bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasma Level of Antisecretory Factor (ASF) and its Relation to Post‐Weaning Diarrhoea in Piglets
Authors: Lange S. , Martinsson K. , Lönnroth I. , Göransson L.
Published: May 2010

Antisecretory factor (ASF) is a regulatory peptide which counteracts diarrhoea in the pig; ASF is rapidly absorbed from the pig intestine, and significantly reduces the incidence of neonatal diarrhoea in the suckling offspring. ASF is synthesized in the central nervous system, and released to the blood stream via the pituitary gland.

In two different experiments (n = 8 and n = 4), the blood concentration of ASF was followed in 5‐weeks old piglets from day 7 before weaning up to day 12 days after weaning. In both experiments ASF concentrations were significantly (p < 0.01) lower on day three post‐weaning, than either before weaning or on days 7 and 12 post‐weaning.

In another experiment, where plasma ASF activity was determined in relation to clinical signs of diarrhoea seven days post‐weaning, it was found to be 0.87 ± 0.08 units/ml (mean ± SEM) in healthy weaners (n = 15), but only 0.22 ± 0.05 units/ml in piglets suffering from diarrhoea (n = 15), the difference being significant.

The faecal flora both of healthy weaners and of their matched controls suffering from diarrhoea were subjected to bacteriological examination before and after weaning, and found to be similar in both groups, namely a mixture of aerobic and anaerobic Gram negative rods,Campylobacter jejuni, Staphylococcus aureus / epidermidis, andEnterococcus faecalis. No particular pathogen was predominant in any of the diseased animals.
Molecular Characterization of South American Bovine Herpesvirus‐1 Isolates with Monoclonal Antibodies and SDS‐PAGE
Authors: Heinlein A. Suarez , Metzler A. E. , Weiblen R. , Berrios P. , Schudel A. A. , Rodriguez M.
Published: May 2010

Antigenic patterns of BHV‐1 isolates from Argentina, Chile and Brazil were examined with a panel of monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) generated with BHV‐1.1 and BHV‐1.3 strains. Among the Argentinean isolates, 7/8 neurological cases showed BHV‐1.3 characteristics and 10/12 non‐neurological cases from all countries exhibited BHV‐1.1/2 pattern. All viral isolates from genital infections showed BHV‐1.1/2 characteristics. Chilean isolates exhibited BHV‐1.1/2 pattern and one among 3 brasileans viruses was defined as belonging to BHV‐1.3. Results of the characterization using MAbs, were confirmed by SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) analysis of representative isolates. A total correlation was observed between the reactivity with MAbs and the SDS‐polyacrylamide analysis. Based on the data presented, it is concluded that the type 1.3, most frequently obtained from the brain of neurological cases, is present in Argentina and Brazil and coexists with BHV‐1.1/2.
Control of Infections with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae in Swine Herds by Disrupting the Chain of Infection, Disinfection of Buildings and Strategic Medical Treatment
Authors: Wallgren P. , Sahlander P. , Hasslebäck G. , Heldmer Eva
Published: May 2010

A program with the aim to eliminate infections with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae was applied in 4 herds selling breeding pigs. A “fast” (1 month) variant of the program was applied in one herd selling young gilts (30 kg body weight) and in one herd selling adult breeding stock, and a “slow” (≥3.5 months) variant was applied in two corresponding herds. In both variants, the spread of infections was prevented by isolating the breeding stock. These animals were treated with tiamulin before being reintroduced to the original, but emptied and disinfected units. Further, the rearing of pigs born before and after initiating the program was separated.

In both herds selling young gilts, no antibodies to Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae were detected in sera collected for at least 40 months after finishing the program. In the herds selling adult breeding pigs, elimination of infections with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae was only achieved by the “fast” variant, while the infections still were present in the breeding herd using the “slow” variant of the program. The failure of the program in the latter herd was probably due to turbulent air flows between ventilation systems of units situated close to each other and simultaneously housing uninfected and infected pigs.
Dose‐Dependent Pathophysiological Changes in Cattle Experimentally Infected withDictyocaulus viviparus
Authors: Schnieder T. , Daugschies A.
Published: May 2010

In two trials five calves were each experimentally infected on three consecutive days with a total number of either 30Dictyocaulus viviparuslarvae per kg body weight (trial A) or 3 larvae/kg body weight (trial B). Five calves served as non‐infected controls. Infected cattle in trial A developed severe clinical signs of dictyocaulosis and one calf died 37 days post infection (p.i.), whereas all cattle in trial B remained clinically healthy. Weight gains in both trials were not statistically different. Haemoglobin concentrations, packed cell volume (PCV), number of erythrocytes and leucocytes, blood pH and albumin concentrations were in the physiological range in all groups. Infected cattle in trial A showed increases in respiratory rates, body temperature, serum protein concentrations, and blood eosinophil counts and decreases in oxygen partial pressure. Infected cattle in trial B showed increased blood eosinophil counts. Antibody formation in infected cattle of both trials showed a similar pattern. Excretion of larvae from infected cattle reflected the different infection doses. Microbiological examinations showed an increase of facultatively pathogenic bacteria in the lung fluid.
The Development of Pulmonary Lesions Associated with Dead AdultD. immitisin Naive Dogs
Authors: Tarish J. H. , Atwell R. B.
Published: May 2010

The sequential response of the lung to the death of adultD. immitishas not been reported. To determine the time sequence and severity of pulmonary lesions following the death ofD. immitis, light microscopy was used to follow 36 dogs, detailing the respective lesions 1–35 days after insertion of deadD. immitisor of control polyvinyl chloride threads.

Results showed that dogs exposed to dead filariae developed more severe pulmonary arterial disease than did those exposed to inert threads. Severe pulmonary lesions occurred at 5–9 days post insertion with the right caudal lobes being the most affected, both macro and microscopically.

These findings suggest that this was a suitable model for the study of this parasite‐host interaction and that 5–9 days following insertion of deadD. immitiswas the most intensive period of host reactivity.
Staphylococcus Intermedius: Current Knowledge on a Pathogen of Veterinary Importance*
Authors: Greene R. T. , Lämmler Ch.
Published: May 2010

It has been 16 years since the identification ofS. intermediusas a new species. Numerous investigations using cell wall and DNA analytic methods have now clearly demonstrated significant differences to warrant the creation of this new species. However, studies investigating virulence factors associated withS. intermediushave not uncovered evidence that differentiates virulent from non‐virulent isolates. Therefore, at the present time, it is difficult for veterinary clinicians and microbiologists to determine the clinical significance of manyS. intermediusisolates. Host‐bacterial interactions and the hosts' immune status appear to be the factors most crucial in determining the outcome of infections, not the virulence of the organism. Continued research in the virulence factor field will hopefully lead to a better understanding on how we can differentiate virulent from non‐virulent isolates ofS. intermedius.
Intestinal Carriage of Clostridium difficile in Neonate Dogs
Authors: Perrin J. , Buogo C. , Gallusser A. , Burnens A. P. , Nicolet J.
Published: May 2010

A total of 70 puppies and their dams, distributed in 14 litters, were submitted to weekly fecal examinations for C. difficile during the first 10 weeks after birth.

During the study, 94.3% of the puppies and 42.9% of the dams harboured C. difficile at least once in their feces. We calculated that 58% of the puppies carried toxigenic C. difficile at least once during the survey. In the puppies, C. difficile carriage rates ranging from 3.1% to 67.1% were observed at different moments of the observation period. In comparison, C. difficile carriage rate was 1.4% in a control group of healthy dogs more than 3 months old.

Discrepancies in the toxigenic phenotype of the C. difficile strains isolated in the same litter showed that the neonate dogs were transiently infected with different strains, and that the dam is often not the source of infection with C. difficile.

We could not demonstrate any pathogenicity of C. difficile for neonate dogs.
Dynamics of Porcine Humoral Responses to Experimental Infections by SpanishTrichinellaIsolates: Comparison of Three Larval Antigens in ELISA
Authors: Bolas‐Fernandez F. , Albarran‐Gomez E. , Navarrete I. , Martinez‐Fernandez A. R.
Published: May 2010

Five groups of six helminth‐free pigs of the Iberian and Landrace x White breeds were each experimentally‐infected randomly at a dose of 150 larvae per kg. body weight with one of the fiveTrichinellaisolates, coded as Gm‐1, Co‐77, Laso, C‐76 and Mad‐83. These isolates were selected from the twoTrichinellaspecies (T. spiralisandT. britovi) so far identified in the Iberian Peninsula. Specific antibodies against the infections were measured on days −14, 0, 6, 16, 20, 27, 34, 49, 63 and 82 post‐infection (p.i.), in a comparative indirect ELISA assay using three different antigens prepared from the muscle stage of the parasite. The antigens were a crude saline larval extract (CSLE), excretory‐secretory (ES) and surface stripped cetyl‐trimethyl ammonium bromide detergent (CTAB) products. Over all, the dynamics of antibody responses were very similar for infections with the five different isolates, although a significant delay in positive and maximum antibody titres was seen in the group infected with C‐76, the isolate exhibiting a marked low infectivity to domestic mammals. ELISA with the crude antigen was more sensitive (positive antibody titres appeared between days 6 and 16 p.i.) than with the ES and CTAB preparations (positive titres appeared between days 16 and 20 p.i.). For infections with the C‐76 isolate, positive titres appeared between days 16 and 20 p.i. with the CSLE antigen and, on day 27 p.i. with the ES and CTAB antigens. Little cross‐reactivity with other common porcine helminth infections appeared only when ELISA was carried out with CSLE and CTAB antigens.
Comparison of Different Serological Methods for the Determination of Antibodies toChlamydia psittaciin Pigeon Sera
Authors: Salinas J. , Caro M. R. , Cuello F.
Published: May 2010

Several methods for detecting antibodies toChlamydia psittaciusing sera from pigeons were compared with regard to their sensitivity, specificity and efficacy. The reference method used was indirect immunofluorescence (IFI), which uses as antigen intracellular inclusions in McCoy cell monolayers. Indirect micro‐immunofluorescence (MIF) using as antigenC. psittacicultured on yolk sacs of embryonated eggs, direct and indirect complement fixation tests (CFT and ICFT, respectively), and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were compared to the reference method. Indirect micro‐immunofluorescence proved to be the most efficient method, while ELISA was the most sensitive, though showing a very low specificity. No statistically significant difference was found in comparing the two complement fixation tests. The use of ICFT to check for the negative results obtained in CFT is questioned. Possible reasons for the different results with the methods used are discussed.
Prevention of Cutaneous Myiasis Caused by Screw Worm Larvae (Cochliomyia hominivorax) Using Ivermectin
Authors: Anziani O. S. , Loreficce C.
Published: May 2010

During March of 1991 and 1992, four trials were carried out in the central area of Argentina to evaluate the efficacy of ivermectin in the prevention of myiasis caused by Cochliomya hominivorax larvae. In the first trial 24 steers were artificially wounded, in the second and third trial, 36 and 20 bull calves were castrated while in the fourth trial, 30 newborn calves were used. On day 0, half of the animals of each trial was treated with ivermectin (200 üg/kg) and the rest remained as untreated controls. None of the treated animals sustained a screw‐worm larva infestation, but 3 of 12 (25%), 8 of 18 (44%), 5 of 10 (50%) and 8 of 15 (53%) of the controls developed active myiasis in trials 1 to 4 respectively.
Important Endoparasites in Sheep and Goat Flocks in Jordan
Authors: Hasslinger M.‐A. , Schenkel F. , Ogaylat S. , Ulbricht G.
Published: May 2010

In spring 1992 in Jordan 70 flocks of sheep and goats were investigated coproscopically. 838 of altogether 882 small ruminants (=95.01%) harboured endoparasites. In three different parts of the country — in the vicinities of Ma'an, Kerak and Amman — the results were similar (Dictyocaulus, Nematodirus, Moniezia) or they differed (protostrongylids, Marshallagia and other trichostrongylids, Eimeria).

In connection with the established parasite status remarks concerning the therapy, including the problems involved as well as remarks concerning the time of treatment in the investigated area will be made. Finally, suggestions will be made for important and specialized follow‐up studies regarding improvement of the situation in this country.
Use of a Feline Panleukopenia Modified Live Virus Vaccine in Cats in the Primary‐Stage of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Buonavoglia C. , Marsilio F. , Tempesta M. , Buonavoglia D. , Tiscar P. G. , Cavalli A. , Compagnucci M.
Published: May 2010

Cats in the primary stage of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) infection and FIV seronegative cats were vaccinated with a modified live Feline Panleukopenia virus vaccine (FPV‐MLV). The FPV‐MLV strain was not pathogenic for FIV seronegative cats, whereas in FIV infected cats it produced severe clinical signs, similar to those typically observed in cats naturally infected with field strains of FPV (fever, diarrhoea, leukopenia).
A Sporulation Gene in Coxiella burnetii?
Authors: Oswald W. , Thiele D.
Published: May 2010

During a search for conserved target sequences on the genome of Coxiella burnetii for a diagnostic PCR a NotI/EcoRV DNA fragment was cloned and sequenced from the isolate “Nine Mile”, Phase I (sequence data are registered under accession number X70045 in data bases EMBL, GENE‐BANK and DDBJ). On this fragment we have found a sequence of 1741 base pairs which showed an exceptionally high homology (60 % on the nucleic acid level and 49.6 % on the amino acid level) to the sporulation gene “spoIIIE” of the grampositive bacterium Bacillus subtilis. This is first evidence of the molecular basis for formation of spores in Coxiella burnetii which has been postulated in the literature by electron microscopic investigations.
Prolonged Persistence of Cytopathogenic Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) in a Persistently Viremic Cattle
Authors: Moennig V. , Greiser‐Wilke I. , Frey H.‐R. , Haas L. , Liebler E. , Pohlenz J. , Liess B.
Published: May 2010

A bull persistently viremic with noncytopathogenic (ncp) BVDV was inoculated with the cytopathic (cp) BVDV strain TGAC, which had been found to be antigenically different from the endogenous ncpBVDV (ncpW8). Neutralizing antibodies against strains NADL and TGAC were detectablc 12 days and four weeks post infection, respectively. The animal developed fever and diarrhea 15 weeks post infectionem. On days 3 and 8 after onset of diarrhea a cpBVDV (cpX) was isolated from feces. Antigenic analysis using monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) showed that cpX and the endogenous ncpBVDV (ncpW8) had identical reactivity patterns except for one epitope that was neither expressed on TGAC nor on ncpW8. Using polymerase chain reaction analysis it was shown that both TGAC and cpX contained a p8ø gene duplication combined with genomic insertions of identical size. Restriction enzyme analysis of the TGAC and cpX amplicons using four enzymes showed an identical cleavage pattern, except for HaeIII digestion where an additional fragment was observed with cpX. These results suggest that cpBVDV strain TGAC persisted in the viremic animal and apparently caused disease after 15 weeks.
Detection of Galactomannan and the 18 kDa Antigen from Aspergillus fumigatus in Serum and Urine from Cattle with Systemic Aspergillosis
Authors: Jensen H. E. , Stynen D. , Sarfati J. , Latgé J.‐P.
Published: May 2010

Serum and urine samples from cattle with experimental and spontaneous systemic mycotic infections were tested for the presence of galactomannan and the 18 kDa antigen from Aspergillus fumigatus by an inhibition ELISA and immunoblotting, respectively.

High levels of galactomannan (∼80 ng/ml.) were detected in serum from two of three calves experimentally infected with A. fumigatus. In two out of three cows with spontaneous acquired aspergillosis a similar amount of galactomannan was detected. Galactomannan was not found in serum samples of 20 cows which aborted due to either experimental or spontaneous placental aspergillosis. Twenty‐four of forty urine samples from normal cattle reacted positively in the ELISA, consequently, the assay was not applicable on bovine urine.

The 18 kDa antigen from A. fumigatus was detected in the urine from one calf out of three calves experimentally infected with aspergillosis and in the urine from one cow with spontaneous aspergillosis.

It is concluded that detection of galactomannan in serum and the 18 kDa antigen in urine may be used as an aid for the diagnosis of disseminated bovine aspergillosis with the exception of placental and probably gastrointestinal localization.
Spinal Dysmyelination in New‐Born Brown Swiss x Braunvieh Calves
Authors: Hafner Angela , Dahme E. , Obermaier Gabriele , Schmidt P. , Dirksen G.
Published: May 2010

In four new‐born Braunvieh calves suffering from connate recumbency and body tremor, a hitherto not described myelination disorder of the spinal cord was examined. Bilateral symmetric hypo‐ as well as demyelination in several spinal tracts were the most conspicuous findings, affecting the ascending gracile funiculus, the ascending dorsolateral spinocerebellar tract, and the mainly descending sulcomarginal tract. Deficient myelin production, loss of myelin, consecutive axonal degenerations, and prominent astrogliosis within these tracts were the histological hallmarks of the disease. This possibly inherited primary myelination disorder of the spinal cord differs markedly from known hereditary neurological diseases in Brown Swiss and Braunvieh cattle, respectively, i. e. the weaver‐syndrome and the spinal muscular atrophy.
Endometritis in cattle experimentally induced by Chlamydia psittaci
Authors: Wittenbrink M. M. , Schoon H. A. , Schoon D. , Mansfeld R. , Bisping W.
Published: May 2010

On the day of estrus, eight virgin heifers received intrauterine inoculations of yolk sac propagated Chlamydia psittaci strain BovEnd 11/88 isolated from the uterus of a slaughter cow. All heifers developed purulent vaginal discharge which persisted for 3 to 7 weeks. Chlamydiae or chlamydial antigen were detected in vaginal and uterine discharges of infected animals by culture or Capture ELISA, while other bacterial pathogens were not found. In sera of the chlamydia‐infected heifers marked increases in antibody titres against the chlamydial genus‐specific LPS‐antigen were found by ELISA and complement fixation test. Six heifers were artificially inseminated in 5 successive cycles beginning at the first estrus following intrauterine inoculation. In two of the infected heifers spontaneous healing of endometritis occurred after 5 estrus cycles. Only these animals conceived after the 5th breeding, whereas in the remaining four animals a chlamydia‐associated chronic endometritis was recognized as the cause of infertility in the 19th and 26th week p.i. at slaughter. Two control heifers which remained clinically normal after intrauterine exposure to sterile yolk sacsuspensions conceived at the 1st and 2nd service, respectively.
Untersuchungen über das Infektionsrisiko für helminthenfrei aufgezogene Hunde bei üblicher Haltung im urbanen Bereich
Authors: Stoye M. , Hesse Anja , Kuschfeldt Sabine
Published: May 2010

Studies on the infection risk for helminth‐free raised dogs kept under conventional conditions in an urban area

The present investigations were carried out to clarify whether or not and to what extent helminth‐free raised dogs acquire patent and impatent helminth infections when exposed to an urban area contaminated with dog faeces. Groups of each 3 bitches at an age of 3, 6 or 9 month were taken out to an urban area (with average dog density of 1,5 per ha) for 3 hours daily on 5 days per week for a period of 3 month. During the whole trial the bitches and puppies born during this period were maintained under conditions which excluded other infections than those acquired during exposure in the urban area. The examination of the animals had the following results:

All 9 bitches remained coproscopically negative until the end of the trial. In these bitches neither intestinal stages nor somatic helminth larvae were found. Seven out of 45 puppies from these bitches shed Toxocara canis eggs with the faeces. Shedding of eggs began 21 to 28 days after birth. Eggs excretion in most cases was low (< 33 eggs per gram). In 12 puppies from 5 litters intestinal stages of T. canis were found with a maximum of 4 specimens per animal. In 9 puppies only male or female T. canis were found.

Die vorliegenden Untersuchungen sollten klären, ob und in welchem Maße helminthenfrei aufgezogene Hunde bei üblicher Exposition in mit Kot dieser Tierart kontaminierter urbaner Umwelt patente und impatente Helmintheninfektionen erwerben. Dazu waren je 3 Hündinnen im Alter von 3, 6 und 9 Monaten in einem Stadtgebiet mit über 1,5 Hunden/ha ausgeführt worden. Bei der Untersuchung dieser Tiere und der von ihnen nach erster Gravidität geborenen Welpen wurden folgende Befunde erhoben:

Alle 9 Hündinnen blieben bis Versuchsende koprologisch negativ. In ihnen waren auch weder intestinale Stadien noch somatische Larven von Helminthen nachweisbar. Von 7 der insgesamt 45 Welpen dieser Tiere wurden Eier von Toxocara canis mit dem Kot eliminiert. Die Eiausscheidung begann 21 bis 28 Tage nach der Geburt. Sie blieb in den meisten Fällen niedrig, oft unterhalb der kleinsten erfaßbaren Eizahl pro Gramm von 33. Intestinale Stadien von Toxocara canis waren bei insgesamt 12 Welpen aus 5 Würfen nachweisbar. Maximal wurden 4 Exemplare dieser Art in einem Tier gefunden. Bei 9 Welpen waren nur Männchen oder Weibchen von Toxocara canis vorhanden.
Enzootic Intranasal Tumour of Goats in Italy
Authors: Vitellozzi G. , Mughetti L. , Palmarini M. , Mandara M. T. , Mechelli L. , Sharp J. M. , Manocchio I.
Published: May 2010

An outbreak of enzootic intranasal tumour (EIT) in a goat herd in Central Italy is described. From October 1990 to September 1992 41 tumors were diagnosed in goats ranging in age from 6 months to 6 years and of both the Alpine and Saanen breeds. Clinically the affected goats showed nasal discharge, facial swelling, sneezing and snoring respiration and weight loss.

Post‐mortem examinations revealed uni‐ or bilateral tumours of the olfactory mucous membrane. The neoplasms were classified as low grade adenocarcinomas. Ultrastructurally, retrovirus‐like particles were observed in 10/10 tumours examined.

Epidemiological and ultrastructural findings strongly suggest a viral aetiology for intranasal enzootic adenocarcinoma in the goats examined.
Investigations on the Aerobic Flora and Clostridium perfringens in Fecal Specimens from Free‐living and Captive Capercaillies (Tetrao urogallus L., 1758)
Authors: Schales Kerstin , Gerlach Helga , Kösters J.
Published: May 2010

173 fecal specimens from captive Capercaillies and 92 fecal specimens from free‐living Capercaillies were examined bacteriologically. With all specimens the bacteriological examination was limited to the aerobic bacteria which can be isolated by the usual methods and to Clostridium perfringens. The occurrence of fungi and parasites was examined as well. The present paper compares the results of these examinations. The identifiable fecal flora of free‐living Capercaillies consists of few species with low colony numbers. In about half of the specimens Bacillus spp. are the main aerobic component while only a small number of the fecal specimens contain Escherichia coli and Streptococcus spp. None of the literature to date has stated that Streptococcus spp. do not belong to the autochthonous fecal or intestinal flora of an avian species. Clostridium perfringens cannot be isolated. The identifiable fecal flora of captive Capercaillies consists of many species with high colony numbers. Almost all fecal specimens contain Escherichia coli and various Bacillus spp. Streptococcus spp. can be isolated frequently, other enterobacteriaceae and Clostridium perfringens are present. The results of the examinations for fungi and parasites only differ slightly from those in wild birds.
Feed‐induced Lectins in Piglets
Authors: Göransson L. , Martinsson K. , Lange S. , Lönnroth I.
Published: May 2010

The effect on various biological variables of a special weaner feed (FD) with the capacity to induce endogenous synthesis of feedinduced lectines (FIL), and a commonly used commercial diet (CD) was evaluated in 891 piglets in four different experiments. The FD diet was found to induce a high activity of FIL (FIL = 0.94 ± 0.03 units/ml. blood), as compared to CD (FIL < 0.20 units/ml. blood). The FIL values did not decrease after weaning. The incidence of diarrhoea in piglets fed FD 0–14 days post‐weaning was 12 ± 5 per cent, as compared to 41 ± 9 per cent in the CD group, the difference being significant. Daily weight gain 0–35 days after weaning was 67 ± 15 grams greater in the FD group than among those fed CD. The consumption of FD was double that of CD in the period before weaning (at 5 weeks), and some 40 per cent more in the postweaning period up to 9 weeks of age.
Testing of Remedial Measures in Fattening Pig Herds Affected with Subclinical Infections of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae serotype 2
Authors: Beskow P. , Robertsson J. Å. , Söderlind O.
Published: May 2010

The present investigation comprised 5 specialized herds of slaughter pigs, each with a production of 1,500 to 4,000 fatteners per year. High prevalence of pleuritis was demonstrated in all herds at slaughter. Serological investigations by means of ELISA were carried out to determine antibody titres to Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (A. pl.) serotype 2 during the fattening period and at slaughter. The investigations showed that this agent was a predominant cause of the subclinical pleuritis although A. pl. was difficult to isolate. An environment study was performed in all herds and major environmental deficiencies were corrected during the course of the investigation. Similarly, all herds changed to a strict routine of batch rearing. In 4 herds out of 5, the animals were vaccinated on arrival to the growing‐finishing units and again generally 3–4 weeks later with an inactivated vaccine against A. pl. serotype 2.

The prevalence of pleuritis decreased with 25–75% during the three‐year observation period. Also the prevalence of pneumonia decreased at the same time. Conversely, daily weight gain and feed conversion improved.

The prevalence of pleuritis and pneumonia registered at slaughter was lower in the three‐breed crosses (including Hampshire, Landrace and Yorkshire) than in the two‐breed crosses with Landrace and Yorkshire.
A Rapid Antigen Capture ELISA for the Detection of Orthopox Viruses
Authors: Johann S. , Czerny C.‐P.
Published: May 2010

A genus‐specific antigen capture enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of orthopox viruses (OPV) was established, testing various combinations of monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) and rabbit hyper‐immune sera. The most sensitive assay was based on capturing antigen with a non‐neutralizing MAb against a highly conserved antigenic site of the OPV fusion protein. Bound antigen was detected by a mixture of the two broadly‐reactive rabbit anti‐monkey‐pox‐ and rabbit anti‐vaccinia virus hyper‐immune sera. The reaction was visualized by the corresponding anti‐species‐horseradish‐peroxidase‐ (HRP) conjugate and 3,3′, 5,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) as substrate. This system was able to identify all OPV‐species and isolates which were investigated. The ELISA demonstrated complete agreement with conventional procedures undertaken for qualitative and quantitative OPV‐detection. In parallel, 16 defined OPV‐strains were analysed by quantitative electron microscopy (calculation of the number of physical particles; PN) and infectivity titration (TCID50/ml) on tissue cultures. When ELISA data were compared with infectivity titers, the detection limits in the ELISA varied in a wide range of 102–104 TCID50/ml., depending on different replicative potencies of the individual virus strains. However, when PN was the basis for calculation, a minimum of 105 physical virus particles/ml could be detected. Gradient‐purified virus was detectable up to a protein content of 15 ng/ml. Maximum optical densities in the sample (OD450nm) reached 2.0, while mock infected tissue cultures of negative samples offered corresponding values of <0.01.
Experimental Infection with Yersinia Pseudotuberculosis of Ground Squirrels (Citellus Citellus)
Authors: Veljanov D. K. , Vesselinova A. M. , Nikolova S. F. , Kussovski V. K. , Najdenski H. M.
Published: May 2010

An experimental infection was induced in the European ground squirrel (Citellus citellus) by intraperitoneally injecting of 1 ml. of microbial suspension, containing 1 times 109 CFU (colony forming units) of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, serotypes I and III.

The infectious process was dynamically followed up from the 1st up to the 30th day, respectively. Account was rendered to the general condition, the internal body temperature and the mortality rate. The phagocytic activity of alveolar macrophages (aMa) and polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNL), isolated from the experimental animals, was also determined, as well as the degree of bacterial dissemination into the viscera and the histomorphological changes that found in the parenchymal organs.

These investigations confirm the fact that the bacterial agent has a broad spectrum of alaterations in the organism of the host ‐ the European ground squirrel (Citellus citellus) in which the pseudotuberculosis developes as a generalized infection, especially pronounced in the animals that were infected with the serotype III.
The Postantibiotic Effect of Selected Antibiotics on Staphylococcus aureus Newbould 305 from Bovine Intramammary Infection
Authors: Owens W. E. , Washburn P. J. , Ray C. H.
Published: May 2010

The postantibiotic effect (PAE) was determined for selected antibiotics against Staphylococcus aureus Newbould 305 originating in vivo from mastitic milk and compared with the PAE for the same S. aureus strain cultured in vitro. The PAE was measured at 2 and 4 times the MIC for 1 and 2 h of exposure. The PAE of penicillin, pirlimycin, and tilmicosin were reduced against S. aureus 305 originating in vivo compared with S. aureus 305 grown in vitro. The PAE of cephapirin was increased against S. aureus originating in vivo. Minimal effect on PAE was noted for novobiocin. The PAE for rifampicin extended beyond the limits of the test parameters (> 180 min) for all antibiotic concentrations, media, and exposure times tested, except at 2 times the MIC and at 1 h exposure when the PAE was reduced to 60 min for S. aureus 305 originating in vivo. The PAE of an antibiotic may be an important consideration in determining therapy intervals and antibiotic concentrations for treatment of bovine mastitis.
Identification and Classification of Different Isolates of Francisella tularensis
Authors: Mörner T. , Mattsson R. , Forsman M. , Johansson K.‐E. , Sandström G.
Published: May 2010

The causative agent of tularemia, Francisella tularensis, occurs in two main biovars, the highly virulent F. t. biovar tularensis, found in North America; and the less virulent biovar palaearctica, found all over the northern hemisphere. Two other biovars have been proposed, F. t. biovar mediaasiatica and F. t. biovar palaearctica var. japonica. In Sweden tularemia is most frequently observed in man and varying hares (Lepus timidus), and occasionally in other species. Tularemia in hares is normally an acute fatal disease, although less fatal infections have been reported. The diagnosis of tularemia is routinely based on immunological reactions. We studied 10 different isolates of F. tularensis from varying hares, one isolate from an Ural owl (Strix uralensis), one vaccine strain, one strain of F. t. biovar japonica, and six isolates from a virulence study of F. tularensis, by biochemical tests and by hybridization experiments with probes complementary to 16S rRNA. All isolates, except the isolate F. t. biovar japonica, were characterized as F. t. biovar palaearctica by biochemical tests. In the 16S rRNA analysis all isolates were positive to the probe for Francisella tularensis and the probe for F. t. biovar palaearctica with the exception that F. t. biovar japonica reacted with the probe specific to F. t. biovar tularensis. To further confirm that the strains used belonged to F. t. biovar palaearctica virulence tests in rabbits were performed which disclosed this phenotype. The results presented in this work show that the isolated strains from the western part of Europe were F. t. biovar palaearctica, irrespective of animal origin or virulence.
Untersuchungen zu infektiösen Ursachen für Aborte und Totgeburten beim Schwein in der Schweiz*
Authors: Broll S. , Waldvogel A. S. , Rosskopf M. , Corboz L. , Pospischil A.
Published: May 2010

Fetuses and placentae of 171 cases of porcine abortion, stillbirth and mummification were examined for pathological lesions, bacterial infections and PPV (porcine parvovirus) infection. Furthermore IgG (immunoglobulin G) levels were determined in fetal body fluids. Selected maternal sera were tested for antibodies against Leptospira, Aujeszky's disease and hog cholera.

PPV infection was diagnosed in 29.2 % of all cases. Bacterial abortion was diagnosed in 8.2 %. Indications for an infectious agent were demonstrated in about 10 % of the cases. The etiology of the abortion could not be identified in 52 %.

Inflammatory alterations in association with the isolation of bacteria consisted of neutrophilic infiltration and necrosis and were of particular value to differentiate bacterial contamination from infection. Infiltrations of mononuclear leucocytes in brain, leptomeninx, kidney or myocard were observed in about 50 % of the fetuses with PPV infection.

IgG levels were consistently elevated in fetuses serologically positive for PPV, but also in two fetuses, where no infectious agent could be identified.

Föten und Plazenten von 171 Fällen von Aborten, Totgeburten und Geburt mumifizierter Föten beim Schwein wurden auf pathologische Veränderungen, auf bakterielle Infektionen und auf PPV‐Infektion untersucht. Zusätzlich wurde der Immunglobulin‐G‐Gehalt fötaler Körperflüssigkeiten bestimmt. Ausgewählte Seren von abortierenden Muttersauen wurden auf Antikörper gegen Leptospiren, Aujeszkysche Krankheit und europäische Schweinepest getestet.

In 29,2 % der Fälle konnte eine PPV‐Infektion nachgewiesen werden. Bei 8,2 % wurde eine bakterielle Abortursache diagnostiziert. In ca. weiteren 10 % der Fälle lagen Hinweise für eine infektiöse Ursache vor. In 52 % der Fälle lagen keine Hinweise auf die Ursache für den Fruchttod bzw. den Abort vor.

Histologische Veränderungen in Form von neutrophilen Infiltraten oder Nekrosen im Zusammenhang mit der Isolierung von Bakterien waren wertvolle Kriterien für die Unterscheidung zwischen postmortaler Kontamination und echter Infektion. Im Zusammenhang mit einer Parvovirusinfektion wurden in ca. der Hälfte der untersuchten Föten lymphoplasmazelluläre Infiltrate perivaskulär in Großhirn und Leptomeninx, interstitiell in der Niere oder im Myokard beobachtet. Erhöhte IgG‐Spiegel wurden regelmäßig bei PPV‐positiven Fällen sowie bei zwei weiteren Föten ohne Ermittlung eines Erregers festgestellt.
Survival of Salmonellas in Composted and Not Composted Solid Animal Manures
Authors: Forshell L. Plym , Ekesbo I.
Published: May 2010

Survival of S. dublin, S. senftenberg and S. typhimurium in composted cattle manure was less than seven days. In cold cattle manures S. dublin survived 183 days but not 190, while S. senftenberg and S. typhimurium survived 204 but not 214 days. In composted sow manure S. senftenberg and S. typhimurium survived less than seven days while S. derby survived 14 days but not 21.
The Immunologic Response to Experimental Infection with Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Lambs
Authors: Masot A. J. , Gomez L. , Gomez‐Tejedor C. , Martinez S. , Redondo E.
Published: May 2010

An experimental model was designed to study the humoral immune response in lambs experimentally infected with bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), 25 Merino lambs of both sexes, with a live weight of 17 ± 3 kg, received an intratracheal inoculation of 20 ml. saline solution containing 1.26 times 106TCID50BRSV (strain NMK‐7) per ml. Blood samples for serological analysis were collected from the jugular vein of the animals on days 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 and 15 post inoculation. Serum proteins were determined by electrophoresis, and a qualitative and quantitative analysis of immunoglobulins (Ig) was carried out using immunoelectrophoresis (IE) and light nephelometry, respectively. Serum anti‐BRSV antibody levels were tested by enzimelinked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA). Lambs were necropsied 1, 3, 7, 11 and 15 postinoculation days (p.i.d.), and samples were taken for immunohistochemical analysis. IgA, IgG and IgM were labelled on paraffin‐embedded lung sections using an avidin‐biotin‐peroxidase complex. Results reflected an increase in gamma fractions in experimental animals with respect to controls. IE analysis of these sera revealed a polyclonal increase in immunoglobulins. Nephelometric examination showed an increase in serum IgA, IgG an IgM levels up to 7 p.i.d., coinciding closely with high titres for humoral virus antibodies. After 9 p.i.d., titres and immunoglobulin levels both fell. Immunoglobulin labelling in formol‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded lung tissue samples detected IgG and IgA, mainly in bronchial, bronchiolar and alveolar epithelia. IgM, however, was not detected in the lungs of infected animals.
Effects of Concurrent Oral Administration of Monensin and Selenium on Some Haematological and Biochemical Parameters in Broiler Chickens
Authors: Khan M. Z. , Szarek J. , Saeed M. , Koncicki A. , Krasnodebska‐Depta A.
Published: May 2010

Monensin and selenium (sodium selenite) at different toxic levels were administered orally to the broiler chickens for variable periods. A depression in haematological parameters and biochemical ones such as alanine and aspertate aminotransferase, serum total protein and cholesterol were recorded in acute and subacute toxicosis of these substances. The present experiments led to the conclusion that concurrent administration of selenium and monensin at toxic levels resulted in exasperated toxic response in broiler chickens which in turn had been produced by embellishment of toxicosis inducing properties of both examined substances.
Growth Curve, Capsule Expression and Characterization of the Capsular Material of Selected Strains ofStreptococcus uberis
Authors: Almeida R. A. , Oliver S. P.
Published: May 2010

The pattern of lectin agglutination, expression of capsule during the growth curve, and chemical composition of the capsule were examined in strains ofStreptococcus uberisisolated from bovine mastitis. Lectin agglutination was conducted on 40 strains ofS. uberisand 82.5% and 77.5% of the strains showed agglutination titers (≥ 1:128) with wheat germ agglutinin and concanavalin A, respectively. Capsule expression during the growth curve and its chemical composition was determined in one strain ofS. uberis(UT 101), using a nonencapsulated strain ofS. uberis(UT 102) as a negative control. Both strains were grown in Todd‐Hewitt Broth (THB) with and without 20% milk whey. Strain UT 101 grown in THB or THB with 20% whey showed maximum numbers of colony forming units per ml (cfu/ml) at 12 hours, with a lag phase ending after 2 hours of growth. Maximum cfu/ml of UT 102 in THB was at 14 hours and 16 hours in THB 20% whey with a lag phase that ended at 2 hours of growth. Higher number of viable bacteria and increased capsule expression of UT 101 were detected in suspensions grown in THB 20% whey than in THB alone. Capsule expression ofS. uberisUT 101 was maximal at 10 hours and decreased after 12 hours of growth. In contrast,S. uberisUT 102 showed negligible percentage (< 2%) of encapsulated bacteria during the entire growth curve. Chemical analysis of capsular material and the pattern of lectin agglutination suggest that hyaluronic acid is the major component. These results will be useful for understanding the pathogenesis of infections caused byS. uberis.
Antiphagocytic Effect of the Capsule ofStreptococcus uberis
Authors: Almeida R. A. , Oliver S. P.
Published: May 2010

Non‐opsonized encapsulated and non‐encapsulated strains ofStreptococcus uberiswere incubated with bovine mammary macrophages and the percentage of phagocytosis and intracellular killing were determined. Seventy‐seven percent of macrophages ingested non‐encapsulated organisms with a killing rate of 75 %. In contrast, 48 % of macrophages ingested encapsulated bacteria with a killing rate of 35 %. When strains were opsonized with homologous antiserum, differences were detected in the percentage of phagocytosis (84 %vs.48 %) and intracellular killing (52 %vs.35 %) of the encapsulated strain only. Effects were partially abolished when antiserum was absorbed with purified capsule, or when macrophages were pre‐treated with purified capsular material. Electron microscopy of mammary macrophages incubated with the encapsulated strain ofS. uberisshowed the microorganism in contact with the macrophage cell membrane without signs of membrane activation. In contrast, the non‐encapsulated strain induced formation of pseudopods and membrane ruffling. These results suggest that capsule may protectS. uberisfrom phagocytosis which may be due to a direct interaction of capsular material with macrophages.
Microbiological Quality of French Yogurts Commercialized in Spain
Authors: Lopez Carmen , Rodriguez Valle , Medina L. M. , Barrios Maria J. , Jordano R.
Published: May 2010

The microbiological quality has been evaluated in 6 batches of yogurt (plain, flavoured and fruit‐added) produced commercially in France and purchased in Spain. The essential microflora: Streptococcus salivarius subsp. thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, and contaminants (coliform bacteria, yeasts and molds) were checked. The pH was also measured. The totality of the samples tested fulfilled French and Spanish regulation with respect to the presence of viable yogurt organisms. Likewise, in 100 % of the yogurts, counts of contaminants were under 10 cfu/g. The pH ranged between 3.92 and 4.19.
Intranasal Vaccination of Pups with Maternally Derived Antibodies with a Modified Live Canine Parvovirus
Authors: Buonavoglia C. , Cavalli A. , Gravino E. , Voigt V. , Buonavoglia D. , de Caprariis D.
Published: May 2010

The modified live canine parvovirus (CPV) vaccine was used to vaccinate intranasally twenty‐five pups with maternal antibody. The vaccine was able to overcome the interference of maternal immunity in rates of 100 %, 72.7 % and 17.6 % in pups with haemagglutination inhibition antibody titre of 40, 80 and 160 respectively.
Some Biological and Physico‐Chemical Properties of Porcine Circovirus
Authors: Allan G. M. , Phenix K. V. , Todd D. , McNulty M. S.
Published: May 2010

Some important biological and physico‐chemical characteristics of porcine circovirus are reported. These include a study on the host distribution in nature, levels of colostrum‐derived antibodies in piglets from sero‐positive sows and the susceptibility of a range of cell cultures to infection with this virus. The results of haemagglutination studies, resistance to pH 3, chloroform and heat are also reported as are comparative buoyant densities and sedimentation coefficients of porcine circovirus and chicken anaemia virus.
Spontaneous Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection in Goats: Pathological Findings
Authors: Redondo E. , Masot A. J. , Martinez S. , Jimenez A. , Gazquez A.
Published: May 2010

This paper presents the results of a study of eight cases of natural bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) infection in a herd of 50 Murciana kids from a intensive goat‐farm in Spain.

Clinical and pathological analysis confirmed the existence of natural BRSV infection in eight kids. In two of the eight animals there was also evidence of concurrent infection withP. haemolytica A.
Trenbolone Acetate Induced Changes in the Genital Tract of Male Pigs
Authors: López‐Bote C. , Sancho G. , Martínez M. , Ventanas J. , Gázquez A. , Roncero V.
Published: May 2010

Eleven entire and twelve castrated male pigs were implanted with trenbolone acetate and the effects of the treatment on genital tract macro‐ and microscopical modifications were evaluated and compared to non‐implanted animals. In entire male pigs a reduction of testicular weight and size was observed as a consequence of the treatment (<0.001), but no important modifications were found in bulbourethral gland and seminal vesicles macroscopically. Castrated non‐implanted males had bulbourethral gland atrophy (P < 0.01), while castrated implanted ones showed similar development to entire males. As for vesicular glands there were no significant differences among the four groups under study. Histological study of prostate has demonstrated structural modifications. As a consequence of the treatment glandular lumen was increased (P < 0.05), and most parenchima was occupied by polimorphous cysts.