New real-time PCR tests for species-specific detection of Chlamydophila psittaci and Chlamydophila abortus from tissue samples

Chlamydophila psittaci and Chlamydophila abortus are the causative agents of avian chlamydiosis (psittacosis) and ovine enzootic abortion, respectively. Both pathogens are known to possess zoonotic potential. Due to their close genetic relatedness, direct and rapid species identification is difficult. In the present study, new real-time PCR assays are reported for both species. The tests are based on highly specific probes targeting the ompA gene region and were conducted as duplex PCRs including an internal amplification control. The Cp. psittaci assay successfully passed a proficiency test at national level. Examination of field samples revealed Cp. psittaci as the dominating species in birds, but also Cp. abortus in a few psittacines. Real-time PCR assays for species-specific detection of Cp. psittaci and Cp. abortus are suited for routine diagnosis, which renders them important tools for the recognition of outbreaks of psittacosis and ovine enzootic abortion.     

Design,Testing and Implementation of a Large-Scale Urban Dog Waste Composting Program

In Montreal, Québec, many dogs are exercised in fenced-in runs in parks. Consequently, these dog parks are a high-density source of large amounts of dog waste, which is typically collected by the owner in a plastic bag and deposited in the municipal garbage. In 2004, an experimental large-scale dog waste composting programme was initiated at the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG) dog run in Montreal, Québec. Dog waste was collected with plastic shovels, deposited into compost bins, and layered with sawdust. In two months, a total of 213kg (470 lbs) of dog waste was collected and composted, along with 33kg (72 lbs) of donated sawdust, in two research compost bins. After a year of incubation, the two bins produced 179kg (394 lbs) of compost. Temperatures in the research bins peaked between 40°C and 55°C but were not maintained long enough for conclusive elimination of pathogens. Participation by dog run users during the trial project was enthusiastic, and full-scale dog waste composting has now been implemented at the dog run, with nine bins being filled over a 12 month period. On an annual basis, this composting programme diverts almost a ton of dog waste (approximately 959kg (2,115 lbs), over 130kg (300 lbs) of sawdust, and at least 7000 plastic bags from Montreal's landfill site, and produces about 770kg (1,700 lbs) of compost annually.     

PRESUMED MINERAL OIL ASPIRATION AND CAVITARY LUNG LESIONS IN A DOG

This report describes an unusual occurrence of cavitary lung lesions which may have been secondary to aspiration of mineral oil and illustrates a possible danger of aspiration pneumonia associated with administration of lipids. Lipid pneumonia should be considered in the differential diagnosis for pulmonary disease with radiographic signs ranging from increased interstitial opacity to nodules or cavitary lung lesions. This report also emphasizes the benefits of serial radiography to detect changing pathology and the occurrence of complications such as pneumothorax.