bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of dietary protein level and cold exposure on tissue responsiveness and sensitivity to insulin in sheep
Authors: Sano H. , Terashima Y.
Published: March 2003

The effects of dietary crude protein (CP) level and cold exposure on tissue responsiveness and sensitivity to insulin were studied in sheep. Nine rams were assigned to one of three isoenergetic diets which contained 70, 100, and 140% of CP for maintenance. They were exposed from a thermoneutral environment (20 °C) to a cold environment (0 °C) for 7 days. A hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp approach was applied for the determination of tissue responsiveness to insulin (the maximal glucose infusion rate, GIRmax) and tissue sensitivity to insulin (the plasma insulin concentration at half maximal glucose infusion rate, ED50). Dietary CP level influenced digestibilities of dry matter and CP (P=0.002 and P=0.001, respectively), and cold exposure decreased (P=0.01) CP digestibility. The GIRmax and ED50 tended to be influenced (P=0.08) by dietary CP level. The GIRmax was enhanced (P=0.0001) during cold exposure. Significant interactions between diet and environment were found for the GIRmax (P=0.04), but not for ED50 (P=0.07). It is concluded that in sheep dietary CP level can modify insulin action in response to cold exposure.
Hydrolysis of phytic acid by intrinsic plant and supplemented microbial phytase (Aspergillus niger) in the stomach and small intestine of minipigs fitted with re‐entrant cannulas
Authors: Rapp C. , Lantzsch H.‐J. , Drochner W.
Published: March 2003

Hydrolysis of phytate in the stomach and the small intestine as influenced by intrinsic plant (wheat) and supplemented microbial phytase (A. niger) were investigated with six minipigs (40–50 kg initial BW) fitted with re‐entrant cannulas in the duodenum, 30 cm posterior to the pylorus (animals 1, 4, 5, and 6) and ileocecal re‐entrant cannulas, 5 cm prior the ileocecal junction (animals 1, 2, and 3), respectively. Dietary treatments were as follows: (1) diet 1, a corn‐based diet (43 U phytase/kg DM); (2) diet 2, diet 1 supplemented with microbial phytase (818 U/kg DM) and (3) diet 3, a wheat‐based diet (1192 U/kg DM). At 0730 and 1930 per animal 350 g diet mixed with 1050 ml de‐ionized water were fed. Digesta were collected continuously and completely during 12 h after feeding.

In the duodenal digesta, 70% of the microbial phytase (diet 2) and 45% of the wheat phytase (diet 3) were recovered within 12 h after ingestion of the phytases, whereas only negligible amounts were detected in the digesta of pigs fed the phytase‐poor corn‐based diet 1. Most phytase activity passed through the stomach within the first hour after feeding.

Microbial phytase activity at pH 2.8 was less sensitive to acidic pHs, such as those found in the stomach, than phytase activity at pH 5.3.

Phytase activities in the digesta of the distal ileum did not depend either on source or amount of dietary phytase activity.
A brief note on sexual differences in pupae of the horse‐chestnut leaf miner, Cameraria ohridellaDeschka & Dimic (1986) (Lep., Gracillariidae), a new pest in Central Europe on Aesculus hippocastanum
Authors: Freise J. , Heitland W.
Published: March 2003

The horse‐chestnut leaf miner, Cameraria ohridellaDeschka & Dimic (1986), is a new pest of horse‐chestnut in Central and Eastern Europe. To combat it, for example, by pheromones, experiments which require a differentiation of sexes are necessary. Here an easy method to distinguish the sexes by morphological characters of the pupae is described.
Adult size and reproduction in the ectoparasitoid Agrothereutes lanceolatus Walker (Hym., Ichneumonidae)
Authors: Ueno T.
Published: March 2003

The effects of adult male and female size on reproductive performance in Agrothereutes lanceolatus Walker, a solitary ectoparasitoid of mature larvae and pupae of several pyralids and tortricids, were investigated. Females had a longer mean lifetime than males. Larger females lived longer, whereas the size of males did not influence the longevity. The number of ovarioles per female did not differ among females of different sizes but larger females carried a greater number of mature and immature eggs. When presented with host cocoons, large females parasitized a higher percentage of hosts than small females. This was due to the fact that larger females accepted more hosts for oviposition whereas smaller ones rejected more hosts. Small and large females used equal numbers of hosts for host‐feeding, suggesting that large females removed a greater amount of materials from single hosts through host‐feeding.
Effect of nutrition of parasites with nectar of melliferous plants on parasitism of the elm bark beetles (Col., Scolytidae)
Authors: Manojlovic B. , Zabel A. , Kostic M. , Stankovic S.
Published: March 2003

In the forest of Kljestevica, the elm is attacked by four species of elm bark beetles: Scolytus multistriatus (Marsh.), Scolytus scolytus (Fab.), Scolytus pygmaeus (Fab.) and Scolytus ensifer (Rich.) (Col., Scolytidae). Scolytus multistriatus and S. pygmaeus are the most numerous species. Elm bark beetle is parasitized by four species of parasites: Dendrosoter protuberans (Nees), Ecphylus silesiacus (Ratz.), Coeloides scolyticida (Wesm.) (Hym., Braconidae) and Entedon leucogramma (Ratz.) (Hym., Eulophidae). Ecphylus silesiacus and D. protuberans are the most numerous species. The nectar of mustard (Sinapis alba L., Brassicaceae) flowers, sweet basil (Stachys recta L., Lamiaceae) flowers and of wild carrot (Daucus carota L., Umbelliferae), has an important effect on the number of parasites and on the parasitism of the elm bark beetles. Wild carrot is the most attractive plant to the parasites for additional nutrition, especially for D. protuberans. Mustard and sweet basil flowers are suitable for additional nutrition of E. silesiacus imagos. On meadow flowers growing spontaneously in forest clearings, the lowest number of parasite imagos was collected by an entomological catcher, and the lowest percentage of parasitized larvae and eggs of the elm bark beetle was recorded in elm control catch trunks that were not near the cultivated melliferous plants.
Studies in cotton fields in Egypt on the effects of pheromone mating disruption on Pectinophora gossypiella (Saund.) (Lep., Gelechiidae), on the occurrence of other arthropods, and on yields
Authors: Boguslawski C. v. , Basedow T.
Published: March 2003

In 1999, in the Governorate of Fayum, Egypt, an organically managed area of 66 ha (33 ha of cotton) was subjected to pheromone mating disruption (MD) in order to control Pectinophora gossypiella (PBW). Tripherone‐PecGos dispensers (Trifolio‐M Comp., Lahnau, Germany), evaporating 0.7 mg pheromone per day, were applied, at a density of 300 dispensers per hectare, in mid‐June when the first bolls were forming. In a neighbouring area of conventional agriculture, no PBW‐MD was used. Instead, two insecticides were sprayed in the cotton fields: Profenophos in early July, and Esfenvalerate in early August. Two cotton fields (0.5–1 ha each) were studied in each area. Boll infestation by PBW was low in the area with mating disruption, and significantly higher in the conventionally managed cotton, prior to insecticide use (June) and in August 1999. Bemisia tabaci, Aphis gossypii and Empoasca lybica infested conventional cotton in significantly higher numbers than organic cotton. Spiders proved to be more common in organically grown cotton (with PBW‐MD) than in conventionally managed cotton (with mineral fertilizers and insecticides). The reasons of these differences are discussed. In 1998, the cotton yield had shown no differences between organically and conventionally managed farms (both used insufficient PBW‐MD). However, in 1999, the yield from the organically grown cotton (with MD) was significantly (52%) more than that from conventionally managed cotton (with insecticides). In this study, PBW‐MD proved to be superior to insecticides in several aspects.
Life table and biological studies of Harmonia axyridis Pallas (Col., Coccinellidae) reared on the grain moth eggs of Sitotroga cerealella Olivier (Lep., Gelechiidae)
Authors: Abdel‐Salam A. H. , Abdel‐Baky N. F.
Published: March 2003

The developmental period of immature stages, survival per cent, longevity, fecundity and life table parameters of Harmonia axyridis by feeding on fresh and frozen grain moth eggs (GME) of Sitotroga cerealella were studied under laboratory conditions. The effect of crowding adults on fecundity of females was also determined. The total developmental time from egg hatching to adult eclosion ranged from 18.89 ± 0.32 to 22.5 ± 0.21 days on fresh and frozen GME, respectively. Survival per cent from egg hatching to adult emergence differed significantly when the predator fed on the two diets of GME. Also, pupal and adult weights were affected by feeding on fresh and frozen GME. There were no significant differences in longevity of females, while there were significant variations in fecundity of females and longevity of males. The calculated values of T, DT, Ro, rm, and erm were high by feeding on fresh GME. Morever, rates of survivorship (Lx), and maximum oviposition per female per day (Mx) were higher when the predator was reared on fresh than on frozen GME. Crowding conditions of predator adults affected the fecundity of females due to egg cannibalism by both males and females of the predator.
Spatial dynamics of lepidopterous pests on Zea mays (L.) and Pennisetum purpureum (Moench) in the forest zone of Cameroon and their implications for sampling schemes
Authors: Ndemah R. , Schulthess F. , Poehling M. , Borgemeister C.
Published: March 2003

The most common lepidopterous borers attacking maize and/or the wild host Pennisetum purpureum in the forest zone of Cameroon are the noctuids Busseola fusca (Fuller), Sesamia calamistis (Hampson) and Poeonoma serrata (Hampson), the pyralids Eldana saccharina (Walker) and Mussidia nigrivenella (Ragonot), and Cryptophlebia leucotreta (Tortricidae). The within‐plant distribution on maize and elephant grass was studied for the predominant species B. fusca, and on maize only for E. saccharina to determine the basic sampling unit. On both plant species, B. fusca showed a strong oviposition preference for young plant parts. By contrast, E. saccharina larvae and pupae on maize were only found on older plant parts indicating that it does not oviposit on young plants. No part of the plant strata appeared to be a stable sampling unit and it is recommended to carry out whole plant or whole tiller sampling for maize and grass, respectively. For the development of sampling plans, dispersion was described for all species using Taylor’s power law and a non‐linear model which gives the relationship between the proportion of infested plants [P(I)] and mean density (m). Busseola fusca egg batches as well as diapausing larvae and pupae on maize showed a random distribution whereas all the other cases were aggregated, with B. fusca egg batches on elephant grass exhibiting the lowest and M. nigrivenella on maize the highest aggregation. Optimal sample size/mean density curves were developed for groups of insects with low and high aggregation.
Transfer of entomopathogenic fungi among formosan subterranean termites and subsequent mortality
Authors: Wright M. S. , Osbrink W. L. A. , Lax A. R.
Published: March 2003

Strains of the entomopathogens Beauveria bassiana (Balsamo) Vuillemin and Metarhizium anisopliae (Metschnikoff) Sorokin were screened for effectiveness against the Formosan subterranean termite, Coptotermes formosanus (Shiraki). Biological control methods are being considered to augment current integrated pest management schemes that involve chemical baits and nonrepellent termiticides. In this study Formosan subterranean termites selected from four colonies in the field were exposed in the laboratory to three strains of Beauveria bassiana and two strains of Metarhizium anisopliae. The exposed termites were then allowed to mingle with an equal number of unexposed termites from the same nest and mortality of the combined group was determined. One week after exposure, B. bassiana strains, ATCC 26037 and ATCC 90519, had caused significantly higher mortality than the two M. anisopliae strains, ESC 1 and II B and the remaining strain of B. bassiana, ATCC 90518. The LT50 measurement for strains 26037 and 90519 was comparable at 1.8 and 2.0 days, respectively. Strains ESC 1 and 90518 caused 50% mortality at 6.5 and 11.0 days, respectively. Termites exposed to strain II B and the control group of termites did not reach 50% mortality during the 21 day experimental period. Exposure of termites to all fungal strains resulted in mortality in excess of that seen in the control groups of unexposed termites.
Development and distribution of predators and parasitoids during two consecutive years of an Ips typographus (Col., Scolytidae) infestation
Authors: Wermelinger B.
Published: March 2003

Abstract:  The development of the natural enemy complex, its within‐tree distribution and the resulting mortalities imposed on bark beetles were investigated during two consecutive years (1994, 1995) at the peak of an Ips typographus infestation. For this reason bolts from infested spruce trees were incubated until the inhabiting insects had emerged. Some 17 000 antagonists were identified and found to belong to 16 predatory and 14 parasitic insect species. Among the predators the Dolichopodidae (Dip.) were most abundant, while among the parasitoids the Pteromalidae (Hym.) ranked first. Parasitoids preferred the upper tree parts, while predators were more abundant in the lower parts. Total bark beetle mortality was assessed based on the literature data on the per capita consumption of the antagonistic larvae. In the first year, the most destructive group were the dolichopodid flies, killing three to seven times more bark beetle larvae than the second ranking Lonchaeidae (Dip.) and the Pteromalidae. In the second year, the pteromalid parasitoids killed 2.5 times more larvae than the dolichopodids. Total bark beetle survival was assessed to decrease from 46 to 18% in the course of the 2 years.
Isolation and Characterization of Pseudomonas syringae subsp. savastanoi Mutants Defective in Hypersensitive Response Elicitation and Pathogenicity
Authors: Sisto A. , Morea M. , Zaccaro F. , Palumbo G. , Iacobellis N. S.
Published: March 2003

Olive strain ITM317 of Pseudomonas syringae subsp. savastanoi, the causal agent of ‘Olive and Oleander knot disease’ was mutagenized by random transposon (Tn5) insertion. Of the 1 400 transconjugants, four were altered in their ability to induce a hypersensitive reaction (HR) on tobacco; Southern blot analysis showed that a single copy of the Tn5 element was present in their chromosomes. In particular, mutants ITM317–69, ITM317–1010 and ITM317–1194 did not elicit HR whereas mutant ITM317–916 induced a variable response. When assayed for pathogenicity on olive, mutants ITM317–916 and ITM317–1010 induced knots comparable both in size and morphology to those caused by the parental strain. Prototrophic mutant ITM317–1194, still able to produce indole‐3‐acetic acid and cytokinins, did not cause any knot formation on olive; furthermore, it was unable to multiply in host tissue. Auxotrophic mutant ITM317–69 caused the formation of smaller‐sized knots and its prototrophic revertant fully regained the parental phenotypes, suggesting that a single Tn5 insertion had a pleiotropic effect on the mutated phenotypes. Tn5‐containing EcoRI fragments from mutants ITM317–69, ITM317–916, ITM317–1010 and ITM317–1194 were cloned into the plasmid vector pBR322. Hybridization of these clones with the hrp gene cluster of P. s. pv. syringae strain 61 was not detected. These results suggest that genes different from those of the above gene cluster might be involved in the interaction of P. s. subsp. savastanoi with olive and with the non‐host plant tobacco.
Variation in Karyotype and Ploidy Level Among Field Isolates of Claviceps purpurea
Authors: H U. , üsgen . , Büttner P. , Müller U. , Tudzynski P.
Published: March 2003

Karyotype analysis by pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis of several field isolates of Claviceps purpurea showed extensive variation in size and number of chromosomes. Analysis of F1‐ascospore‐lines of a cross between two field isolates showing chromosome‐length polymorphisms (CLPs) indicate that recombination during meiosis contributes considerably to this variability. In addition, cytofluorometrical estimation of DNA content of single nuclei indicate that the C. purpurea strains vary in their ploidy level: most strains probably are ± diploid, some appear to be haploid, others ± triploid (with varying degrees of aneuploidy). Benomyl treatment (as used, e.g. for ‘haploidization’ in the parasexual cycle of imperfect fungi) of some field isolates confirmed that the differences in 4′‐6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindol (DAPI)fluorescence correspond to different ploidy levels: derivatives with lower nuclear DNA content could be isolated from the putatively nonhaploid strains; a minimal value (even after repeated benomyl treatment) was obtained, corresponding to the lowest value of field isolates, probably representing the haploid status. Most of these strains are not impaired in fitness and aggressiveness and therefore can be used for the selection of recessive mutants and for functional molecular studies.
Identification and Differentiation of Clavibacter michiganensis Subspecies by Polymerase Chain Reaction‐based Techniques
Authors: Pastrik K. H. , Rainey F. A.
Published: March 2003

For the identification and differentiation of the five subspecies of Clavibacter michiganensis, two different polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based techniques were employed: amplification with subspecies‐specific primers and amplification with random primers (RAPD). Based on the sequence data of the intergenic spacer region between 16S and 23S rRNA genes, primers were designed for the identification of each subspecies. Using the designed primer pairs it was possible to identify each subspecies of C. michiganensis according to the amplification of a specific DNA fragment. No amplification products were obtained, when bacteria belonging to other genera were submitted to PCR under the same conditions. RAPD‐PCR conditions suitable for the differentiation of C. michiganensis subspecies were developed. RAPD typing was capable of distinguishing subspecies of C. michiganensis as well as strains within subspecies. Both genomic variation between subspecies and genetic polymorphisms between bacterial strains were identified as differences in the size and numbers of DNA fragments obtained.
Development of Diagnostic Methods for Detecting Ganoderma‐infected Oil Palms
Authors: Utomo C. , Niepold F.
Published: March 2003

Two diagnostic methods have been applied for detecting the plant pathogenic fungus Ganoderma, a basidiomycete, causing the basal stem rot (BSR) diseaseof oil palms. One approach was the use of polyclonal antibodies (PAbs) raised against mycelial proteins of a single Ganoderma isolate and a mixture of nine different Ganoderma isolates. Both PAbs could detect Ganoderma in diseased oil palm root tissue by applying an indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Low cross‐reactions were observed with the five mainly occurring saprophytic fungi which could be isolated from diseased oil palms and were used as negative controls. The other approach was based on the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in order to increase the sensitivity of the Ganoderma detection. The primers were generated from the internal transcribed spacer region 1 of rDNA of Ganoderma boninense and produced an PCR product of 167 bp in size. Fungal isolates and oil palm root samples were processed for PCR by three different DNA extraction methods. The most suitable extraction procedure was a simple alkaline extraction method. For a practical approach, a semiquantification was performed by assessing the PCR sensitivity limits of pure culture Ganoderma and naturally infected root samples.
Increased Susceptibility to Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae and Pseudomonas viridiflava of Kiwi Plants having Transgenic rolABC genes and its Inheritance in the T1 Offspring
Authors: Balestra  , Rugini  , Varvaro
Published: March 2003

The staminate kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa A. Chev) cv. GTH (Late Yellow Hayward) showed high resistance to the pathogens Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae and Pseudomonas viridiflava, contrary to the pistillate cv. Hayward which was highly susceptible to both bacteria. The resistant staminate GTH acquired susceptibility when transformed with rolABC of Agrobacterium rhizogenes. This susceptibility was inherited by the T1 offspring containing rolABC genes, derived by crossing pollen of transgenic rolABC GTH with the pistillate cv. Hayward. The susceptibility was probably correlated to high nitrogen content in the leaves of the rolABC plants. The higher susceptibility to P. s. pv. syringae than to P. viridiflava could be correlated with the high degree of auxin production by first bacterium. The high resistance to both bacteria of the staminate GTH was inherited by all the offspring lacking rolABC genes. The possibility of reducing susceptibility of rolABC plants to the pathogens by applying fewer fertilizers in the orchards, which would reduce both costs and environmental impact, is discussed.
Detection of a Bacterium Associated with a Leaf Spot Disease of Maize in Brazil
Authors: Paccola‐Meirelles  , Ferreira  , Meirelles  , Marriel  , Casela
Published: March 2003

A leaf spot disease of maize occurring in Brazil in the 1980s was described as being caused by the ascomycete Phaeosphaeria maydis (P. Henn) Rane. Payak and Renfro (imperfect form Phyllosticta sp.). Disease symptoms were dark‐green water‐soaked spots that later became necrotic lesions. There are no reports at present in the literature of re‐infection by the fungus under controlled conditions, casting doubt on the true identity of the pathogen. In this study, cytological analyses of lesions at the initial stages did not detect the presence of fungal structures. Bacterial colonies with yellow pigmentation were isolated from the lesions, which reacted positively in hypersensitivity tests in tobacco plants. Maize plants were inoculated with the isolated bacteria. After 72 h incubation in a dew chamber, plants were transferred to a greenhouse, where they remained until evaluation. Typical symptoms of the disease were observed 5–7 days after inoculation of plants, only on treatments inoculated with the bacteria. The bacterium was re‐isolated, which suggests its involvement in the initial phases of disease. The bacterium was identified as Pantoea ananas (synonym Erwinia ananas).
Coat Protein Gene ofCymbidiummosaic virus fromVanilla fragransin Reunion Island
Authors: Gourdel S. , Leclercq‐Le Quillec F.
Published: March 2003

Nucleotide and amino acid sequences of the coat protein (CP) of 12 isolates ofCymbidiummosaic virus fromVanilla fragransin Reunion Island (CyMV‐R) were compared with each other and with those of previously described Asian strains. Alignment revealed that CyMV‐R isolates were highly homologous, suggesting that one strain is prevalent in Reunion. This strain also showed high homology with the Korean CyMV‐K2 and Singapore CyMV‐S2 strains, but nucleotide additions resulted in the carboxy‐terminal ends of the CP sequences differing from those of the Korean CyMV‐K1 and Singapore CyMV‐K1 strains.
Variation between Turnip mosaic virus Isolates in Zhejiang Province, China and Evidence for Recombination
Authors: CHEN J. , CHEN J. P. , ADAMS M. J.
Published: March 2003

The 3′‐terminal sequences (c. 1700 nt) of the RNA genome of 10 Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) isolates from different hosts in Zhejiang province, China, were determined. Phylogenetic analysis of the coat protein nucleotide sequences revealed that most TuMV sequences fell into two distinct clusters. The Chinese isolates B1‐B4 (from Brassica spp.) were similar and placed in the largest group (Group 1), while the isolates R1‐R6 (from Raphanus) were usually placed in a distinct but smaller group (Group 2). There were only approximately 90% identical nucleotides between the two groups. However, one isolate (R5) showed evidence of recombination in that the region between nucleotides 430 and 450, from the start of the coat protein gene and its 3′‐terminus, was a Group 1 type.
Differentiation Among Bean Leafroll Virus Susceptible and Resistant Lentil and Faba Bean Genotypes on the Basis of Virus Movement and Multiplication
Authors: Kumari S. G. , Makkouk K. M.
Published: March 2003

Systemic movement of Bean leafroll virus (BLRV) in susceptible and resistant lentil and faba bean genotypes was studied using plants grown in a plastic house. All the plants studied were inoculated with BLRV by viruliferous pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum). Five plants/genotype of lentil and faba bean were harvested, respectively, at 3, 6, 9, 12 and 18 days and 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 weeks after inoculation. Each plant was split into growing point, stem, stem base and root, and each was tested using tissue blot immunoassays (TBIA). Virus concentration in each section was estimated using a 0–3 score and a relative TBIA value was estimated accordingly for each genotype. In susceptible lentil genotypes (ILL 8063 and ILL 2581), BLRV was present in low concentrations in the growing point 3 days after inoculation and in high concentrations in all parts of the plant after 6 days. By contrast, the virus was not detected in the highly resistant genotype (ILL 74) until 18 days after inoculation. In the faba bean genotypes studied, BLRV was detected in high concentrations in all parts of the highly susceptible genotype (Fiord) 1 week after inoculation but only after 3 weeks in resistant genotypes (e.g. BPL 5274), but was not detected in the highly resistant genotypes (BPL 5278 and BPL 5279) 5 weeks after inoculation. The replication and systemic movement of BLRV was thus slower in resistant genotypes than in susceptible genotypes. Moreover, the use of TBIA scores clearly and easily differentiated resistant and susceptible genotypes. Our results suggest that BLRV movement and multiplication can be useful criteria when differentiating resistant from susceptible genotypes. In addition, undertaking the preliminary screening in a plastic house requires less space than direct planting in the field.
Evaluation of Techniques for the Enumeration of Dicrocoelium Eggs in Sheep Faeces
Authors: Rehbein S. , Kokott S. , Lindner T.
Published: March 2003

To evaluate the accuracy of quantitative techniques for the enumeration of Dicrocoelium dendriticum eggs in faeces, eggs were added to fluke free sheep faeces to achieve densities of 25, 50, 100, 200, 400 or 800 eggs per gram (epg) (5 replicates per density). The faecal egg counts were determined by a modified McMaster method (Wetzel, 1951) utilizing solutions of ZnSO4 (sp. g. 1.3 and 1.45), K2CO3 (sp. g. 1.45) and HgI2/KI (sp. g. 1.44) for flotation or by a sedimentation technique (4 sedimentation processes of 45 min each). The influence of flotation time on egg counts was assessed by counting the eggs 3–5, 15–20, 30–35, 45–50 and 60–65 min after loading the McMaster chamber. The results were expressed as percentage rate of recovery.

Significant best rate of recovery, 91.2 ± 9.4 %, was achieved using HgI2/KI solution for flotation and there was no significant influence of flotation time on the egg count. Utilizing ZnSO4 solutions and K2CO3 solution for flotation the rates of recovery for Dicrocoelium eggs were 9.0 ± 7.1 %, 26.7 ± 24.9 % and 13.0 ± 11.6 %, respectively, and a flotation time of more than 3–5 min did significantly increase the number of floated eggs. The rate of recovery for Dicrocoelium eggs using the sedimentation technique was 41.2 ± 1.5 %.
Lymphocyte Subset Distribution in Steroid Responsive Meningitis‐Arteriitis in Comparison to Different Canine Encephalitides
Authors: Tipold A. , Moore P. , Zurbriggen A. , Vandevelde M.
Published: March 2003

Steroid responsive meningitis‐arteriitis (SRMA) is a well‐known disease in dogs, but the aetiology and pathogenesis are not yet understood. In the peripheral blood an overrepresentation of B cells was found. In the present study we therefore evaluated the distribution of lymphocyte subsets in SRMA in paraffin‐embedded tissue sections directly at the lesion sites and compared the results to different canine encephalitides. An intriguing finding was that the B cell/T cell distribution varied depending on the aetiology of the disease: in viral encephalitides, T cells were the predominant cell population in perivascular cuffs, whereas in protozoal and bacterial diseases B cells prevailed. In SRMA an overrepresentation of B cells occurred in meningeal lesions, as already found in the peripheral blood. The distribution of lymphocyte subsets was similar to bacterial and protozoal diseases and was not a unique phenomenon for this specific inflammatory lesion in the canine central nervous system (CNS). Multiple mechanisms seem to be responsible for recruitment and activation of different leukocyte subsets after alteration of the CNS tissue by an environmental factor. A specific finding in SRMA was that the distribution of T and B cells depended also on the lesion site. In contrast to meningeal lesions, in inflamed arteries T cells were the only lymphocyte population found. In these vessels, diffuse infiltration with immunoglobulins was revealed. Inactivated or resting lymphocytes and large granular lymphocytes occurred in each of the diseases examined. These similarities between SRMA and infectious CNS diseases of the dog support earlier suggestions that the disease is somehow triggered by a hitherto unknown environmental factor which leads to the dysregulation of the immune system.
Cytogenetic Variation in Six Cases of Feline Mammary Tumours
Authors: Mayr B. , Jugl M. , Brem G. , Reifinger M. , Loupal G.
Published: March 2003

Mammary carcinomas of six feline patients were subjected to karyotypic analysis. A broad variation in the numerical and structural alterations was evident. None the less, several repeatedly occurring alterations were observed.
Studies on a Local Effect of Boar Seminal Plasma on Ovulation Time in Gilts
Authors: Waberski D. , Kremer H. , Borchardt Neto G. , Jungblut P. W. , Kallweit E. , Weitze K. F.
Published: March 2003

Previous studies showed that intrauterine infusion of seminal plasma at the onset of oestrus could advance ovulation in pigs, possibly to enhance the chances of fertilization by optimizing the chronological events of fertilization. This effect has been attributed to a local unilateral mechanism whereby infusion into a single uterine horn advances ovulation in the adjacent ovary. The present study was designed to elucidate possible mechanisms of local signal transduction. In a series of five experiments using 43 gilts, the ovarian response was investigated after infusion of seminal plasma at different sites of the female reproductive tract. The time of ovulation was detected sonographically at 4‐ or 2‐h intervals. Single uterine horn infusion of 100 ml seminal plasma advanced ovulation on the ipsilateral ovary by 9.3 h (mean) compared with the contralateral ovary. Dissection of the ipsilateral isthmus abolished the unilateral seminal plasma effect. Unilateral infusion of 50 μl or 1 ml seminal plasma or 50 μl of the concentrated 1–10 kDa fraction in the lower isthmus was ineffective. Application of 5 ml seminal plasma into the tip of a ligated uterine horn lead to 3.6 h (mean) earlier ovulation on the adjacent ovary. In contrast, the infusion of 5 ml NaCl showed no effect. Application of 5 ml seminal plasma in the middle of the uterine horn between two ligatures was ineffective. It is concluded that, for the transduction of the local signal involved in the advancement of ovulation, contact of seminal plasma with the epithelium of the utero‐tubal junction is essential.
Pharmaco‐Toxicological Mode of Action of Antimicrobial5‐Nitroimidazole Derivatives
Authors: Schmid A. , Schmid H.
Published: March 2003

5‐Nitroimidazole derivatives are used as therapeutic agents against anaerobic microorganisms which are pathogenic to man and animals.

The antimicrobial mode of action of these compounds is due to the metabolic reduction of the nitro group by microbial metabolism.

By analogy, a reduction of the 5‐nitro group in the aerobic animal metabolism is commonly assumed. This assumption is doubtful in its general form, and a more differentiated view is presented.
Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Studies on Cetaceans Found Stranded on the Coast of Italy between 1990 and 1997
Authors: Cornaglia E. , Rebora L. , Gili C. , Di Guardo G.
Published: March 2003

Detailed histopathological and immunohistochemical studies were carried out on 24 cetaceans, 17 of which were striped dolphins (Stenella coeruleoalba), four bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) and three Risso's dolphins (Grampus griseus), all found stranded on the Italian coast between 1990 and 1997. The most frequently detected lesions were chronic pneumonia (73.7 % of the examined lungs), focal chronic pancreatitis (71.4 %), non‐purulent encephalitis (50 %), chronic hepatitis (42.1 %), and chronic focal interstitial nephritis (31.2 %). The skin and the subcutaneous panniculus were often (33.3 %) affected by parasitic diseases (Phyllobothrium delphini and Pennella sp.). An appreciable percentage of animals showed lymphoid depletion in their lymphatic organs (47.2 %), as well as a high rate of parasitic infestations in their alimentary tracts (25 %).
Course of Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) and Insulin‐like Growth Factor I (IGF‐I) in Mammary Secretions of the Goat during End‐Pregnancy and Early Lactation
Authors: Dehnhard M. , Claus R. , Munz O. , Weiler U.
Published: March 2003

The epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays a crucial role in mammogenesis in many species. In ruminants, studies are limited, as EGF does not occur in peripheral plasma and specific analytical systems do not exist. Therefore a heterologous radioimmunoassay based on rhEGF was set up to monitor EGF in mammary gland secretions from goats during end‐pregnancy and early lactation. IGF‐I was measured with an established radioimmunoassay. Samples were collected from 13 goats for 25 days ante‐partum and 25 days post‐partum. Mammary gland secretions were obtained ante‐partum by removing a small amount of the udder secretions (control half) or milking (stimulated half). Post‐partum normal milk samples were collected. Blood samples were drawn by jugular venipuncture for the same period. EGF was found to occur in different molecular weight forms in the mammary glands. For routine measurements these proteins were extracted with acetone and not further separated. IGF‐I and EGF concentrations in mammary secretions and similarly IGF‐I in blood were high ante‐partum and decreased slightly towards birth. IGF‐I but not EGF is found in the peripheral plasma. Whereas IGF‐I concentrations in blood were quite constant post‐partum, IGF‐I and EGF dropped in mammary secretions close to the detection limits. The decrease was more pronounced in the stimulated half than in the control half. The data support a synergistic role for EGF and IGF‐I for mammogenesis. Both factors are further influenced by the milking stimulus and thus the functional state of the udder.
Immunoperoxidase and Histopathological Examinations of Leptospiral Nephritis in Cattle
Authors: Yener Z. , Keles H.
Published: March 2003

This study was designed to investigate the role of leptospirae in interstitial nephritis. Sixty‐eight white‐spotted kidneys and 30 grossly normal kidneys from slaughtered cattle were examined histologically and immunohistochemically for the presence of Leptospira interrogans antigens. The presence of L. interrogans antigens was found in 21 of 68 white‐spotted kidneys and in four of 30 normal kidneys. In conclusion, the detected incidence of infection with L. interrogans was not high, but there was a relationship between the presence of interstitial nephritis and leptospiral antigens.
Effects of Anabolic Implants of Oestradiol Alone or in Combination with Trenbolone Acetate on the Ultrastructure of Mammary Glands in Female Lambs Regarding their Interference in Prolactin Secretion
Authors: BLANCO A. , MOYA L. , FLORES R. , AGÜERA E. , MONTERDE J. G.
Published: March 2003

The side‐effects of anabolic steroid implants on mammary gland ultrastructure were evaluated in female lambs treated with oestradiol (n=10) and with oestradiol plus trenbolone acetate (n=10). Ten non‐implanted lambs were used as controls. Apart from the ultrastructural study of the mammary gland, an assessment of the prolactin pituitary cell population was carried out by immunological methods. Our results showed that oestrogenic implants exert stimulating effects on mammary gland development, both by activating the synthesis process at mammary gland cell levels and by increasing prolactin pituitary production. Nevertheless, there was no evidence of secretory products in the lumen of the gland. Implants containing trenbolone acetate counteracted the mammary stimulus of oestrogens showing ultrastructural images of cell autolysis and necrosis.
Effects of Malnutrition on the Expression of Daintain/AIF‐1 in the Gut Mucosa of Pigs
Authors: MENTSCHEL J. , DEININGER M. H. , SCHLUESENER H. J. , CLAUS R.
Published: March 2003

The allograft inflammatory factor (AIF‐1/daintain) is a hormone‐like peptide produced by activated monocytic cells in a variety of traumatic, inflammatory and degenerative lesions. Gut‐derived AIF‐1 has been shown to modulate insulin production and to attenuate autoimmune diabetes. As the localization of this gastrointestinal peptide in the porcine duodenum is not known and the pig is a convenient model for the study of nutritional modulation of the mucosal immune compartment, we have localized expression of AIF‐1 by immunohistology in the duodenum of either malnourished (energy and protein supply 50% of demands, n=5) or optimally fed pigs (n=5). AIF‐1 macrophages were predominantly located at the villus tip. The number of positively stained cells per high‐power field was significantly (P ≤ 0.001) higher in the malnourished pigs (74.6 ± 2.44; least square means ± SEM) compared to optimally fed pigs (32.56 ± 1.99). It is likely that the effect in malnourished pigs can be explained by a more pronounced antigen contact of macrophages due to loss of epithelial integrity. Thus, AIF‐1 is a novel marker for the study of the nutritional regulation of the mucosal immune system of the pig. AIF‐1 expression in the duodenum was further validated by polymerase chain reaction and sequencing. Surprisingly, we detected a slight deviation from the original sequence (probably representing an allelic variation) and an AIF‐1 splice variant, previously not known to occur in pigs.
A Retrospective Study of the Incidence and Prognostic Factors of Multicentric Lymphoma in Dogs (1998–2000)
Authors: JAGIELSKI D. , LECHOWSKI R. , HOFFMANN‐JAGIELSKA M. , WINIARCZYK S.
Published: March 2003

Sixty‐three dogs with multicentric lymphoma were evaluated for risk of diseases. The greatest risk of disease concerned rottweilers as compared to other breeds (odds ratio 6.01 to 0.32–2.75, respectively). A group of 43 dogs under chemotherapy was evaluated for defining factors influencing first remission time duration and survival time. The most important factors for results of chemotherapy were response to therapy, stage and sub‐stage of disease according the World Health Organization staging system at the time of diagnosis.
Lectin Histochemical Study of Lipopigments Present in the Cerebellum of Solanum fastigiatum var. fastigiatum Intoxicated Cattle
Authors: Paulovich F. B. , Portiansky E. L. , Gimeno E. J. , Schild A. L. , Méndez M. del C. , Riet‐Correa F.
Published: March 2003

This study was carried out to investigate the pattern of lectin binding in the cerebellum of calves poisoned with Solanum fastigiatum var. fastigiatum. For the experimental reproduction of the illness, S. fastigiatum var. fastigiatum was collected from farms where the intoxication occurs. The dried ground plant was administered to two 1‐year‐old cattle by a ruminal cannula. The animals received 5 g/kg b.w. daily, 5 days a week, during periods of 107 and 140 days. After these periods the animals were bled to death. For the histological study, transverse sections of the cerebellum were used. Paraffin‐embedded sections were incubated with the following biotinylated lectins with different specificity: Concanavalia ensiformis (Con‐A), Glycine max (SBA), Dolichos biflorus (DBA), Ulex europeus‐I (UEA‐I), Triticum vulgaris (WGA), succynyl‐WGA (sWGA), Arachis hypogaea (PNA), Ricinus communis‐I (RCA‐I) and Bandeirea simplicifolia‐I (BS‐I). Avidin–biotin–peroxidase complex was applied as a detection system. Purkinje cells showed vacuolation in the pericaryon. The stored material present in the cells reacted strongly with the following lectins: Con‐A, sWGA, WGA and RCA‐I. An irregular affinity was observed with PNA and DBA. The lectin‐binding pattern was compatible with a glycolipid storage disease.
Reference Values for the Bone Marrow Aspirates in Adult Dogs
Authors: Mischke R. , Busse L.
Published: March 2003

Reference ranges for each cell type and six different ratios (M : E ratio = quotient of number of myeloid cells/erythroid precursors; different maturation ratios) were calculated for bone marrow aspirates of adult dogs. These values were based on 2.5 and 97.5% percentiles of differentials of 1000 cells in bone marrow aspirates of 92 healthy 1–8‐year‐old dogs. The results of intact male and female dogs were compared. No distinct sex‐related differences were found (P > 0.05). A wide physiological range was observed in almost all bone marrow cells resulting in broad reference ranges for the ratios. The clinically relevant M : E ratio varied between 0.45 and 2.87. The accurate cytological examination of bone marrow based on the reference ranges presented in this study requires preparation of high‐quality bone marrow films with minimal blood contamination.
Prevalence, Distribution and Factors Associated with the Presence and the Potential for Malignancy of Cutaneous Neoplasms in 174 Dogs Admitted to a Clinic in Northern Greece
Authors: KALDRYMIDOU H. , LEONTIDES L. , KOUTINAS A. F. , SARIDOMICHELAKIS M. N. , KARAYANNOPOULOU M.
Published: March 2003

One hundred and seventy‐four dogs diagnosed with cutaneous neoplasms in the Animal Medical and Surgical Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, were studied. Thirty‐one types of neoplasm were diagnosed, among which mast cell tumours (13.8%), hepatoid gland adenomas (9.8%), lipomas (5.7%) and histiocytomas (5.7%) were the most common. The prevalence of epithelial, mesenchymal, lymphohistiocytic and melanocytic tumours was 47.7, 40.8, 8.6 and 2.9%, respectively. Potentially malignant neoplasms were less frequently recorded than benign neoplasms. The tumours were single (80.5%) or multiple (19.5%) and located on the head and neck (18.4%), the body trunk (49.4%), the limbs (25.9%) or at multiple sites (6.3%). The factors evaluated in multivariable logistic regression models for possible association with the odds of a tumour's potential for malignancy included the age, the sex and the breed of the dog, as well as the histological type of the neoplasm. Dogs with mesenchymal tumours had two times higher odds of potential for malignancy than those with epithelial tumours. In contrast, dogs with either lymphohistiocytic or melanocytic tumours did not have increased risk of malignancy compared with dogs with epithelial tumours. The odds of tumour malignancy linearly increased with increasing age of the dog by a factor of 1.1 per year. Finally, the effect of the sex and the breed of the dog on the risk of developing cutaneous neoplasms was investigated in an age‐matched case–control sample of 348 dogs by conditional logistic regression analysis. The odds of neoplasm presence were two times higher in pure bred dogs than in mongrels but did not differ between cross‐breeds and mongrels.
Delayed Acute Capture Myopathy in Three Roe Deer
Authors: MONTANÉ J. , MARCO I. , MANTECA X. , LÓPEZ J. , LAVÍN S.
Published: March 2003

Delayed acute capture myopathy is the term used to describe the clinical syndrome observed in three roe deer captured by drive‐nets and transported to an enclosure for scientific purposes. The animals died 48 h, 60 h and 8 days after being captured. The simultaneous deaths coincided with a previous episode of deliberate human disturbance. The histopathological findings were indicative of acute myopathy and myoglobinaemic nephrosis. These could be related to an ataxic myoglobinuric syndrome brought on by capture and transport operations. The lack of clinical signs and negative prognosis indicators in the period between capture and just before death, the absence of gross muscular lesions in the animal that died after 8 days post‐capture, the simultaneous deaths of animals captured at different times and the evidence of deliberate human disturbance in the enclosure are suggestive of death triggered by a second stress episode.
Effects of Synthetic Progestagens on the mRNA Expression of Androgen Receptor, Progesterone Receptor, Oestrogen Receptor α and β, Insulin‐like Growth Factor‐1 (IGF‐1) and IGF‐1 Receptor in Heifer Tissues
Authors: PFAFFL M. W. , DAXENBERGER A. , HAGELEIT M. , MEYER H. H. D.
Published: March 2003

Synthetic progestagens like melengestrol acetate (MGA) are widely used for oestrus synchronization and for growth promotion in cattle production. The metabolic effects exceed its primary potency as a progestagen. It is speculated that MGA stimulates follicle development and thereby endogenous oestrogen production, but inhibits ovulation. To investigate the dose‐dependent effects on mRNA expression levels, six heifers were fed for 8 weeks with different levels of MGA (0.5, 1.5, 5 mg) daily and two heifers served as controls. The expression of steroid receptor mRNA [androgen receptor (AR), progesterone receptor (PR), oestrogen receptor (ER) ERα and ERβ], insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) and its receptor were quantified in liver, neck (m. splenius) and shoulder muscularity (m. deltoideus). Plasma concentrations of IGF‐1 were quantified by radioimmunoassay. In treated animals the MGA plasma levels were elevated over the complete treatment period, corresponding to the MGA treatment concentrations. IGF‐1 concentrations of control animals were at constant levels. Plasma levels for oestradiol (E2) and IGF‐1 were increased in the low MGA treatment group. Overdosed MGA decreased progesterone (P4) and E2 levels. To quantify the IGF‐1 and all receptor mRNA transcripts, sensitive and reliable real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) quantification methods were developed and validated in the LightCycler. A dose‐dependent relationship between increasing MGA concentration and mRNA expression was observed in liver for AR and IGF‐1 receptor, and in neck muscularity for IGF‐1. ERα in liver and neck muscle showed a trend of increasing expression.
Fatal Systemic Phaeohyphomycosis in a Cat due to Cladophialophora bantiana
Authors: Elies L. , Balandraud V. , Boulouha L. , Crespeau F. , Guillot J.
Published: March 2003

Summary We report a case of fatal systemic mycosis in a 9‐year‐old cat. Diagnosis of phaeohyphomycosis was made by histology. Morphological and molecular identification of the fungus isolated from the lesions yielded the species Cladophialophora bantiana. This species is well known to be a neurotropic fungus causing cerebral pyogranulomatous lesions in humans. In this case, the lesions were widespread, distributed without the involvement of central nervous system. The origin of systemic manifestation is still unknown and no evidence of immunosuppression was found. It is the first feline case of C. bantiana infection reported in Europe.