Míra Mándoki

Naturally occurring parvoviral infection in Hungarian broiler flocks

The major enteric disease (ED) complex in broiler chickens is runting–stunting syndrome and in turkey broilers is poult enteritis mortality syndrome. Viruses from numerous families have been identified in the intestinal tracts of poultry with ED, such as Astroviridae, Coronaviridae, Reoviridae, Rotaviridae, and Parvoviridae. The objective of the present study was to directly demonstrate the presence of the scarcely known chicken parvovirus (ChPV) and turkey parvovirus (TuPV) in Hungarian flocks experiencing clinical signs of ED. ChPV and TuPV infection were demonstrated in 15 chicken flocks and two turkey flocks, in intestinal samples collected between 2008 and 2010. The histopathological investigation revealed enteritis in the duodenum and jejunum, and atrophy of the lymphoid organs. Indirect immunohistochemistry (IHC) suggested the intestinal epithelium of chickens and turkeys as a potential replication site of the virus, similarly to other parvoviruses, while in case of the turkey samples IHC positivity was also observed in the bursa of Fabricius, liver and pancreas. However, no direct connection could be established between the presence of the pathogen in the above-mentioned tissues and the histopathological changes observed in the investigated flocks. The phylogenetic analysis performed on the partial nucleic acid sequence of the NS1 gene revealed an evident clustering tendency of the ChPV and TuPV strains, but also highlighted the potential reciprocal role of these two species in the epidemiology of these viruses. The role of the ChPV and TuPV in the ED is far from understood, but the results of the present study emphasize the fact that in certain, still not fully elucidated conditions, ChPV and TuPV may participate in the emergence of ED in chicken flocks, as suggested by previous experimental infections.

POXVIRUS INFECTION IN HUNGARIAN GREAT TITS (PARUS MAJOR): CASE REPORT

From a total of 1819 great tits (Parus major) ringed in 2007 in Pilis Mountains, Hungary, 15 birds presented nodular proliferative lesions on different areas of the head and eyelids, suggesting a poxvirus infection. Three birds were submitted for analysis. The presence of avipoxvirus infection was confirmed by histopathology, electron microscopy (EM) and a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based technique. Nucleotide sequence analysis of a 428 base pairs (bp) fragment of the viral 4b core protein gene revealed 100% identity between two of the Hungarian isolates (PM9 HUN, PM33 HUN) and two great tit poxvirus strains isolated in Norway in 1973 (GTV A256, GTV A311). The third Hungarian isolate (PM34 HUN) was more closely related to a different Norwegian isolate (GTVA310) than to the Hungarian isolates. The nucleotide sequence analysis of a shorter fragment of the viral 4b core protein (227 bp) gene revealed 100% identity between the Hungarian isolates, the same Norwegian isolates and a great tit poxvirus strain detected in Austria in 2007.

Novel mastadenovirus infection and clinical disease in a pygmy marmoset (Callithrix [Cebuella] pygmaea).

We describe the detection and successful isolation of a novel mastadenovirus from a pygmy marmoset (Callithrix [Cebuella] pygmaea) that died following an episode of severe respiratory signs. Pathologic/histopathologic examination revealed hydrothorax and catarrhal bronchopneumonia with pronounced desquamation of the bronchiolar epithelial cells, while in other airways a marked hyperplasia of the epithelial lining and numerous giant cells could be observed. We obtained partial sequence data from the adenoviral DNA-dependent DNA-polymerase gene of the isolated strain and analyses of this region showed the highest level of identity to the recently described bat adenoviruses (strains PPV1 and TJM) and the type 2 canine adenovirus. Similar results were gained by phylogenetic calculations indicating that this novel marmoset adenovirus is only distantly related to reference Old and New World primate adenoviruses and formed a monophyletic group with bat and canine adenoviruses and the equine adenovirus 1. Even though the source of the infection remained unknown, our results could imply the possibility of a cross-species transmission of the virus from an anonymous host to the pygmy marmoset.

Effect of chronic T-2 toxin exposure in rabbit bucks, determination of the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL)

T-2 toxin (T-2) was administered to adult Pannon White (n = 10/group) male rabbits for 65 days, first in a suspension by gavage (0.05, 0.1 or 0.2 mg/animal/day), and secondly mixed into the feed (0.33 and 0.66 mg/kg feed). In the first experiment 0.1 mg T-2 exposure resulted in temporary decrease in feed intake, slower increase in the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) induced testosterone synthesis, slight centrolobular infiltration in the liver and a slight hyperplasia of the Leydig cells. In addition to the temporary feed refusal effect, 0.2 mg T-2 caused a temporary decrease in plasma albumin and urea concentrations, lesser glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity in the seminal plasma, a greater (by 320%) ratio of spermatozoa with cytoplasmic droplets, slower increase in the GnRH-induced testosterone synthesis, centrolobular infiltration in the liver, slightly hyperaemic testes and increased proliferative activity of the Leydig cells. The two smaller doses applied in feed (0.33 and 0.66 mg/kg) did not cause any significant adverse effect, and no feed refusal was observed. According to these results the No Observed Adverse Effect Level (NOAEL) of T-2 for adult rabbit males was found to be <0.1 mg/animal/day (<0.02 mg/kg b.w./day).

Developing an Online Professional Network for Veterinary Education: The NOVICE Project

An online professional network for veterinarians, veterinary students, veterinary educationalists, and ICT (Information and Communication Technology) educationalists is being developed under the EU (European Union) Lifelong Learning Programme. The network uses Web 2.0, a term used to describe the new, more interactive version of the Internet, and includes tools such as wikis, blogs, and discussion boards. Focus groups conducted with qualified and student veterinarians within the projects five founding countries (The Netherlands, Germany, United Kingdom, Hungary, Romania) demonstrated that online professional communities can be valuable for accessing information and establishing contacts. Online networks have the potential to overcome common challenges to face-to-face communities-such as distance, cost, and timing-but they have their own drawbacks, such as security and professionalism issues. The Network Of Veterinary ICt in Education (NOVICE) was developed using Elgg, an open-source, free social networking platform, after several software options had been considered. NOVICE aims to promote the understanding of Web 2.0, confidence to use social software tools, and participation in an online community. Therefore, the Web site contains help sections, Frequently Asked Questions, and access to support from ICT experts. Five months after the networks launch (and just over one year into the project) 515 members from 28 countries had registered. Further research will include analysis of a core groups activities, which will inform ongoing support for and development of informal, lifelong learning in a veterinary context.

HAEMANGIOMA IN THE OESOPHAGUS OF A RED-EARED SLIDER (TRACHEMYS SCRIPTA ELEGANS)

A haemangioma developing in the wall of the oesophagus and protruding into its cavity is reported for the first time from a Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans). As the tumour mechanically hampered swallowing, the animal was unable to eat and consequently developed a poor condition. Histopathology of the tumour revealed all characteristics of a haemangioma: the blood-filled blood-vessels having an irregular cross-section were lined with endothelial cells. Claudin-5 immunohistochemical antibodies were employed for characterising the tumour, and this examination confirmed our initial diagnosis of a haemangioma.

In situ complex adenocarcinoma on the femoral part of the hindlimb in an Asian Leaf Turtle (Cyclemys dentata)

A heterotopic in situ complex adenocarcinoma developing on the hindlimb is reported for the first time from an Asian Leaf Turtle (Cyclemys dentata). The tumour mechanically hampered the movement of the animal. The turtle refused to eat and consequently developed a poor condition. Histopathology of the tumour revealed all characteristics of a well-differentiated adenocarcinoma originating from apocrine gland-like tissue: the irregular, tubular structures varying in size were generally lined by two to four layers of cuboidal to columnar neoplastic epithelial cells. Claudin-5, pancytokeratin, cytokeratin, vimentin, α-SMA and Ki-67 immunohistochemical antibodies were employed for characterising the tumour. The diagnosis was a complex adenocarcinoma originating from apocrine gland-like tissue in a turtle.

Evaluation of mercury and lead content in the liver of the cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis) population of Kis-Balaton, Hungary

Mercury and lead concentrations were measured in the livers of cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis), an aquatic bird species living and nesting in the special, highly protected nature conservation area of Kis-Balaton, Hungary. The measurements of metal concentrations were performed by atomic absorption spectrometry using the cold vapour method for mercury and the electrothermal method for lead. Mercury concentrations in the livers were significantly higher in the adult population (4.479 ± 3.336 mg/kg dry matter, DM) than in the juvenile birds (2.682 ± 2.087 mg/kg DM), indicating an increase of bioaccumulation with age. A similar pattern was not observed for lead. There were no statistical differences between males and females either in mercury or in lead concentrations. The average levels of mercury (3.580 ± 2.906 mg/kg DM) and lead (0.746 ± 0.499 mg/kg DM) were statistically different in the liver. No correlation was found between the concentrations of the two heavy metals. Recently, the wild birds have been chronically exposed to subtoxic amounts of metals which have a tendency to accumulate especially in the soft tissues.

Expression of claudin-5 in hepatoid gland biopsies

Claudins are integral membrane proteins involved in the structure of the tight junctions found in epithelial and endothelial cells. This study evaluated the expression of claudin-5 in 67 hyperplastic and neoplastic lesions of canine hepatoid glands. These included normal hepatoid glands (n = 10), nodular hyperplasia (n = 10), adenomas (n = 12), epitheliomas (n = 15), differentiated carcinomas (n = 15) and anaplastic carcinomas (n = 15). There was intense lateral membrane expression of claudin-5 on epithelial cells from normal hepatoid glands, nodular hyperplasia and adenomas, but expression was weaker in hepatoid gland epitheliomas. Basal reserve cells from normal glands, nodular hyperplasia, adenomas and epitheliomas never expressed claudin-5. There was membrane-bound immunoreactivity for claudin-5 in selected areas of the epitheliomas where the cells exhibited typical hepatoid features. The weak expression of claudin-5 molecule in epitheliomas may nevertheless lead to cellular disorientation, detachment and invasion. Claudin-5 expression seemed to be helpful in distinguishing poorly differentiated carcinomas, differentiated carcinomas and epitheliomas of the hepatoid glands. Increased claudin-5 expression by invasive anaplastic carcinomas may facilitate invasion and metastasis through the activation of matrix metalloproteinases.

Nutzung und akzeptanz von virtuellen patienten in den tiermedizinischen grundlagenfächern – Das vetVIP-projekt

Context: In medical and veterinary medical education the use of problem-based and cased-based learning has steadily increased over time. At veterinary faculties, this development has mainly been evident in the clinical phase of the veterinary education. Therefore, a consortium of teachers of biochemistry and physiology together with technical and didactical experts launched the EU-funded project “vetVIP”, to create and implement veterinary virtual patients and problems for basic science instruction. In this study the implementation and utilization of virtual patients occurred at the veterinary faculties in Budapest, Hannover and Lublin. Methods: This report describes the investigation of the utilization and acceptance of students studying veterinary basic sciences using optional online learning material concurrently to regular biochemistry and physiology didactic instruction. The reaction of students towards this offer of clinical case-based learning in basic sciences was analysed using quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were collected automatically within the chosen software-system CASUS as user-log-files. Responses regarding the quality of the virtual patients were obtained using an online questionnaire. Furthermore, subjective evaluation by authors was performed using a focus group discussion and an online questionnaire. Results: Implementation as well as usage and acceptance varied between the three participating locations. High approval was documented in Hannover and Lublin based upon the high proportion of voluntary students (>70%) using optional virtual patients. However, in Budapest the participation rate was below 1%. Due to utilization, students seem to prefer virtual patients and problems created in their native language and developed at their own university. In addition, the statement that assessment drives learning was supported by the observation that peak utilization was just prior to summative examinations. Conclusion: Veterinary virtual patients in basic sciences can be introduced and used for the presentation of integrative clinical case scenarios. Student post-course comments also supported the conclusion that overall the virtual cases increased their motivation for learning veterinary basic sciences.