bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Different Turkey Rhinotracheitis Viruses used as Antigens for Serological Testing following Live Vaccination and Challenge
Authors: Eterradossi N. , Toquin D. , Guittet M. , Bennejean G.
Published: May 2010

Two enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) developed in the authors' laboratory for turkey rhinotracheitis serological testing, a commercial ELISA kit, and two virus‐neutralization (VN) assays were compared with respect to the efficiency of these assays for serological monitoring in specific‐pathogen‐free (SPF) turkeys inoculated with four pathogenic isolates of turkey rhinotracheitis virus, with or without previous live vaccination. Both the live vaccine and the different isolates of virus were shown to induce antibody rises, the detectability of which varied depending on the ELISA or VN assay used for serological testing. The results show that 3 weeks after vaccination with an attenuated strain, the choice of an inadequate antigen for serological testing may be the cause of an apparent lack of immunogenicity of the vaccine, and that 2 weeks after challenge, such a choice in ELISA can also hinder the early diagnosis of a TRT virus infection in both vaccinated and unvaccinated turkeys.
Detection of Antibodies to Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus: an Immunoblotting Method using Virus‐coated Human Erythrocyte Membranes
Authors: Ruvoen‐Clouet N. , Blanchard D. , Andre‐Fontaine G. , Song B. , Ganiere J. P.
Published: May 2010

The virus of rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHDV) was purified from infected rabbit liver homogenate by using its property to bind to human red blood cells. Lysates from virus coated cells contained a 60 kDa protein identified as the major viral protein. Immunoblots prepared with that preparation were proved to be useful for immunochemical analysis since the 60 kDa component was intensively stained by subsequent incubation with rabbit sera from infected rabbits and with a secondary labelled antibody. The sera from 114 rabbits were analysed with this test and the data were compared with those obtained by using the haemagglutination inhibition test (HIT). Among the 114 field sera tested by Western blot, 86 contained antibodies to the 60 kDa RHDV antigen whereas only 76 showed positive reaction by HIT. The sensitivity and the specificity of the Western blot were 0.85 and 0.45, respectively, with a concordance between the two techniques of 0.72. Additionally, the European brown hare syndrome virus antibodies reacted with the 60 kDa RHDV protein on immunoblots.
Cerebral Coeneurosis in Chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica)
Authors: Lavin S. , Marco I. , Pastor J.
Published: May 2010

Two cases of cerebral coeneurosis in chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica) from Catalonia (northeastern Spain) are described. This disease, of which few cases have been reported, may, in fact, be relatively frequent. Although the characteristic symptom of the disease in sheep is circling, that symptom was not observed in this study. Chamois may act as a host within the sheep‐shepherd‐dog cycle, but is probable that red fox (Vulpes vulpes) also acts as a definitive host.
Isolation and Characterization of Paramyxoviruses from Snakes and their Relationship to Avian Paramyxoviruses
Authors: Blahak S.
Published: May 2010

Several viruses were isolated from snakes which died during an outbreak of disease in a zoo. The viruses could be cultivated at 28 °C on a snake cell line (VH2, ATCC CCL 140). In cell culture they formed syncytia, leading to destruction of the monolayer. The isolates were sensitive to treatment with chloroform but not to growth in the presence of IUDR and revealed haemagglutinating activity with chicken erythrocytes. These results, combined with electron microscopic examination of the infectious supernatant, confirmed the diagnosis of paramyxoviruses (PMV).

Haemagglutination inhibition tests with antisera against avian PMV revealed a serological relationship between the snake viruses and the avian PMV serotypes 1 and 7. Tests for thermostability at 56 °C showed a marked decrease of the haemagglutination and infectivity titres in contrast to the avian PMV serotype 7. The multiplication of the snake viruses seemed to be restricted to incubation temperatures below 37 °C. At 28 °C the snake viruses could be cultivated in several cell cultures. Separation of virus proteins using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed differences between the snake isolates and avian PMVs of serotypes 1 and 7.
Evaluation of Mebendazole Activity on Experimental Murine Toxocariasis by Immune Complexes Determination
Authors: Bardon R. , Cuellar C. , del Aguila C. , Guillen J. L.
Published: May 2010

The mebendazole action on experimental murine toxocariasis, using different formulations and vehicles, was studied by means of the detection of antibodies and immune complexes by ELISA. After inoculation with 1000 embryonated Toxocara canis eggs, BALB/c mice were submitted to the anthelmintic treatment as follows: group 1 (control without treatment); group 2 (mebendazole (MBZ), Lomper®, Steve Laboratories, Barcelona, Spain, suspended in 1% sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) at a dose of 100mg/kg/day); group 3 (MBZ, pure compound suspended in 1% CMC at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day); group 4 (MBZ, pure compound suspended in water at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day); group 5 (MBZ, pure compound, formulated to a solid dispersion at 10% in polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG) then dissolved in water at a dose of 100mg/kg/day); group 6 (MBZ, pure compound, formulated to a solid dispersion at 10% in PEG then dissolved in water at a dose of 50 mg/kg/day); group 7 (MBZ, pure compound, formulated to a solid dispersion at 10% in PEG then dissolved in water at a dose of 25 mg/kg/day). The treatments were administered on days 5–7 post‐inoculation (p.i.) inclusive. The dynamics of the production of the specific antibodies for both excretory‐secretory (ES) antigen or crude extract showed a similar profile as compared to the control group. In groups 2 and 6, from the beginning of the treatment, values of immune complexes fell rapidly and were undetectable for the remainder of the experiment. Reductions of immune complex levels by the 4th‐6th, 2nd‐3rd and 2nd‐5th weeks p.i. were observed from groups 3, 5 and 7, respectively. In the other groups, similar profiles as compared to the control group were observed in the dynamics of the specific immune complexes. The evaluation of chemotherapy by immunological methods is a valid technique for the efficiency of the treatment without the disadvantages of larval recovery from several digested tissues. Mebendazole, pure compound, formulated to a solid dispersion in PEG, then dissolved in water reduced immune complexes from the beginning of the treatment. The larval immobilization produced by MBZ should entail a reduction in their metabolic activity with a reduction in the production of excretory‐secretory substances which are responsible for the formation of immune complexes. The rapid clearance of specific immune complexes together with a total larvae reduction would explain the decrease in specific immune complexes, which detection is a valid technique for monitoring the efficiency of treatment.
Experimental Infection in Mice with Bacillus licheniformis
Authors: Agerholm J. S. , Jensen H. E. , Jensen N. E.
Published: May 2010

The pathogenicity of Bacillus licheniformis was assessed in normal and immunodepressed BALB/c mice. The animals were challenged intravenously with 4 times 107 colony forming units of B. licheniformis (ATCC 14580) and both normal and immunodepressed mice were susceptible. However, the infection was more severe in the immunosuppressed animals. In normal mice, lesions were restricted to the liver and kidneys, while lesions also occurred in other organs of immunodepressed mice. By crossed immunoelectrophoresis it was shown that antigens of B. licheniformis are potent immunogens, and the bacteria could be identified in tissue sections by immunostaining. Immunohistochemically, B. licheniformis was demonstrated in hepatic and pulmonic macrophages, and from some animals the bacteria were also reisolated.
Attempt to Discriminate between Bovine Viral‐diarrhoea Virus Strains using Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Tajima M. , Kirisawa R. , Taguchi M. , Iwai H. , Kawakami Y. , Hagiwara K. , Ohtsuka H. , Sentsui H. , Takahashi K.
Published: May 2010

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was applied to detect bovine viral‐diarrhoea mucosal‐disease virus (BVDV). By the use of properly prepared primers, cytopathogenic NADL, Oregon C24V, Nose, T‐20 and KS86‐1(+) strains, and non‐cytopathogenic New York‐1, No. 12, and KS86‐1(‐) strains could be detected. The PCR system was applied to field isolates of the viruses. All the viruses were detected by the PCR. Four patterns of the PCR amplification were recognized, and it was possible to discriminate between some strains. These results corresponded with the serotype of BVDV, as determined by the serum‐neutralizing test. The BVDV gene was detectable from the leucocytes of infected cattle using the PCR method. Moreover, it was possible to detect and discriminate BVDV strains using one PCR tube that included all primer pairs.
Comparative in vitro Activity of 11 ß‐lactam Antibiotics against 91 Staphylococcus intermedius Strains isolated from Staphylococcal Dermatitis in Dogs
Authors: Piriz S. , de la Fuente R. , Valle J. , Mateos E. , Hurtado M. A. , Cid D. , Ruiz‐Santaquiteria J. A. , Vadillo S.
Published: May 2010

A study was made of the susceptibility of 91 strains ofStaphylococcus intermedius, isolated from staphylococcal dermatitis of dogs, to 11 ß‐lactam antimicrobial agents. The activity of these antimicrobial agents against all strains was tested at pH 7.2 and 8.5. Finally, a comparative study was made of the susceptibility of these micro‐organisms, dividing them into six groups: ß‐lactamase positive and negative, methicillin resistant and susceptible and oxacillin resistant and susceptible. Only three of the 11 antimicrobial agents studied exhibited satisfactory behaviour at the two pH levels studied: mezlocillin, cefazolin and cefalotine. There was a good correlation at pH 8.5 between methicillin‐resistant strains and those resistant to penicillin G, ampicillin, amoxycillin, cefamandole and cefuroxime. This correlation was not observed, however, between oxacillin‐resistant strains and strains resistant to the other antimicrobial agents studied.
Effect of Immunosuppressive Treatment on Eperythrozoon suis Infection and Porcine Peripheral‐blood Natural‐killer‐(NK) cell Activity
Authors: Büttner M. , Plank G. , Heinritzi K.
Published: May 2010

The effects of immunosuppressive treatment on natural‐killer‐cell activity and the manifestation of eperythrozoonosis in swine were investigated. After infection withEperythrozoon suis(E. suis, German Landrace piglets received daily intravenous (i.v.) applications of cyclophosphamide (CY, Endoxan®) on 6 consecutive days. A combined immunosuppressive treatment using azathioprine (Imurek®), a single application of dexamethasone (Devan®), and two injections of anti‐asialo GM1 serum (1:50) was performed with a piglet over a period of 9 days. Leucocyte counts, differential blood‐cell count, and microhaematocrit and rectal temperature were controlled. Direct microscopic observation ofE. suisorganisms was performed in Giemsastained blood smears. Immunosuppressive treatment resulted in relative lymphocytosis and transient agranulocytosis. CY and azathioprine therapy caused a temporary increase ofE. suisorganisms in red blood cells.

Natural‐killer‐(NK) cell activity mediated by nylon‐wool non‐adherent peripheral‐blood mononuclear leucocytes (NAD‐PBML) was recorded during and after immunosuppressive treatment of pigs infected withE. suis. Cytotoxic activity of NK cells was consistently reduced after two CY injections and further decreased to 70–100% of the initial NK‐mediated tumor cell lysis. NAD‐PBML of twoE. suisinfected animals were monitored for cytotoxicity during CY immunosuppressive treatment and were compared to Percoll density separated NK effector cells derived from the same blood sample. Enhancement of NK‐cell activity by density separation of NAD‐PBML was not longer possible on days 3 and 4 during CY treatment, indicating a decrease of NK cells in peripheral blood.In vitro, only a high dose of CY (4 μg/ml) suppressed cytolytic activity of NAD‐PBML.

Short‐term treatment with immunosuppressive agents did not replace splenectomy in inducing clinically apparent eperythrozoonosis.
Untersuchungen zum Antikörperstatus von Wild‐ und Zoovögeln gegen ausgewählte Nutztier‐relevante Erreger
Authors: Ziedler K. , Hlinak A. , Raetz G. , Werner O. , Ebner D.
Published: May 2010

Serum samples from wild birds of 21 species were investigated for antibodies against a broad range of pathogenic microorganisms. Using routine diagnostic methods, antibodies against a choice of relevant viral and bacterial agents were detected.

The epidemiology and the significance of infections in both wild birds and farm poultry are discussed.

Serumproben von Wildvögeln aus 21 Arten wurden auf Antikörper gegen eine Pallete aviärer pathogener Mikroorganismen untersucht. Mittels Methoden aus der Routinediagnostik konnten im Probenmaterial Antikörper gegen eine Auswahl von relevanten viralen und bakteriellen Erregern nachgewiesen werden. Die epidemiologischen Zusammenhänge und die Bedeutung der Infektionen der Wildvögel für das Wirtschaftsgeflügel wird diskutiert.
Phagocytosis of Streptococcus uberis by Bovine Mammary Macrophages: Opsonizing Effect of Bovine Antiserum
Authors: Almeida R. A. , Oliver S. P.
Published: May 2010

Five encapsulated and five non‐encapsulated strains ofStreptococcus uberiswere tested for their ability to resist phagocytosis and intracellular killing by bovine mammary macrophages obtained during the non‐lactating period. The percentage of phagocytosis and intracellular killing of encapsulated strains ranged from 43 to 51 and from 25 to 40, respectively. By contrast, the percentage of phagocytosis and intracellular killing of non‐encapsulated strains ranged from 66 to 74 and from 65 to 75, respectively. Two encapsulated and two non‐encapsulated strains were opsonized with homologous and heterologous pre‐immune and immune bovine sera. Phagocytosis and intracellular killing of encapsulated strains increased significantly when opsonized with serum of cows vaccinated with a homologous and heterologous encapsulated strain. By contrast, no significant differences were observed when serum from cows vaccinated with a non‐encapsulated strain was used. These results suggest that resistance to phagocytosis is a common feature among encapsulated strains ofS. uberis, and that cross‐reactivity exists between encapsulated strains.
First Report of Paratuberculosis (Johne's Disease) in Sheep in Morocco
Authors: Benazzi S. , Berrada J. , Schliesser T.
Published: May 2010

Paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) was suspected in a flock of approximately 1000 sheep after weight losses and scouring had increased in adult animals despite repeated anthelmintic treatment. A total of 10 ewes showing clinical symptoms were submitted to laboratory examination. Gross pathological and histological examination of tissue samples rendered results compatible with Johne's disease in all 10 ewes. The diagnosis could only be confirmed by cultural isolation and identification ofMycobacterium paratuberculosisin the faeces of two ewes. This is considered the first documented isolation ofMycobacterium paratuberculosisin sheep in Morocco.
The Effect of Salinomycin on the Control of Clostridium perfringens Type‐A Infection in Growing Pigs
Authors: Kyriakis S. C. , Sarris K. , Kritas S. K. , Saoulidis K. , Tsinas A. C. , Tsiloyiannis V. K.
Published: May 2010

Salinomycin (SAL), an ionophorous polyether antibiotic with growth promoter properties in pigs, has proved to be effective in controlling swine dysentery, porcine intestinal adenomatosis, and porcine haemorrhagic enteropathy. This study examines the ability of SAL to controlC. perfringenstype‐A infection in growing pigs under field conditions. For 2 months, two groups of weaned pigs were offered feed either free of antibiotics, or medicated with 60 ppm and 30 ppm SAL for the first and second month respectively, and were compared with regard to their performance. The results showed that, whilst treatment did not have an effect on the mortality of pigs, the duration of pig diarrhoea during the trial period has been markedly reduced in the SAL group. Laboratory examinations have additionally shown that the number of carrier piglets has been reduced by SAL medication. Finally, treated pigs gained more weight and had a better feed‐conversion ratio than untreated pigs during the 2‐month trial period. It was concluded that SAL at the registered dose range, used as performance enhancer, can be helpful in controllingC. perfringenstype‐A infection in growing pigs.
In vitro Efficacy of Cefquinome (INN) and other Anti‐infective Drugs against Bovine Bacterial Isolates from Belgium, France, Germany, The Netherlands, and the United Kingdom
Authors: Böttner A. , Schmid P. , Humke R.
Published: May 2010

The in vitro antibacterial activity of cefquinome (INN), an aminothiazolyl‐cephalosporin of the fourth generation of cephalosporins, was investigated by determining the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC, μg/ml) for 714 bacterial isolates of bovine origin and comparing it with those of amoxicillin, amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, ceftiofur, cephapirin, enrofloxacin, gentamicin, kanamycin and oxytetracycline.

Drug resistance was determined by using break‐points, which consider the dosage regimen and pharmacokinetics of the veterinary antimicrobials investigated. Cefquinome demonstrated a very high in vitro activity against bacterial isolates of Pasteurella spp., Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. Overall, the level of resistance against the different anti‐infectives tested was lowest for cefquinome. For the remaining substances examined, in vitro activity and the level of resistance showed considerable differences.

The chemical and pharmaceutical features of cefquinome are discussed.
Bovine Leukaemia‐virus Infection in Costa Rica
Authors: Jiménez C. , Bonilla J. A. , Dolz G. , Rodriguez L. R. , Herrero L. , Bolaños E. , Cortéz M. R. , Moreno E.
Published: May 2010

The geographical distribution of bovine leukaemia‐virus (BLV)‐infected herds in Costa Rica and the isolation of BLV from cases of enzootic bovine leukosis are presented. It was found that BLV is prevalent throughout the country, affecting mostly dairy cattle (Bos taurus) located in the highlands around the central valley of Costa Rica. By contrast, beef cattle (Bos indicus) raised in the lowlands were affected to a lesser extent. One out of four isolates of BLV obtained from local cattle with lymphosarcomatous tumours was analysed and had similar physical, serological and biological characteristics to a reference strain of BLV isolated in the USA. However, different patterns of recognition of BLV‐protein p24 were observed among naturally infected cattle using the western‐blotting technique.
Rapid Growth and Increased Biomass Yield of Mycobacterium farcinogenes and Some Related Taxa in Broth and Agar Media
Authors: Hamid M. E. , Goodfellow M.
Published: May 2010

A broth medium containing yeast extract (4 g/l), glucose (15 g/l), magnesium sulphate (0.5 g/l), tri‐sodium citrate (1.5 g/l), potassium sulphate (0.5 g/l), ammonium ferric citrate (trace) and buffered with potassium di‐hydrogen phosphate (5 g/l) was formulated and found to support a luxuriant growth of Mycobacterium farcinogenes strains that was superior to the conventional media used before. Similar results were obtained with M. senegalense strains and with representatives of the genera Gordona, Mycobacterium, Nocardia, Rhodococcus and Tsukamurella. Out of 13 diverse agar‐based media, M. farcinogenes was found to grow particularly well on Mueller Hinton's medium, followed, in order of decreasing growth rate, by modified Bennett's, DST, tryptic soya and glucose yeast extract agars.
Comparative Studies on Group‐B Streptococci Isolated from Bovine Milk Samples in Thuringia and Hesse
Authors: Bopp V. , Lämmler Ch.
Published: May 2010

In this study, 133 streptococci of serological group B, which were isolated from bovine milk samples in Thuringia and Hesse, were serotyped and further characterized. Serotyping of 99 group B streptococci from Thuringia revealed mainly the antigen patterns III, IV, IV/X and NT/X, and serotyping of the cultures from Hesse revealed mainly the antigen patterns IV, IV/X and NT/cα. The occurrence of polysaccharide‐ and protein‐type antigens appeared to be related to various other characteristics of the bacteria. A significant relationship was observed among serotype, growth properties of the bacteria in fluid media and soft agar, and the occurrence of pigmentation. In addition, fibrinogen‐binding properties of the bacteria and the ability to agglutinate rabbit erythrocytes seemed to be related to specific serotypes of the group‐B streptococci. All these data were used to characterize group‐B streptococcal isolates individually. This could be of importance in epidemiological studies and might help to explain the process of infection with this micro‐organism.
Brain Malformations in Ovine Fetuses Associated with the Cytopathogenic Biotype of Bovine Viral‐diarrhoea Virus
Authors: Gruber A. D. , Hewicker‐Trautwein M. , Liess B. , Trautwein G.
Published: May 2010

A total of six ewes were intravenously inoculated at between 65 and 68 days of gestation with the Indiana strain of bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV), containing both non‐cytopathogenic (ncp) and cytopathogenic (cp) biotypes. Eight transplacentally infected fetuses were sequentially removed from the infected ewes and were found to have inflammatory lesions and malformations of the brain. BVDV RNA was isolated from formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded brain tissue sections and detected by nested polymerase chain reaction after reverse transcription. The two biotypes of BVDV were distinguished by the fact that a sequence insertion in the RNA of the cp biotype of the inoculum results in larger amplicons. Only RNA from cp BVDV was detected in three of the brains removed up to 14 days post‐inoculation (p.i.), and no BVDV RNA was detected after more than 14 days p.i. These findings suggest that, in critical phases of development, cp BVDV may transplacentally infect the ovine fetal brain and cause malformations.
Changes in Bovine Mammary‐secretion Composition During Early Involution Following Intramammary Infusion of Recombinant Bovine Cytokines
Authors: Rejman J.J. , Luther D. A. , Owens W. E. , Nickerson S. C. , Oliver S. P.
Published: May 2010

This study was designed to determine whether intramammary infusion of recombinant bovine interleukin‐1 β or interleukin‐2 had any adverse influence on bovine mammary function during the early non‐lactating period. Mammary glands of eight Jersey cows were infused with either 10 μg of interleukin‐1 β or 1.0 mg of interleukin‐2 following abrupt cessation of milking. Mammary secretions from each gland were collected from cows frequently during early involution and evaluated for changes in secretion composition. Percentage of milk fat and solids‐not‐fat during the experimental period was variable for all treatments. Percentage of protein increased throughout the study for all treatments, but mammary glands treated with interleukin‐1 β had higher protein percentages. All interleukin‐treated mammary glands had lower concentrations of lactose than controls. Mammary secretions from interleukin‐1 β treated glands had higher concentrations of lactoferrin at 7 and 14 days of involution. Similarly, mammary secretions from interleukin‐2 treated glands had higher concentrations of serum albumin on day 3 of involution and throughout the remainder of the study. Concentration of citrate and the citrate: lactoferrin molar ratio generally decreased throughout the study for all treatment groups. Concentration of α‐lactalbumin in mammary secretions decreased throughout the study and was not different between treatment groups. Though significant changes in mammary secretion composition due to the presence of cytokines were observed in this study, resulting in an apparent acceleration of involution, there was no indication that these changes adversely affected normal bovine mammary function during the early non‐lactating period.
Gross and Light‐microscopic Features of Ovine Pulmonary Hydatidosis and Verminous Pneumonias in Morocco*
Authors: Bouljihad M. , Berrag B. , Leipold H. W.
Published: May 2010

Verminous pneumonias appear to be common in sheep in Morocco, therefore, a systematic study was undertaken to classify the pulmonary changes induced by various parasites in Morocco. A total of 613 pairs of lungs with parasitic pneumonias were diagnosed in 1152 young and adult sheep either slaughtered at two abattoirs in Morocco (487 out of 1152 sheep) or received at necropsy services (126 out of 1152 sheep) over a 15‐month period. Based on gross and microscopic findings, four types of pulmonary changes were classified. Included were those associated with: 1. The larvae of Taenia echinococcus (Echinococcus granulosus (canine tapeworm); 520 out of 613 lungs (84.8%)); 2. Muellerius capillaris (450 out of 613 lungs (79.9%)); 3. Protostrongylus rufescens (375 out of 613 lungs (61.1%)); and 4. Dictyocaulus filaria (285 out of 613 lungs (46.4%)). Mixed infestations, involving the presence of two, three, or four species of parasites in the same lung, were encountered in 325 out of 613 (53%) lungs studied. Red‐to‐brownish consolidated areas, confined to the cranial parts of the lung, were observed frequently in some lungs affected with M. capillaris and P. rufescens. In most of the lungs, co‐existent emphysematous, atelectatic, and abscessed areas were seen.
Is Enterotoxaemia in Grasscutters (Thryonomys swinderianus) Caused by C. perfringens Toxovars?
Authors: Müller W.
Published: May 2010

In 1985, in a colony of domesticated grasscutters in Cotonou/Benin (West Africa), an endemic disease that caused severe losses of up to 50 percent of the population was found. The animals regularly showed a necrotic small intestine and strongly reddened and granulated (like a raspberry) Peyer's plaques of the whole small intestine protruding into the intestinal lumen; the latter has never been described in other necrotic enteriditis caused by C. perfringens. In further investigations (Schrägle and Müller, 1989), C. perfringens strains were typed and isolated from the faeces of healthy animals, and 81.6% belonging to the type C were found, a type that causes severe necrotic enteritis in pigs. Two figures show the pathologic‐anatomic findings. Meanwhile, the disease was eradicated by the use of a prophylactic vaccination.
Equine Viral Arteritis with Abortions: Serological and Virological Evidence in Germany
Authors: Eichhorn W. , Heilmann M. , Kaaden O.‐R.
Published: May 2010

An outbreak of clinical disease with abortions, suspected to be equine viral arteritis in Germany was examined serologically and virologically. Three of five animals tested seroconverted to EAV, and EAV was isolated from an aborted fetus. In view of the significant increase in seropositive horses, the need for control measures is emphasized.
Differentiation of Wild‐ and Vaccine‐type Canine Parvoviruses by PCR and Restriction‐enzyme Analysis
Authors: Hirasawa T. , Yono K. , Mikazuki K.
Published: May 2010

The polymerase‐chain reaction (PCR) and restriction‐fragment‐length‐polymorphism (RFLP) analysis were used to differentiate the wild‐ and vaccine‐type of canine parvovirus (CPV) in Japan. The entire coding region of the CPV genome was enzymatically amplified, and the PCR products of three wild strains and four vaccine strains were analysed using RFLP assay. Then, two polymorphic regions in the VP1/VP2 gene were selected to generate strain‐specific RFLP patterns. By using four restriction enzymes, wild and vaccine strains were clearly differentiated; only two vaccine strains, probably of the same origin, were indistinguishable from each other. The wild strains retained strain‐specific RFLP patterns throughoutin vitropassage, and there was no diversity of RFLP patterns among the different lots of vaccine strains. A total of 21 recent field samples were tested, showing RFLP patterns identical to those of a wild strain isolated in 1991. These results suggest that the PCR‐RFLP analysis is a practical and reliable method of differentiating wild‐ and vaccine‐type CPVs.
Adherence of Haemagglutinating Streptococci of Serological Group B to Alveolar Macrophages of Rabbits
Authors: Bopp V. , Lämmler Ch. , Herrmann G.
Published: May 2010

In this study, selected haemagglutination‐positive and haemagglutination‐negative streptococci of serological group B were investigated in HeLa‐cell‐ and alveolar‐macrophage adherence tests. The cultures, isolated from bovine milk samples, had been previously serotyped and further characterized. All haemagglutination‐positive group B streptococci adhered in high numbers to HeLa cells and alveolar‐macrophages of rabbits. Haemagglutination‐negative group B streptococci showed no comparable adherence. The adherence to alveolar‐macrophages of rabbits was further characterized. This adherence appeared to be time‐ and temperature‐dependent and could be inhibited by heat or proteolytic treatment of the bacteria. After opsonization of the bacteria, an adherence to alveolar‐macrophages could also be observed for haemagglutination‐negative group B streptococci, indicating a separate adherence mechanism. The group B streptococcal adherence might represent an important prerequisite for invasion and possibly intracellular survival of this bacterial species.
Clinical and Electroencephalographic Findings of Inflammatory and Infectious Diseases of the Central Nervous System in Dogs: a Retrospective Study
Authors: Mariscoli M. , Jaggy A.
Published: May 2010

In the present study medical records of 97 dogs with inflammatory /infectious diseases of the central nervous system (CNS), including 26 dogs with a history of seizures, were retrospectively examined. The aims of the study were to analyse the incidence rate of seizures, to search for criteria to recognize specific inflammatory diseases and to determine how far electroencephalography may be useful in the early confirmation of encephalitis and encephalitis‐associated seizures. The incidence rate of seizures in this dog population was 26.8 %, and dogs with protozoal encephalitis had the highest rate. Signalment, history, extraneural and neurological signs including localization contributed only a little to a specific diagnosis. Surprisingly focal clinical signs were observed in two‐thirds of the dogs. Either focal or multifocal clinical signs were related mainly to the forebrain in dogs with a history of seizures and to the brainstem in dogs without seizures. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analyses were useful to separate encephalitis from other CNS diseases and to distinguish certain conditions from others in approximately half the cases. Electroencephalography (EEG) revealed two distinct patterns in 25 examined dogs with histopathologically confirmed disease entities, which were characterized by high voltage, slow activity (HVSA) with superimposed low voltage, fast activity (LVFA). These changes were consistent and no significant differences (P > 0.05) between dogs with and without seizures, nor between different disease entities, were noted. However, all the dogs with seizures had in addition a uniform paroxysmal EEG activity with a high voltage (mean = 106.3 μV), fast activity (mean = 8.5 Hz) pattern. Moreover in several dogs from the present study this pattern had a focal distribution despite the fact that clinically seizures appear generalized. Therefore it was concluded that EEG may be a very helpful diagnostic tool to confirm an early diagnosis of encephalitis and to separate potential seizure cases from those without seizures.
Prevalence of Bacterial Enteropathogens in Pet Dogs in Trinidad
Authors: Adesiyun A. A. , Campbell M. , Kaminjolo J. S.
Published: May 2010

The rectal swabs of diarrhoeic and apparently healthy non‐diarrhoeic dogs presented to a Small Animal Clinic were cultured forEscherichia coli, SalmonellaandCampylobacterand the enteropathogens were characterized. Overall, of 130 dogs divided equally into two groups consisting of 65 diarrhoeic and 65 non‐diarrhoeic dogs, 99 (76.2%), 6 (4.6%) and 18 (13.8%) were positive forE. coli, SalmonellaandCampylobacter, respectively. The differences were statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05; χ2). The prevalences of the enteropathogens in diarrhoeic and non‐diarrhoeic dogs were not statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05; χ2). Diarrhoea was significantly (P ≤ 0.01; χ2) more prevalent in dogs less than 6 months of age and 7 months to 1 year old than in dogs older than 1 year. The prevalences ofSalmonella, E. coliand enteropathogenicE. coli(EPEC) strains were not significantly (P ≤ 0.05; χ2) associated with age but the prevalence ofCampylobacterinfection was significantly (P ≤ 0.01; χ2) higher in dogs less than 1 year old (25.0%) than in older dogs (5.4%). Of 99E. colistrains tested, three (3.0%), four (4.0%), five (5.1%) and 20 (20.2%) were haemolytic, non‐sorbitol fermenters, verocytotoxigenic (VT) and EPEC strains, respectively. Resistance to tetracycline (59.6%) and ampicillin (50.5%) was most prevalent and significantly (P ≤ 0.01; χ2) higher than to six other antimicrobial agents.
Electroencephaloghic Findings of Encephalitis in Beagle Dogs Experimentally Infected with Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
Authors: Accatino A. , Jaggy A. , Gaillard C. , Aeschbacher G.
Published: May 2010

The present research study had two goals. Firstly, the effect of medetomidine/propofol on the electroencephalographic (EEG) recordings of nine SPF dogs was analysed. It was found that the basic pooled pattern of EEG recordings was characterized by a mean amplitude of 28 uV (range = 15–70 uV) and mean frequency of 1.8 Hz (range = 1–2.5 Hz), with superimposed low voltage (amplitude range = 4–20 uV; mean 14 uV) and fast activity (frequency range = 10–27 Hz; mean 18 Hz). All results were significantly constant (P < 0.05) and accurately reproducible (R = 0.70).

The second goal was to investigate the value of EEG findings from dogs experimentally infected with canine distemper virus (CDV) under the same anaesthetic conditions, for the diagnosis of encephalitis. It was found that the EEG traces were characterized by high voltage, slow activity (HVSA) with superimposed low voltage, fast activity (LVFA). By comparing the mean values of amplitude and frequency for each single phase at different time intervals, it was found that only the mean value of the superimposed frequency was linearly distributed and changed significantly (P < 0.001). Thus, at least three readings should be taken from phase III of the EEG recording in order to obtain accurate values. The study has shown that electroencephalography can supply valuable information in cases of CDV encephalitis and can assist greatly in the differential diagnosis.
Study on the Suitability of Sow Colostrum for the Serological Diagnosis of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS)
Authors: Eichhorn G. , Frost J. W.
Published: May 2010

Serum and colostrum from 73 sows were collected. The serum samples were tested by Immuno Peroxidase Monolayer Assay (IPMA) and the corresponding colostrum samples with the indirect Immuno Fluorescent Antibody (IFA) technique. All serum positive sows were colostrum positive and all colostrum negative were serum negative. Eight sows only reacted positively in the colostral testing. Compared to the serum standard test the specificity was 82.6% and the sensitivity 100%. The observed agreement between both tests was 89.2%. In addition all serum samples were also tested with the IF test (IFT). Of the eight sows which were negative in the IPMA serum test and positive in the IFA colostrum test, three were found positive when the serum was tested with IFA. Consequently, the observed agreement was higher at 93.2%.

After the suitability of colostrum for porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) diagnosis was demonstrated, 1915 colostrum samples collected from 135 different farms were tested in a comparative study with the IPMA and IFA techniques. Of the 1915 colostrum samples 139 were positive with both IPMA and IFA. With IPMA only, 43 samples were positive compared with 192 samples found positive with the IFA technique. A total of 1541 samples were negative in both tests. The observed agreement between both tests was 87.5%. The quotient of the observed agreement minus chance agreement and the maximum possible agreement beyond chance level (Kappa Quotient) was 0.49.

In 90% of the farms that tested IFA positive there was a seroconversion of more than 50% of all colostrum tested. By comparison only 29% of the IPMA positive farms were positive with more than 50%.

Based on the epidemiological findings on PRRS it was concluded that the IFA technique indicates a higher sensitivity for the detection of PRRS virus antibodies in sow colostrum. Finally the possible advantages and disadvantages of sow colostrum testing and serum testing are discussed.
Ultrastructural Findings in Natural Canine Hepatozoonosis
Authors: Hervás J. , Carrasco L. , Sierra M. A. , Méndez A. , Gómez‐Villamandos J. C.
Published: May 2010

The ultrastructure of several stages of Hepatozoon canis found in dogs with clinically and histologically diagnosed infections was determined using transmission electron microscopy. Merozoites, macro‐ and microschizonts and gamonts were found in spleen, liver, kidneys and lungs. Macro‐ and micromeronts were characterized by their size and by the presence of intracytoplasmic amylopectin granules. Gamonts, which provide the basis for clinical diagnosis of the disease, were observed within mononuclear cells (monocytes/macrophages); they were butterfly‐shaped and exhibited varying electron densities. On the basis of the microscopic observations reported here, it is clear that the life cycle of H. canis is a complex one.
Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cell Functions Required for Invasion of Staphylococcus aureus into Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells
Authors: Almeida R. A. , Matthews K. R. , Oliver S. P.
Published: May 2010

Eukaryotic and prokaryotic cellular functions required for invasion of Staphylococcus aureus into bovine mammary epithelial cells were investigated. Two strains of S. aureus isolated from milk of cows with clinical mastitis, a primary bovine mammary epithelial cell culture and a bovine mammary epithelial cell line were pretreated with inhibitors of nucleic acid and protein synthesis. In addition, mammary epithelial cells were pretreated with inhibitors of receptor‐mediated endocytosis and oxidative phosphorylation. Protein and nucleic acid synthesis in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and eukaryotic oxidative phosphorylation were required for invasion of S. aureus into mammary epithelial cells. Inhibition of receptor‐mediated endocytosis caused a significant reduction in the number of invading S. aureus. These results suggest that invasion of S. aureus into bovine mammary epithelial cells occurs through a receptor‐mediated endocytosis process. Furthermore, eukaryotic oxidative metabolism, protein synthesis and nucleic acid synthesis as well as bacterial protein synthesis are required for bacterial invasion.
Borna Disease Virus (BDV), a (Zoonotic?) Worldwide Pathogen. A review of the History of the Disease and the Virus Infection with Comprehensive Bibliography
Authors: Dürrwald Ralf , Ludwig Hanns
Published: May 2010

A comprehensive history of Borna disease virus (BDV) and this infection, including the complete bibliography, is presented. Over the last 200 years, descriptions of this ‘head disease’ of horses (‘Kopfkrankheit der Pferde’) have been given. Considerable losses in the horse population (<0.8%) led to intensive clinical and (neuro‐)pathological investigations of this meningitis cerebrospinalis which occurs with faint behavioural changes, occasionally followed by severe neurological symptomatology and death. The broad experimental host range reflects infections in nature which include horses, sheep, cattle, cats, dogs, rodents, ostriches, and some zoo animals. BDV infections are associated with phylogentically old brain areas, and the retina. Occasionally, expression in the autonomic nervous system occurs, besides its neurotropism BDV can spread to peripheral organs, especially to epithelial tissues and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Infections of humans that can be monitored by antibodies, antigens or nucleic acids in blood samples are prominent features of future interest. BDV, the prototype of the family Bornaviridae is an enveloped spherical virus carrying an 8.9 kb single‐stranded, non‐segmented RNA with negative polarity which replicates in the nucleus. These features together with its considerable genetic stability make this non‐cytopathogenic virus an evolutionary ‘old pathogen’ in nature.
In vitro Activity of Climbazole, Clotrimazole and Silver‐sulphadiazine against Isolates of Malassezia pachydermatis
Authors: Schmidt A.
Published: May 2010

Malassezia pachydermatis is a yeast‐like, mainly zoophilic fungus, also known as Malassezia canis. It can be isolated in 20–50% from normal ear cerumen specimen from dogs or cats and has an even higher prevalence in non‐suppurative otitis externa in animal species such as these. The genus Malassezia contains the two species M. furfur, a mainly anthropophilic fungus which physiologically occurs on human skin, and M. pachydermatis. We performed Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)‐testings of 40 clinical isolates of M. pachydermatis against climbazole (CLIM), clotrimazole (CLOT) and silver‐sulphadiazine (SILV). While CLOT and CLIM are broad‐spectrum antimycotics of the azole‐type, SILV is a sulphonamide compound with antibacterial and antimycotic properties used topically in veterinary medicine. For CLIM, the range of MICs was between < 0.06 and 1 μg/ml with an empirical median x̄ of 0.06 μg/ml; for CLOT the range was between < 0.06 and 32 μg/ml (x̄ = 4 μg/ml), respectively. The MICs for SILV ranged between 0.25 and > 64 μg/ml (x̄ = 16 μg/ml) against all tested strains. In conclusion, the two azole‐antimycotics CLIM and CLOT showed good in vitro activity against M. pachydermatis. The activity of CLIM was even higher than that of CLOT, which might be due to the better water solubility of CLIM. The activity of SILV was significantly lower.

Malassezia pachydermatis ist ein hefeähnlicher, hauptsächlich zoophiler Pilz, der auch als Malassezia canis bekannt ist. Der Pilz kann in 20 bis 50% aus Ohrabstrichen von Hund und Katze isoliert werden und hat eine besonders hohe Prävalenz in Untersuchungsmaterialien bei nicht‐suppurativer Otitis externa bei Tierspezies wie Hund und Katze. Die Gattung Malassezia beinhaltet die zwei Spezies M. pachydermatis und M. furfur, wobei M. furfur ein vornehmlich anthropophiler Pilz ist, der physiologischerweise auf der menschlichen Haut vorkommt. Wir führten Minimale Hemmstoff Konzentration (MHK)‐Testungen an 40 klinischen Isolaten von M. pachydermatis für Climbazol (CLIM), Clotrimazol (CLOT) und Silber‐Sulphadiazin (SILB) durch. CLOT und CLIM sind Breitspektrum‐Antimykotika aus der Azol‐Gruppe, SILB ist ein Sulphonamid mit antibakteriellen und antimykotischen Eigenschaften, das in der Veterinärmedizin als topisches Präparat benutzt wird. Für CLIM lag die Spannweite der MHK‐Werte zwischen <0,06 und 1 μg/ml mit einem empirischen Median x̄ von 0,06 μg/ml und für CLOT zwischen < 0,06 und 32 μg/ml (x̄ = 4 μg/ml). Für SILB zeigten die MHK‐Werte eine Spannweite zwischen 0,25 und >64 μg/ml (x̄ = 16 μg/ml). Die beiden Azol‐Antimykotika CLIM und CLOT zeigten somit eine gute in vitro Aktivität gegenüber M. pachydermatis. Die Aktivität von CLIM war besser als die von CLOT, was durch die bessere Wasserlöslichkeit von CLIM bedingt sein kann. SILB zeigte eine deutlich schwächere in vitro Aktivität gegenüber den getesteten Stämmen von M. pachydermatis.
Computer Aided Assignment of Motile Aeromonas Strains to Genospecies Level by Standard Biochemical Tests
Authors: Brunner B. , Stolle A.
Published: May 2010

A procedure is given for differentiation of motile Aeromonas spp. Based on nine to 12 biochemical properties it allows an assignment of isolated Aeromonas strains first to phenotypes and, in the second step, to hybridization groups (HGs) 1–13 as well as to the genotypically defined species Aer. allosaccharophila and Aer. encheleia. The computer aided classification is carried out according to the principles of numerical taxonomy. Using this differentiation scheme 23 Aeromonas strains, which were isolated from food, and two reference strains were speciated. A total of 16 strains were assigned to Aer. hydrophila, six strains to Aer. caviae and one strain to Aer. sobria. Of the 16 Aer. hydrophila strains, 11 were attached to HG 1, one to HG 2 and four could not be classified clearly as HG 3 or HG 1. All six Aer. caviae isolated were assigned to HG 5 and the Aer. sobria strain was ranked among HG 8. The reference strains were assigned to the same genotypes by this method than by DNA‐DNA hybridization assays.
Experimental Infection with Ehrlichia phagocytophila and Babesia divergens in Cattle
Authors: Brun‐Hansen H. , Christensson D. A. , Hardeng F. , Grønstø H.
Published: May 2010

Nine Norwegian Red Cattle, 9–12 months old, were inoculated simultaneously with Ehrlichia (Cytoecetes) phagocytophila and Babesia divergens. Ten cattle of the same breed and age were kept as controls. Clinical evaluation was done on a daily basis and rectal temperatures were recorded every morning for 4 weeks post inoculation. Blood and serum samples were collected regularly during the observation period. Sera were examined for the presence of antibodies to E. phagocytophila and B. divergens by an indirect immunofluorescence antibody test. All infected animals showed two periods of fever that corresponded to the proliferation of B. divergens and E. phagocytophila in the peripheral blood. The simultaneous infection did not induce more severe clinical symptoms than infection with either organism alone. Compared with the control group, there was a 25% decrease in the mean haematocrit. The leukogram showed a biphasic pattern and corresponded to the changes seen in infection with either organism alone. The simultaneous infection did not suppress antibody formation towards E. phagocytophila or B. divergens.
A fatal case of Listeria Endocarditis in a Man Following his Tending of Goats Suggests an Epidemiological Link which is not Supported by the Results
Authors: Danielsson‐Tham M.‐L. , Prag M. , Rocourt J. , Seeliger H. , Tham W. , Vikerfors T.
Published: May 2010

A man died in endocarditis due to listeriosis in the late autumn. He had been looking after two goats during the summer. Listeria monocyto?enes was isolated from a rectal swab from one of the goats. The goat faeces isolate and the human blood isolate were of identical serovar. The two isolates, however, were shown to be different by multilocus electrophoretic enzyme analysis and ribotyping, as well as by biotyping, Thus, these results do not support the hypothesis that the man was infected by the goat.