bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cortisol, T4, T3und T‐uptake‐Bestimmung in Serum und Plasma von Pferden mittels Fluoreszenz‐Polarisations‐Immunoassays (FPIAs)
Authors: Lindner A. , Will Y. , Wilkniss E. , Chrispeels J.
Published: May 2010

Determination of Cortisol, T4, T3and T‐Uptake in Equine Plasma and Serum with Fluorescence‐Polarization‐Immunoassays (FPIA)

The influence of duration and temperature of storage on hormone levels of whole blood, plasma and serum of horses was investigated. Using FPIAs Cortisol, T4and T‐uptake could be measured while the T3‐FPIA did not work appropriately.

Serum and Plasma stored under the same conditions did not show any difference in Cortisol, T4and T‐uptake values.

In frozen heparinized plasma samples analysed on different days the Cortisol and T4concentrations fluctuated markedly. The T‐uptake values were rather stable. The smallest day by day changes of Cortisol and T4in plasma were found when storing the samples at 20–22°C. At 4°C Cortisol decreased markedly while for T4a clear trend was not found. The Cortisol concentration in whole blood stored at 4°C decreased more markedly than in samples stored at 20–22°C. T4remained stable in whole blood samples stored at 20–22°C over 4 days while showing fluctuations in samples stored at 4°C.

Es wurde der Einfluß von Lagerungsdauer und ‐temperatur auf die Konzentration von Hormo‐nen in Vollblut‐, Plasma‐ und Serumproben von Perden untersucht.

Mittels FPIAs konnte Cortisol, T4und T‐uptake im Blutplasma und ‐serum bestimmt werden. Die für das Plasma und Serum ermittelten Werte stimmten dabei gut überein. Dagegen envies sich der T3‐FPIA für Pferdeblutplasma als ungeeignet.

In tiefgefrorenem Na‐Heparinat‐Plasma schwankten die Cortisol‐ und T4‐Werte von Analyse‐tag zu Analysetag erheblich. Die gemessenen T‐uptake‐Werte waren stabiler. Die geringsten Verände‐rungen für Cortisol und T4, in bezug auf die am Tag der Blutentnahme gemessenen Werte, wurden bei 20–22°C aufbewahrtem Plasma gefunden. Dagegen sank die Cortisol‐Konzentration mit zunehmen‐der Lagerungsdauer in den bei 4°C gelagerten Plasmaproben deutlich. T4verhielt sich uneinheitlich.

Die Cortisol‐Konzentration verringerte sich in bei 4°C gelagerten Vollblutproben, in Abhängig‐keit von der Lagerungsdauer, starker als in den bei 20–22°C aufbewahrten. Der T4‐Wert der Vollblutproben blieb bei 20–22°C über 4 Tage stabil, schwankte dagegen bei 4°C ohne einheitliche Tendenz.
The Biological Response of Selenium in Individual Erythrocytes and GSH‐Px in Lambs Fed Sodium Selenite or Selenium Yeast
Authors: Johansson E. , Jacobsson S. ‐O. , Luthman J. , Lindh U.
Published: May 2010

Twenty Swedish Landrace lambs were divided randomly into two equal groups, group I and group O. Group I received approximately 0. 1 mg selenium as sodium selenite per day and group O 0. 1 mg selenium as selenium in yeast per day. The animals were fed per day 1. 2–1. 5 kg of hay and 0. 3 kg of a commercial concentrate supplemented with vitamins and minerals. The trial lasted 3. 5 months. As monitored by micro particle induced X‐ray emission (μ‐PIXE), the number of selenium bearing erythrocytes increased faster in group O than in group I indicating some difference in the metabolism of inorganic and organic selenium. During the trial the concentration of sulphur decreased in the erythrocytes in group O. The reason for this is not known. The zinc and copper concentrations of individual erythrocytes were unaltered. The blood GSH‐Px activity increased at the same rate in the two groups indicating that selenium as sodium selenite and selenium in yeast was about equally available.

The rate of growth in the two groups was almost the same and a significant difference in the final weight was not observed.
Effect of Organochlorine Pesticides on the Phagocytic Activity of Bovine Milk Cells*
Authors: Sitarska E. , Winnicka A. , Kluciński W.
Published: May 2010

The effect of a complex of organochlorine compounds on the phagocytic activity of macrophages and neutrophils in milk was assessed in vitro using a mixture of DDT, DDE, DDD, alpha, beta and gamma‐HCH and HCB and PCBs in concentrations occurring in milk and in concentrations being multiples of the concentrations in milk.

Standard strains 305 and Smith of S. aureus were used for phagocytosis assessment. A suppressing effect of these compounds was observed on the per cent of cells phagocytizing both these strains, with a significant decrease in the number of bacteria of both strains phagocytized by macrophages, and the number of S. aureus strain 305 bacteria phagocytized by neutrophils. The concentrations of the mixture of organochlorine compounds used in the experiment had no significant effect on the number of Smith strain bacteria phagocytized by neutrophils.
Failure of l,25‐(OH)2‐Vitamin D3 to Affect Calcium Flux across Sheep Rumen Wall Mucosa in vitro*
Authors: Bödeker D. , Mahler Monika , Höller H.
Published: May 2010

Isolated pieces of mucosa from the sheep rumen wall mounted between half‐chambers were used in conventional incubation studies (1 h, 39°C) with buffer solutions resembling rumen fluid (= mucosal fluid) and extracellular fluid (= serosal fluid), respectively. The mucosal‐to‐serosal (ms) flux of calcium was studied by use of 45CaCl2 with and without 1,25‐(OH)2‐vitamin D3 in the serosal incubation fluid. Different concentrations of the vitamin had no effect on Ca ms‐flux.

l,25‐(OH)2‐Vitamin D3 ist ohne Einfluß auf den Calcium‐Flux durch die Schleimhaut des Schafpansens in vitro

Isolierte Schleimhautscheiben aus der Pansenwand von Schafen wurden in üblichen Inkubationsversuchen (1 h, 39°C) mit Pufferlösungen verwendet, die der Zusammensetzung der Pansenflüs‐sigkeit und der extrazellulären Flüssigkeit angeglichen waren. Mit Hilfe von 45CaCl2 wurde der mucosal‐serosale (ms) Flux von Calcium ohne und mit l,25‐(OH)2‐Vitamin D3 in unterschiedlicher Konzentration bestimmt. Das Vitamin hatte keinen signifikanten Einfluß auf den Ca‐ms‐Flux.
Time‐Related Responses to a Constant‐Dose Halothane Anaesthesia in Dorsally Recumbent Ventilated Ponies
Authors: Gasthuys F. , de Moor A. , Parmentier D.
Published: May 2010

Haemodynamic and respiratory responses to halothane were investigated in dorsally recumbent, ventilated ponies during 2 hours.

Normocapnea was maintained using intermittent positive pressure ventilation. Compared to the base line values at 30 minutes of constant dose halothane, no significant changes in heart rate, systemic blood pressure, cardiac output, cardiac index, stroke volume and left ventricle work were observed during a 2 hours anaesthesia. Arterial oxygenation increased initially (>300mm Hg) but tended to decrease non‐significantly during the rest of the anaesthesia. Blood temperature decreased significantly during anaesthesia (p<0. 05 after 30 minutes), probably due to the cold thermodilution injections but also to peripheral losses of body heath.

Time‐related increases in mean pulmonary artery pressure (p<0. 05 after 90 minutes), total peripheral and pulmonary resistance (p < 0. 05 after respectively 60 and 90 minutes) were observed. Increases in peripheral and pulmonary resistance probably reflected vasoconstriction of respectively the peripheral and pulmonary vasculature. These changes might be caused by an increase in circulating catecholamines during prolonged anaesthesia.

To avoid possible erroneous conclusions the observed time‐dependent responses in anaesthetized dorsally recumbent ponies have to be taken in consideration when other influences (e. a. drugs) are investigated during anaesthesia.
Effects of Cyproterone Acetate and Testosterone Treatments on Some Physical Parameters, Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Activity and Fertilizing Ability of Spermatozoa of Domestic Cocks (Gallus domesticus)
Authors: Mohan J. , Moudgal R. P. , Singh N. B.
Published: May 2010

Healthy adult cocks were administered through the intramuscular route with 1 or 15mg cyproterone acetate (CyA)/kg b. wt. or testosterone at the rate of 1. 5 mg/kg b. wt. daily for a period of 25 days. High doses of CyA and testosterone caused severe suppression (P < 0. 01) of semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility and angiotensin converting enzyme activity (ACE EC 3. 4. 15. 1). Fertilizing ability of spermatozoa was also reduced drastically at the end of treatment period. No loss of sexual behaviour was observed in treated birds as compared to controls. Recovery in all parameters from deleterious effects of these drugs was rapid after cessation of treatment. Lower doses of CyA did not affect the parameters of semen. The results are discussed in relation to the possible mechanism of action of CyA and testosterone.
The Influence of Calving and Puerperium on Clinical and Histopathologic Changes Associated with Laminitis and Sole Ulceration in a Group of First‐Carving Cows
Authors: Boosman R.
Published: May 2010

The left hind and front claws of 43 heifers having recently calved were studied for signs of laminitis and sole ulceration. The left hind and front claws of 8 non‐pregnant heifers served as controls. Thirty claws were selected for histologic examination. No influence of parturition and puerperium was found on signs of laminitis in both clinical and histologic investigations. A remarkable histologic finding was the occurrence of numerous vascular buds in die solar corium. It is suggested that the vascular buds may give rise to the glomus‐like vascular clusters, which are commonly found in older cattle.
Levels of 15‐Ketodihydroprostaglandin F2α During Experimental Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Non‐Pregnant Ewe Lambs
Authors: Fredriksson G. , Aiumlamai Suneerat , Lunden Anna , Amare Desta , Uggla Arvid
Published: May 2010

In order to study the relation between prostaglandin F2α levels and fever during Toxoplasma gondii infection, six non‐pregnant ewe lambs were exposed orally to T. gondii oocysts and an additional four animals were used as non‐inoculated controls. Rectal temperature was measured daily during four weeks and plasma samples were analysed for the content of 15‐ketodihydroprostaglandin F2α. As compared to controls, the inoculated animals had significantly elevated rectal temperature on days 4–16 after infection, but no concomitant changes in prostaglandin F2α metabolite levels were recorded.
Follow‐up Studies by Peroral Small Intestinal Biopsies and Necropsy in Dogs with Chronic Diarrhea
Authors: van der Gaag Ingrid , Happe R. P.
Published: May 2010

The results of follow‐up studies in 82 dogs with clinical signs of chronic diarrhea are presented. Follow‐up studies were performed by small intestinal biopsies only in 19 dogs, combined with necropsy in six dogs and follow‐up necropsy only in 57 dogs. The times between the first and the last series of biopsies varied from 18 to 561 days, and from one to 656 days between the first series of biopsies and necropsy.

From the 11 dogs with villous atrophy in the first series of biopsies, three also showed villous atrophy in the following biopsies or at necropsy, two had enteritis, one intestinal lymphangiectasia, one lymphosarcoma and four had no small intestinal lesions. Villous atrophy and enteritis found in 20 dogs in the initial biopsies were still present in 12 dogs in the following biopsies, in one only the villous atrophy remained in the following biopsies, in four lymphosarcoma was diagnosed, in one a colitis and in two changes outside the gastrointestinal tract were found at necropsy. In six of the seven dogs with enteritis in the initial biopsies this was diagnosed again, once with VA; in the seventh dog a hypertrophic gastritis was found. In five of the eight dogs with a diagnosis of lymphosarcoma in the initial biopsies a lymphosarcoma was found at necropsy, two had a villous atrophy with enteritis and in one only a differential diagnosis lymphosarcoma and/or enteritis could be made. In two of the three dogs with the differential diagnosis lymphosarcoma and/or enteritis this diagnosis was also made at necropsy, while one dog only had enteritis at necropsy. The biopsy diagnosis carcinoma in one dog was confirmed at necropsy. In 31 dogs the first series of small intestinal biopsies showed no pathological changes, but in four of them villous atrophy was diagnosed in necropsy follow‐up studies (one of them had no diagnosis in earlier follow‐up biopsies), in four other dogs villous atrophy with enteritis, in seven dogs enteritis, in one dog lymphosarcoma, in five dogs gastric lesions and in four dogs extragastrointestinal lesions were found. In five dogs the follow‐up studies by biopsies did not show lesions and in one the follow‐up biopsies were not suitable for examination. Another dog with initial biopsies not suitable for examination showed colitis at necropsy.
Immunocytochemical Demonstration of Intermediate Filament Proteins, S‐100 Protein and CEA in Apocrine Sweat Glands and Apocrine Gland Derived Lesions of the Dog
Authors: Ferrer L. , Rabanal R. M. , Fondevila D. , Prats N.
Published: May 2010

The presence of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), intermediate filament proteins and S‐100 protein in normal and pathological canine apocrine sweat glands was investigated, using a standard immunoperoxidase technique. The normal apocrine sweat glands showed a constant immunoreactivity in all the cases studied. The cells of the acini and of the ducts only reacted with the antikeratin antibody. The myoepithelial cells reacted positively with the antisera antikeratin and anti protein S‐100. Epithelial cells of apocrine cysts, sweat gland adenomas and sweat gland carcinomas showed the same immunoreaction than normal apocrine cells. Proliferating myoepithelial cells were also positive for vimentin. In two out of three adenocarcinomas a positive reaction with the anti CEA could be detected in the glandular cells. This can be due to the presence in glandular cells of CEA or of Nonspecific Crossreacting Antigen (NCA). These findings indicate that demonstration of keratin is a useful aid in the detection of apocrine gland derived lesions in the dog. Similarly, S‐100 preotein is a marker for myoepithelial cells. Further research is necessary to investigate the expression of CEA in canine tumours.
Central and Peripheral α‐Adrenergic Control of Ileal, Caecal and Proximal Colonic Myoelectrical Activity in Sheep
Authors: Brikas P.
Published: May 2010

The role of central and peripheral a‐adrenoceptors in regulation of ileal, caecal and proximal colonic myoelectrical activity was studied in five conscious ewes chronically fitted with intraparietal electrodes and a cannula in a lateral ventricle of the brain. About 5 min after the end of a regular spiking activity (RSA) phase of a migrating motor complex (MMC) in the distal ileum, selective a2‐and aj‐agonists and antagonists were administered intravenously (i. v.) or intracerebroventricularly (i. c. v.). The α‐antagonist yohimbine (600 μg/kg i. v. or 60 μg/kg i. c. v.) induced an RSA phase in the ileum. The α‐agonist naphazoline (30μ/kg i. v. or 3μ/kg i. e. v.) stopped or greatly reduced the frequency of caecal and proximal colonic contractions, respectively, and prevented any MMC in the ileum, effects which were abolished when the animals were either i. v. or i. e. v. pretreated with yohimbine. The α‐antagonist prazosin (600μ/kg i. v., but not 60 μ/kg i‐ c. v.) selectively reduced the frequency of contractions in the cranial caecum and proximal colon. The aj‐agonist phenylephrine (40 μ/kg i. v., but not 4μ/kg i. c. v.) provoked an RSA phase in the ileum, decreased the frequency of contractions in the blind pole and the middle of the caecum and increased that in the cranial caecum and the proximal colon. These effects of phenylephrine were blocked by i. v., but not i. c. v., prazosin. The present results suggest that a‐adrenoceptors are involved in the control of the intestinal motility as follows: I) central α2‐inhibitory and peripheral ctrexcitatory receptors for the ileum, II) central and peripheral α2‐ and peripheral α1‐inhibitory receptors for the blind pole and the middle of caecum and III) central and peripheral α2‐inhibitory and peripheral di‐excitatory receptors for the cranial caecum and the proximal colon.
Isolation of Human and Porcine Monocytes and Lymphocytes by three Parameter Flow Sorting*
Authors: Gruijter Marijke de , van Rijn Marion A. , Verkerk A. , Jongkind J. F.
Published: May 2010

Monocytes and lymphocytes were separated from total human blood cells by Ficoll‐paque gradient centrifugation (at 600 g) followed by two parameter fluorescence activated cell sorting (forward [FLS] and perpendicular light scatter [PLS]). For human blood cells this technique gives good separation and high purity of the monocytes (more than 85%). For porcine blood cells we modified the Ficoll‐paque gradient centrifugation‐step by centrifuging at a lower speed (250 g). Since two parameter flow cytometry of porcine leukocytes (FLS and PLS) gave poor resolution we added endogenous non‐specific esterase activity as a third parameter using fluorescein diacetate (FDA) as a fluorogenic substrate. The sorted fractions were cytocentrifuged and purity was checked with hematoxylin and/or peroxidase staining. Moreover, monoclonal antibodies against monocyte cell surface antigens were used to evaluate the purity of the sorted fractions. Three parameter sorting (PLS, FLS and fluorescence) yields good purification of porcine monocytes (86 ± 1% pure) and lymphocytes (81 ± 2% pure). There was a substantial adhesion of porcine monocytes (326 ± 25/mm2) and lymphocytes (146 ± 21/mm2) to monolayers of porcine aorta endothelial cells (PAEC).
Effect of Feeding on Vitamin A Concentrations in Blood Plasma of Dogs
Authors: Schweigert F. J. , Uehlein‐Harrell Stephanie , Zucker H.
Published: May 2010

The effects of different concentrations of vitamin A in food as well as different food compositions on serum vitamin A levels in dogs were investigated. Contrary to current knowledge for all other species, vitamin A levels in dogs were clearly affected by the daily vitamin A supply as well as the type of food. This behavior, similar to that of vitamin E, can be explained by the fact that dogs and other carnivores transport most of their vitamin A in blood as retinyl esters (mainly retinyl stearate) bound to lipoproteins. The differences in the retinyl ester pattern between vitamin A in liver and in blood indicates that the mobilization of vitamin A from the liver involves selective mechanism. The possible importance of nonspecific, lipoprotein‐bound vitamin A esters in the blood of dogs is discussed.
Adrenocortical Function in Cows with the Downer Cow Syndrome A Preliminary Report
Authors: Nakao T. , Grunert E.
Published: May 2010

To find out if cows with the downer cow syndrome have enhanced or exhausted adrenocortical function, fifteen downer cows were examined for adrenocortical response to 25 IU of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) between 1 and 9 days postpartum. Of the 15 cows, only two cows recovered following treatment, 10 cows were slaughtered due to poor prognosis and 3 cows were found dead. Four cows with milk fever also were investigated for adrenocortical function. Both the downer cows and cows with milk fever had significantly higher basal and ACTH‐stimulated plasma glucocorticoid concentrations than cows without any postpartum complications on day 1 to 2 postpartum (P < 0. 05). There was a tendency that the downer cows which recovered later did not show enhanced adrenocortical function on day 4 to 5 and day 7 to 9 postpartum, while the downer cows with poor prognosis had significantly enhanced adrenocortical activity on the same days postpartum. The enhanced adrenocortical function shown in the milk fever cows on day 1 to 2 postpartum returned to a nearly normal state after their recovery. The results indicate the downer cows with poor prognosis had greatly enhanced adrenocortical function.
Pharmacokinetic Data of Bromofenofos in Calves
Authors: Yoshimura H. , Endoh Y. S. , Hamamoto K.
Published: May 2010

Bromofenofos (BF) was administered orally to six calves at a dose of 12mg/kg and the concentrations of BF and its metabolite dephosphate bromofenofos (DBF) in plasma were determined using a high‐performance liquid chromatographic method. DBF reached maximum concentration of 45. 9 ± 16. 3μg/ml, which occurred at 1. 3 ± 0. 4 days. The elimination half life was calculated to be 1. 8 ± 0. 3 days and the area under the plasma concentration versus time curve was 185. 1 ± 49. 4 μg ± day/ml. The ultrafiltrate of plasma samples revealed no free metabolite, indicating a binding of >99% to plasma protein. DBF disappeared from plasma in all calves 21 days after administration. No BF was detected in plasma at any time.
Cryopreservation of Boar Semen in Mini‐ and Maxi‐Straws
Authors: Bwanga C. O. , de Braganca M. M. , Einarsson S. , Rodriguez‐Martinez H.
Published: May 2010

Split ejaculates from four boars were frozen with a programmable freezing machine, in mini‐ (0. 25 ml) and maxi‐ (5 ml) plastic straws with an extender at either acidic (6. 3) or alkaline (7. 4) pH. Glycerol (3%) was used as cryoprotectant. The freezing of the semen was monitored by way of thermocouples placed in the straws. Post‐thaw motility and acrosome integrity were evaluated; the latter using phase contrast microscopy, eosin‐nigrosin stain and electron microscopy. Post‐thaw sperm motility was significantly higher when semen was frozen in mini‐straws than in maxi‐straws. For the mini‐straws, the motility was better when semen was exposed to an acidic environment during freezing, but this beneficial effect of the low extracellular pH was not evident when maxi‐straws were thawed. The motility of the spermatozoa diminished significantly during the thermoresistance test (0 h and 2 h time) at 37 °C in a similar way for both straws and extracellular pH's. The freezing procedure, no matter the extracellular pH, did not cause major acrosomal damages, but significantly more normal apical ridges were present in the mini‐straws than in the maxi‐straws. This in vitro evaluation indicated that the freezing method employed was better for mini‐ than for maxi‐straws since the freezing of the 5 ml volumes was not homogeneous, due to the large section area between the surface and the core of the straw.
Associated Multiple Congenital Malformations in Domestic Animals. Contribution of Four Cases
Authors: Camón J. , Sabaté D. , Franch J. , López‐Béjar M. A. , Pastor J. , Rutllant J. , Ordeig J. , Degollada E. , Verdu J.
Published: May 2010

The incidence and significance of the appearance of various associated congenital malformations in a single individual have received poor attention in veterinary medicine. In this article, the malformations exhibited by four animals pertaining to three different animal species are described, and the possible reasons for the association of these anomalies are discussed from the viewpoint of the comparative medicine. All four animals showed two or three malformations constituting unrecognized teratological syndromes, so‐called one‐of‐a‐kind syndromes, which have not previously been described, at least in these particular animal species. A pig was affected by a series of craniofacial anomalies consisting in a first arch syndrome together with an occipito‐parietal meningocele. Another member of the porcine species showed holoprosencephaly with cyclopia, various defects in the left forelimb and an extensive omphalocele. A dicephalic cat with cervical rachischisis and myeloschisis and a dog exhibiting spina bifida, curled tail and atresia ani are also described.
Alpha‐Chloralose Anesthesia Inhibits the Somato‐Sympathetic Reflex Response in Cats More Effectively than Halothan
Authors: Gaumann D. M. , Yaksh T. L.
Published: May 2010

The effect of halothane anesthesia (H; 0. 8 Vol%) or alpha‐chloralose anesthesia (AC; 60mg/kg i. v.) on the somato‐sympatho‐adrenal reflex response evoked by supramaximal bilateral sciatic nerve stimulation, were examined in two groups of cats (H: n = 6; AC: n = 4). Blood samples were collected simultaneously from the adrenal vein and femoral artery at baseline (SI) and during bilateral sciatic nerve stimulation (S2) for the measurement of norepinephrine, epinephrine, neuropeptide Y, and Metenkephalin, while mean arterial blood pressure (MABP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded. There were no differences between groups at baseline. In halothane anesthetized cats, sciatic nerve stimulation caused significant increases in MABP (SI: 113 ± 8 mm Hg, S2: 178 ± 10mm Hg; mean ± SE), HR (SI: 223 ± 15bpm, S2: 278 ± 22bpm), and adrenal vein plasma levels of norepinephrine (SI: 3. 1 ± 0. 98 ng/ml, S2: 19. 53 ± 11. 5ng/ml), epinephrine (SI: 15. 5 ± 4. 76ng/ml, S2: 67. 31 ± 14. 9ng/ml), neuropeptide Y (SI: 1. 3 ± 0. 12ng/ml, S2: 2. 16 ± 0. 42 ng/ml), and Met‐enkephalin (SI: 107 ± 35. 7pg/ ml, S2: 200 ± 76. 5pg/ml). In contrast, sciatic nerve stimulation in alpha‐chloralose anesthetized cats, caused a significant increase only in MABP during sciatic nerve stimulation (SI: 115 ± 10mm Hg, S2: 171 ± 7 mm Hg), while HR and adrenal vein plasma levels of catecholamines, neuropeptide Y and Metenkephalin remained unchanged from baseline. Adrenal vein epinephrine levels measured during stimulation in the alpha‐chloralose group (S2: 6. 17 ± .86 ng/ml), were significantly lower as compared to values observed during halothane anesthesia. These data clearly demonstrate inhibitory effects of alpha‐chloralose on the somato‐sympathetic reflex response, which may reflect a central analgesic effect of this drug. A light level of halothane anesthesia seems to be more appropriate than alpha‐chloralose for cat experiments examining sympatho‐adrenal responses.
Histopathological and Biochemical Changes Associated with Selenium and Vitamin E Deficiency in Chicks
Authors: Hassan Saifeldin , Hakkarainen Juhani , Jönsson Lennart , Tyopponen Jouko
Published: May 2010

One day old unsexed White Leghorn chicks obtained either from commercial hens fed adequate levels of selenium (Se) and vitamin E (VE) (Comm. chicks), or from hens depleted in both nutrients (Depl. chicks), were fed a low Se‐VE semi‐synthetic basal diet. The dietary Se content was kept constantly low, while graded levels of VE as dl‐aα‐tocopheryl acetate (dl‐αTa), (0, 5, 10 or 15 mg VE/kg diet) were fed for six weeks. An efficient carry‐over of Se and VE from hens to their progeny was observed by a significant increase in their muscle Se, liver Se‐glutathione peroxidase (Se‐GSH‐Px), and VE content at hatching. In the Depl. chicks, signs of Se‐VE deficiency, i. e. exudative diathesis (ED) were observed at hatching, indicating that the deficiency lesions had developed during the embryonic period, whereas these signs were not observed in Comm. chicks on the depletion diets until they were 2 weeks old. The VE supplemental level of 15mg/kg was not adequate to provide a complete protection against ED. Exudative diathesis was associated with low levels of muscle Se, liver Se‐GSH‐Px and VE and was also accompanied by a simultaneous increase in the liver non‐Se‐GSH‐Px. Autopsy findings and histopathological lesions were observed only in subcutaneous tissue and skeletal muscle. The subcutaneous tissue was edematous with hyaline vascular lesions and hemorrhages. The thigh muscles were more susceptible to deficiency lesions than were the breast muscles, and showed in acute stages degenerative processes of the muscle fibers including calcium deposits, vascular lesions and hemorrhages. In subacute and chronic cases, reparative changes and muscle damage may develop independently of the hyaline vasculosis. To prevent ED, adequate Se and VE in chick diet is essential after hatching, irrespective of their tissue reserves of both nutrients at 1 day of age.
Comparative Trial of Xylazine and Medetomidine as Preanaesthetics Prior to Na Pentobarbital Anaesthesia in Dogs
Authors: Gasthuys F. , Parmentier D. , van Ommeslaeghe K. , de Moor A.
Published: May 2010

The effects of medetomidine [20 and 40μg/kg of body weight (BWT) i. m.] followed by sodium pentobarbital were assessed and compared with the effects of xylazine (1mg/kg of BWT i. m.) in three groups each of 6 dogs. The effects of atipamezole as a specific antidote after anaesthesia were also studied.

Medetomidine produced a reliable sedation which was clinically comparable with the xylazine premedication. 40μg/kg medetomidine induced lower induction (non‐significantly), total (p < 0. 05), anaesthetic (non‐significantly) and anaesthetic per hour (non‐significantly) doses of Na pentobarbital compared to the 20μg/kg medetomidine and the xylazine protocols. No significant differences in the total number of re‐injections were found between the sedative protocols although a gradual increase in number of re‐injections per hour was observed.

Significant decreases in heart and respiration rates were noticed during anaesthesia in all groups (p<0. 01). The heart and respiration rates during anaesthesia in the 40μg/kg medetomidine group were always significantly lower compared to the xylazine group. Body temperature decreased gradually in time during anaesthesia in all groups (p<0. 05 after 1 hour, p<0. 01 after 2 and 3 hours) without significant differences between the groups. The extubation time in the medetomidine protocols without antagonisation was significantly greater (p<0. 01) than the extubation time after antagonisation with atipamezole.
Immunohistochemical Detection of Papillomavirus Structural Antigens in Animal Hyperplastic and Neoplastic Epithelial Lesions
Authors: Sironi G. , Caniatti M. , Scanziani E.
Published: May 2010

One hundred and seventytwo hyperplastic and neoplastic epithelial lesions from 8 different mammalian and 1 avian species have been tested with an immunohistochemical technique to detect papillomavirus structural antigens. Selected lesions were diagnosed histologically as papilloma, fibropapilloma, equine sarcoid, squamous cell carcinoma, basalioma, epulis, keratoacanthoma, trichoepithelioma, pilomatrixoma, epidermal inclusion cyst, and hyperkeratotic or acanthotic epidermal lesions. Positive nuclear staining was detected in 14 out of 23 papillomas, 8 out of 32 fibropapillomas and in 1 out of 3 hyperplastic epidermal lesions. Positive samples were found in 5 of 8 mammalian species. Selected samples were also examined by transmission electron microscopy. In 4 samples papillomavirus was seen. In two other samples, negative with immunoperoxidase technique, papovavirus‐like particles were observed.
Histological Changes in the Genital Tract of Female Veal Calves Implanted with Naturally Occurring Anabolic Steroids
Authors: Groot M. J. , Hartog J. M. P. den
Published: May 2010

The influence of implants composed of estradiol and testosterone on the genital tract of female veal calves was studied. Striking results were the metaplastic and hyperplastic lesions seen in Bartholin's glands (an estrogenic effect) and a preputial‐like separation of the clitoral epithelium (an androgenic effect). Other changes were less pronounced or resembled those found in estrous animals. Similar though less distinct histological changes were observed in the genital tract of animals from a farm with a history of illegal administration of anabolic steroids suggesting illegal treatment. From these findings it is concluded that histological screening of Bartholin's glands for estrogenic influences and of the clitoris for androgenic activity can be useful in tracing illegal anabolic treatment of female veal calves with combination preparations.
Changes in Disposition Kinetics of Sulphadimidine in Response to Acute Regional Liver Damage in Sheep
Authors: Argaw T. , Brugere H.
Published: May 2010

Disposition kinetics of sulphadimidine in sheep, before and after regional liver damage by allyl alcohol, was investigated following a single IV injection (l00mg/kg). Allyl alcohol (12mg/kg) provoked periportal liver lesion in 60 per cent of the animals.

In normal sheep the mean elimination half‐life of sulphadimidine was 7. 47 ± 1. 09 hours. Liver damage significantly increased this value to 11. 68 ± 1. 09 hours. Liver damage by allyl alcohol significantly changed the total body clearance (C1B), the overall elimination rate constant (β) and the micro‐constants k12and kcl. The apparent volume of distribution (Vd) and the micro‐constant k12were not influenced by liver damage. The mean minimum steady‐state concentration (Cp[min]) in normal sheep (38. 43μg/ml at 24 hours of interval) was found to be higher than previously reported. Liver intoxication significantly increased this value to 94. 38μg/ml.

It is suggested that the regional liver damage has affected both the elimination and biotransformation of sulphadimidine.
Regulation of the Uterine Expression of Messenger Ribonucleic Acids Encoding the Oestrogen Receptor and IGF–I Peptides in the Pig Uterus
Authors: Sahlin L. , Rodriguez‐Martinez H. , Stanchev Ph. , Dalin A. ‐M. , Norstedt G. , Eriksson H.
Published: May 2010

The acute effects of oestradiol‐17 β on the expression of the oestrogen receptor (ER) and insulinlike growth factor I (IGF‐I) in the endometrium of ovariectomized pigs were examined. The steroid receptor level was assayed by hormone binding techniques and specific mRNAs analyzed by solution hybridization using 35S‐labelled RNA probes complementary to the ligand‐binding domain of the ER receptor gene and a 160bp Panl‐Pvul fragment of the IGF‐I gene. One hour after a single injection of oestradiol (1 μg/kg BW), the nuclear oestrogen receptor (ERn) mean level was increased 3‐fold whereas the ER mRNA content had not changed significantly. After 3 hours the ERn mean concentration was still high; the mean ER mRNA level had decreased by 15% and the mean IGF‐I mRNA had increased 3‐fold above that in the samples collected prior to treatment from these ovariectomized animals. Six hours after the injection the ERn content had returned to the basal level and stayed there during the following six hours. The ER mRNA concentration continued to decline, reached its lowest value after six hours and had increased slightly by twelve hours. The IGF‐I mRNA level increased steadily during the course of the experiment. At twelve hours after the injection it had increased 3‐fold. From these data we conclude that in the pig uterus oestradiol down‐regulates its own receptor and acts as a potent stimulator of endometrial growth by inducing IGF‐I expression.
Vitamin A (Retinol and Retinyl Esters), α‐Tocopherol and Lipid Levels in Plasma of Captive Wild Mammals and Birds1
Authors: Schweigert F. J. , Uehlein‐Harrell Stephanie , v. Hegel Giesela , Wiesner H.
Published: May 2010

Vitamin A (retinol and retinyl esters), vitamin E and lipids were determined in a wide variety of wild mammals and birds held in captivity. In mammals plasma levels of vitamin A were generally below 500ng/ml and those of vitamin E were highly variable (0.1–2μg/ml). In primates, vitamin E levels were 3 to 8 μg/ml. Whereas in Marsupalia, Chioptera, primates, Rodentia, Proboscidea, Sirenia, Perissodactyla and Artiodactyla only retinol was found, retinyl esters (basically retinol palmitate/oleate) represented 10 to 50% of the total plasma vitamin A in some birds of the order Ciconiiformes and Falconiformes. Retinol levels in birds were higher compared to mammals (500‐2,000 ng/ml). The same was true for lipids as well as for vitamin E levels (1–26 μg/ml) in the plasma of birds.
Concentrations and Patterns of Released Pterins of Various Animal Cell Cultures*
Authors: Goldberg M. , Koller M.
Published: May 2010

Neopterin, biopterin, pterin, 6‐hydroxymethylpterin and isoxanthopterin were determined in the supernatants of various animal cell cultures. The different cell lines showed distinct variations in the concentrations as well as in the pattern and total amount of the released pterins. In cells from the same organ but from diverse species differences in pattern and release were found. Cell lines derived from primates had a high release of neopterin. A further difference resulted from the origin of fetal or adult organs. Neoplastic cell lines showed different patterns of pterins, dependent on the type of tumour. Primary cultures from embryonic bovine lung had the highest total amount of released pterins in all cell lines examined.
Distribution of Immunoglobulins During Embryogenesis in the Chicken*
Authors: Kaspers B. , Schranner I. , Lösch U.
Published: May 2010

Whereas the yolk of freshly‐laid eggs contains only IgG, apart from traces of IgA, we were able to measure, on average, 0.145 mg/ml IgM and 0.207 mg/ml IgA in the yolk sac contents of 21‐day‐old chicken embryos. Up to the 14th embryonic day, IgG is exclusively contained in the yolk sac contents. It was not possible to demonstrate an increase in the amount of immunoglobulins present by comparing the amounts of IgM and IgA in freshly‐laid eggs and in the yolk sac contents of 21‐day‐old embryos.

The offspring of hens with experimentally‐induced agammaglobulinemia did not begin with the production of the immunoglobulin isotypes IgG, IgM and IgA until after hatching.

From these results the conclusion can be drawn that the immunoglobulins IgM and IgA are transferred from the egg white to the yolk sac contents during the last third of embryonic development. Embryonic synthesis of these immunoglobins can be discounted as a result of this study.

Synthesis was found to be initiated between the 2nd and 7th day of life for IgG, between the 2nd and 4th day of life for IgM and between the 6th and 13th day of life for IgA.
Hyperplasia of Somatostatin and Pancreatic Polypeptide Immunoreactive Cells in Dogs with Idiopathic Atrophy of the Exocrine Pancreas
Authors: Hellmann J. , Loppnow H.
Published: May 2010

The pancreatic tissue from 25 dogs with idiopathic atrophy of the exocrine pancreas, and from 6 control dogs, was studied histologically and immunohistometrically. Cells producing insulin (B), glucagon (A), somatostatin (D), and pancreatic polypeptide (PP) were identified using specific antisera and the ABC technique. Histometrical quantitation revealed differences in the distribution of these cell types between the right and left pancreatic lobe. Initial stages of atrophy showed little changes concerning the relative proportions of the four cell types examined. In more advanced stages of atrophy, however, there was significant increase in the percentage of the D cells in the cell population of the left lobe. B and A cells showed no significant changes. In final stages, only tiny tissue spots were left over with a high percentage of PP cells. The changes in the endocrine cell population are considered a secondary and regenerative phenomenon, but an endocrine dysregulation cannot be excluded. Atrophy accompanied by diabetes mellitus and a lack of B cells seem to be due to a deficiency of insulin.
Enzyme Activities of Urinary Alanine Aminopeptidase (AAP) and N‐Acetyl‐β‐D‐Glucosaminidase (NAG) in Healthy Dogs
Authors: Reusch Claudia , Vochezer R. , Weschta E.
Published: May 2010

The activity of the urinary enzymes alanine aminopeptidase (AAP; EC 3.4.11.2) and N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG; EC 3.2.1.30) was measured after eliminating distorting factors in ten healthy dogs on three consecutive days in order to determine inter‐ and intra‐individual variability.

All the animals were being housed and fed in the same way. The urine (2nd morning urine) was collected between 8:30 and 10:00 a. m. by means of ultrasound‐controlled cystocentesis.

Our comparative measurements of native and gel‐filtered urine showed an increase in enzyme activity in all of the samples in the case of AAP and in most of the samples in the case of NAG, thus proving the existence in the dog of AAP and NAG urinary enzyme inhibitors.

The large inter‐ and intra‐individual AAP and NAG fluctuation ranges were reduced considerably by relating enzyme activity to urine creatinine concentration. The provisional upper limit of the AAP reference range is 6.3 U/g creatinine (90% percentile), that of NAG 6.2 U/g creatinine (90% percentile). The AAP and NAG enzyme activities remained constant in gel‐filtered samples kept at 4°C for at least 5 days, in those kept at ‐ 18°C for at least 4 weeks.
Modification of the Cutting Thread Technique for Intestinal Anastomoses using Diathermy
Authors: Sandh G.
Published: May 2010

The author has modified a surgical technique, which was originally developed at the turn of the century, for the aseptic establishment of an intestinal anastomosis. The principle of this technique, known as the “cutting thread” principle, was that a loop of thread was introduced into the lumen of each of two approximated loops of intestine. After suturing the two loops of intestine together around the intraluminal parts of the thread, the latter was used as a “wire‐saw” to create a stoma between the two intestinal loops. The author modified the method in such a way that the cutting could be performed with diathermy, thus avoiding the risk of uncontrollable traumatization which was inherent in the original technique. The author also used “steering” sutures which encircled the diathermy wire, preventing the wire from running “off the line”. The cutting thread of the original method was replaced by a silver‐plated copper wire, insulated with teflon except for a few mm in the middle and a few cm at each end. The stoma was cut with diathermy, using the uninsulated middle of the wire as an electrode. After testing in experimental animals, this technique appears to be of value in certain clinical operations, e. g. implantation of the small intestine into the caecum or colon following an ileal respective caecal resection in the horse.
Effect of Energy/Protein Ratio on Productive Performance and Carcass Composition of Male Broilers*
Authors: Cornejo S. , López A. , Pokniak J. , González N. , Cordeiro A.
Published: May 2010

To minimize excessive carcass fatness of broiler chicken, a diet with a low energy/protein ratio (EPR 117 resulting from 2800 Kcal ME/kg and 24% crude protein) was fed between days 7–14 (E 1), 7–21 (E 2) or 21–35 (E 3); the rest of the time, up to 49 days of age, the chicks were fed as the control group, with EPR's of 138, 162 and 181 according to age. The results indicate that the feeding of a ration with a low EPR at different ages did not importantly impair productive performance although treatments E2 and E3 produced lower live weights and a decreased feed conversion (P≦0.03). Concerning carcass characteristics, there was a trend to lower abdominal fat content in all experimental groups as compared to the control group and a lower ether extract content in the edible part of broilers from treatments E2 and E3 (P≦0.06). More research is needed to find a metabolic explanation for these feeding effects.
An Automated Method for Determination of Total Bile Acid Concentration in Canine Serum
Authors: Jensen A. L.
Published: May 2010

The purpose of the study was to evaluate an automated modification of the enzymatic method, Enzabile®(Nycomed)for tne determination of total bile acid concentration in canine serum. Evaluation of the automated method was accomplished by measuring the within‐run and between‐day variation, by assessment of accuracy, and by assessment of detectability of the method. The automated method was found to correlate well with the original Enzabile®(Nycomed)method. The resulting regression equation was found to be: y = 5.81 + 1.09x, r = 0.99. Also, the variations and the detection limit of the automated method were smaller, respectively lower, compared to the reference method.
Detomidine Reduces the Plasma Catecholamine, but not Cortisol Concentrations in Horses
Authors: Raekallio Marja , Vainio Outi , Scheinin Mika
Published: May 2010

Single doses of the α2‐adrenergic sedative‐analgesic drug, detomidine (10 μg/kg, n = 7; 20 μg/kg, n = 9), were administered IV to adult horses. Plasma concentrations of adrenaline, noradrenaline, the catecholamine metabolites 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylglycol (DHPG) and 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), and Cortisol were determined before the medication and 30 minutes after it.

The plasma concentrations of noradrenaline and the catecholamine metabolites decreased significantly after administration of both 10 μg/kg and 20 μg/kg of detomidine. Plasma adrenaline level had a tendency to decrease, but plasma Cortisol levels were not influenced. The findings suggest a reduction in sympatho‐adrenal activity in horses treated with detomidine.
Intestinal Permeability in Piglets During Transmissible Gastroenteritis
Authors: Egberts H. J. A. , Vellenga L. , van Dijk J. E. , Mouwen J. M. V. M.
Published: May 2010

Macromolecular permeability of the small intestine was tested in seven three‐week‐old piglets infected with porcine transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGE‐strain Miller). Fourteen hours after the infection, the piglets showed loss of appetite and a profuse diarrhoea. In some animals vomiting occurred somewhat earlier. Macromolecular permeability was tested morphologically by injecting horseradish peroxidase (MW = 40,000 Da) into the jejunal lumen just distally to the Treitz' ligament in two piglets at 12 hours and in five piglets at 48 hours after the inoculation in comparison with two control piglets. After a period of 20 minutes, small segments of jejunum were taken for stereomicroscopical, histological and ultrastructural investigations. An increased permeability for HRP together with a severe, hyper‐regenerative villous atrophy was observed in the TGE‐infected piglets at 48 hours after the inoculation.
Post‐Thaw Motility, ATP Content and Cytochrome C Oxidase Activity of A. I. Bull Spermatozoa in Relation to Fertility
Authors: Söderquist L. , Rodriguez‐Martinez H. , Janson L.
Published: May 2010

Relationship between post‐thaw sperm motility, ATP content, Cytochrome c oxidase (Ceo) activity and fertility (56 days non‐return) were determined in frozen‐thawed semen. Semen was obtained from 47 A. I. bulls, and only ejaculates with a post‐thaw sperm motility of ≥ = 50% were used. The post‐thaw sperm motility was 52.7 ± 6.9 % (x̄ ± SD) at 30 min. The overall mean concentration of ATP was 18.7 ± 5.6 nmol/spermatozoa × 108. Sperm motility, Cytochrome c oxidase activity and ATP content were found to be related to each other (r = 0.57‐0.64; p ≤ 0.05‐0.001). However, only ATP content showed a statistical significant but negative correlation (r = ‐0.24) with fertility. No correlation was found between post‐thaw motilitiy and fertility (56 days non‐return within examined freezings).

The results obtained raise doubts about the usefulness of sperm motility as an indicator of the fertilizing ability of frozen‐thawed semen with a post‐thaw motility of ≥ = 50%.
Chronic Hepatitis in Three Young Standard Poodles
Authors: Jensen A. L. , Nielsen O. L.
Published: May 2010

The finding of a morphological similar type of chronic hepatitis in three young and related Standard Poodles is reported. The chronic hepatitis had some resemblance to lobular dissecting hepatitis that is a rare hepatobiliary disorder predominantly described in Standard Poodles, but it could not be concluded whether or not this was actually the diagnosis. However, as the finding of a morphological similar type of chronic hepatitis in three related dogs is rather uncommon, a common genetic or environmental background might be involved in the etiopathogenesis of the disease.
Urinary Excretion of Purines in Sheep with Experimental Orotic Aciduria
Authors: Motyl T. , Siwecka B. , Kukulska W. , Orzechowski A. , Puchala R.
Published: May 2010

Urinary excretion of uric acid, hypoxanthine, allantoin, and urea was measured in sheep (Polish Merino, about 20 kg b. w.) with experimental orotic aciduria. The 240 min infusion of 6‐azauridine solution into the juguiar vein induced a highly significant increase of urinary orotic acid, uric acid and hypoxanthine excretion. No differences were found in relation to excretion of allantoin and urea in examined sheep. It was calculated that renal clearance of uric acid and hypoxanthine increased significantly in response to 6‐azauridine infusion. Intravenous infusion of sodium orotate evoked a highly significant elevation of renal urate clearance. No significant change in renal urea clearance was observed. The data suggest that competition between the renal transport of orotate and actively transported purine compounds (uric acid and hypoxanthine) occurs.