USDA Funded Research Records from the Current Research Information System (CRIS)

 

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ACCESSION NO: 0168532 SUBFILE: CRIS
PROJ NO: ARK01611 AGENCY: CSREES
ARK
PROJ TYPE: HATCH PROJ STATUS: EXTENDED MULTISTATE PROJ NO: NE-60
START:
01 OCT 1998 TERM: 30 SEP 2003 FY: 2002

 

INVESTIGATOR: Erf, G. F.

 

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
POULTRY SCIENCES
UNIVERSITY
OF ARKANSAS
FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS 72703

 

GENETIC BASES FOR RESISTANCE AND IMMUNITY TO AVIAN DISEASES

OBJECTIVES

 

 Identify and characterize environmental, dietary and physiologic factors that modulate immune system development, optimal immune function and disease resistance in poultry genetic stocks.

 

APPROACH: Contributing research will include the Smyth line chickens which develop spontaneous post-hatch, autoimmune vitiligo. Three MHC-matched lines of chickens, all homozygous for the MHC B101 haplotype will be used in this project. Included are the autoimmune vitiliginous Smyth line (SL), the parental Brown line (BL), and the normally pigmented Light Brown Leghorn. Special emphasis will be placed on identifying environmental factors required for the expression of vitiligo in genetically susceptible SL chickens and on the immune mechanisms involved in autoimmune destruction of pigment cells in SL vitiligo. Additionally, immunomodulatory effects of dietary supplements on the avian immune system will be examined in broilers and in turkeys. Scientific methods used will include in vitro culture systems and flow cytometry.

 

PROGRESS: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
Mutant Smyth line chickens spontaneously develop post-hatch loss of eye and feather pigment. This loss of pigment is due to the destruction of pigment cells by the immune system. The similarities between the autoimmune loss of pigment cells in Smyth line chickens and the pigment loss observed in human vitiligo have lead to the acceptance of the SL chicken as the best animal model to study autoimmune vitiligo. During the last calendar year, we completed a study (funded by the National Vitiligo Foundation), on the role of environmental factors such as turkey herpesvirus (HVT) vaccine and other live virus vaccines (
Newcastle disease virus), in the development of Smyth line vitiligo. We have shown that only live HVT vaccine can be associated with a higher incidence of vitiligo compared to control treatments. The fact that gluteraldehyde-fixed (dead HVT) did not increase the incidence of vitiligo above controls, points towards the importance of the HVT infection in triggering vitiligo expression. As HVT translocates to the feather tissue, where melanocytes are located, we hypothesize that the local immune response to HVT infection may lead to the destruction of already inherently defective melanocytes and the development of autoimmune vitiligo. In another vitiligo incidence study (funded by the National Vitiligo Foundation), we examined the effect of recombinant chicken interferon gamma (IFN-g) administered to SL chicks during the first 6 weeks of life compared to vehicle-injected chicks. The incidence of vitiligo by 20 weeks of age in IFN-g-injected chicks was 0 % for males and 87.5 % for females, whereas in vehicle-injected chickens the incidence of vitiligo at 20 weeks of age was 0 % for males and 25 % for females (none of the chickens were vaccinated at hatch - hence the low spontaneous incidence of vitiligo). The ability of IFN-g to induce expression of vitiligo in vitiligo susceptible SL chickens together with the observed gender difference in the effects of IFN-g on the expression of SL vitiligo adds to the value of this animal model for human autoimmune vitiligo and autoimmune disease in general. Currently, graduate students Amber Austin, Becky Lockhart, and Dilshika Wijesekera are all working on the melanocyte defect in Smyth line chickens that may lead to the recognition of the melanocytes by the immune system. Aspects examined include antioxidant state, extent of lipid-peroxidation, and oxidation of proteins in the target tissue, as well as the response of melanocytes to inflammatory agents and oxidative intermediates. These studies are conducted using ex vivo feather tissue and melanocyte cultures and are funded by the NIH-AREA grant (R15). Research on Smyth line chickens was presented at the International Meeting of the Pigment Cell Research Society at Egmond an Zee, the Netherlands and the Workshop on Molecular Pathogenesis of Marek's Disease and Avian Immunology, Limassol, Cyprus.

 

IMPACT: 2002/01 TO 2002/12

The use of an animal model that is genetically susceptible to development of autoimmune vitiligo provides an excellent opportunity to study the cause and effect relationship between genetic susceptibility and the factors leading to the onset and expression of autoimmune disease. Knowledge gained from these studies will find direct application in the management and prevention of autoimmune disease. Additionally, these studies on immune system dysfunction and mechanisms of pathogenesis will yield important new knowledge regarding immune system development and function in avian species.

 

PUBLICATIONS: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
1. Erf, G. F. 2002. Smyth line autoimmune vitiligo - similar to human autoimmune vitiligo. Pages 316-332 in Modern Concepts of Immunology in Veterinary Medicine-Poultry Immunology. Mathew, T., editor. Advances in Medical and Veterinary Virology, Immunology and Epidemiology, Thajema Publishers,
Vineland, NJ.
2. Wang, W., R. F. Wideman, Jr., T. K. Bersi, and G. F. Erf. 2003. Pulmonary and hematological immune responses to intravenous cellulose micro-particles in broilers. Poult. Sci. in press.
3. Erf, G. F., T. K. Bersi, and H. S. Lillehoj. 2002. A role of interferon gamma in autoimmune vitiligo of Smyth line chickens. FEMS in press.
4. Wang, W., G. F. Erf, and R. F. Wideman. 2002. Effect of cage vs floor litter environments on the pulmonary hypertensive response to intravenous endotoxin and on blood-gas values in broilers. Poult. Sci. 81:1728-1737.
5. Wang, W., R. F. Wideman, and G. F. Erf. 2002. Pulmonary hypertensive response to endotoxin in cellulose-primed and unprimed broiler chickens. Poult. Sci. 81:1224-1230.
6. Wideman R. F., G. F. Erf, M. E. Chapman, W. Wang, N. B. Anthony, and L. Xiaofang. 2002. Intravenous micro-particle injections and pulmonary hypertension in broiler chickens: acute post-injection mortality and ascites susceptibility. Poult. Sci. 81:1203-1217.
7. Iqbal, M., J. D. Freiburger, G. F. Erf, and W. G. Bottje. 2002. Immunohistochemical evidence of cytochrome c oxidase subunit II involvement in pulmonary hypertension syndrome (PHS) in broilers. Poult. Sci. 81:1231-1235.
8. Wideman, R. F., and G. F. Erf. 2002. Intravenous microparticle injection and pulmonary hypertension in broiler chickens: Cardio-pulmonary hemodynamic responses. Poult. Sci. 81:877-886.

 

PROJECT CONTACT:

 

Name: Erf, G. F.
Phone: 501-575-8664
Fax: 501-575-3026
Email: gferf@comp.uark.edu


 

 

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ACCESSION NO: 0098242 SUBFILE: CRIS
PROJ NO: CA-V*-PHR-4652-AH96 AGENCY: CSREES CALB
PROJ TYPE: ANIMAL HEALTH PROJ STATUS: TERMINATED
START:
01 OCT 1996 TERM: 30 SEP 2001 FY: 2000

 

INVESTIGATOR: Lam, K. M.

 

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
POPULATION HEALTH & REPRODUCTION
UNIV OF
CALIFORNIA (VET-MED)
DAVIS, CALIFORNIA 95616  

 

NEWCASTLE DISEASE VIRUS STRAINS

 

OBJECTIVES: A. To determine that Newcastle disease virus (ND V) can cause apoptosls in heterophils and macrophage of chickens. B. To determine that chicken heterophils and macrophage are capable of inducing oxidative burst, and the suppression of oxidative burst by Newcastle disease virus.

 

APPROACH: A. Heterophils and macrophages will be infected with ND V in vitro. Gel electrophoresis, electron microscopy, flow cytometry, and in situ hybridization will be used to confirm the presence of apoptosis in the infected cells. B. The ability of heterophils and macrophages to produce hydrogen peroxide will be determined by the stimulation of cells with dichclorofluorescein (DCF) and phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), and followed by flow cytometric examination. The effect of ND V on hydrogen peroxide production will also be determined. C. Heterophils and macrophages will be pre-treated with various recombinant human cytokines and then determine for their oxidative burst by DCF and PMA.

 

PROGRESS: 1996/10 TO 2001/09
The efforts in this year have been concentrated on chicken heterophils and thrombocytes and the effect of
Newcastle disease virus on their functions. 1. It is widely believed that chicken heterophils and adherent cells do not have myeloperoxidase activity. However, this laboratory provides ample evidence showing that these cells do have myeloperoxidase activity. 2. Chicken thrombocytes are capable of chemotaxis and phagocytosis. These functions, however, are greatly reduced after a short-term incubation in vitro with Newcastle disease virus.

 

IMPACT: 1996/10 TO 2001/09
The goal of this project was to A. determine that
Newcastle disease virus (ND V) can cause apoptosls in heterophils and macrophage of chickens. B. To determine that chicken heterophils and macrophage are capable of inducing oxidative burst, and the suppression of oxidative burst by Newcastle disease virus.

 

PUBLICATIONS: 1996/10 TO 2001/09
1. Lam KM. 1997. Myeloperoxidase activity in chicken heterophils and adherent cells. Vet. Immunol. Immunopathol. 57:327-335.
2. Lam KM. 1997. Activation, adhesion, migration and death of chicken thrombocytes. Comp. Haematol. Intl. 1:81-87.


 

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ACCESSION NO: 0182013 SUBFILE: CRIS
PROJ NO: CALV-AH-176 AGENCY: CSREES CALV
PROJ TYPE: ANIMAL HEALTH PROJ STATUS: NEW
START:
01 OCT 1998 TERM: 30 SEP 2003 FY: 2001

 

INVESTIGATOR: Gardner, I. A.

 

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
MEDICINE & EPIDEMOLOGY
UNIV OF
CALIFORNIA (VET-MED)
DAVIS, CALIFORNIA 95616

 

QUANTITATIVE METHODS TO CERTIFY FREEDOM OF ANIMALS FROM PATHOGENS

 

OBJECTIVES: 1. Develop a Bayesian approach to certify disease freedom of a country/region that incorporates uncertainty in probability estimates. 2. Compare frequentist and Bayesian approaches to certify disease freedom using common data sets and to compare sample size requirements for surveys with both approaches.

 

APPROACH: 1. The Bayesian approach will be implemented with the Gibbs sampler, an interactive Markov-chain Monte Carlo method. The mathematical calculations will incorporate the prior probability that a country is free of disease, the uncertainty in sensitivity and specificity estimates and the possible clustering of positive test results at a herd level. The output will be a probabilistic estimate of disease freedom. 2. Frequentist and Bayesian estimates will be compared with common published data sets on porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome and Newcastle Disease. The effect of selected prior distributions for the Bayesian approach will be evaluated. Sample sites used in frequentist calculations for surveys will be compared with estimates that we will derive using Bayesian approaches.

 

NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: If countries and regions are able to "certify" freedom from important animal pathogens, trade opportunities may increase and product export costs may decrease. To develop a Bayesian statistical approach (using Gibbs sampling) to quantification of disease freedom. The output from the model will be probability distributions that can be used to make inferences about the proportion of diseased herds, within-herd prevalence, and the probability that a country is free of disease. The research will be involve collaboration with others in the US, Australia and Switzerland.

 

PROGRESS: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
Quantitative approaches are needed to allow scientifically-valid inferences about freedom of animals from important pathogens that affect animal trade. Freedom in the context of these inferences includes a pathogen prevalence less than a threshold (e.g. <0.2% of infected herds). We developed a hierarchical Bayesian statistical model that uses herd-level test results from multiple herds in a region or country or zone, and adjusts for uncertainty in the sensitivity and specificity of tests and the prior probability of infectious agent. The model allows inferences about the post-test probability of freedom from infection, the proportion of infected herds, and the within-herd prevalence. Using published survey data for porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome and Newcastle Disease in poultry, we have shown that inferences from our Bayesian approach are similar to those from an alternate simulation modeling approach. The Bayesian model is superior to previous methods because it allows inferences about the proportion of infected herds and within-herd prevalence which are important inputs into risk assessment models. The model has been modified to include the possibility of different sample sizes in each of the herds, and the use of additional tests in animals that are positive on the first screening test.

 

IMPACT: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
The new method has potential to be used internationally as a tool in substantiating a country's claim of freedom from animal pathogens.

 

PUBLICATIONS: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
No publications reported this period

 

PROJECT CONTACT:

Name: Gardner, I. A.
Phone: 530-752-6992
Fax: 530-752-0414
Email: iagardner@ucdavis.edu


 

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ACCESSION NO: 0177509 SUBFILE: CRIS
PROJ NO: CALV-CAHFS95CDFA6601 AGENCY: CSVM CALV
PROJ TYPE: STATE PROJ STATUS: EXTENDED
START:
01 JUL 1994 TERM: 30 JUN 2004 FY: 2001

 

INVESTIGATOR: Ardans, A. A.

 

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
ADMINISTRATION
UNIV OF
CALIFORNIA (VET-MED)
DAVIS, CALIFORNIA 95616

 

CALIFORNIA ANIMAL HEALTH AND FOOD SAFETY SYSTEM

 

OBJECTIVES: To provide laboratory diagnostic support of the highest quality for the surveillance and control of diseases and the enhancement of health of livestock and poultry in California, including programs designed to protect people from animal diseases transmissible to humans.

 

APPROACH: The CVDLS is composed of a full service, central reference laboratory at UC Davis and four laboratories located at Turlock (poultry), Fresno (poultry and regulatory services), Tulare (mammalian services) and San Bernardino (general services for poultry, mammalian and regulatory). These laboratories are linked by a computer based Management Information and Surveillance System to function as a single entity.

 

PROGRESS: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
Avian influenza, H6N2, reoccurred in
Southern California with many flocks experiencing significant mortality and egg production drops of considerable duration. In contrast to previous years, numerous flocks in central California also became infected. Chickens in active egg production were most severely affected with little disease in younger pullets. Severe reproductive tract disease presenting with necrotic salpingitis and yolk peritonitis were consistent observations. Laboratory support included postmortem examination, virus isolation, and serology for commercial flocks. USDA and CDFA approved the use of vaccine in commercial flocks for which laboratory monitoring was provided. A trial is underway to compare commercially available influenza antigen rapid detection kits with virus isolation. The CAHFS was federally approved to participate in bovine tuberculosis slaughter plant surveillance, which has resulted in an increased sample submission and improved surveillance. Through this program three bovine tuberculosis infected dairy herds were discovered resulting in extensive testing and postmortem examination of over 200 cattle. One dairy, 6,400 cows, has been depopulated and another two herds are being scheduled. An entire herd test (2,496 cows) using the gamma interferon test, was conducted and results are being compared with caudal fold and comparative cervical testing along with postmortem findings. In late September exotic Newcastle disease was diagnosed in Southern California game birds by the San Bernardino branch, CAHFS. The disease was found to be rapidly spreading. Widespread infection was found among game birds, which unfortunately spread to commercial egg producing facilities. Late on December 24 the disease was diagnosed on a commercial premise with over one million birds and to date over three million birds have been euthanized along with over 110,000 game birds. The massive laboratory support required in support of the eradication has suspended many of the ongoing creative investigative efforts. Significant effort has been dedicated to the development and validation of rapid molecular based assays and is being coordinated with efforts at Southeastern Poultry Research Laboratory and the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL). Considerable personnel support has been provided by laboratories throughout the country, including NVSL who have provided pathologists, virology technicians, and clerical assistance. Milk is routinely screened for beta-lactam antibiotics using highly sensitive, rapid screening tests, which are known to have considerable false positive results, which result in the dumping of an entire tank truckload of milk. CAHFS developed a quantitative method using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry for beta-lactam antibiotics, which has been used to screen potentially contaminated large amounts of cheese. The assay was also used in a highly visible antibiotic contamination that occurred in a large bay area milk processing plant, which resulted in the recall of over 800,000 gallons of milk and milk products.

 

IMPACT: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
The resources of the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System (CAHFS) in concert with
School of Veterinary Medicine researchers continue to demonstrate and investigate naturally occurring conditions of economic significance to California's production animal agriculture. During 2002 much of the system's resources has been dedicated to major animal health issues affecting California livestock and poultry.

 

PUBLICATIONS: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
1. Adaska JM,
Munoz-Zanzi CA, Hietala SK. 2002. Evaluation of result variability using a commercial Johne's disease ELISA kit and repeat testing of samples. Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation. 14:423-426.
2. Chin RP. 2002. Isolation of an unidentified, nonfermentative, gram-negative bacterium from turkeys and chickens: 38 cases (1995-2001). Avian Diseases, 46:447-452.
3. Colagross-Schouten AM, Mazet JA, Gulland FM, Miller MA, Hietala SK. 2002. Diagnosis and seroprevalence of leptospirosis in
California sea lions from coastal California. Journal of Wildlife Diseases, 38:7-17
4. Cramer G, Kelton D, Duffield TF, Hobson JC, Lissemore K, Hietala SK, Peregrine AS. 2002. Neospora caninum serostatus and culling of Holstein cattle. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 221:1165-1168.
5. Crespo R, Ghazikhanian GY, Hall CI. 2002. Avulsion of the common retinaculum in meat turkeys. Avian Diseases, 46:245-248.
6. Crespo R, Stover SM, Shivaprasad HL, Chin RP. 2002. Microstructure and mineral content of femora in male turkeys with and without fractures. Poultry Science, 81:1184-1190.
7. Crespo R, Woolcock PR, Fadly AM, Hall C, Shivaprasad HL. 2002. Characterization of T-cell lymphomas associated with an outbreak of reticuloendotheliosis in turkeys. Avian Pathology, 31:355 -361.
8. Daft BM, Barr BC, Gardner IA, Read D, Bell W, Peyser KG, Ardans A, Kinde H, Morrow JK. 2002. Sensitivity and specificity of western blot testing of cerebrospinal fluid and serum for diagnosis of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis in horses with and without neurologic abnormalities. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 221:1007-1013.
9. Driessen B, Zarucco L, Steffey EP, McCullough C, Del Piero F, Melton L, Puschner B, Stover SM. 2002. Biochemical and histopathological changes associated with prolonged sevoflurane anaesthesia in horses. Journal of Veterinary Medicine, A 49:1-11.
10. Fosgate GT, Adesiyun AA, Hird DW,
Hietala SK, Ryan J. 2002. Isolation of Brucella abortus biovar 1 from cattle and water buffalo on Trinidad. Veterinary Record, 151:272-273.
11. Fosgate GT, Adesiyun AA, Hird DW, Johnson WO, Hietala SK, Schurig GG, Ryan J. 2002. Comparison of serologic tests for detection of Brucella infections in cattle and water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). American Journal of Veterinary Research, 63:1598-1605.
12. Fosgate GT, Hird DW, Read DH, Walker RL. 2002. Risk factors for foals developing Clostridium piliforme infection (Tyzzer's Disease) on a California Thoroughbred breeding farm. Journal of the Veterinary Medical Association, 220:785-790.
13. Gordus AG, Shivaprasad HL, Swift P. 2002. Salt toxicosis in ruddy ducks that winter on an agricultural evaporation basin in
California. Journal of Wildlife Diseases, 38:124-131.
14. Haqshenas G, Huang FF, Fenaux M, Guenette DK, Pierson FW, Larsen CT, Shivaprasad HL, Toth TE and Meng XJ. 2002. The putative capsid protein of the newly identified avian hepatitis E virus shares antigenic epitopes with that of swine and human hepatitis E viruses and the chicken big liver and spleen disease virus. Journal of General Virology, 83:2201-2209.
15. Hobson JC, Duffield TF, Kelton D, Lissemore K, Hietala SK, Leslie KE, McEwan B, Cramer G, Peregrine AS. 2002. Neospora caninum serostatus and milk production of
Holstein cattle. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 221:1160-1164.
16. Holstege DM, Puschner B, Whitehead G, and Galey FD. 2002. Screening and mass spectral confirmation of beta-lactam antibiotic residues in milk using LC-MS/MS. Journal of Agriculture Food Chemicals, 50:406-411.
17. Huang FF, Haqshenas G, Shivaprasad HL, Guenette DK, Woolcock PR, Larsen CT, Pierson FW, Elvinger F, Toth TE and Meng XJ. 2002. Heterogeneity and Seroprevalence of the Newly Identified Avian Hepatitis E Virus from Chickens in the
United States. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 40:4197-4202.
18.
Munoz-Zanzi CA, Thurmond MC, Johnson WO, Hietala SK. 2002. Predicted age of dairy calves when colostrum-derived BVDV antibodies would no longer offer protection against disease or interfere with vaccination. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 221:678-685.
19. Nieto JE, Spier S, Pipers FS,
Stanley SD, Smith D, and Snyder JR. 2002. Comparison of paste suspension formulated omeprazole in the healing of gastric ulcers in racehorses in active training. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 221:1139-1143
20. Peroni DL, Stanley S, Kollias-Baker C, Robinson NE. 2002. Prednisone per os is likely to have limited efficacy in horses. Equine Veterinary Journal, 34:283-287.
21. Puschner B, Booth MC, Tor ER, Odermatt A. 2002. Diterpenoid alkaloid toxicosis in cattle in
Switzerland. Veterinary and Human Toxicology, 44:8-10.
22. Ridpath JF,
Hietala SK, Sorden S, Neil JD. 2002. Evaluation of the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction/probe test of serum samples and immunohistochemistry of skin sections for detection of acute bovine viral diarrhea infections. Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 14:303-307.
23. Riggs SM, Puschner B, Tell LA. 2002. Management of an ingested lead foreign body in an Amazon Parrot. Veterinary and Human Toxicology, 44:345-348.
24. Shilton CM, Smith DA, Woods LW, Crawshaw GJ, Lehmkuhl HD. 2002. Adenoviral infection in captive moose (Alces alces) in
Canada. Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 33:73-79.
25. Shivaprasad HL, Crespo, R, Puschner B, Lynch S, Wright L. 2002. Myopathy in brown pelicans (Pelicanus occidentalis) associated with rancid feed. Veterinary Record, 150: 307-311.
26. Shivaprasad HL, Kim TJ, Woolcock PR, Tripathy DN. 2002. Genetic and antigenic characterizations of a poxvirus isolate from ostriches. Avian Diseases, 46:429-436.
27. Shivaprasad HL, Woolcock PR, McFarland MD, Curtis M, Karabatsos N. 2002. Turlock-like bunyavirus associated with encephalomyelitis and myocarditis in an ostrich chick. Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 14:363-370.
28. Shivaprasad HL and Droual R. 2002. Pathology of an atypical strain of P. gallinarum in chickens. Avian Pathology, 31:399-406.
29. Stamm LV,
Bergen HL, Walker RL. 2002. Molecular typing of papillomatous digital dermatitis associated Treponema isolates based on analysis of the 16S-23S rDNA intergenic spacer regions. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 40:3463-3469. Stott JL, Blanchard MT, Anderson M, Mass J, Walker RL, Kennedy PC, Norman BB, BonDurant RH, Oliver MN, Hanks D, Hall MR. 2002. Experimental transmission of epizootic bovine abortion (foothill abortion). Veterinary Microbiology, 88:161-173.
30. Suarez DL, Woolcock PR, Bermudez AJ, Senne D. 2002. Isolation from turkey breeder hens of a reassortant H1N2 influenza with swine, human and avian lineage genes. Avian Diseases, 46:111-121.
31. Taduesz FM, and Stanley SD. 2002. Improved sythesis of 13C,2H3- and 2H3-salmeterol by Cs2CO3-mediated monoalkylation of a primary amine. Journal of Labeled Compounds and Radiopharmaceuticals, 45:755-762.
32. Tegzes J, Puschner B. 2002. Amanita mushroom poisoning - efficacy of aggressive treatment in 2 dogs. Veterinary and Human Toxicology, 44:96-99.
33. Tegzes JH,
Smarick SD, Puschner B. 2002. Coma and apnea in a dog with hydroxyzine toxicosis. Veterinary and Human Toxicology, 44:24-26.
34. Thurmond MC, Wesley OJ, Munoz-Zanzi CA, Chun-Lung S, Hietala SK. 2002. A method of probability diagnostic assignment that applies Bayes theorum for use in serologic diagnostics, using an example of Neospora caninum infection in cattle. American Journal of Veterinary Research, 63:318-325.
35. Turay HO, Caldwell A, Barr BC, Branson KR, Cockrell MKR, Marsh AE. 2002. Sarcocystis neurona reacting antibodies in
Missouri feral domestic cats (Felis domesticus) and their role as an intermediate host. Parasitology Research, 88:38-43.
36. Van Hoogmoed LM, Harmon FA,
Stanley SD, White J, Snyder J. 2002. In vitro investigation of the interaction between nitric oxide and cyclo-oxygenase activity in the equine ventral colon smooth muscle. Equine Veterinary Journal, 34:510-515.
37. Walker RL, Read DH,
Hayes DC, Nordhausen RW. 2002. Equine abortion associated with the Borrelia parkeri-B. turicatae tick-borne relapsing fever spirochete group. Journal of Clinical Microbiology, 40:1558-1562.
38. Webby RJ, Woolcock PR, Krauss SL, Webster RG. 2002. Reassortment and influenza transmission of North American H6N2 influenza viruses. Virology, 295:44-53.
39. Woolcock PR, McFarland MD, Lai S and Chin RP. 2002. Enhanced Recovery of Avian Influenza Virus Isolates using a Combination of Chicken Embryo Inoculation Methods. Avian Diseases, 45:1030-1035.
40. Zakhartchouk A, Bout A, Woods LW, Lehmkuhl HD, Havenga MJE. 2002. Odocoileus hemionus deer adenovirus is related to the members of Atadenovirus genus. Archives of Virology, 147:841-847.

 


 

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ACCESSION NO: 0181168 SUBFILE: CRIS
PROJ NO: CONS-9802281 AGENCY: CSREES CONS
PROJ TYPE: NRI COMPETITIVE GRANT PROJ STATUS: EXTENDED
CONTRACT/GRANT/AGREEMENT NO: 98-35204-6954
START: 01 DEC 1998 TERM:
31 OCT 2001 GRANT YR: 1998
GRANT AMT: $180,000

 

INVESTIGATOR: Sekellick, M. J.; Marcus, P. I.

 

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
MOLECULAR AND CELL BIOLOGY
UNIV OF
CONNECTICUT
STORRS, CONNECTICUT 06268

 

RECOMBINANT CHICKEN INTERFERONS AS ANTIVIRAL AGENTS

 

OBJECTIVES: 9802281. Our goal is to develop chicken interferons singly, or in synergistic mixtures, as novel biological response modifiers for the prevention or cure of viral diseases. Specific objectives include: (1) Determine the spectrum and degree of sensitivity of avian viruses of economic and public health importance to the action of Types I and II recombinant chicken interferons in vitro, in ovo, and in the chicken, acting singly, and in mixtures that display synergy; (2) Determine the nature of the heterogeneity in avian influenza virus sensitivity to recombinant chicken interferon; (3) Determine the antiviral effects of recombinant chicken interferon administered orally thorugh novel means and/or intranasally, as an effector of the humoral and mucosal system; and (4) develop a line of chickens with genetically enhanced sensitivity to the action of interferon.

 

APPROACH: The recently cloned and expressed genes of Types I and II chicken interferons will be produced as glycosylated recombinant molecules in stably transfected COS cells or in E. coli., purified, and tested for their in vitro, in ovo and in vivo activity against avian viruses of economic importance.

 

PROGRESS: 2000/01 TO 2000/12
Interferons (IFN) are components of the innate immune system and constitute the first and immediate line of defense against virus infection. They are produced rapidly by virus-infected cells, are released into the surrounding milieu within hours, and act within minutes following binding to specific cellular receptors on uninfected cells. Subsequent signal transduction and activation of transcription factors result in the activation of over 100 IFN-stimulated genes. The multiple intracellular modes of action that result from expression of these IFN-stimulated genes, and their efficacy against a broad spectrum of virus families, including those subject to antigenic changes that mute the effectiveness of vaccines, make IFNs novel biological modifiers worthy of tests to determine the range of their protective and curative properties. Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is a second biological response modifier of equally formidable activity. This class of molecules has emerged as singularly important in both the induction and action phases of the IFN system, and as an activator of many genes capable of producing multiple effects on cells and the immune system. Interestingly, many viruses have evolved mechanisms to prevent activation of cellular proteins designed to sense, and counteract, the presence of dsRNA. These include production of viral gene products which sequester dsRNA, and small helical RNAs. These molecules potentially prevent activation of dsRNA-dependent pathways of interferon action, or block expression of cellular genes activated exclusively by dsRNA that may contribute to the antiviral state. Not surprisingly, these means have provided viruses with highly effective mechanisms against IFN action. One of the most successful of the anti-IFN mechanisms is exemplified by the almost absolute resistance to the action of IFN displayed by avian reovirus (ARV). This resistance is attributed to the dsRNA-binding capacity of the sigma alpha core protein. Thus, dsRNA could be rate limiting in an ARV infected cell providing a means of preventing the development of an IFN- or dsRNA-mediated antiviral state. In support of this hypothesis, we have shown that dsRNA added exogenously to IFN-treated cells in the form of poly(rI):poly(rC) is effective in establishing in a dose-dependent manner an antiviral state against ARV as well as
Newcastle disease virus, another virus that is otherwise highly resistant to interferon action. In order to abrogate IFN resistance, dsRNA must be added after, but not before, an IFN-mediated latent antiviral state is established. The combined sequential treatment with IFN and dsRNA may be useful in overcoming the anti-IFN activity of viruses of clinical interest, or in other clinical conditions.

 

IMPACT: 2000/01 TO 2000/12
The combined sequential application of interferon and double-stranded RNA may be useful in overcoming the anti-interferon activity of viruses of clinical interest, and even find relevance in other clinical conditions where interferon by itself is marginally, if at all, effective.

 

PUBLICATIONS: 2000/01 TO 2000/12
1. Sekellick, M.J., Carra, S.A., Bowman, A., Hopkins, D.A. and Marcus, P.I. 2000. Transient resistance of influenza virus to interferon action attributed to random multiple packaging and activity of NS genes. Journal of Interferon and Cytokine Research 20:963-970.
2. Marcus, P.I. and Sekellick, M.J. 2000. Combined action of interferon and dsRNA enhances antiviral effects. European Cytokine Network 11:186.

 

 


 

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ACCESSION NO: 0007173 SUBFILE: CRIS
PROJ NO: CONS00122 AGENCY: SAES CONS
PROJ TYPE: STATE PROJ STATUS: EXTENDED
START:
01 AUG 1964 TERM: 30 JUN 2004 FY: 2001

 

INVESTIGATOR: Van Kruiningen, H.

 

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
PATHOBIOLOGY
UNIV OF
CONNECTICUT
STORRS, CONNECTICUT 06268

 

PULLORUM DISEASE CONTROL

 

OBJECTIVES: Pullorum-Typhoid Eradication.

 

APPROACH: This program involves the serologic testing of 500,000 to 700,000 avian blood samples per year for the presence of Salmonella pullorum and S. gallinarum. Reacting birds are called to the laboratory for bacteriological examination. IfS. pullorum or S. gallinarum is isolated, the reacting flock is retested at 21 day intervals until two successive negative flock tests are obtained. Control and regulatory action are administered by the Commissioner of Agriculture through the State Veterinarian.

 

PROGRESS: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
This is a collaborative project with the Connecticut Department of Agriculture. The purpose is to monitor and diagnose infectious diseases of poultry including Salmonella pullorum, Salmonella enteritidis, Mycoplasma gallisepticum and synoviae,
Newcastle disease and Avian Influenza. A total of 35,340 agglutination, plate agglutination and hemagglutination tests were done. These included: 15,174 microtiter tests for S. pullorum (1 positive), 8,177 agglutination tests for M. gallisepticum (71 positive), 8,366 plate agglutination tests for M. synoviae (112 positive), 3 for Newcastle disease (O positive) and 3,620 for Avian Influenza (0 positive).

 

IMPACT: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
This monitoring program for infectious disease of
Connecticut poultry identified several important disease agents, including Mycoplasma gallisepticum and synoviae.

 

PUBLICATIONS: 2002/01 TO 2002/12
No publications reported this period

 

 


 

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ACCESSION NO: 0086778 SUBFILE: CRIS
PROJ NO:
CONS00541 AGENCY: CSREES CONS
PROJ TYPE: HATCH PROJ STATUS: TERMINATED MULTISTATE PROJ NO: NE-138
START:
01 OCT 1996 TERM: 30 SEP 2002 FY: 2001

 

INVESTIGATOR: Khan, M. I.

 

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
PATHOBIOLOGY
UNIV OF
CONNECTICUT
STORRS, CONNECTICUT 06268

 

EPIDEMIOLOGY AND CONTROL OF EMERGING STRAINS OF POULTRY DISEASE RESPIRATORY AGENTS

 

OBJECTIVES: Develop and evaluate rapid diagnostic capabilities for the identification of emerging IBV, ILTV, mycoplasmas, and IBDV.

 

APPROACH: Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) specific RT-PCR. IBV strains Massachusetts (Mass 41), Connecticut (Conn 46), Arkansas (Ark 99), and Delaware variant (072) will be initially grown in chicken embryo kidney cells (CEK), plaque-purified and characterized by oligonucleotide fingerprinting. The viruses will then be grown in 10-to-11-day-old chicken embryos, genomic viral RNA isolated by standard procedures, copied into cDNA by reverse transcription and cloned into the plasmid pUC18. The screening and identification of IBV specific segments of the cDNA will be done by cross-hybridization (DNA:RNA) against a panel of IBV field, and variant strains, and other avian pathogenic viruses of Newcastle disease, avian influenza, infectious laryngotracheitis, reovirus, fowlpox and infectious bursal disease. Clones containing unique sequences will be selected as strain-specific probes. Sequence analysis of the cDNA fragments will be performed in order to identify DNA primers specific for strains of IBV. Efficacy of the cDNA probes as well as RT-PCR's will be tested for their sensitivities and specificities in experimental infections. Eight-week-old SPF chickens will be inoculated intratracheally in IBV strains, Mass, Conn, Ark, and Delaware variant.

 

PROGRESS: 1996/10 TO 2002/09
Development of recombinant DNA vaccine that expresses S1 of IBV and Immunogenicity studies A recombinant fowlpox virus (rFPV) containing a cDNA copy of S1 gene of IBV (rFPV-S1) was constructed and its immunogenicity and vaccine potential were evaluated. Initially, rFPV-S1 was shown to express the S1 protein in vitro by using indirect immunofluorescence staining and Western blot analysis. Later, in vivo expression was demonstrated by the detection of IBV-specific serum IgG and neutralization antibodies in the sera of chickens immunized with rFPV-S1. That the recombinant virus elicited anti-IBV protective immunity was indicated by the manifested, relatively mild clinical signs of disease, decreased titers of recovered challenge virus, and less severe histological changes of the tracheas in virulent IBV-challenged chickens previously receiving rFPV-S1 as compared to parental FPV vaccinated control birds. In contrast, chickens immunized with either recombinant or parental FPV were resistant to a subsequent, virulent FPV challenge. As to a preferred method of immunization, wing web inoculation appeared to be superior to the subcutaneous route since a greater percentage of birds vaccinated by the former protocol exhibited an anti-IBV humoral immune response. Thus, rFPV-S1 has potential as a poultry vaccine against both fowlpox and infectious bronchitis.

 

IMPACT: 1996/10 TO 2002/09
Impact: 1. Recombinant Fowlpox virus containing S1 gene has potential for a poultry vaccine against both fowlpox and infectious bronchitis. 2. DNA vaccine containing whole S gene instead of S1 of IBV in pCMV plasmid vector could provide better protection against IBV infection.

 

PUBLICATIONS: 1996/10 TO 2002/09
1. Wang, X., W. M. Schnitzlein, D.
N. Tripathy and M. I. Khan. 2002. Construction and immunogenicity studies of recombinant fowlpox containing the S1 gene of Infectious bronchitis virus. Avian Dis.46: 831-834.
2. Khan, M. I. 2002. Avian Pathogenic Mycoplasmas. PCR detection of Microbial Pathogens. Methods in Molecular Biology. eds. J. Frey and K. Sachse. Humana Press Inc.
Totowa, NJ. November, 2002.

 

 


 

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ACCESSION NO: 0406071 SUBFILE: CRIS
PROJ NO: AP-511 AGENCY: ERS MTED
PROJ TYPE: USDA COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT PROJ STATUS
: NEW
START:
15 OCT 2001 TERM: 31 DEC 2003

 

INVESTIGATOR: Hahn, W.; Salin, D.; Harvey, D.

 

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
Economic Research Service
USDA/ERS
1800 M STREET NW
WASHINGTON, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA 20036

 

AP SPECIAL TOPICS: THE ECONOMIC EFFECT OF CHANGES IN SANITARY REGULATIONS ON BROILER TRADE IN THE AMERICAS

 

OBJECTIVES: Sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures are impediments to trade and affect both the flow and the magnitude of trade. Newcastle Disease (ND) and highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), included in List A of the International Organization for Epizootics (OIE) classification of transmissible animal diseases, are two highly infections diseases that restrict poultry trade. The END-free status gives the United States an advantage in poultry trade. However, changes in END status of potential large poultry suppliers could have a major impact in U.S poultry exports, especially in the high-value white meat. For Instance, since 1999 Mexico (the sixth world largest broiler importer) has intensify efforts to gain more END free states and eligibility to export fresh, chilled, and frozen poultry to the United States. Effective August 1, 2002 Canada recognized Brazils poultry inspection system. Eight Brazilian states were recognized free of END by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). Brazil is the second largest world exporter. The three objectives are (1) Analyze the impact on broiler markets and trade due to changes in sanitary regulations affecting trade in the Americas; (2) Measure how broiler prices, production, and trade will change (over the intermediate/long run) as a result of allowing Mexicos and Brazils END-free regions to ship poultry to the United States and Canada; and (3) Measure the sensitivity of these results to alternative estimates of supply and demand elasticities.

 

APPROACH: Objective 1: Analyze price differentials of poultry products between the countries in the Americas to determine the potential trade flows between countries. We will be collecting primary data on the structure of the Mexican broiler marketing system. Secondary price and quantity data will be collected for all four countries. Objectives 2 and 3: Production, export, price, and population estimates will be obtained from the other three countries and added to import data from the ERS. These will be combined to describe the broiler supply and demand conditions in the Americas. The U.S.-Mexico broiler trade model will be expanded to include Canada and Brazil. This model takes a static baseline and replicates it if there are no policy changes. The policy changes