Milk as a diagnostic fluid to monitor viral diseases in dairy cattle

BACKGROUND

Infectious viral diseases in dairy cattle have substantial implications for milk production, quality and overall animal health. Diagnostic tools providing reliable results are crucial for effective disease control at the farm and industry level. Pooled or bulk tank milk (BTM) can be used as a cost-effective aggregate sample to assess herd disease status in dairy farms.

FINDINGS

Detection of pathogens or specific antibodies in milk can be used for monitoring endemic diseases within-farm, region or country-level disease surveillance and to make informed decisions on farm management. The suitability of assays applied to pooled milk samples relies on validation data of fit-for-purpose tests to design an optimal testing strategy. Diverse approaches and variable scope of studies determining test accuracy need to be critically appraised before sourcing the parameters to design sampling strategies and interpreting surveys. Determining if BTM or pooled milk is the best approach for a disease management programme should carefully consider several aspects that will impact the accuracy and interpretation, for example, the size of the lactating herd, the risk of infection in the lactating and non-lactating groups, the expected within-herd prevalence, the duration of infection, the duration and concentration of antibodies in milk and use of vaccination.

CONCLUSIONS

There are examples of tests on BTM samples providing efficient assessments of the herd disease status and supporting disease control programmes for viral diseases. However, challenges arise in pooled milk testing due to the need for accurate estimates of the imperfect sensitivity and specificity of the assays. Integration of new biotechnologies could enhance multiplexing and data interpretation for comprehensive surveillance. The development of highly sensitive assays is necessary to meet the demands of larger dairy herds and improve disease detection and assessment.

Ostreid herpesvirus-1 microvariant surveillance in Pacific oysters (Magallana gigas, Thunberg, 1793) in Australia in 2011

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate that OsHV-1 microvariant was limited to the known infected areas in New South Wales at the time of the survey in 2011.

DESIGN

A 2-stage survey to demonstrate probability of infection at 2% design prevalence within oyster growing regions and to detect at least one infected region (4% design prevalence) with 95% confidence.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Magallana gigas in nominated oyster growing regions in New South Wales, South Australia and Tasmania as approved by the Aquatic Consultative Committee on Emergency Animal Diseases and documented in a national surveillance plan.

PROCEDURE

Field sampling for active surveillance and laboratory selection of appropriate tissues using methods to minimize potential for cross contamination. Published methods for qPCR and conventional PCR for OsHV-1 microvariant. Stochastic analysis of survey results to demonstrate probability of detection in the areas tested.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

OsHV-1 microvariant was not detected in a total 4121 samples according to the case definition developed for the survey. However, in NSW a screening qPCR for OsHV-1 detected 13 samples that reacted. These samples were negative at 2 laboratories in the qPCR and conventional PCR assays used in the case definition for the survey. We concluded that oyster production areas of Australia outside the infected area in NSW met the criteria for self-declaration of freedom at the time of the survey in 2011.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This activity illustrated achievements in surveillance for an emerging emergency animal pathogen where epidemiological and test validation data were limited, but where data was required to inform the emergency disease response. It also illustrated the challenges faced by investigators in interpreting surveillance results using tests with limited validation. It was guided by and has informed improvements in surveillance and emergency disease preparedness.

Community engagement strengthens pig disease knowledge and passive surveillance in Timor-Leste

Smallholder pig production in Timor-Leste is culturally and economically important for most households. However, regular and ongoing disease surveillance and pig husbandry training for farmers are limited. This article describes collaborative social and diagnostic research followed by a pilot community engagement program to improve farmer and technician knowledge, skills, and working relationships. There were three phases: (1) A qualitative study in 2020 to explore the experiences and knowledge of 133 pig farmers, 6 village leaders, and 16 district veterinary technicians on pig diseases and reporting, treatment methods, and access to information or assistance. (2) A pilot community engagement program in 3 villages in 2021 with the diagnostic investigation with samples analyzed from 27 dead pigs, and (3) Evaluation of community engagement and training outcomes. Results of the qualitative study revealed limited reporting of sick or dead pigs by farmers to veterinary technicians due to a lack of trust in the veterinary diagnostic system. Most technicians lacked experience with sampling or post-mortems so diagnostic training was undertaken for the pilot disease investigation. Evaluation results showed improved knowledge, motivation, and confidence of government staff and farmers. The credibility of veterinary technicians improved and gave them more confidence to work with communities. Farmers felt supported because all aspects of pig husbandry were addressed, and they were more willing to report dead or sick pigs. The project indicates that improved passive disease surveillance can be achieved by engaging communities in smallholder pig farming in Timor-Leste. Further research and testing of the approach in other districts and countries is recommended.

Diversity and molecular epidemiology of Ostreid herpesvirus 1 in farmed Crassostrea gigas in Australia: Geographic clusters and implications for "microvariants" in global mortality events

Since 2010, mass mortality events known as Pacific oyster mortality syndrome (POMS) have occurred in Crassostrea gigas in Australia associated with Ostreid herpesvirus 1. The virus was thought to be an OsHV-1 µVar or "microvariant", i.e. one of the dominant variants associated with POMS in Europe, but there are few data to characterize the genotype in Australia. Consequently, the genetic identity and diversity of the virus was determined to understand the epidemiology of the disease in Australia. Samples were analysed from diseased C. gigas over five summer seasons between 2011 and 2016 in POMS-affected estuaries: Georges River in New South Wales (NSW), Hawkesbury River (NSW) and Pitt Water in Tasmania. Sequencing was attempted for six genomic regions. Numerous variants were identified among these regions (n = 100 isolates) while twelve variants were identified from concatenated nucleotide sequences (n = 61 isolates). Nucleotide diversity of the seven genotypes of C region among Australian isolates (Pi 0.99 × 10-3) was the lowest globally. All Australian isolates grouped in a cluster distinct from other OsHV-1 isolates worldwide. This is the first report that Australian outbreaks of POMS were associated with OsHV-1 distinct from OsHV-1 reference genotype, µVar and other microvariants from other countries. The findings illustrate that microvariants are not the only variants of OsHV-1 associated with mass mortality events in C. gigas. In addition, there was mutually exclusive spatial clustering of viral genomic and amino acid sequence variants between estuaries, and a possible association between genotype/amino acid sequence and the prevalence and severity of POMS, as this differed between these estuaries. The sequencing findings supported prior epidemiological evidence for environmental reservoirs of OsHV-1 for POMS outbreaks in Australia.

Development of a TaqMan quantitative reverse transcription PCR assay to detect tilapia lake virus

Tilapia lake virus disease (TiLVD) is an emerging viral disease associated with high morbidity and mortality in cultured tilapia worldwide. In this study, we have developed and validated a TaqMan quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) assay for TiLV, targeting a conserved region within segment 10 of the genome. The RT-qPCR assay was efficient (mean ± SD: 96.71 ± 3.20%), sensitive with a limit of detection of 10 RNA viral copies per reaction, and detected TiLV strains from different geographic regions including North America, South America, Africa, and Asia. The intra- and inter-assay variability ranged over 0.18-1.41% and 0.21-2.21%, respectively. The TaqMan RT-qPCR assay did not cross-react with other RNA viruses of fish, including an orthomyxovirus, a betanodavirus, a picornavirus, and a rhabdovirus. Analysis of 91 proven-positive and 185 proven-negative samples yielded a diagnostic sensitivity of 96.7% and a diagnostic specificity of 100%. The TaqMan RT-qPCR assay also detected TiLV RNA in infected Nile tilapia liver tissue extracts following an experimental challenge study, and it successfully detected TiLV RNA in SSN-1 (E-11 clone) cell cultures displaying cytopathic effects following their inoculation with TiLV-infected tissue homogenates. Thus, the validated TaqMan RT-qPCR assay should be useful for both research and diagnostic purposes. Additionally, the TiLV qPCR assay returns the clinically relevant viral load of a sample which can assist health professionals in determining the role of TiLV during disease investigations. This RT-qPCR assay could be integrated into surveillance programs aimed at mitigating the effects of TiLVD on global tilapia production.

Factors associated with bovine respiratory disease case fatality in feedlot cattle

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the primary cause of morbidity and mortality in cattle feedlots. There is a need to understand what animal health and production factors are associated with increased mortality risk due to BRD. The aim of the present study was to explore factors associated with BRD case fatality in feedlot cattle. Four pens totaling 898 steers were monitored daily for visual signs of BRD such as difficult breathing and coughing, and animals exhibiting signs of BRD were taken to the hospital shed for further examination and clinical measures. Blood samples were obtained at feedlot entry and at time of first BRD pull from animals diagnosed with BRD (n = 121) and those that died due to BRD confirmed by postmortem examination (n = 16; 13.2% case fatality rate). Mixed-effects linear regression models were used to estimate differences in animal health and production factors and the relative concentrations of 34 identified blood metabolites between animals that survived versus those that died. Generalized linear mixed-effects models were used to obtain the odds of being seronegative (at both feedlot entry and first BRD pull) to 5 BRD viruses and having a positive nasal swab result at the time of first pull in died and survived animals. Animals that died from BRD had lower average daily gain (ADG), reduced weight at first BRD pull, higher visual BRD scores and received more treatments for BRD compared with animals that survived BRD (P < 0.05). The odds of being seronegative for bovine viral diarrhea virus 1 (BVDV-1) were 5.66 times higher for animals that died compared with those that survived (P = 0.013). The odds of having a positive bovine coronavirus nasal swab result were 13.73 times higher in animals that died versus those that survived (P = 0.007). Animals that died from BRD had higher blood concentrations of α glucose chain, β-hydroxybutyrate, leucine, phenylalanine, and pyruvate compared with those that survived (P < 0.05). Animals that died from BRD had lower concentrations of acetate, citrate, and glycine compared with animals that survived (P < 0.05). The results of the current study suggest that ADG to first BRD pull, weight at first BRD pull, visual BRD score, the number of BRD treatments, seronegativity to BVDV-1, virus positive to BCoV nasal swab, and that certain blood metabolites are associated with BRD case fatality risk. The ability of these measures to predict the risk of death due to BRD needs further research.

Optimizing surveillance for early disease detection: Expert guidance for Ostreid herpesvirus surveillance design and system sensitivity calculation

To keep pace with rising opportunities for disease emergence and spread, surveillance in aquaculture must enable the early detection of both known and new pathogens. Conventional surveillance systems (designed to provide proof of disease freedom) may not support detection outside of periodic sampling windows, leaving substantial blind spots to pathogens that emerge in other times and places. To address this problem, we organized an expert panel to envision optimal systems for early disease detection, focusing on Ostreid herpesvirus 1 (OsHV-1), a pathogen of panzootic consequence to oyster industries. The panel followed an integrative group process to identify and weight surveillance system traits perceived as critical to the early detection of OsHV-1. Results offer a road map with fourteen factors to consider when building surveillance systems geared to early detection; factor weights can be used by planners and analysts to compare the relative value of different designs or enhancements. The results were also used to build a simple, but replicable, model estimating the system sensitivity (SSe) of observational surveillance and, in turn, the confidence in disease freedom that negative reporting can provide. Findings suggest that optimally designed observational systems can contribute substantially to both early detection and disease freedom confidence. In contrast, active surveillance as a singular system is likely insufficient for early detection. The strongest systems combined active with observational surveillance and engaged joint industry and government involvement: results suggest that effective partnerships can generate highly sensitive systems, whereas ineffective partnerships may seriously erode early detection capability. Given the costs of routine testing, and the value (via averted losses) of early detection, we conclude that observational surveillance is an important and potentially very effective tool for health management and disease prevention on oyster farms, but one that demands careful planning and participation. This evaluation centered on OsHV-1 detection in farmed oyster populations. However, many of the features likely generalize to other pathogens and settings, with the important caveat that the pathogens need to manifest via morbidity or mortality events in the species, life stages and environments under observation.

Predicting bovine respiratory disease outcome in feedlot cattle using latent class analysis

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is the most significant disease affecting feedlot cattle. Indicators of BRD often used in feedlots such as visual signs, rectal temperature, computer-assisted lung auscultation (CALA) score, the number of BRD treatments, presence of viral pathogens, viral seroconversion, and lung damage at slaughter vary in their ability to predict an animal’s BRD outcome, and no studies have been published determining how a combination of these BRD indicators may define the number of BRD disease outcome groups. The objectives of the current study were (1) to identify BRD outcome groups using BRD indicators collected during the feeding phase and at slaughter through latent class analysis (LCA) and (2) to determine the importance of these BRD indicators to predict disease outcome. Animals with BRD (n = 127) were identified by visual signs and removed from production pens for further examination. Control animals displaying no visual signs of BRD (n = 143) were also removed and examined. Blood, nasal swab samples, and clinical measurements were collected. Lung and pleural lesions indicative of BRD were scored at slaughter. LCA was applied to identify possible outcome groups. Three latent classes were identified in the best model fit, categorized as non-BRD, mild BRD, and severe BRD. Animals in the mild BRD group had a higher probability of having visual signs of BRD compared with non-BRD and severe BRD animals. Animals in the severe BRD group were more likely to require more than 1 treatment for BRD and have ≥40 °C rectal temperature, ≥10% total lung consolidation, and severe pleural lesions at slaughter. Animals in the severe BRD group were also more likely to be naïve at feedlot entry and the first BRD pull for Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus, Bovine Parainfluenza 3 Virus, and Bovine Adenovirus and have a positive nasal swab result for Bovine Herpesvirus Type 1 and Bovine Coronavirus. Animals with severe BRD had 0.9 and 0.6 kg/d lower overall ADG (average daily gain) compared with non-BRD animals and mild BRD animals (P < 0.001). These results demonstrate that there are important indicators of BRD severity. Using this information to predict an animal’s BRD outcome would greatly enhance treatment efficacy and aid in better management of animals at risk of suffering from severe BRD.

To pool or not to pool? Guidelines for pooling samples for use in surveillance testing of infectious diseases in aquatic animals

Samples from multiple animals may be pooled and tested to reduce costs of surveillance for infectious agents in aquatic animal populations. The primary advantage of pooling is increased population-level coverage when prevalence is low (<10%) and the number of tests is fixed, because of increased likelihood of including target analyte from at least one infected animal in a tested pool. Important questions and a priori design considerations need to be addressed. Unfortunately, pooling recommendations in disease-specific chapters of the 2018 OIE Aquatic Manual are incomplete and, except for amphibian chytrid fungus, are not supported by peer-reviewed research. A systematic review identified only 12 peer-reviewed aquatic diagnostic accuracy and surveillance studies using pooled samples. No clear patterns for pooling methods and characteristics were evident across reviewed studies, although most authors agreed there is a negative effect on detection. Therefore, our purpose was to review pooling procedures used in published aquatic infectious disease research, present evidence-based guidelines, and provide simulated data examples for white spot syndrome virus in shrimp. A decision tree of pooling guidelines was developed for use by peer-reviewed journals and research institutions for the design, statistical analysis and reporting of comparative accuracy studies of individual and pooled tests for surveillance purposes.

Influence of environment on the pathogenesis of Ostreid herpesvirus-1 (OsHV-1) infections in Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) through differential microbiome responses

The oyster microbiome is thought to contribute to the pathogenesis of mass mortality disease in Pacific oysters, associated with OsHV-1. As filter-feeders, oysters host a microbiota that can be influenced by the estuarine environment. This may alter susceptibility to OsHV-1 infections, causing variable mortality. This study aimed at: (1) differences in the microbiome of Pacific oysters with a common origin but grown in geographically distinct estuaries; (2) evaluating changes occurring in the microbiota, especially in Vibrio, and (3) differential responses of the oyster microbiome, in response to an OsHV-1 infection. Pacific oysters sourced from a single hatchery but raised separately in Patonga Creek, Shoalhaven River and Clyde River of NSW, Australia, were used and challenged with OsHV-1. The initial microbiome composition was different in the three batches and changed further, post-injection (p < 0.05). The Patonga oysters with the highest mortality also had higher OsHV-1 and Vibrio quantities compared to the other two batches (p < 0.05). The higher initial bacterial diversity in Patonga oysters decreased in moribund oysters which was not observed in the other two batches (p < 0.05). The microbiome of survivors of OsHV-1 infection and negative control oysters of two batches, did not show any changes with the relevant pre-challenged microbiome. A strong correlation was observed between the OsHV-1 and Vibrio quantities in OsHV-1 infected oysters (r = 0.6; p < 0.001). In conclusion, the Pacific oyster microbiome differed in different batches despite a common hatchery origin. Different microbiomes responded differently with a differential outcome of OsHV-1 challenge. The higher Vibrio load in oysters with higher OsHV-1 content and higher mortality, suggests a role in Vibrio in the pathogenesis of this mortality disease. This study provided insights of the potential of different estuarine environments to shape the Pacific oyster microbiome and how different microbiomes are associated with different outcomes of OsHV-1 infection.

The role of tissue type, sampling and nucleic acid purification methodology on the inferred composition of Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) microbiome

AIMS

This study evaluated methods to sample and extract nucleic acids from Pacific oysters to accurately determine the microbiome associated with different tissues.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Samples were collected from haemolymph, gill, gut and adductor muscle, using swabs and homogenates of solid tissues. Nucleic acids were extracted from fresh and frozen samples using three different commercial kits. The bacterial DNA yield varied between methods (P < 0·05) and each tissue harboured a unique microbiota, except for gill and muscle. Higher bacterial DNA yields were obtained by swabbing compared to tissue homogenates and from fresh tissues compared to frozen tissues, without impacting the bacterial community composition estimated by 16S rRNA gene (V1-V3 region) sequencing. Despite the higher bacterial DNA yields with QIAamp® DNA Microbiome Kit, the E.Z.N.A.^® Mollusc DNA Kit identified twice as many operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and eliminated PCR inhibition from gut tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

Sampling and nucleic acid purification substantially affected the quantity and diversity of bacteria identified in Pacific oyster microbiome studies and a fit-for-purpose strategy is recommended.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Accurate identification of Pacific oyster microbial diversity is instrumental for understanding the polymicrobial aetiology of Pacific oyster mortality diseases which greatly impact oyster production.

Host, agent and environment interactions affecting Nervous necrosis virus infection in Australian bass Macquaria novemaculeata

Australian bass Macquaria novemaculeata were challenged by immersion with nervous necrosis virus (NNV) at different ages and under controlled conditions to investigate factors affecting disease expression. Fish challenged at 3 weeks of age with 10³ TCID₅₀ /ml and higher doses developed clinical disease; a lower dose of 10² TCID₅₀ /ml resulted in incidence below 100% and 10¹ TCID₅₀ /ml was insufficient to cause infection. Additionally, fish were challenged at 5, 6 and 13 weeks of age at 17 and 21°C to assess the role of the age of the host and water temperature on disease expression. Although Australian bass challenged at all ages had evidence of replication of NNV, only those challenged at 3 weeks of age (20 and 24 days post-hatch [dph]) developed clinical disease. Higher water temperature had an additive effect on disease expression in larvae challenged at 24 dph, but it did not affect the disease outcome in older fish. Finally, isolates of NNV derived from fish with clinical or subclinical disease presentations caused similar cumulative mortality and clinical signs when larvae at 24 dph were challenged, suggesting that agent variation was not responsible for variation in clinical presentation in these field outbreaks of NNV infection.

Counting the dead to determine the source and transmission of the marine herpesvirus OsHV-1 in Crassostrea gigas

Marine herpesviruses are responsible for epizootics in economically, ecologically and culturally significant taxa. The recent emergence of microvariants of Ostreid herpesvirus 1 (OsHV-1) in Pacific oysters Crassostrea gigas has resulted in socioeconomic losses in Europe, New Zealand and Australia however, there is no information on their origin or mode of transmission. These factors need to be understood because they influence the way the disease may be prevented and controlled. Mortality data obtained from experimental populations of C. gigas during natural epizootics of OsHV-1 disease in Australia were analysed qualitatively. In addition we compared actual mortality data with those from a Reed–Frost model of direct transmission and analysed incubation periods using Sartwell’s method to test for the type of epizootic, point source or propagating. We concluded that outbreaks were initiated from an unknown environmental source which is unlikely to be farmed oysters in the same estuary. While direct oyster-to-oyster transmission may occur in larger oysters if they are in close proximity (< 40 cm), it did not explain the observed epizootics, point source exposure and indirect transmission being more common and important. A conceptual model is proposed for OsHV-1 index case source and transmission, leading to endemicity with recurrent seasonal outbreaks. The findings suggest that prevention and control of OsHV-1 in C. gigas will require multiple interventions. OsHV-1 in C. gigas, which is a sedentary animal once beyond the larval stage, is an informative model when considering marine host-herpesvirus relationships.

Age dependency of nervous necrosis virus infection in barramundi Lates calcarifer (Bloch)

Age-dependent susceptibility to nervous necrosis virus (NNV) was demonstrated for barramundi (Lates calcarifer). The experiment used juvenile barramundi produced from a single spawning that were challenged consecutively by immersion with a redspotted grouper nervous necrosis virus (RGNNV) isolate. The dose and environmental conditions (35 ppt salinity and 30 °C) were constant. Fish and water were sampled longitudinally for histopathology and RT-qPCR analysis to examine the evolution of the disease, virus replication, immune response and release of virus into water. Viral nervous necrosis (VNN) disease occurred in barramundi challenged at 3 and 4 weeks of age while fish challenged at 5, 7 and 9 weeks of age developed subclinical infection. Replication of NNV occurred faster and the concentration of virus reached higher concentrations in the younger fish with clinical disease. Virus isolation and qPCR tests indicated that infectious NNV was released from carcasses into water when fish were affected with clinical disease but not when NNV infection was subclinical. Based on these observations, we consider that carcasses from clinically infected fish have a potentially important role in the horizontal transmission of NNV, and barramundi juveniles should be protected from exposure to NNV until they are 5 weeks of age and reach the disease resistance threshold.

ICTV Virus Taxonomy Profile: Iridoviridae

The Iridoviridae is a family of large, icosahedral viruses with double-stranded DNA genomes ranging in size from 103 to 220 kbp. Members of the subfamily Alphairidovirinae infect ectothermic vertebrates (bony fish, amphibians and reptiles), whereas members of the subfamily Betairidovirinae mainly infect insects and crustaceans. Infections can be either covert or patent, and in vertebrates they can lead to high levels of mortality among commercially and ecologically important fish and amphibians. This is a summary of the current International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) Report on the taxonomy of the Iridoviridae, which is available at www.ictv.global/report/iridoviridae.

Surveillance for nervous necrosis virus-specific antibodies in barramundi Lates calcarifer in Australian hatcheries

We conducted single point-in-time and repeated cross-sectional studies of the prevalence of antibodies against nervous necrosis virus (NNV) in populations of adult barramundi Lates calcarifer in Australia. Serum samples collected between 2002 and 2012 were analyzed with indirect ELISA (n = 468). Most of the samples were sourced from broodstock with unknown exposure history, and these were compared with reference populations with confirmed history of exposure to NNV. Non-lethally collected gonad fluid samples from economically valuable barramundi broodstock (n = 164) were tested for the presence of NNV using RT-quantitative PCR at the time of blood sampling to compare infectivity with serostatus, but no virus was detected. NNV-specific immunoreactivity in broodstock was significantly lower than that for immunized and persistently infected populations. Seroprevalence increased over time in broodstock sampled longitudinally, probably reflecting repeated exposure to NNV in a region where the virus was endemic. The seroprevalence for the broodstock was 23.8% over the entire sample period while a cross-sectional survey conducted in 2012 found a seroprevalence of 34.5% with no significant difference between populations based on the geographic region or the history of occurrence of viral nervous necrosis (VNN) disease in the progeny in the respective hatcheries. Although serological surveillance was useful for studying the history of exposure of barramundi to NNV, the lack of association between serostatus in broodstock and the subsequent occurrence of VNN disease in their progeny indicates that ELISA tests for anti-NNV antibodies are not suitable for the purpose of preventing vertical transmission of NNV in barramundi.

Recommended reporting standards for test accuracy studies of infectious diseases of finfish, amphibians, molluscs and crustaceans: the STRADAS-aquatic checklist

Complete and transparent reporting of key elements of diagnostic accuracy studies for infectious diseases in cultured and wild aquatic animals benefits end-users of these tests, enabling the rational design of surveillance programs, the assessment of test results from clinical cases and comparisons of diagnostic test performance. Based on deficiencies in the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy (STARD) guidelines identified in a prior finfish study (Gardner et al. 2014), we adapted the Standards for Reporting of Animal Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-paratuberculosis (STRADAS-paraTB) checklist of 25 reporting items to increase their relevance to finfish, amphibians, molluscs, and crustaceans and provided examples and explanations for each item. The checklist, known as STRADAS-aquatic, was developed and refined by an expert group of 14 transdisciplinary scientists with experience in test evaluation studies using field and experimental samples, in operation of reference laboratories for aquatic animal pathogens, and in development of international aquatic animal health policy. The main changes to the STRADAS-paraTB checklist were to nomenclature related to the species, the addition of guidelines for experimental challenge studies, and the designation of some items as relevant only to experimental studies and ante-mortem tests. We believe that adoption of these guidelines will improve reporting of primary studies of test accuracy for aquatic animal diseases and facilitate assessment of their fitness-for-purpose. Given the importance of diagnostic tests to underpin the Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement of the World Trade Organization, the principles outlined in this paper should be applied to other World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE)-relevant species.

Pacific oyster mortality syndrome: a marine herpesvirus active in Australia

Genotypes of Ostreid herpesvirus 1 (OsHV-1) known as microvariants cause the disease Pacific oyster mortality syndrome (POMS). Since its appearance in NSW in 2010, OsHV-1 microvariant has prevented the farming of Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas) in the affected estuaries near Sydney, following the initial massive outbreaks1,2. The arrival of the disease in southeast Tasmania in January 2016 has put the entire $53M industry in Australia in jeopardy3. The virus is a member of the Family Malacoherpesviridae4, which includes several invertebrate herpesviruses. The OsHV-1 genome consists of 207 439 base pairs, with organisation similar to that of mammalian herpesviruses. However, OsHV-1 contains two invertible unique regions (UL, 167.8 kbp; US, 3.4 kbp) each flanked by inverted repeats (TRL/IRL, 7.6 kbp; TRS/IRS, 9.8 kbp), with an additional unique sequence (X, 1.5 kbp) between IRL and IRS4. Unlike many herpesviruses which are host specific, OsHV-1 strains have been transmitted between marine bivalve species5 and the virus is transmitted indirectly. The virus may have relatively prolonged survival in the environment, has extremely high infection and case fatality rates, and latency is unproven. Along with pilchard herpesvirus6–8 and abalone ganglioneuritis virus9,10, it is part of a dawning reality that marine herpesviruses are among the most virulent of pathogens. Finding solutions for industry requires more than laboratory-based research.

Bayesian estimation of diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of a nervous necrosis virus antibody ELISA

Diagnosis of nervous necrosis virus (NNV) infection in susceptible fish species is mostly performed post-mortem due to the neurotropism of the causative agent and the only validated diagnostic assays require samples from brain and retinal tissue. However, a non-lethal alternative to test for exposure of fish to NNV is needed. An indirect ELISA for the detection of anti-NNV antibodies in was recently developed and evaluated to detect responses in the sera from immunized fish. For this study, we assessed the accuracy of the assay at detecting specific antibodies from naturally exposed fish using field samples from populations with differing infection status. We applied a Bayesian model, using RTqPCR as a second test. Median estimates of the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the VNN ELISA were 81.8% and 86.7%, respectively. We concluded that the assay was fit for the purpose of identifying animals in naturally exposed populations. With further evaluation in larger populations the test might be used to inform implementation of control measures, and for estimating infection prevalence to facilitate risk analysis. To our knowledge this is the first report on the diagnostic accuracy of an antibody ELISA for an infectious disease in finfish.

Comparative quantitative monitoring of rabbit haemorrhagic disease viruses in rabbit kittens

Background

Only one strain (the Czech CAPM-v351) of rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) has been released in Australia and New Zealand to control pest populations of the European rabbit O. cuniculus. Antigenic variants of RHDV known as RHDVa strains are reportedly replacing RHDV strains in other parts of the world, and Australia is currently investigating the usefulness of RHDVa to complement rabbit biocontrol efforts in Australia and New Zealand. RHDV efficiently kills adult rabbits but not rabbit kittens, which are more resistant to RHD the younger they are and which may carry the virus without signs of disease for prolonged periods. These different infection patterns in young rabbits may significantly influence RHDV epidemiology in the field and hence attempts to control rabbit numbers.

Methods

We quantified RHDV replication and shedding in 4–5 week old rabbits using quantitative real time PCR to assess their potential to shape RHDV epidemiology by shedding and transmitting virus. We further compared RHDV-v351 with an antigenic variant strain of RHDVa in kittens that is currently being considered as a potential RHDV strain for future release to improve rabbit biocontrol in Australia.

Results

Kittens were susceptible to infection with virus doses as low as 10 ID₅₀. Virus growth, shedding and transmission after RHDVa infection was found to be comparable or non-significantly lower compared to RHDV. Virus replication and shedding was observed in all kittens infected, but was low in comparison to adult rabbits. Both viruses were shed and transmitted to bystander rabbits. While blood titres indicated that 4–5 week old kittens mostly clear the infection even in the absence of maternal antibodies, virus titres in liver, spleen and mesenteric lymph node were still high on day 5 post infection.

Conclusions

Rabbit kittens are susceptible to infection with very low doses of RHDV, and can transmit virus before they seroconvert. They may therefore play an important role in RHDV field epidemiology, in particular for virus transmission within social groups during virus outbreaks.

Identification and characterisation of an ostreid herpesvirus-1 microvariant (OsHV-1 µ-var) in Crassostrea gigas (Pacific oysters) in Australia

Between November 2010 and January 2011, triploid Crassostrea gigas (Pacific oysters) cultivated in the Georges River, New South Wales, experienced >95% mortality. Mortalities also occurred in wild diploid C. gigas in the Georges River and shortly thereafter in the adjacent Parramatta River estuary upstream from Sydney Harbour. Neighbouring Saccostrea glomerata (Sydney rock oysters) did not experience mortalities in either estuary. Surviving oysters were collected to investigate the cause of mortalities. Histologically all oysters displayed significant pathology, and molecular testing revealed a high prevalence of ostreid herpesvirus-1 (OsHV-1). Quantitative PCR indicated that many C. gigas were carrying a high viral load at the time of sampling, while the load in S. glomerata was significantly lower (p < 0.001). Subsequent in situ hybridisation experiments confirmed the presence of a herpesvirus in C. gigas but not S. glomerata tissues, suggesting that S. glomerata is not susceptible to infection with OsHV-1. Naïve sentinel triploid C. gigas placed in the Georges River estuary in January 2011 quickly became infected and experienced nearly 100% mortality within 2 wk of exposure, indicating the persistence of the virus in the environment. Phylogenetic analysis of sequences derived from the C2/C6 region of the virus revealed that the Australian strain of OsHV-1 belongs to the microvariant (µ-var) cluster, which has been associated with severe mortalities in C. gigas in other countries since 2008. Environmental data revealed that the Woolooware Bay outbreaks occurred during a time of considerable environmental disturbance, with increased water temperatures, heavy rainfall, a toxic phytoplankton bloom and the presence of a pathogenic Vibrio sp. all potentially contributing to oyster stress. This is the first confirmed report of OsHV-1 µ-var related C. gigas mortalities in Australia.

Characterization of virulent West Nile virus Kunjin strain, Australia, 2011

To determine the cause of an unprecedented outbreak of encephalitis among horses in New South Wales, Australia, in 2011, we performed genomic sequencing of viruses isolated from affected horses and mosquitoes. Results showed that most of the cases were caused by a variant West Nile virus (WNV) strain, WNV(NSW2011), that is most closely related to WNV Kunjin (WNV(KUN)), the indigenous WNV strain in Australia. Studies in mouse models for WNV pathogenesis showed that WNV(NSW2011) is substantially more neuroinvasive than the prototype WNV(KUN) strain. In WNV(NSW2011), this apparent increase in virulence over that of the prototype strain correlated with at least 2 known markers of WNV virulence that are not found in WNV(KUN). Additional studies are needed to determine the relationship of the WNV(NSW2011) strain to currently and previously circulating WNV(KUN) strains and to confirm the cause of the increased virulence of this emerging WNV strain.

Optimization of Betanodavirus culture and enumeration in striped snakehead fish cells

An optimized culture method for detection of infection of fish with the Red spotted grouper nervous necrosis virus (RGNNV) genotype of betanodavirus in striped snakehead (SSN-1, Channa striatus) cells is described. Inoculation of fish tissue homogenates at the same time or within 4 hr of seeding the SSN-1 cells was as sensitive as the method recommended by the World Organization for Animal Health, where homogenates were adsorbed onto an established cell monolayer. Such modification halved the time required and the costs of consumables, and reduced the potential for error when processing large numbers of samples. Positive culture results were obtained from 88.3% of 392 fish tissue homogenates in which RGNNV was detected using a quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay; 99.7% of 943 tissue homogenates, which were qRT-PCR negative, were cell culture negative. Cytopathic effect (CPE) was characterized by large intracytoplasmic vacuoles in 0.1–60% of cells. Detachment of affected cells from the culture surface resulting in progressive disruption of the monolayer occurred in 46.4% of primary cultures and 96.0% of subcultures of positive samples. Identification of CPE that did not disrupt the cell monolayer increased estimates of the 50% tissue culture infective dose (TCID50) by 1.07–2.79 logs (95% confidence interval). The predicted mean TCID50/ml was 3.3 logs higher when cells were inoculated less than 36 hr after subculture at less than 80% confluence compared to cells inoculated at greater than 80% confluence and more than 36 hr after subculture ( P < 0.05).

Optimisation and validation of a real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction assay for detection of betanodavirus

A RT-qPCR assay that was developed and optimised for detection of betanodaviruses was validated for use as a diagnostic test for viral nervous necrosis disease of fish. Four betanodavirus genotypes were detected but the sensitivity was greatest for redspotted grouper nervous necrosis virus (RGNNV). The analytical sensitivity was 10-1000-fold greater than that of a nested RT-PCR assay and the limit of detection was <0.4 TCID(50) units per reaction. The assay was highly repeatable (standard deviation of estimated log(10)(viral copies) 0.10+/-0.08) and reproducible (standard deviation of estimated log(10)(viral copies) 0.08+/-0.06). Diagnostic accuracy was assessed in 2193 samples comprising tissue homogenates from Australian bass (Macquaria novemaculeata) and barramundi (Lates calcarifer), and also in SSN-1 tissue culture supernatants, using virus isolation in striped snake head (SSN-1) cell culture as the gold standard. Diagnostic sensitivity and specificity were 100% when the assay was applied to Australian bass tissue and SSN-1 tissue culture supernatants, but for barramundi tissue were 99.1% and 92.8%, respectively. The apparent imperfect specificity was shown by specific amplification of alternate regions of the betanodavirus genome to be due to the lower sensitivity of virus isolation. This is the first study to report the diagnostic performance of a RT-qPCR assay for detection of betanodavirus.

[Psychosocial prognostic factors for refertilization or IvF after tubal sterilization]

In a psychosomatic study we interviewed 33 women who had undergone tubal anastomosis or IvF after tubal ligation. As a control group we chose a randomised sample of 45 women after elective tubal ligation. We used a semi-structured interview and the Giessen-test as psychometric instruments. According to the leading indication for reanastomosis, we allocated women to one of 2 groups: 21 patients had found a new partner (R-partner), 12 mentioned experiences of loss (R-loss). The groups were well comparable in respect of sociodemographic items, but showed relevant differences in psychological variables, like motivation for and time for deliberation to sterilisation or age difference between partners. Women of the R-partner group were highly satisfied with tubal reanastomosis as compared to R-loss subjects. Satisfaction with the procedure was basically independent of an actual pregnancy. Women experienced the two methods in different, rather specific ways. Cluster analysis of the Giessen-test result confirmed group allocation. We conclude that experiences of loss as a leading reason for tubal reanastomosis are unfavourable prognostic factors. IvF has an unfavourable prognosis in women with the intention to restore the mutilated body image. Preoperative counselling by a psychotherapeutically trained counsellor seems mandatory.

Psychological sequelae of surgical reversal or of IVF after tubal ligation

This study investigates the psychological concomitants and sequelae of surgical reversal (tubal reanastomosis) or of IVF after tubal ligation. We held semi-structured interviews and used the Giessen test and the Strauss-Appelt body image questionnaire. The sample comprised 25 women; a new partner was the leading reason for reversal in 16 cases ('New Partner'), while in 9 cases experiences of loss (of a child or of ideal values) prevailed ('Loss'). The two groups differed in a number of relevant demographic and psychological data. 'New Partner' patients showed a pattern of factors known to be associated with regret of sterilization. 'Loss' women were less satisfied with reversal than 'New Partner' subjects (P < .01). Satisfaction with reversal was independent of an achieved pregnancy. Patients considered surgical reversal to be preferable to IVF because of the "restoration of the mutilation." In the Giessen test, 'New Partner' women were more depressive (P < .05) and more submissive (P < .05) than 'Loss' subjects. Cluster analysis of the whole sample revealed four well distinguishable profiles. 'Loss' patients experienced less insecurity of their body image than both 'New Partner' women and the general female population. We conclude that reversal of sterilization helps to restore body-image and self-esteem, but it may counteract mourning. Consequences for pre-reversal counseling are discussed.

Age-related changes in carotid artery wall properties in men

Changes in distensibility and cross-sectional compliance of the common carotid artery with age were studied in 80 presumed healthy volunteers, varying in age between 20 and 69 y. The distensibility was assessed from the relative increase in arterial diameter during systole normalized with respect to the arterial pulse pressure. The cross-sectional compliance was obtained by multiplying the distensibility by the arterial diameter. The relative diameter changes of the common carotid artery during the cardiac cycle were recorded on-line with a high resolution multigate pulsed Doppler system. The arterial diameter was assessed from the width of the velocity profiles which can also be recorded on-line with this system. Arterial pulse pressure was determined from brachial artery cuff blood pressure measurements. Both distensibility and cross-sectional compliance of the common carotid artery decreased linearly with age, starting in the third age decade. The reduction in the latter parameter was less pronounced, probably as a consequence of an increase in arterial diameter with age.

Flow velocity patterns in and distensibility of the carotid artery bulb in subjects of various ages

Velocity patterns in and distensibility of the carotid artery bulb were studied in younger (20 to 30 years; n = 11) and older (50 to 60 years; n = 9) volunteers without detectable lesions of the cervical carotid arteries by means of a high-resolution, multigate, pulsed Doppler system coupled to a B mode imager. In the bulb the axial velocities were highest on the side of the flow divider, while regions of flow separation and recirculation were observed on the side opposite to this divider. Flow separation and recirculation were less pronounced and less common in the older subjects. Flow separation was not continuously present throughout the cardiac cycle. The distensibility of the carotid arteries was significantly diminished in older subjects, especially in the bulb. The velocity patterns in the carotid artery bulb of younger subjects corroborate the patterns observed in models. The diminished flow separation and recirculation in the older subjects might result from alterations in distensibility at the transition from common to internal carotid artery with increasing age.

Serum HDL/total cholesterol ratio and blood pressure in asymptomatic atherosclerotic lesions of the cervical carotid arteries in men

One hundred neurologically asymptomatic male subjects (aged 50-69 years), randomly selected through population registers, were screened for atherosclerotic lesions of the cervical carotid arteries, using a high resolution multi-gate pulsed Doppler system. In 93 subjects serum was assayed for total and HDL cholesterol. Besides, cuff arterial blood pressure measurements were made. Twenty-three of these subjects (Group III) were classified as abnormal according to the Doppler investigation (degree of narrowing less than 50% in 78% of the cases). Seven of these 23 subjects also had a history of ischemic heart disease or intermittent claudication. Of the 70 subjects with a normal Doppler examination 16 had a history of ischemic heart disease and/or intermittent claudication (Group II). The remaining 54 subjects served as controls (Group I). The frequency of asymptomatic atherosclerotic lesions of the cervical carotid arteries in the population under investigation was 23%. The HDL/total cholesterol ratio was lower and the frequency of high blood pressure higher in the Groups II and III than in Group I. The findings in this study support the idea that a low serum HDL/total cholesterol ratio and high blood pressure have a high degree of association with atherosclerotic lesions of the cervical carotid arteries. This association is already apparent at an early stage of the disease, i.e. in asymptomatic subjects with a slight to moderate degree of carotid artery narrowing.

Methods to evaluate the sample volume of pulsed Doppler systems

The spatial resolution of a pulsed Doppler system heavily depends on both the characteristics of the ultrasound transducer and the processing circuitry. The local characteristics of the ultrasound beam give the lateral sample function while the way the signals are processed affects the axial shape of the sample volume. A simple way to explore the size of the sample volume is the employment of a running string target. However, the detected Doppler signals will be the sum of all the Doppler signals returned by the string along its course through the sample volume. Therefore, it will be complicated to separate the axial and lateral contribution to the actual size of the sample volume. A scanning system capable of visualizing the cross-sectional distribution of the ultrasound intensity allows the assessment of the sample sensitivity in lateral direction. A single vibrating point target enables the exploration of both the axial and lateral sampling function. The latter approach is especially suited to evaluate routinely the spatial performance of pulsed Doppler systems in clinical practice.

Limitations of Doppler spectral broadening in the early detection of carotid artery disease due to the size of the sample volume

In the present study the criteria of spectral broadening used in pulsed Doppler systems to diagnose minor disease in the cervical carotid arteries were evaluated in relation to the size of the sample volume. For this purpose the Doppler audio spectra as recorded in asymptomatic volunteers with an ATL Duplex scanner (relatively large sample volume) and a multi-gate pulsed Doppler system (relatively small sample volume) were compared with each other. The volunteers, randomly selected from the population registers, varied in age from 20-69 yr. Only in the common carotid artery at younger age, were normal spectra recorded, especially with the multi-gate system. In the internal carotid artery the number of spectra, supposed to be associated with low grade stenosis, increased significantly, especially when recorded with the Duplex scanner. More pronounced spectral broadening was found when the spectra were recorded distally in this artery. In the cervical carotid arteries normal spectra were found only when sampled in the middle of the bloodstream. These findings indicate that for the detection of vascular lesions in the cervical carotid arteries at an early stage of the disease on the basis of spectral broadening, small sample volumes and sampling in the centre of the vessel are required.