Validation of an antimicrobial susceptibility testing protocol for Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira pilosicoli in an international ring trial.

Brachyspira hyodysenteriae and Brachyspira pilosicoli cause economically important enteric disease in pigs. Treatment of these infections often includes antimicrobial administration, which can be most effective when therapeutic options are informed by antimicrobial susceptibility testing data. Here we describe a method for broth dilution antimicrobial susceptibility testing of these bacteria, both of which are difficult to culture in vitro.

A decline in the occurrence of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli in retail chicken meat in the UK between 2013 and 2018.

Aims: The aim of this study was to report on the occurrence of antimicrobial resistant (AMR) Escherichia coli from retail chicken meat samples in the UK, with particular focus on AmpC and extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production and carbapenem resistance.

Methods And Results: Methods from EU protocols were used for selective isolation of AmpC-/ESBL-producing E. coli, carbapenem-resistant E.

Isolation of a novel thermophilic Campylobacter from cases of spotty liver disease in laying hens and experimental reproduction of infection and microscopic pathology.

The condition known as spotty liver disease or spotty liver syndrome can cause significant mortality in free range laying hen flocks. It has been described in Europe and Australia but the aetiology has not been established. There are similarities between spotty liver disease and avian vibrionic hepatitis, a condition which was reported in the 1950s.

A proof of concept study to assess the potential of PCR testing to detect natural Mycobacterium bovis infection in South American camelids.

Background: Cases of Mycobacterium bovis infection South American camelids have been increasing in Great Britain. Current antemortem immunological tests have some limitations. Cases at post mortem examination frequently show extensive pathology.

Real Time PCR to detect and differentiate Campylobacter fetus subspecies fetus and Campylobacter fetus subspecies venerealis.

Bovine venereal campylobacter infection, caused by Campylobacter fetus venerealis, is of significant economic importance to the livestock industry. Unfortunately, the successful detection and discrimination of C. fetus venerealis from C.

Emotional adjustment to stroke: a group therapeutic approach.

Many people find it difficult to come to terms with having had a stroke and the resulting physical disability. This article reports on the setting up and running of psychological therapeutic groups to provide emotional and psychological support to patients about six months after their stroke. A flexible approach has allowed different groups to take different approaches to dealing with individuals' situations.