and promote antimicrobial stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian A. Hur
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Laura Y. Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karin M. Verspoor
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for the Digital Transformation of Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Timothy Baldwin
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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20
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Bond SL, Workentine M, Hundt J, Gilkerson JR, Léguillette R. Effects of nebulized dexamethasone on the respiratory microbiota and mycobiota and relative equine herpesvirus-1, 2, 4, 5 in an equine model of asthma. J Vet Intern Med 2019; 34:307-321. [PMID: 31793692 PMCID: PMC6979091 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prolonged exposure to environmental antigens or allergens elicits an immune response in both healthy horses and those with mild asthma. Corticosteroids often are used to treat lower airway inflammation. Objective To investigate the changes in equine herpesvirus (EHV)‐1,2,4,5 glycoprotein B gene expression and changes in respiratory bacterial and fungal communities after nebulized dexamethasone treatment of horses with asthma. Animals Horses with naturally occurring mild asthma (n = 16) and healthy control horses (n = 4). Methods Prospective, randomized, controlled, blinded clinical trial. Polymerase chain reaction amplification of EHV‐1,2,4,5 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and 16S (microbiome) and ITS2 (mycobiome) genes with subsequent sequencing was performed on DNA extracted from nasal swabs and transendoscopic tracheal aspirates before and after 13 days treatment with nebulized dexamethasone (15 mg q24h) and saline (control). Results Nebulized dexamethasone treatment decreased microbial diversity; relative abundance of 8 genera in the upper respiratory tract were altered. For both the microbiota and the mycobiota, environment had a dominant effect over treatment. Alternaria, an opportunistic pathogen and allergen in humans recognized as a risk factor for asthma, asthma severity, and exacerbations, was increased with treatment. Treatment affected relative quantification of the equine gamma herpesviruses (EHV‐2 and ‐5); EHV‐2 DNA levels increased and those of EHV‐5 decreased. Conclusions Nebulized dexamethasone treatment affected the upper respiratory tract microbiota, but not the mycobiota, which was overwhelmed by the effect of a sustained dusty environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie L Bond
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Matthew Workentine
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jana Hundt
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Renaud Léguillette
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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21
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El-Hage CM, Bannai H, Wiethoelter AK, Firestone SM, Heislers CM, Allen JL, Waller AS, Gilkerson JR. Serological responses of Australian horses using a commercial duplex indirect ELISA following vaccination against strangles. Aust Vet J 2019; 97:220-224. [PMID: 31236928 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the nature of serological responses in Australian horses using a commercial duplex indirect ELISA (iELISA) following vaccination against strangles. DESIGN A group (n = 19) of client-owned horses from five properties were recruited to receive a primary course of a Streptococcus equi subsp. equi (S. equi) extract vaccine. Serological responses were determined by duplex iELISA incorporating S. equi-specific fragments of two cell wall proteins, SEQ2190 and SeM (antigens (Ag) A and C, respectively). METHODS The horses were administered a primary strangles vaccination course. Blood was collected immediately prior to each of the three vaccinations at 2-week intervals and additionally at 28 and 56 days following the 3rd vaccination (V3). RESULTS Significant increases in mean antibody levels of horses following vaccination were limited only to AgC, which was significantly increased at T2/V3, 14 days following V2 (ratio of geometric means = 3.7; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.6, 8.4; P = 0.003). There was no increase in mean antibody to Ag A (ratio of geometric means = 1.4; 95% CI: 0.6, 3.2; P = 0.39). Four horses (22%) exceeded the test cut-off for AgC following vaccination. CONCLUSION Vaccination of Australian horses is unlikely to interfere greatly with detection of strangles using the duplex iELISA. No responses would be anticipated to AgA following vaccination with Equivac© S/Equivac© 2in1 and only a minority are likely to respond to AgC. We conclude that the results of this study validate the usefulness of the duplex iELISA to assist control measures for strangles outbreaks in Australian horse populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M El-Hage
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - H Bannai
- Equine Research Institute, Japan Racing Association Tochigi, Japan
| | - A K Wiethoelter
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - S M Firestone
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - C M Heislers
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - J L Allen
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - A S Waller
- Animal Health Trust, Kennett, Newmarket, UK
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
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22
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Crabb HK, Hardefeldt LY, Bailey KE, Billman-Jacobe H, Gilkerson JR, Browning GF. Survey of veterinary prescribing for poultry disease. Aust Vet J 2019; 97:288. [PMID: 31359424 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To enable better antimicrobial stewardship, it is important to know what the patterns of prescribing behaviour are and what diseases or reasons antibiotics are being prescribed. A prescribing guideline (i.e. recommended best practice for writing prescriptions) developed by the Australian poultry veterinarians exists. However, it is not a prescribing guideline detailing treatments for the commonly observed bacterial diseases in commercial poultry. METHODS An online survey was deployed to all registered veterinarians and members of the Australian Veterinary Poultry Association to identify prescribing behaviours for the most frequently observed bacterial diseases of poultry. RESULTS A total of 39 survey responses were received. Most surveys were started but not completed; 13 (33%) were completed with 18 (46%) containing some information on prescribing. The most frequent treatment responses were for Escherichia coli in both layers and broilers, chronic respiratory disease (CRD), fowl cholera and spotty liver in layers and necrotic enteritis in broilers. Treatments described were for products registered for poultry use, within the recommended label dose and duration of treatment (Tables 1, 2). Unsurprisingly, tetracyclines and amoxycillin, followed by lincomycin and trimethoprim sulfonamide products were the most frequently reported treatment options. Inappropriate treatments were reported for salmonellosis and one veterinarian recommended the use of enrofloxacin for the treatment of fowl cholera. CONCLUSION Information provided by respondents will enable the initial development of prescribing guidelines for both commercial and small poultry flocks. Importantly, it identified less than optimal prescribing behaviour for some diseases, a reliance on one class of antibiotic more than others and a failure to utilise all antimicrobial classes potentially available for treatment. Critically, the survey identified a lack of treatment options for bacterial disease in poultry. The most important bacterial diseases of poultry remain the same; effective alternatives for antibiotic treatment are required and old diseases, thought once gone, are reinventing themselves as problems for the future. Surveys of prescribing behaviours are essential for identifying diseases of high priority, changes in treatments and response to treatment and to identify areas for targeted antimicrobial stewardship, and research needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- H K Crabb
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - L Y Hardefeldt
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - K E Bailey
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - H Billman-Jacobe
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - G F Browning
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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23
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Hardefeldt LY, Crabb HK, Bailey KE, Johnstone T, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H, Browning GF. Appraisal of the Australian Veterinary Prescribing Guidelines for antimicrobial prophylaxis for surgery in dogs and cats. Aust Vet J 2019; 97:316-322. [PMID: 31286484 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 09/25/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The Australian Veterinary Prescribing Guidelines for antimicrobial prophylaxis for surgery on dogs and cats are evidence-based guidelines for veterinary practitioners. Validation of these guidelines is necessary to ensure quality and implementability. Two validated tools, used for medical guideline appraisal, were chosen to assess the guidelines. The terminology from the GuideLine Implementability Appraisal (GLIA) and the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation version 2 (AGREE II) were adapted for use by veterinarians. A two-phase evaluation approach was conducted. In the first phase of the evaluation, the GLIA tool was used by two specialist veterinary surgeons in clinical practice. The results of this phase were then used to modify the guidelines. In the second phase, the AGREE II tool was used by 6 general practitioners and 6 specialists to appraise the guidelines. In phase 1, the specialist surgeons either agreed or strongly agreed that the guidelines were executable, decidable, valid and novel, and that the guidelines would fit within the process of care. The surgeons were neutral on flexibility and measurability. Additional clarity around one common surgical procedure was added to the guidelines, after which the surgeons agreed that the guidelines were sufficiently flexible. In phase 2, 12 veterinarians completed the assessment using the AGREE II tool. In all sections the scaled domain score was greater than 70%. The overall quality of the guidelines was given a global scaled score of 76%. This assessment has demonstrated that the guidelines for antimicrobial prophylaxis for companion animal surgery are valid and appear implementable.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne and the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, 3050, Victoria, Australia
| | - H K Crabb
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne and the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, 3050, Victoria, Australia
| | - K E Bailey
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne and the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, 3050, Victoria, Australia
| | - T Johnstone
- Translational Research and Animal Clinical Trial Study Group (TRACTS), U-Vet Animal Hospital Werribee, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Hwy, Werribee, 3030, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne and the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, 3050, Victoria, Australia
| | - H Billman-Jacobe
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne and the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, 3050, Victoria, Australia
| | - G F Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne and the National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, 3050, Victoria, Australia
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24
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Hur B, Hardefeldt LY, Verspoor K, Baldwin T, Gilkerson JR. Using natural language processing and VetCompass to understand antimicrobial usage patterns in Australia. Aust Vet J 2019; 97:298-300. [PMID: 31209869 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [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: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Currently there is an incomplete understanding of antimicrobial usage patterns in veterinary clinics in Australia, but such knowledge is critical for the successful implementation and monitoring of antimicrobial stewardship programs. METHODS VetCompass Australia collects medical records from 181 clinics in Australia (as of May 2018). These records contain detailed information from individual consultations regarding the medications dispensed. One unique aspect of VetCompass Australia is its focus on applying natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning techniques to analyse the records, similar to efforts conducted in other medical studies. RESULTS The free text fields of 4,394,493 veterinary consultation records of dogs and cats between 2013 and 2018 were collated by VetCompass Australia and NLP techniques applied to enable the querying of the antimicrobial usage within these consultations. CONCLUSION The NLP algorithms developed matched antimicrobial in clinical records with 96.7% accuracy and an F1 Score of 0.85, as evaluated relative to expert annotations. This dataset can be readily queried to demonstrate the antimicrobial usage patterns of companion animal practices throughout Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Hur
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - L Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Verspoor
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne Parkville, VIC, Australia.,Health and Biomedical Informatics Centre, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - T Baldwin
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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25
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Hardefeldt LY, Crabb HK, Bailey KE, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H, Browning GF. Antimicrobial dosing for common equine drugs: a content review and practical advice for veterinarians in Australia. Aust Vet J 2019; 97:103-107. [PMID: 30919436 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 09/20/2018] [Revised: 01/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Appropriate dosing with antimicrobial agents is critical for effective treatment and to prevent the development of antimicrobial resistance. METHODS A review was undertaken of equine journal articles (Equine Veterinary Journal, Equine Veterinary Education, Australian Veterinary Journal, Australian Equine Veterinarian, Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine and Journal of Equine Veterinary Science) between January 2015 and August 2018. Those with dosing regimens for procaine penicillin G, gentamicin or trimethoprim-sulfonamide in adult horses were examined and evaluated. Pharmacokinetics and -dynamics of these drugs were also reviewed. RESULTS & CONCLUSION The most frequently reported doses for penicillin, gentamicin and trimethoprim-sulfonamide were 20-25,000 IU/kg, 6.6 mg/kg and 30 mg/kg, respectively. Veterinarians treating equine patients in Australia should be aware of the current recommended doses and inter-dosing intervals to ensure efficacy in therapy and to preserve the usefulness of these antimicrobials for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne & National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - H K Crabb
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne & National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - K E Bailey
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne & National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne & National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - H Billman-Jacobe
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne & National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - G F Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, University of Melbourne & National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
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26
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Symes SJ, Allen JL, Mansell PD, Woodward KL, Bailey KE, Gilkerson JR, Browning GF. First detection of bovine noroviruses and detection of bovine coronavirus in Australian dairy cattle. Aust Vet J 2018; 96:203-208. [PMID: 29878330 PMCID: PMC7159654 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 06/25/2014] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 08/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Background and objective Noroviruses have been recognised as a significant cause of neonatal enteritis in calves in many countries, but there has been no investigation of their occurrence in Australian cattle. This study aimed to establish whether bovine noroviruses could be detected in faecal samples from Australian dairy cattle. It also sought to determine whether bovine coronaviruses, also associated with neonatal enteritis in calves, could be detected in the same faecal samples. Methods A selection of faecal samples that were negative for rotaviruses from dairy farms located in three geographically distinct regions of Victoria were pooled and tested by reverse transcription‐PCR for the presence of noroviruses (genogroup III), neboviruses and bovine coronaviruses. Results and conclusion Genetically distinct genogroup III noroviruses were detected in two sample pools from different geographic regions and bovine coronavirus was detected in a third pool of samples. This is the first report of bovine norovirus infection in Australian cattle and suggests that future work is required to determine the significance of these agents as a cause of bovine enteric disease in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Symes
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - J L Allen
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - P D Mansell
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - K E Bailey
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - G F Browning
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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27
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Hardefeldt LY, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H, Stevenson MA, Thursky K, Browning GF, Bailey KE. Antimicrobial labelling in Australia: a threat to antimicrobial stewardship? Aust Vet J 2018; 96:151-154. [PMID: 29691852 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [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: 06/21/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is a public health emergency, placing veterinary antimicrobial use under growing scrutiny. Antimicrobial stewardship, through appropriate use of antimicrobials, is a response to this threat. The need for antimicrobial stewardship in Australian veterinary practices has had limited investigation. A 2016 survey undertaken to investigate antimicrobial usage patterns by Australian veterinarians found that antimicrobial dose rates were varied and often inappropriate. Doses of procaine penicillin in horses and cattle were often low, with 68% and 90% of respondents, respectively, reporting doses that were unlikely to result in plasma concentrations above minimum inhibitory concentrations for common equine and bovine pathogens. Frequency of penicillin administration was also often inappropriate. Gentamicin doses in horses were largely appropriate (89% of dose rates appropriate), but 9% of respondents reported twice daily dosing. Amoxycillin and amoxycillin-clavulanate were administered at the appropriate doses, or above, to dogs and cats by 54% and 70% of respondents, respectively. Here, we explore the potential reasons for inappropriate antimicrobial dose regimens and report that antimicrobial labels often recommend incorrect dose rates and thus may be contributing to poor prescribing practices. Changes to legislation are needed to ensure that antimicrobial drug labels are regularly updated to reflect the dose needed to effectively and safely treat common veterinary pathogens. This will be especially true if changes in legislation restrict antimicrobial use by veterinarians to the uses and doses specified on the label, thus hampering the current momentum towards improved antimicrobial stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - H Billman-Jacobe
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - M A Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - K Thursky
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - G F Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - K E Bailey
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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28
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Muscat KE, Padalino B, Hartley CA, Ficorilli N, Celi P, Knight P, Raidal S, Gilkerson JR, Muscatello G. Equine Transport and Changes in Equid Herpesvirus' Status. Front Vet Sci 2018; 5:224. [PMID: 30320126 PMCID: PMC6167981 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2018.00224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The risk of respiratory disease in the transported horse can increase as a consequence of immunosuppression and stress associated primarily with opportunistic bacterial proliferation and viral reactivation. This study examines the ecology of equid herpesviruses (EHV) in these horses, exploring reactivation and changes in infection and shedding associated with transport, and any potential contributions to transport-related respiratory disease. Twelve horses were subjected to an 8-h road-transport event. Antibodies to EHV-1 and EHV-4 were detected by ELISA in serum collected prior to, immediately after and 2 weeks post transport. Respiratory tract endoscopy and tracheal washes were collected prior to and 5 days after transportation. Nasal swabs collected prior to, immediately after, 1 and 5 days following transport were screened for EHV-1,-2,-4,-5 using qPCR. Six horses had persistent neutrophilic airway infiltrates post transportation, indicative of subclinical respiratory disease. No horses were qPCR positive for either of the alphaherpesviruses (i.e., EHV-1/-4) nor did any seroconvert to either virus. Four out of nine horses positive for either EHV-2 or EHV-5 on qPCR prior to transport developed neutrophilic airway inflammation. Five horses showed increasingly positive readings on qPCR (i.e., reduced Cq) for EHV-2 after transportation and seven out of eleven horses positive for EHV-2 after transport shared strains of high sequence similarity with other horses in the study. One EHV-2 virus detected in one horse after transport was genetically different which may be due to reactivation. The clinical significance of EHV-2 and EHV-5 remains in question. However these results indicate that transportation may lead to increased shedding, transmission and reactivation of EHV-2 and EHV-5 but not EHV-1/-4. Unlike previous work focusing on the role of alphaherpesviruses, this research suggests that investigation of the gammaherpesviruses (i.e., EHV-2/-5) in transport-related disease should not be dismissed, particularly given that these viruses can encode suppressive immunomodulators that may affect host health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine E Muscat
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Barbara Padalino
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.,HKSAR- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Carol A Hartley
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nino Ficorilli
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Pietro Celi
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,DSM, Parsippany, NJ, United States
| | - Peter Knight
- Discipline of Biomedical Science, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sharanne Raidal
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Stuart University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Gary Muscatello
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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29
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Moreno PS, Wagner J, Kirkwood CD, Gilkerson JR, Mansfield CS. Characterization of the fecal virome in dogs with chronic enteropathy. Vet Microbiol 2018; 221:38-43. [PMID: 29981706 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2018.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The fecal virome has been investigated in humans and various animal species using next generation sequencing. However, limited information is available about the fecal virome of dogs with chronic enteropathy (CE). We aimed to characterize the canine fecal virome of dogs with CE and compare it with the virome of previously analyzed healthy dogs.A total of 16 adult dogs; 8 healthy dogs (data from a parallel study) and 8 dogs with CE had fecal samples assessed by viral shotgun sequencing. Fecal samples were subjected to enrichment of viral nucleic acids prior to sequencing and metagenomic analyses. Characterization of the complete genome of a canine kobuvirus was performed by Sanger sequencing. An additional 21 healthy dogs and 14 dogs with CE were further analyzed for the prevalence of canine kobuvirus.Three fecal samples from dogs with CE contained in total 3 eukaryotic viral families. In contrast, 4/8 fecal samples previously identified from healthy dogs, contained 5 eukaryotic viral families with 2 families exclusive to this group. Bacteriophages were identified in all fecal samples from CE and healthy dogs. Canine kobuvirus was identified in one dog with CE, by shotgun sequencing, and the complete genome was then characterized. This kobuvirus was classified within canine kobuvirus group, being similar to strains from Korea and China. The larger prevalence study did not detect additional samples positive for canine kobuvirus. The fecal virome of dogs with CE differs in number and type of viral families from healthy dogs. The first Australian canine kobuvirus sequence was identified and characterized from a dog with CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma S Moreno
- Enteric Viruses Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, VIC, Australia; Translational Research and Animal Clinical Trial Study (TRACTS) group, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Josef Wagner
- Enteric Viruses Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, VIC, Australia; Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Carl D Kirkwood
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Caroline S Mansfield
- Translational Research and Animal Clinical Trial Study (TRACTS) group, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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30
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Legione AR, Amery-Gale J, Lynch M, Haynes L, Gilkerson JR, Sansom FM, Devlin JM. Variation in the microbiome of the urogenital tract of Chlamydia-free female koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) with and without 'wet bottom'. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0194881. [PMID: 29579080 PMCID: PMC5868818 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0194881] [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] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) are iconic Australian marsupials currently threatened by several processes, including infectious diseases and ecological disruption. Infection with Chlamydia pecorum, is considered a key driver of population decline. The clinical sign of 'wet bottom', a staining of the rump associated with urinary incontinence, is often caused by chlamydial urinary tract infections. However, wet bottom has been recorded in koalas free of C. pecorum, suggesting other causative agents in those individuals. We used 16S rRNA diversity profiling to investigate the microbiome of the urogenital tract of ten female koalas in order to identify potential causative agents of wet bottom, other than C. pecorum. Five urogenital samples were processed from koalas presenting with wet bottom and five were clinically normal. All koalas were negative for C. pecorum infection. We detected thirteen phyla across the ten samples, with Firmicutes occurring at the highest relative abundance (77.6%). The order Lactobacillales, within the Firmicutes, comprised 70.3% of the reads from all samples. After normalising reads using DESeq2 and testing for significant differences (P < 0.05), there were 25 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) more commonly found in one group over the other. The families Aerococcaceae and Tissierellaceae both had four significantly differentially abundant OTUs. These four Tissierellaceae OTUs were all significantly more abundant in koalas with wet bottom. This study provides the foundation for future investigations of causes of koala wet bottom, other than C. pecorum infection. This is of clinical relevance as wet bottom is often assumed to be caused by C. pecorum and treated accordingly. Our research highlights that other organisms may be causing wet bottom, and these potential aetiological agents need to be further investigated to fully address the problems this species faces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair R. Legione
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Jemima Amery-Gale
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Lynch
- Veterinary Department, Melbourne Zoo, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leesa Haynes
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fiona M. Sansom
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne M. Devlin
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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31
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Hardefeldt LY, Marenda M, Crabb H, Stevenson MA, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H, Browning GF. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing by Australian veterinary diagnostic laboratories. Aust Vet J 2018; 96:142-146. [DOI: 10.1111/avj.12685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 10/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- LY Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship; Peter Doherty Institute; Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - M Marenda
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - H Crabb
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship; Peter Doherty Institute; Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - MA Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - JR Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
| | - H Billman-Jacobe
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship; Peter Doherty Institute; Parkville Victoria Australia
| | - GF Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences; University of Melbourne; Parkville Victoria 3010 Australia
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship; Peter Doherty Institute; Parkville Victoria Australia
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32
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Hardefeldt LY, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H, Stevenson MA, Thursky K, Bailey KE, Browning GF. Barriers to and enablers of implementing antimicrobial stewardship programs in veterinary practices. J Vet Intern Med 2018; 32:1092-1099. [PMID: 29573053 PMCID: PMC5980358 DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [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: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs are yet to be widely implemented in veterinary practice and medical programs are unlikely to be directly applicable to veterinary settings. OBJECTIVE To gain an in-depth understanding of the factors that influence effective AMS in veterinary practices in Australia. METHODS A concurrent explanatory mixed methods design was used. The quantitative phase of the study consisted of an online questionnaire to assess veterinarians' attitudes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimicrobial use in animals, and the extent to which AMS currently is implemented (knowingly or unknowingly). The qualitative phase used semi-structured interviews to gain an understanding of the barriers to and enablers of AMS in veterinary practices. Data were collected and entered into NVivo v.11, openly coded and analyzed according to mixed methods data analysis principles. RESULTS Companion animal, equine, and bovine veterinarians participated in the study. Veterinary practices rarely had antimicrobial prescribing policies. The key barriers were a lack of AMS governance structures, client expectations and competition between practices, cost of microbiological testing, and lack of access to education, training and AMS resources. The enablers were concern for the role of veterinary antimicrobial use in development of AMR in humans, a sense of pride in the service provided, and preparedness to change prescribing practices. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE Our study can guide development and establishment of AMS programs in veterinary practices by defining the major issues that influence the prescribing behavior of veterinarians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Y Hardefeldt
- Department of Veterinary and Agricultural Biosciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Department of Veterinary and Agricultural Biosciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - H Billman-Jacobe
- Department of Veterinary and Agricultural Biosciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - M A Stevenson
- Department of Veterinary and Agricultural Biosciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Thursky
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - K E Bailey
- Department of Veterinary and Agricultural Biosciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - G F Browning
- Department of Veterinary and Agricultural Biosciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Melbourne Veterinary School, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
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33
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Hardefeldt LY, Browning GF, Thursky KA, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H, Stevenson MA, Bailey KE. Cross-sectional study of antimicrobials used for surgical prophylaxis by bovine veterinary practitioners in Australia. Vet Rec 2017; 181:426. [PMID: 28893972 DOI: 10.1136/vr.104375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 04/14/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobials are widely used in veterinary practices, but there has been no investigation of antimicrobial classes used or the appropriateness of their use in bovine practice. This study investigated antimicrobial use for surgical prophylaxis in bovine practice in Australia. A cross-sectional study of veterinarian antimicrobial usage patterns was conducted using an online questionnaire. Information solicited included respondent's details, the frequency with which antimicrobials were used for specific surgical conditions (including the dose, timing and duration of therapy) and details of practice antimicrobial use policies and sources of information about antimicrobials. In total, 212 members of the Australian veterinary profession working in bovine practice completed the survey. Antimicrobials were always or frequently used by more than 75 per cent of respondents in all scenarios. Generally, antimicrobial drug choice was appropriate for the reported surgical conditions. Procaine penicillin and oxytetracycline accounted for 93 per cent of use. However, there was a wide range of doses used, with underdosing and inappropriate timing of administration being common reasons for inappropriate prophylactic treatment. There was very low use of critically important antimicrobials (3.3 per cent of antimicrobials reported). Antimicrobial use guidelines need to be developed and promoted to improve the responsible use of antimicrobials in bovine practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Y Hardefeldt
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Glenn F Browning
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karin A Thursky
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Billman-Jacobe
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A Stevenson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kirsten E Bailey
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
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34
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Hardefeldt LY, Browning GF, Thursky K, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H, Stevenson MA, Bailey KE. Erratum to "Antimicrobials used for surgical prophylaxis by companion animal veterinarians in Australia" [Vet. Microbiol. 203C (2017) 301-307]. Vet Microbiol 2017; 208:74-76. [PMID: 28888652 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2017.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Glenn F Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karin Thursky
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St., Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Billman-Jacobe
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kirsten E Bailey
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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35
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Hardefeldt LY, Browning GF, Thursky K, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H, Stevenson MA, Bailey KE. Antimicrobials used for surgical prophylaxis by equine veterinary practitioners in Australia. Equine Vet J 2017; 50:65-72. [PMID: 28608525 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antimicrobials are widely used in Australian veterinary practices, but no investigation into the classes of antimicrobials used, or the appropriateness of use in horses, has been conducted. OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to describe antimicrobial use for surgical prophylaxis in equine practice in Australia. STUDY DESIGN Cross-sectional questionnaire survey. METHODS An online questionnaire was used to document antimicrobial usage patterns. Information solicited in the questionnaire included demographic details of the respondents, the frequency with which antimicrobials were used for specific surgical conditions (including the dose, timing and duration of therapy) and practice antimicrobial use policies and sources of information about antimicrobials and their uses. RESULTS A total of 337 members of the Australian veterinary profession completed the survey. Generally, the choice of antimicrobial was appropriate for the specified equine surgical condition, but the dose and duration of therapy varied greatly. While there was poor optimal compliance with British Equine Veterinary Association guidelines in all scenarios (range 1-15%), except removal of a nonulcerated dermal mass (42%), suboptimal compliance (compliant antimicrobial drug selection but inappropriate timing, dose or duration of therapy) was moderate for all scenarios (range 48-68%), except for an uninfected contaminated wound over the thorax, where both optimal and suboptimal compliance was very poor (1%). Veterinarians practicing at a university hospital had higher odds of compliance than general practice veterinarians (Odds ratio 3.2, 95% CI, 1.1-8.9, P = 0.03). MAIN LIMITATIONS Many survey responses were collected at conferences which may introduce selection bias, as veterinarians attending conferences may be more likely to have been exposed to contemporary antimicrobial prescribing recommendations. CONCLUSIONS Antimicrobial use guidelines need to be developed and promoted to improve the responsible use of antimicrobials in equine practice in Australia. An emphasis should be placed on antimicrobial therapy for wounds and appropriate dosing for procaine penicillin.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - G F Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - K Thursky
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - H Billman-Jacobe
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
| | - M A Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - K E Bailey
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Carlton, Victoria, Australia
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36
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Moreno PS, Wagner J, Mansfield CS, Stevens M, Gilkerson JR, Kirkwood CD. Characterisation of the canine faecal virome in healthy dogs and dogs with acute diarrhoea using shotgun metagenomics. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178433. [PMID: 28570584 PMCID: PMC5453527 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [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: 11/21/2016] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The virome has been increasingly investigated in numerous animal species and in different sites of the body, facilitating the identification and discovery of a variety of viruses. In spite of this, the faecal virome of healthy dogs has not been investigated. In this study we describe the faecal virome of healthy dogs and dogs with acute diarrhoea in Australia, using a shotgun metagenomic approach. Viral sequences from a range of different virus families, including both RNA and DNA families, and known pathogens implicated in enteric disease were documented. Twelve viral families were identified, of which four were bacteriophages. Eight eukaryotic viral families were detected: Astroviridae, Coronaviridae, Reoviridae, Picornaviridae, Caliciviridae, Parvoviridae, Adenoviridae and Papillomaviridae. Families Astroviridae, Picornaviridae and Caliciviridae were found only in dogs with acute diarrhoea, with Astroviridae being the most common family identified in this group. Due to its prevalence, characterisation the complete genome of a canine astrovirus was performed. These studies indicate that metagenomic analyses are useful for the investigation of viral populations in the faeces of dogs. Further studies to elucidate the epidemiological and biological relevance of these findings are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma S. Moreno
- Enteric Viruses Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Translational Research and Animal Clinical Trial Study (TRACTS) group, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Josef Wagner
- Enteric Viruses Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Caroline S. Mansfield
- Translational Research and Animal Clinical Trial Study (TRACTS) group, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Matthew Stevens
- Australian Genome Research Facility, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Carl D. Kirkwood
- Enteric Viruses Group, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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37
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Hardefeldt LY, Browning GF, Thursky K, Gilkerson JR, Billman-Jacobe H, Stevenson MA, Bailey KE. Antimicrobials used for surgical prophylaxis by companion animal veterinarians in Australia. Vet Microbiol 2017; 203:301-307. [PMID: 28619161 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2017.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Antimicrobials are widely used in veterinary practices, but there has been no investigation into the classes of antimicrobials used or the appropriateness of their use in surgical prophylaxis. Antimicrobial usage guidelines were published by the Australian Infectious Disease Advisory Panel (AIDAP) in 2013, but there has been no investigation of compliance with them. This study aimed to investigate antimicrobial use for surgical prophylaxis in companion animal practice and assess compliance with AIDAP guidelines for selected conditions by conducting a cross-sectional study of antimicrobial usage patterns of Australian veterinarians using an online questionnaire. Information solicited included: details of the respondent, the frequency with which antimicrobials were used for specific surgical conditions (including dose and duration) and practice antimicrobial use policies and sources of information about antimicrobial drugs and their uses. A total of 886 members of the Australian veterinary profession completed the survey. Few (22%) reported that their practice that had an antimicrobial use policy. Generally, the choice of antimicrobial drug was appropriate for the given surgical conditions. There was poor compliance with AIDAP guidelines for non-use of antimicrobials for routine neutering. Veterinarians caring solely for companion animals had higher odds of optimal compliance with guidelines than veterinarians in mixed species practices (OR 1.4, 95%CI 1.1-1.9). Recent graduates (>2011) had lower odds of compliance than older graduates (OR 0.8, 95%CI 0.6-0.9). The findings suggest that antimicrobial use guidelines need to be expanded and promoted to improve the responsible use of antimicrobials in small animal practice in Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Y Hardefeldt
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Glenn F Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karin Thursky
- National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, Peter Doherty Institute, Grattan St., Parkville, Victoria Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Helen Billman-Jacobe
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark A Stevenson
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kirsten E Bailey
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Legione AR, Patterson JLS, Whiteley P, Firestone SM, Curnick M, Bodley K, Lynch M, Gilkerson JR, Sansom FM, Devlin JM. Koala retrovirus genotyping analyses reveal a low prevalence of KoRV-A in Victorian koalas and an association with clinical disease. J Med Microbiol 2017; 66:236-244. [PMID: 28266284 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Koala retrovirus (KoRV) is undergoing endogenization into the genome of koalas in Australia, providing an opportunity to assess the effect of retrovirus infection on the health of a population. The prevalence of KoRV in north-eastern Australia (Queensland and New South Wales) is 100 %, whereas previous preliminary investigations in south-eastern Australia (Victoria) suggested KoRV is present at a lower prevalence, although the values have varied widely. Here, we describe a large study of free-ranging koalas in Victoria to estimate the prevalence of KoRV and assess the clinical significance of KoRV infection in wild koalas. METHODOLOGY Blood or spleen samples from 648 koalas where tested for KoRV provirus, and subsequently genotyped, using PCRs to detect the pol and env genes respectively. Clinical data was also recorded where possible and analysed in comparison to infection status. RESULTS The prevalence of KoRV was 24.7 % (160/648). KoRV-A was detected in 141/160 cases, but KoRV-B, a genotype associated with neoplasia in captive koalas, was not detected. The genotype in 19 cases could not be determined. Genomic differences between KoRV in Victoria and type strains may have impacted genotyping. Factors associated with KoRV infection, based on multivariable analysis, were low body condition score, region sampled, and 'wet bottom' (a staining of the fur around the rump associated with chronic urinary incontinence). Koalas with wet bottom were nearly twice as likely to have KoRV provirus detected than those without wet bottom (odds ratio=1.90, 95 % confidence interval 1.21, 2.98). CONCLUSION Our findings have important implications for the conservation of this iconic species, particularly regarding translocation potential of Victorian koalas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair R Legione
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jade L S Patterson
- Veterinary Department, Melbourne Zoo, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Pam Whiteley
- Wildlife Health Surveillance Victoria, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia.,Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Simon M Firestone
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Megan Curnick
- Australian Wildlife Health Centre, Healesville Sanctuary, Healesville, Victoria, Australia.,Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kate Bodley
- Veterinary Department, Melbourne Zoo, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Lynch
- Veterinary Department, Melbourne Zoo, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Fiona M Sansom
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Joanne M Devlin
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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39
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Mekuria ZH, El-Hage C, Ficorilli NP, Washington EA, Gilkerson JR, Hartley CA. Mapping B lymphocytes as major reservoirs of naturally occurring latent equine herpesvirus 5 infection. J Gen Virol 2017; 98:461-470. [DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zelalem H Mekuria
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
- Department of Veterinary Science, Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Centre, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40546-0099, USA
| | - Charles El-Hage
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Nino P Ficorilli
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A Washington
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Carol A Hartley
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Science, The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia
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40
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Nadimpalli M, Lee SW, Devlin JM, Gilkerson JR, Hartley CA. Impairment of infectious laryngotracheitis virus replication by deletion of the UL[-1] gene. Arch Virol 2017; 162:1541-1548. [PMID: 28194527 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-017-3266-8] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV) encodes several unique genes, including a pair of unique nuclear proteins UL0 and UL[-1] that are expressed during replication in cell culture. Although the UL0 gene has been shown to be dispensable for replication, the role of UL[-1] has not been elucidated. In this study a deletion mutant of ILTV lacking the UL[-1] gene was constructed using homologous recombination. The coding sequences of the gene were replaced with the gene for enhanced green fluorescent protein and the cytomegalovirus major immediate early promoter element. The progeny virus carrying the reporter gene was readily identified using fluorescent microscopy, but was unable to propagate in the permissive cells in the absence of wild type ILTV. Even after plaque purification and fluorescent associated cell sorting the recombinant virus deficient in UL[-1] gene could not be successfully isolated. Our findings suggest that the UL[-1] gene has an important role in ILTV replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nadimpalli
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.,Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - S W Lee
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - J M Devlin
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - C A Hartley
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia. .,Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.
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41
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Vaz PK, Job N, Horsington J, Ficorilli N, Studdert MJ, Hartley CA, Gilkerson JR, Browning GF, Devlin JM. Low genetic diversity among historical and contemporary clinical isolates of felid herpesvirus 1. BMC Genomics 2016; 17:704. [PMID: 27589862 PMCID: PMC5010698 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-016-3050-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 08/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Felid herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1) causes upper respiratory tract diseases in cats worldwide, including nasal and ocular discharge, conjunctivitis and oral ulceration. The nature and severity of disease can vary between clinical cases. Genetic determinants of virulence are likely to contribute to differences in the in vivo phenotype of FHV-1 isolates, but to date there have been limited studies investigating FHV-1 genetic diversity. This study used next generation sequencing to compare the genomes of contemporary Australian clinical isolates of FHV-1, vaccine isolates and historical clinical isolates, including isolates that predated the introduction of live attenuated vaccines into Australia. Analysis of the genome sequences aimed to assess the level of genetic diversity, identify potential genetic markers that could influence the in vivo phenotype of the isolates and examine the sequences for evidence of recombination. Results The full genome sequences of 26 isolates of FHV-1 were determined, including two vaccine isolates and 24 clinical isolates that were collected over a period of approximately 40 years. Analysis of the genome sequences revealed a remarkably low level of diversity (0.0–0.01 %) between the isolates. No potential genetic determinants of virulence were identified, but unique single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the UL28 and UL44 genes were detected in the vaccine isolates that were not present in the clinical isolates. No evidence of FHV-1 recombination was detected using multiple methods of recombination detection, even though many of the isolates originated from cats housed in a shelter environment where high infective pressures were likely to exist. Evidence of displacement of dominant FHV-1 isolates with other (genetically distinct) FHV-1 isolates over time was observed amongst the isolates obtained from the shelter-housed animals. Conclusions The results show that FHV-1 genomes are highly conserved. The lack of recombination detected in the FHV-1 genomes suggests that the risk of attenuated vaccines recombining to generate virulent field viruses is lower than has been suggested for some other herpesviruses. The SNPs detected only in the vaccine isolates offer the potential to develop PCR-based methods of differentiating vaccine and clinical isolates of FHV-1 in order to facilitate future epidemiological studies. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-016-3050-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola K Vaz
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Natalie Job
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Jacquelyn Horsington
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.,Present address: Australian Animal Health Laboratory, CSIRO, 5 Portarlington Rd, East Geelong, VIC, 3220, Australia
| | - Nino Ficorilli
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Michael J Studdert
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Carol A Hartley
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Glenn F Browning
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia
| | - Joanne M Devlin
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.
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42
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Legione AR, Patterson JLS, Whiteley PL, Amery-Gale J, Lynch M, Haynes L, Gilkerson JR, Polkinghorne A, Devlin JM, Sansom FM. Identification of unusual Chlamydia pecorum genotypes in Victorian koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) and clinical variables associated with infection. J Med Microbiol 2016; 65:420-428. [PMID: 26932792 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia pecorum infection is a threat to the health of free-ranging koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) in Australia. Utilizing an extensive sample archive we determined the prevalence of C. pecorum in koalas within six regions of Victoria, Australia. The ompA genotypes of the detected C. pecorum were characterized to better understand the epidemiology of this pathogen in Victorian koalas. Despite many studies in northern Australia (i.e. Queensland and New South Wales), prior Chlamydia studies in Victorian koalas are limited. We detected C. pecorum in 125/820 (15 %) urogenital swabs, but in only one ocular swab. Nucleotide sequencing of the molecular marker C. pecorum ompA revealed that the majority (90/114) of C. pecorum samples typed were genotype B. This genotype has not been reported in northern koalas. In general, Chlamydia infection in Victorian koalas is associated with milder clinical signs compared with infection in koalas in northern populations. Although disease pathogenesis is likely to be multifactorial, the high prevalence of genotype B in Victoria may suggest it is less pathogenic. All but three koalas had C. pecorum genotypes unique to southern koala populations (i.e. Victoria and South Australia). These included a novel C. pecorum ompA genotype and two genotypes associated with livestock. Regression analysis determined that significant factors for the presence of C. pecorum infection were sex and geographical location. The presence of 'wet bottom' in males and the presence of reproductive tract pathology in females were significantly associated with C. pecorum infection, suggesting variation in clinical disease manifestations between sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair R Legione
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne,Parkville, Victoria,Australia
| | - Jade L S Patterson
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne,Parkville, Victoria,Australia.,Veterinary Department, Melbourne Zoo,Parkville, Victoria,Australia
| | - Pam L Whiteley
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne,Parkville, Victoria,Australia.,Wildlife Health Surveillance Victoria, The University of Melbourne,Werribee, Victoria,Australia
| | - Jemima Amery-Gale
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne,Parkville, Victoria,Australia.,Australian Wildlife Health Centre, Healesville Sanctuary, Healesville,Victoria,Australia
| | - Michael Lynch
- Veterinary Department, Melbourne Zoo,Parkville, Victoria,Australia
| | - Leesa Haynes
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne,Werribee, Victoria,Australia
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne,Parkville, Victoria,Australia
| | - Adam Polkinghorne
- Centre for Animal Health Innovation, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs,Queensland,Australia
| | - Joanne M Devlin
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne,Parkville, Victoria,Australia
| | - Fiona M Sansom
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne,Parkville, Victoria,Australia
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Vaz PK, Mahony TJ, Hartley CA, Fowler EV, Ficorilli N, Lee SW, Gilkerson JR, Browning GF, Devlin JM. The first genome sequence of a metatherian herpesvirus: Macropodid herpesvirus 1. BMC Genomics 2016; 17:70. [PMID: 26800886 PMCID: PMC4724163 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-016-2390-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 10/15/2015] [Accepted: 01/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While many placental herpesvirus genomes have been fully sequenced, the complete genome of a marsupial herpesvirus has not been described. Here we present the first genome sequence of a metatherian herpesvirus, Macropodid herpesvirus 1 (MaHV-1). Results The MaHV-1 viral genome was sequenced using an Illumina MiSeq sequencer, de novo assembly was performed and the genome was annotated. The MaHV-1 genome was 140 kbp in length and clustered phylogenetically with the primate simplexviruses, sharing 67 % nucleotide sequence identity with Human herpesviruses 1 and 2. The MaHV-1 genome contained 66 predicted open reading frames (ORFs) homologous to those in other herpesvirus genomes, but lacked homologues of UL3, UL4, UL56 and glycoprotein J. This is the first alphaherpesvirus genome that has been found to lack the UL3 and UL4 homologues. We identified six novel ORFs and confirmed their transcription by RT-PCR. Conclusions This is the first genome sequence of a herpesvirus that infects metatherians, a taxonomically unique mammalian clade. Members of the Simplexvirus genus are remarkably conserved, so the absence of ORFs otherwise retained in eutherian and avian alphaherpesviruses contributes to our understanding of the Alphaherpesvirinae. Further study of metatherian herpesvirus genetics and pathogenesis provides a unique approach to understanding herpesvirus-mammalian interactions. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12864-016-2390-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola K Vaz
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, 3010, VIC, Australia.
| | - Timothy J Mahony
- Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation, Centre for Animal Science, The University of Queensland, Ritchie Building (64A), St Lucia, 4072, QLD, Australia.
| | - Carol A Hartley
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, 3010, VIC, Australia.
| | - Elizabeth V Fowler
- Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Animal Science, St Lucia, 4072, QLD, Australia.
| | - Nino Ficorilli
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, 3010, VIC, Australia.
| | - Sang W Lee
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, 3010, VIC, Australia. .,College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, 143-701, Republic of Korea.
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, 3010, VIC, Australia.
| | - Glenn F Browning
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, 3010, VIC, Australia.
| | - Joanne M Devlin
- Asia Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, 3010, VIC, Australia.
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Vaz PK, Horsington J, Hartley CA, Browning GF, Ficorilli NP, Studdert MJ, Gilkerson JR, Devlin JM. Evidence of widespread natural recombination among field isolates of equine herpesvirus 4 but not among field isolates of equine herpesvirus 1. J Gen Virol 2015; 97:747-755. [PMID: 26691326 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recombination in alphaherpesviruses allows evolution to occur in viruses that have an otherwise stable DNA genome with a low rate of nucleotide substitution. High-throughput sequencing of complete viral genomes has recently allowed natural (field) recombination to be studied in a number of different alphaherpesviruses, however, such studies have not been applied to equine herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) or equine herpesvirus 4 (EHV-4). These two equine alphaherpesviruses are genetically similar, but differ in their pathogenesis and epidemiology. Both cause economically significant disease in horse populations worldwide. This study used high-throughput sequencing to determine the full genome sequences of EHV-1 and EHV-4 isolates (11 and 14 isolates, respectively) from Australian or New Zealand horses. These sequences were then analysed and examined for evidence of recombination. Evidence of widespread recombination was detected in the genomes of the EHV-4 isolates. Only one potential recombination event was detected in the genomes of the EHV-1 isolates, even when the genomes from an additional 11 international EHV-1 isolates were analysed. The results from this study reveal another fundamental difference between the biology of EHV-1 and EHV-4. The results may also be used to help inform the future safe use of attenuated equine herpesvirus vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- P K Vaz
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - J Horsington
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - C A Hartley
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - G F Browning
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - N P Ficorilli
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - M J Studdert
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - J M Devlin
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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Allen JL, Herbert G, Muscatello G, Gilkerson JR. Clinical Research Abstracts of the British Equine Veterinary Association Congress 2015. Equine Vet J 2015; 47 Suppl 48:3. [PMID: 26375857 DOI: 10.1111/evj.12486_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY Bronchopneumonia caused by Rhodococcus equi is an important disease of young horses throughout the world. Although early diagnosis and treatment improves the prognosis, this also increases the amount of antimicrobial usage and therefore increases the likelihood of resistance developing. OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to determine the level of resistance to commonly prescribed antimicrobial agents of 97 virulent Rhodococcus equi isolates. STUDY DESIGN Analysis of archived samples. METHODS Virulent Rhodococcus equi isolates were collected between 1991 and 2014 from clinically affected horses and from air samples collected in the breathing zone of foals. Antimicrobial susceptibility of these isolates was assessed using a disc diffusion assay with a panel of agents. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined for rifampicin, erythromycin, tetracycline, and neomycin using a novel resazurin-based microtitre assay. RESULTS Resistance to rifampicin was detected in 3 of the isolates (2 collected in 2013 and one in 2014) by both methods. The MIC for these isolates was 64 μg/ml (n = 2) and 16 μg/ml (n = 1). All isolates collected prior to 2013 had MICs<0.125 μg/ml, which was the limit of detection in this assay. Although no isolates were resistant to tetracycline, there was a general increase in MIC in isolates collected in recent years. No isolates were resistant to either neomycin or erythromycin, with MIC values ranging between 0.25 and 2 μg/ml for neomycin and 0.125-1 μg/ml for erythromycin. CONCLUSIONS The success of the macrolide-rifampicin combination relies on the synergistic action of these 2 agents. Resistance to rifampicin will reduce the therapeutic efficacy of this treatment. It is of serious concern that the resistant isolates were all recently collected. Hopefully, recent research will lead to fewer asymptomatic foals receiving antimicrobials which will in turn reduce the likelihood of ongoing development of resistance. Ethical animal research: All organisms in this study were received by the laboratory from diagnostic accessions. Sources of funding: Funding for the study was provided by Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation and the University of Melbourne. G. Herbert was the recipient of a RN McCarthy scholarship from the Faculty of Veterinary Science. Competing interests: None declared.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Allen
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - G Herbert
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - G Muscatello
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - J R Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
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Korsa MG, Browning GF, Coppo MJC, Legione AR, Gilkerson JR, Noormohammadi AH, Vaz PK, Lee SW, Devlin JM, Hartley CA. Protection Induced in Broiler Chickens following Drinking-Water Delivery of Live Infectious Laryngotracheitis Vaccines against Subsequent Challenge with Recombinant Field Virus. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0137719. [PMID: 26366738 PMCID: PMC4569394 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 07/17/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV) causes acute upper respiratory tract disease in chickens. Attenuated live ILTV vaccines are often used to help control disease, but these vaccines have well documented limitations, including retention of residual virulence, incomplete protection, transmission of vaccine virus to unvaccinated birds and reversion to high levels of virulence following bird-to-bird passage. Recently, two novel ILTV field strains (class 8 and 9 ILTV viruses) emerged in Australia due to natural recombination between two genotypically distinct commercial ILTV vaccines. These recombinant field strains became dominant field strains in important poultry producing areas. In Victoria, Australia, the recombinant class 9 virus largely displaced the previously predominant class 2 ILTV strain. The ability of ILTV vaccines to protect against challenge with the novel class 9 ILTV strain has not been studied. Here, the protection induced by direct (drinking-water) and indirect (contact) exposure to four different ILTV vaccines against challenge with class 9 ILTV in commercial broilers was studied. The vaccines significantly reduced, but did not prevent, challenge virus replication in vaccinated chickens. Only one vaccine significantly reduced the severity of tracheal pathology after direct drinking-water vaccination. The results indicate that the current vaccines can be used to help control class 9 ILTV, but also indicate that these vaccines have limitations that should be considered when designing and implementing disease control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mesula G. Korsa
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Glenn F. Browning
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mauricio J. C. Coppo
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alistair R. Legione
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Amir H. Noormohammadi
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paola K. Vaz
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sang-Won Lee
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Joanne M. Devlin
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Carol A. Hartley
- The Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Gilkerson JR, Bailey KE, Diaz-Méndez A, Hartley CA. Update on Viral Diseases of the Equine Respiratory Tract. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 2015; 31:91-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cveq.2014.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Symes SJ, Job N, Ficorilli N, Hartley CA, Browning GF, Gilkerson JR. Novel assay to quantify recombination in a calicivirus. Vet Microbiol 2015; 177:25-31. [PMID: 25801938 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2015.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2014] [Revised: 02/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/18/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Recombination is an important contributor to genomic evolution in many viral families, including the Caliciviridae. While it is known that genomic recombination in caliciviruses contributes to their rapid evolution, the precise molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. The majority of reported recombination events in feline calicivirus (FCV) occur at a "hot spot" between the non-structural protein coding region (open reading frame 1) and structural protein coding region (open reading frame 2). To gain a better understanding of the rate of recombination at this point, we developed a quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay to quantify the rate of recombination between two divergent strains of FCV during co-infection in cell culture. The assay utilised virus-specific primers upstream and downstream of the recombinational "hot spot" that hybridise with only one of the strains in the co-infection. Recombinant progeny that shared ORF1 sequence identity with one parental virus and ORF2 sequence identity with the other parental virus, and the site of recombination, was confirmed by sequencing the amplicon generated by the assay. Recombinants were detected in co-infected cells using this assay, but not in cells infected with single strains that were mixed together following infection, thus confirming its specificity. Recombination between two FCVs in co-infected cell cultures was estimated to occur at a rate of at least 6.8×10(-6) single direction recombinant genomes per parental virus genome. Further application of this assay will enable factors influencing recombination in caliciviruses to be explored in greater detail, both in vitro and in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally J Symes
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - Natalie Job
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - Nino Ficorilli
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - Carol A Hartley
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - Glenn F Browning
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
| | - James R Gilkerson
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
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Baker L, Chitas AML, Hartley CA, Coppo MJC, Vaz PK, Stent A, Gilkerson JR, Devlin JM, Every AL. Recombinant herpesvirus glycoprotein G improves the protective immune response to Helicobacter pylori vaccination in a mouse model of disease. PLoS One 2014; 9:e96563. [PMID: 24794215 PMCID: PMC4008605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0096563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 01/15/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Alphaherpesviruses, which have co-evolved with their hosts for more than 200 million years, evade and subvert host immune responses, in part, by expression of immuno-modulatory molecules. Alphaherpesviruses express a single, broadly conserved chemokine decoy receptor, glycoprotein G (gG), which can bind multiple chemokine classes from multiple species, including human and mouse. Previously, we demonstrated that infection of chickens with an infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV) mutant deficient in gG resulted in altered host immune responses compared to infection with wild-type virus. The ability of gG to disrupt the chemokine network has the potential to be used therapeutically. Here we investigated whether gG from ILTV or equine herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) could modulate the protective immune response induced by the Helicobacter pylori vaccine antigen, catalase (KatA). Subcutaneous immunisation of mice with KatA together with EHV-1 gG, but not ILTV gG, induced significantly higher anti-KatA IgG than KatA alone. Importantly, subcutaneous or intranasal immunisation with KatA and EHV-1 gG both resulted in significantly lower colonization levels of H. pylori colonization following challenge, compared to mice vaccinated with KatA alone. Indeed, the lowest colonization levels were observed in mice vaccinated with KatA and EHV-1 gG, subcutaneously. In contrast, formulations containing ILTV gG did not affect H. pylori colonisation levels. The difference in efficacy between EHV-1 gG and ILTV gG may reflect the different spectrum of chemokines bound by the two proteins. Together, these data indicate that the immuno-modulatory properties of viral gGs could be harnessed for improving immune responses to vaccine antigens. Future studies should focus on the mechanism of action and whether gG may have other therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Baker
- Centre for Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Andre M. L. Chitas
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Carol A. Hartley
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Mauricio J. C. Coppo
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Paola K. Vaz
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Andrew Stent
- Centre for Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - James R. Gilkerson
- Centre for Equine Infectious Disease, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Joanne M. Devlin
- Asia-Pacific Centre for Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Alison L. Every
- Centre for Animal Biotechnology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Horsington J, Lynch SE, Gilkerson JR, Studdert MJ, Hartley CA. Equine picornaviruses: Well known but poorly understood. Vet Microbiol 2013; 167:78-85. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2013.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2012] [Revised: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 05/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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