Veterinary microbiology
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Veterinary microbiology · May 2020
ReviewNovel human coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2): A lesson from animal coronaviruses.
The recent pandemic caused by the novel human coronavirus, referrred to as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), not only is having a great impact on the health care systems and economies in all continents but it is also causing radical changes of common habits and life styles. The novel coronavirus (CoV) recognises, with high probability, a zoonotic origin but the role of animals in the SARS-CoV-2 epidemiology is still largely unknown. ⋯ In the present paper, we provide an up-to-date review of the literature currently available on animal CoVs, focusing on the molecular mechanisms that are responsible for the emergence of novel CoV strains with different antigenic, biologic and/or pathogenetic features. A full comprehension of the mechanisms driving the evolution of animal CoVs will help better understand the emergence, spreading, and evolution of SARS-CoV-2.
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Zoonotic agents challenging the world every year afresh are influenza A viruses. In the past, human pandemics caused by influenza A viruses had been occurring periodically. Wild aquatic birds are carriers of the full variety of influenza virus A subtypes, and thus, most probably constitute the natural reservoir of all influenza A viruses. ⋯ Therefore, fighting H5N1 at its source is the prerequisite to reduce pandemic risks posed by this virus. Other influenza viruses regarded as pandemic candidates derive from subtypes H2, H7, and H9 all of which have infected humans in the past. Here, we will give a comprehensive overview on avian influenza viruses in concern to their zoonotic potential.
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Veterinary microbiology · Aug 2007
ReviewAnalytical applications of Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy in microbiology and prion research.
A genuine biophysical method, Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy has become a versatile research tool in biochemistry and biomedicine. Topical applications in microbiology and prion research are impressive illustrations of the vigorous evolution of the technique. ⋯ In this field, FT-IR spectroscopy has been increasingly applied as a tool for elucidating structural features of the pathological prion protein, and also to study the molecular changes induced by prions in neuronal tissue and blood. This article sets out to give a review of current examples of the analytical potential of FT-IR spectroscopy in microbiology and prion research.
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Crohn's disease is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory condition affecting any part of the human gastrointestinal tract. It is characterised by transmural inflammation with deep ulceration, thickening of the bowel wall and fistula formation. The hallmark is the non-caseating granuloma. ⋯ The use of antimycobacterial therapy directed against M.a. paratuberculosis shows promising results but needs further evaluation. Up to 80% of patients with Crohn's disease will require surgery at some stage in the course of their illness. The challenge remains to try and prevent resection of inflamed intestine and to improve the quality of life of those affected by this disorder.
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Veterinary microbiology · Jan 1999
ReviewEpidemiological features and economical importance of bovine virus diarrhoea virus (BVDV) infections.
Infections with bovine virus diarrhoea virus (BVDV) are widespread throughout the world. Although the prevalence of infection varies among surveys, the infection tends to be endemic in many populations, reaching a maximum level of 1-2% of the cattle being persistently infected (PI) and 60-85% of the cattle being antibody positive. Persistently infected cattle are the main source for transmission of the virus. ⋯ At the same incidence of infection, the losses due to a high-virulent BVDV strain were estimated as US$ 57 million per million calvings. Low-virulent BVDV infections caused maximum losses at an incidence of 45%, whereas high-virulent BVDV infections caused maximum losses at an incidence of 65%. Thus, cost-benefit analyses of control programs are highly dependent on the risks of new infections under different circumstances and on the strains of the virus involved.