bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of a BovineStaphylococcus aureusVaccine using Interleukin‐2 as an Adjuvant
Authors: Derosa D. C. , Sordillo L. M.
Published: May 2010

The purpose of this study was to examine the efficacy of a vaccination protocol using recombinant bovine interleukin‐2 (rBoIL‐2) as an adjuvant with aStaphylococcus aureusvaccine. Holstein dairy cows were immunized with aS. aureusvaccine in conjunction with either saline solution (n = 3), Freund's incomplete adjuvant (FIA; n = 3) or rBoIL‐2 (n = 3). Whey and serum were analysed for antibody titer to specificS. aureusantigens. Isolated blood mononuclear cells (BMC) were examined for their ability to proliferate and to produce interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and interferon (IFN) after either mitogenic or antigenic stimulationin vitro.Efficacy of the vaccination protocols was assessed by challenging experimental animals intramammarily with 100 colony forming units ofS. aureus.Regardless of treatment, all cows exhibited similar serum antibody titers toS. aureuspseudocapsule. Cows treated with saline exhibited a significant increase in serum α‐toxin antibody titer when compared to levels observed in FIA and rBoIL‐2‐treated cows. However, cows receiving rBoIL‐2 treatment exhibited significantly higher lacteal pseudocapsule antibody titer compared to the other adjuvant groups. Administration of rBoIL‐2 did not enhance BMC proliferative responses to the mitogens concanavalin A (ConA), phytohemagglutinin (PHA), pokeweed mitogen (PWM) or interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) when compared to FIA or saline treated cows. Although cows receiving rBoIL‐2 treatment exhibited enhanced cytokine production upon antigenic stimulation, efficacy of the vaccination protocol was inferior compared to the protection offered by saline treatment.
Isolation and Identification of Salmonella Species from Chelonians Using Combined Selective Media, Serotyping and Ribotyping
Authors: Kodjo A. , Villard L. , Prave M. , Ray S. , Grezel D. , Lacheretz A. , Bonneau M. , Richard Y.
Published: May 2010

Thirty‐two faecal samples from various pet chelonians were bacteriologically examined using various combinations of selective media for Salmonella detection. Strains identified as Salmonella were clustered by rRNA gene restriction pattern (ribotyping) analysis prior to serological typing. The combination of selenite broth and Rambach or Salmonella‐Shigella agars gave the maximum rate of Salmonella recovery. Of the 32 samples examined, 13 (40%), were positive for Salmonella. Five serovars were identified, Muenchen, Rubislaw, Newport, Ferruch and a non‐motile O:4,5,12, with Salmonella Muenchen the most common. This result indicates that biochemical characterization combined with ribotyping prior to serotyping can contribute to Salmonella detection on a large scale.
Bilateral Encephalomalacia in a Pig Related to Latent Aujeszky's Disease Virus Infection
Authors: Balasch M. , Pujols J. , Segales J. , Pumarola M.
Published: May 2010

A case of bilateral encephalomalacia in a pig related to latent Aujeszky's disease virus infection is reported. The pig was experimentally inoculated with the NIA‐3 strain and survived the infection after showing intense central nervous system disease. Abnormal behaviour was observed up to the date of death. The pig was demonstrated to be latently infected with the virus by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The main microscopic lesion was a bilateral encephalomalacia which involved structures related to the limbic system. A complete description of lesions observed and their relation to abnormalities shown by the pig are exposed.
Signs of Infections and Reduced Immune Functions at Weaning of Conventionally Reared and Specific Pathogen Free Pigs
Authors: Wattrang E. , Wallgren P. , Lindberg Å. , Fossum C.
Published: May 2010

The growth rate and several immune parameters were recorded to monitor the performance, health and immune status of 40 piglets in a conventional farrow to finish herd. In addition, effects of weaning on immune parameters were studied under minimal influence of infections in 20 specific pathogen free (SPF) pigs. The growth rate of the conventionally reared pigs decreased after weaning and after allocation of pigs to new premises. Around weaning a considerable number of pigs displayed interferon‐α (IFN‐α) in serum, indicating the spread of viral infections. Bacterial infections were indicated by elevated numbers of circulating neutrophilic granulocytes during the weaning period. Functional in vitro tests of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) revealed that the Concanavalin A (Con A) induced proliferation decreased both after weaning and after transfer of the conventionally reared pigs to the finishing unit. The decreased proliferation observed after weaning was accompanied by decreased interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) production in response to the mitogen. A reduced IL‐2 producing capacity after weaning was confirmed with PBMC obtained from the SPF pigs. Flow cytometric analyses of these cells showed that the proportion of PBMC expressing IL‐2 receptors (IL‐2R+) was decreased 3 and 6 days after weaning when cultured in the absence of mitogen while the proportion of IL‐2R+ cells was unaltered in Con A stimulated cultures. Thus indications of reduced immune function coincided in time with signs of infections, especially around weaning.
Selective Loss of BoLA Class I Determinants from the Lymphocyte Surface after Acid Treatment
Authors: Horín P. , Cermák P. , Vojtíšek P. , Vinkler I.
Published: May 2010

Acid treatment of bovine lymphocytes by a buffered solution of 0.263 m citric acid and 0.123 M Na2HPO4 at pH = 3.0, originally described for human and murine lymphocytes, selectively eliminated the antigenicity of MHC (BoLA) class I determinants also from bovine lymphocytes. The viability of acid‐treated cell suspension was higher than 90%. The reactivity of acid‐treated lymphocytes with BoLA class I typing alloantisera was lost in microcytotoxicity test, while their reactions with cross‐reactive anti‐HLA class II, anti‐BoCD2 and BoCD5 monoclonal antibodies, and with antisera detecting two non‐MHC lymphocyte alloantigenic specificities (BoLY w1 and R') remained unchanged in the microcytotoxicity and/or indirect immunofluorescence tests. The results thus show that this approach of modulating cell surface expression of MHC class I determinants may be used in cattle.
Histopathological and Ultrastructural Observations of Ovine Mammary Glands Experimentally Inoculated with Coagulase‐Negative Staphylococci
Authors: Burriel A. R.
Published: May 2010

The mammary glands of 21 primiparous Mule ewes were infected experimentally with one or other of seven isolates of coagulase‐negative staphylococci belonging to one of four different species. All isolates caused inflammation that contributed to histopathological and ultrastructural changes. Histopathological changes varied from various degrees of neutrophilic inflammation at the early stages of infection to extensive mononuclear cell infiltration and development of fibrotic tissue at the late stages. The severity and extent of the lesions varied between isolates. At late stages of infection mononuclear cells were involved in active phagocytosis more often than neutrophils. Phagocytosed cocci within mononuclear cells were observed in the interstitium. These cells could become reservoirs of staphylococci that may prolong the inflammatory response.
Studies of Yersinia enterocolitica 0:3 Experimental Infection in Pigs
Authors: Najdenski H. , Nikolova S. , Vesselinova A. , Neikov P.
Published: May 2010

Y. enterocolitica (serotype 0:3, pYV+, biotype 4) infection of 20‐day‐old pigs challenged per os with a total dose of 5 times 1010 CFU was studied. Clinical, paraclinical and morphological findings were examined in dynamics from 1st to 25th days post infection (p.i.).

Augmentation of body temperature and erythrocyte sedimentation rate during the first days p.i. were established. The number of leucocytes, peritoneal (pMa) and alveolar (aMa) macrophages was increased significantly from 4th to 15th days p.i. Phagocytic activity of pMa and aMa examined in vitro was maximal on days 15 and 25 p.i. The enhanced phagocytic activity of macrophages was in correlation with the observed histological changes—purulent meningoencephalitis, necrotic tonsillitis, peribronchial lymphoid‐leucocytic cell infiltration and catarrhal enteritis.

Extensive colonization of internal organs was detected at necropsy till the end of trial.

Analysis of the results shows that this orally caused infection runs slowly with dissemination and persistency of Y. enterocolitica 0:3 in the macroorganism, like a generalized infection.
Infectious Bovine Mastitis Caused by Environmental Organisms
Authors: Costa E. O. , Ribeiro A. R. , Watanabe E. T. , Melville P. A.
Published: May 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of environmental mastitis in dairy herds and identify the main environmental pathogens, and to evaluate the influence of season, housing and management. A total of 20 310 quarters of 5216 animals from 52 dairy herds in 32 counties was examined. Milk samples were aseptically collected for laboratory examination from mammary glands testing positive to any of the field tests. From these, 736 environmental infections were identified. The most frequently isolated environmental pathogens were algae of the genusProtothecasp. (41.2%),Streptococcus uberis(21.1%), fungi (19.5%), enterobacteriacea (8.3%) andNocardiasp. (6.6%). The occurrence of mastitis was not influenced by the herd size, use of dry cow therapy, or post milking teat dipping. A tendency for increased occurrence of environmental mastitis during the months of September to February (hot and wet weather) was observed, suggesting a seasonal influence.
Cytological, Immunocytochemical and Biochemical Cerebrospinal Fluid Investigations in Selected Central Nervous System Disorders of Dogs
Authors: Abate O. , Bollo E. , Lotti D. , Bo S.
Published: May 2010

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained from 20 clinically healthy dogs and from 15 dogs affected by neurological disorders were examined for total and differential cell counts, immunocytochemistry for canine distemper virus antigen, total protein concentration and electrophoretic separation, and glucose and enzyme determination. Dogs affected by canine distemper showed an increase in macrophages, presence of specific inclusion bodies, and an increase in total protein concentration and gamma‐globulin fraction. In bacterial meningoencephalomyelitis pleocytosis, increase of total proteins with special regard to high molecular weight proteins, elevated levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alterations of LDH isoenzyme profile, and decrease in glucose levels were detected; inflammatory disorders were more often characterized by an increase in LDH level, while in non‐inflammatory disorders (hydrocephalus and spinal cord neoplasia) no variation in LDH levels was detected. Analysis of CSF in dogs appears relatively easy to perform and may help in establishing the condition of the blood‐brain barrier as well as in the diagnosis of neurological disorders.
Identification and Characterization of Arcobacter Isolates from Broilers by Biochemical Tests, Antimicrobial Resistance Patterns and Plasmid Analysis
Authors: Harraß B. , Schwarz S. , Wenzel S.
Published: May 2010

A total of 89 Arcobacter butzleri isolates obtained from freshly slaughtered broilers was investigated for their biochemical capacities by using the API CAMPY® system as well as additional growth and tolerance tests, for their antimicrobial resistance patterns and their plasmid content. Among these techniques, biochemical profiling and antimicrobial resistance testing proved to be the most discriminatory methods as confirmed by the calculation of discriminatory indices. These two methods might represent valuable tools for epidemiological analyses of A. butzleri isolates. Small plasmids of up to 5 kbp were detectable in only 21 of the 89 isolates while the remaining 68 A. butzleri isolates were plasmid‐free.
Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Potency Testing of Vaccines Containing Clostridium perfringens Type D Epsilon‐Toxoid
Authors: Pfahler W. , Bisesti E. , Pereyra J. B. , Iribarren F.
Published: May 2010

For ethical, economic and technical reasons in vivo assays need to be replaced in routine laboratory procedures. Based on a method which is already accepted by the British authorities, an indirect ELISA has been developed and evaluated for Clostridium perfringens type D‐containing vaccines. Individual and pooled sera of vaccinated rabbits were tested at a single dilution level, the results transferred into IU/ml, and compared with the conventional toxin neutralization test in mice. The ELISA was found to give reproducible estimates of antitoxin levels and showed good correlation with the conventional in vivo test in mice.
Factors Influencing Adherence ofStreptococcus dysgalactiaeto Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cell Monolayers
Authors: Calvinho L. F. , Oliver S. P.
Published: May 2010

Factors that affected adherence ofStreptococcus dysgalactiaeto monolayers of primary bovine mammary epithelial cells and to a bovine mammary epithelial transformed cell line were evaluated. Cell culture medium inhibited more than 99% of binding ofS. dysgalactiaeto plastic and was as effective as several blocking agents in decreasing adventitious adherence of this organism to plastic. Adherence of two strains ofS. dysgalactiae(UT516 and UT519) was higher to a transformed mammary epithelial cell line (2.85% and 0.83%, respectively) than to primary bovine mammary epithelial cells (0.45% and 0.52%, respectively). Measurement of the extent of bacterial adherence to cell monolayers showed that adherence was affected by inoculum size. This indicated that the process was mediated by saturable cell receptors and allowed selection of bacteria:epithelial cell ratios not approaching saturating conditions (< 1500:1). In addition, reduction of bacterial adherence by more than 90% following cell fixation indicated that cell surface proteins played a major role in this process. Delineation of bacterial and epithelial cell factors influencing adherence ofS. dysgalactiaeto mammary epithelial cell monolayers resulted in the development of anin vitromethod for quantifying bacterial adherence to cell monolayers.
Fumonisin B1 Contamination of Maize and Experimental Acute Fumonisin Toxicosis in Pigs
Authors: Fazekas B. , Bajmócy E. , Glávits R. , Fenyvesi A. , Tanyi J.
Published: May 2010

The fumonisin B1 content of 69 visibly mouldy and 23 mould‐free maize samples grown in Hungary in 1993–1995 was determined by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Fumonisin B1 was found to occur in 70–73 % of the mouldy samples. The mycotoxin level increased from year to year: the highest fumonisin B1 concentration was 75.1 mg/kg. The samples that were mould‐free on visual inspection showed a much lower prevalence of fumonisin B1 contamination (30 %) and contained fumonisin B1 in markedly lower concentrations (average, 1.52 mg/kg; maximum concentration, 5.1 mg/kg). Using the Fusarium moniliforme strain designated 14/A, isolated from the sample that had the highest mycotoxin concentrations, fumonisin B1 toxin was produced on maize by an internationally accepted procedure. Subsequently, two weaned piglets were fed a diet containing 330 mg fumonisin B1 per kg of feed. The experimental animals developed hydrothorax and pulmonary oedema, and died in 5–6 days. The clinical symptoms and pathological lesions were consistent with those of porcine pulmonary oedema (PPE) diagnosed in the USA in 1989–1990, as well as with those of a disease entity that had already been described in Hungary in the 1950s as the so‐called fattening or unique pulmonary oedema of pigs but considered to be of unknown aetiology. The results of the feeding trial confirm that this pig disease, which has occurred in Hungary for a long time, is caused by the mycotoxin fumonisin B1.
Serologic Diagnosis of Ovine Lentiviruses by Whole Virus ELISA and AGID Test
Authors: Celer V. , Celer V. , Němcová H. , Zanoni R. G. , Peterhans E.
Published: May 2010

Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) are the most widely used serological tests for Maedi—Visna diagnostics. The purpose of the present study was to develop an indirect whole virus ELISA and an immunodiffusion test and compare their sensitivity. A total of 747 ovine serum specimens were analysed for antibodies against this ovine lentivirus. The number of positive results in the ELISA was 430 (57.56%). In the AGID test, a positive result was found in 380 samples (50.87%). In the group of discordant results 78 (10.4%) samples tested positive by the ELISA and negative by the AGID test and 28 sera (3.7%) were found to be positive by the AGID test and negative by the ELISA. The data in this report show the ELISA to be more sensitive than the AGID test, but accurate serological diagnostics should be based on a combination of the two tests.
Epidemiological Aspects of Dermatophyte Infections in Horses and Cattle
Authors: Moretti A. , Boncio L. , Pasquali P. , Fioretti D. Piergili
Published: May 2010

Ringworm infections in the principal domestic animals are a major public and veterinary health problem. The aetiology, epidemiology and symptomatology of these mycoses are quite heterogeneous and complex. In this context, the AA carried out an epidemiological study to investigate the prevalence of dermatophytes in two different animal species, horses (n = 200) belonging to 10 private stables and cattle (n = 1900) belonging to farms with different breeding purposes and management. With regard to horses the results showed a positive level of 9% and Trichophyton equinum was the major organism isolated. The results concerning the cattle showed positive values that varied both in relation to the type of animals and their management as well as to the productive objectives: 19% in intensive beef breeding, 4.5% in intensive dairy farms (the aetiologic agent isolated in both types of farms was Trichophyton verrucosum) and 8% in traditional‐type farms (the species of fungi isolated were T. verrucosum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes). The results are discussed both in clinical and in hygiene and management terms.
Serological Studies onCorynebacterium pseudotuberculosisInfections in Goats using Enzyme‐linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Sting R. , Steng G. , Spengler D.
Published: May 2010

Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosiswas isolated from a goat suffering from caseous lymphadenitis and used for preparation of cell wall antigens and exotoxin for detection of specific antibodies in enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In immunoblotting sodium dodecyt sulphate (SDS) extracted cell wall antigens revealed molecular weights ranging from 20 to 120 kDa. The raw exotoxin showed molecular weights of 30 and 55 kDa and an inhibition of the haemolysis of aStaphylococcus aureusstrain. For validation of the ELISA 109 goats of known clinical status were examined reaching a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 76% for this test. No serological reactions showed in 191 goats originating from 11 flocks which never had suffered from caseous lymphadenitis. Using this ELISA test 24 goats originating from flocks suffering from caseous lymphadenitis were examined serologically before and after vaccination with a bacterin. Before vaccination one of the five goats with clinical signs showed no positive reaction in ELISA. After vaccination all 24 animals showed positive reactions. Of a total of 1868 goats sampled in Baden‐Wuerttemberg 41 (2.2%) in 22 (10%) flocks showed positive reactions in ELISA.
Studies on Biochemical, Serological and further Characteristics of Streptococcus porcinus
Authors: Lämmler Ch. , Cirak N. , Smola J.
Published: May 2010

In the present study 70 Streptococcus porcinus isolates could be identified and further characterized by cultural and biochemical properties, by determination of their antibiotic susceptibility and by serological classifications. The S. porcinus included serogroup‐ and serotype‐reference strains, presumptive group candidates and isolates obtained from routine diagnostics. All cultures investigated appeared with a broad zone of β‐haemolysis on sheep blood agar showed a CAMP‐like reactivity in the zone of staphylococcal β‐lysin and had the typical biochemical properties of this species. Determination of antibiotic susceptibility revealed a high number of cultures to be susceptible to ampicillin, bacitracin, chloramphenicol, penicillin and vancomycin. Resistances could be observed for erythromycin, minocycline, sulfamethoxazol‐trimethoprim, streptomycin and tetracycline.

Serogrouping and serotyping could be performed with autoclaved extracts of the bacteria and group‐ and type‐specific antisera prepared against reference strains and group candidates by immunodiffusion reactions. By serogrouping almost all cultures could be classified into serogroup E, U, V or P. Some group E streptococci could additionally be serotyped with type II, VI, VII and group X specific antiserum indicating that group X represents an additional type antigen of serogroup E. None of the antigen preparations reacted with serotype IV, V or group candidate NG1 specific antiserum.

The described properties might help to identify and further characterize isolates of the species. S. porcinus, possibly useful in epidemiological aspects.
Comparative Studies of Diagnostic Bacteriological Methods for the Recovery of Salmonella from Faecal Samples from Flocks of Layers
Authors: Braun C. , Kostka V. , Balks E. , Redmann T. , Helmuth R.
Published: May 2010

Several conventional culture procedures were compared for the recovery of Salmonella from faecal samples of layer flocks. The cultural media employed consisted of Rappaport‐Vassiliadis and tetrathionate broth for selective enrichment and three different plating media (Brilliant Green, Xylose‐Lysine‐Desoxy‐cholate and modified semisolid Rappaport‐Vassiliadis medium). The initial enrichment and plating procedures were repeated in a four‐stage secondary enrichment. Selective enrichment in Rappaport‐Vassiliadis or tetrathionate broth followed by plating on modified semisolid Rappaport‐Vassiliadis medium (selective motility enrichment) resulted in a significantly higher isolation rate for Salmonella from faecal samples of layers compared to Brilliant Green and Xylose‐Lysine‐Desoxycholate medium. The selective enrichment yielded additional Salmonella isolates up to the second stage. Further enrichment did not increase the isolation rate.
Report of a Case of Pyogenic Arthritis Associated with Actinomyces pyogenes in a Chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica)
Authors: Lavin S. , Marco I. , Franch J. , Abarca L.
Published: May 2010

A case of pyogenic arthritis associated to an Actinomyces pyogenes infection in a chamois (Rupicapra pyrenaica) is described. The animal was a 5‐year‐old female that had been seen alone in a wooded area close to a small town in November 1995, and was lame on one front limb. One month later, it was seen again in a nearby area. Its lameness had worsened and it knuckled on both front limbs while eating. Its nutrition status had worsened considerably. On 8 January 1996 the animal was found dead. It was cachectic, its metatarsal/metacarpal‐digital joints were all swollen and its hoofs were longer than normal. The microbiological study of the samples obtained showed a large number of β‐haemolytic colonies subsequently identified as Actinomyces pyogenes. Obligate anaerobic bacteria were not isolated from the samples.
Prevalence of Neutralizing Antibodies to Akabane Virus in Ruminants in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al‐Afaleq A. I. , Elzein E. M. E. Abu , Mellor P. S.
Published: May 2010

A total number of 2125 serum samples collected from indigenous sheep and goats and locally‐raised cattle from different localities in Saudi Arabia, were screened for Akabane virus‐neutralizing antibodies. The overall prevalence of antibodies was 32 % in the animals examined. However the prevalence in cattle was 49 %, while in sheep and goats it was 17 %. No clinical cases of Akabane have been confirmed so far in Saudi Arabia; but virus isolation attempts are ongoing.
Levels of IgM and IgA Circulating Immune Complexes in Dogs with Leishmaniasis
Authors: Margarito J. M. , Lucena R. , López R. , Molleda J. M. , Martín E. , Ginel P. J.
Published: May 2010

The concentrations of IgM and IgA circulating immune complexes (CIC) were determined in 82 dogs with naturally acquired leishmania infection and in a control group of 25 healthy dogs. The mean serum IgM and IgA CIC concentration in infected dogs were significantly (IgM; P < 0.004; IgA; P < 0.000) higher than in the control group. An increase in IgM and IgA CIC concentration was found in 47.6 and 95.1 %, respectively, of the leishmania‐infected dogs. The serum IgM and IgA CIC concentrations in infected dogs showing hypercreatininaemia were not statistically higher than those of sick dogs with normal creatininaemia. When hypercreatininaemia (≥ 1.30 mg/dl) was used as an indicator for CIC disease, the positive predictive value obtained was 0.368 for IgM CIC and 0.894 for IgA CIC, indicating that renal function impairment was associated with the high serum IgM and IgA CIC concentrations in 36.8 and 89.4 %, respectively, of the infected dogs.
Effect of Tylosin Tartrate on Humoral Immune Responses in Chickens
Authors: Baba T. , Yamashita N. , Kodama H. , Mukamoto M. , Asada M. , Nakamoto K. , Nose Y. , McGruder E. D.
Published: May 2010

While many antimicrobial agents have been reported to cause immunosuppression in animals, macrolide antibiotics enhance the immune function. Tylosin tartrate is a macrolide antibiotic approved for the control of mycoplasmosis in poultry. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect of tylosin on the humoral immune functions in chickens. Three days after oral tylosin tartrate administration, 4‐ or 8‐week‐old chickens were immunized intravenously with carbolic acid‐killed Brucella abortus bacterin or sheep red blood cells. Seven days (plasma antibodies titre) or 4 days (antibody forming cells) post‐immunization, there was a significant increase in antibody production as well as in the numbers of antibody‐producing cells in tylosin tartrate‐administered chickens compared with the untreated controls. However, 3 days after tylosin tartrate administration, there was no difference in the distribution of T‐lymphocyte subpopulations (CD4 or CD8 positive cells) or B lymphocytes (surface immunoglobulin positive cells) in either the peripheral blood or spleens of treated or untreated control chickens.
Virulence Determinants ofEscherichia coliIsolated from the Milk of Sows with Coliform Mastitis
Authors: Mörner A. Pedersen , Faris A. , Krovacek K.
Published: May 2010

Escherichia coliisolates recovered from the milk of sows with coliform mastitis were examined to determine their biochemical and serologic characteristics, serum resistance and ability to adhere to fibronectin and bovine fetal fibroblasts. No common biotype was identified, and a variety of serovars were detected. Ninety‐five per cent of the investigated strains were serum resistant in swine serum. Binding to fibronectin was demonstrated in most of the strains. At a binding level above 13% of the added fibronectin the strains also adhered to fibroblasts. The results of the study indicate a galactogenous route of infection. The importance of the identified virulence factors needs to be further elucidated.
Secondary Immunodeficiency in Dogs with Enteric, Dermatologic, Infectious or Parasitic Diseases
Authors: Toman M. , Svoboda M. , Rybníĉek J. , Krejĉí J. , Svobodová V.
Published: May 2010

A group of 238 dogs with various infectious and parasitic diseases, in which suppressed activity of the immune system could be presumed, was examined using a set of immunological methods. The frequency and depth of immunosuppression and its association with certain infectious or parasitic disease were determined. Marked immunosuppression was found in 62 (26%) of the dogs examined. Dogs with distemper, parvovirosis and German Shepherd dog pyoderma (GSP) were the most severely impaired. Dogs in acute phases of distemper or parvovirosis had decreased numbers and activity of lymphocytes and decreased immunoglobulin levels. Dogs with GSP had some of the following immunologic symptoms: inhibition of phagocytosis, reduced activity of lymphocytes, decreased levels of haemolytic complement and increased levels of immunoglobulin and lysozyme. A persistent immunosuppression was found in 12 dogs. These dogs were diagnosed with deep pyoderma, giardiasis, dermatophytosis or neoplasms. Although samples were not taken before the clinical diseases appeared, it can be presumed that some diseases caused immunosuppression (distemper or parvovirosis), and for other diseases immunosuppression was a predisposing factor (dermatophytosis, giardiasis and possibly GSP).
Prevalence of Antibodies to Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus and/or Border Disease Virus in Domestic Ruminants
Authors: Zaghawa A.
Published: May 2010

A total of 652 sera collected from cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats and camels were investigated for the presence of antibodies to bovine viral diarrhoea (BVD) virus. The prevalence of neutralizing antibodies to BVD virus was 49.2, 52.0, 27.5, 31.4 and 52.5 % in cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats and camels, respectively. The positive sera were titrated against BVD virus (BVDV) strains NADL and Oregon C24V; the latter is closely related to border disease (BD) virus. The frequency distributions of the antibody titres to both strains are presented. The statistical analysis shows no significant difference between the antibody titres to BVDV strains NADL and Oregon C24V in cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats and camels. On the other hand antibody titres to BVDV were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in cattle and buffalo in comparison with sheep, goats and camels. The cell‐bound immunoassay (CBIA) is a serological test established for the detection and titration of antibodies to BVD virus and BD virus. The percentage of agreement between the CBIA and the neutralizing peroxidase‐linked antibody (NPLA) test was 96.1 and 95.3% in cattle and buffalo, respectively. The sensitivity of the CBIA in comparison with the NPLA was 100% while the specificity was 92.3 and 90.3 % when testing the sera of cattle and buffalo, respectively. The method is easy to perform, cheap and suitable for the conditions in Egypt.
Assessment of Phagocytic Capacity and Opsonic Activity in Blood and Mammary Secretions During Lactation in Sows
Authors: Magnusson U. , Greko C.
Published: May 2010

The objective of this study was to determine whether phagocytic capacity and opsonic activity in blood and mammary secretions of sows are impaired at parturition compared with later on during lactation. The study comprised eight primiparous sows (Landrace x Yorkshire) free from clinical signs of disease. Blood and mammary secretion samples were collected within 48 h of parturition and 7 and 16 days after parturition. Numbers and proportion of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) were determined in blood and mammary secretions. Phagocytic capacity was assessed in whole blood and in a cell suspension derived from mammary secretions. Opsonic activity was assessed in serum and in cell‐depleted, skimmed mammary secretions. The two assays were based on chemiluminescence, both having zymosan andEscherichia colias target particles. Numbers and proportion of PMN in mammary secretions were higher (P < 0.05) at parturition than later on during lactation. At parturition, phagocytic capacity in cell suspensions derived from mammary secretions was higher for both (P < 0.05) andE. coli(P < 0.1). However, when phagocytic capacity was related to the number of PMN in the suspension no such difference was observed. The opsonic activity in cell‐depleted, skimmed mammary secretions at parturition was lower (P < 0.05) for zymosan but not forE. coli.None of the described variations were reflected in blood or serum. The findings of this study do not unequivocally support the theory that an immune suppression at parturition in the sow can help explain the increased incidence of coliform mastitis at that time.
Cilia‐Associated Respiratory (CAR) Bacillus Infection In Conventionally Reared Rabbits
Authors: Caniatti M. , Crippa L. , Giusti A. M. , Mattiello S. , Grilli G. , Orsenigo R. , Scanziani E.
Published: May 2010

This study was designed to investigate the prevalence of Cilia‐associated respiratory (CAR) bacillus infection in rabbits reared for meat production in Italy and to correlate the presence of CAR bacillus with inflammatory lesions of the respiratory tract. Seventy healthy, 3‐month‐old, New Zealand White rabbits, raised in 10 different rabbitries in Northern Italy were randomly selected at slaughter. No gross lesions were found at necropsy in any rabbit. In each animal, the trachea and lungs were sampled, fixed in 10% formalin, embedded in paraffin and stained with the Warthin—Starry method to evaluate the presence of CAR bacillus, and with haematoxylin and eosin to evaluate the presence of inflammatory lesions. CAR bacillus was present in 50 out of 70 rabbits (71.4%) with a prevalence of the infection that varied from 30% to 100% in the seven rabbitries. CAR bacillus was present both in the trachea and bronchi in 23 cases (32.8%), only in the trachea in 24 cases (34.3%) and only in the bronchi in three cases (4.3%). Inflammatory lesions were found in the trachea (22 cases, 31.4%) and the bronchi (58 cases, 82.8%). There was a strong, statistically significant correlation between the presence of CAR bacillus in the bronchi and bronchial inflammatory lesions (P < 0.0001).

This study indicates that CAR bacillus infection is widespread in conventionally reared rabbits in Italy and that a possible correlation exists between the presence of CAR bacillus and bronchial inflammatory lesions.
Comparison of European Systemic Piscine and Amphibian Iridoviruses with Epizootic Haematopoietic Necrosis Virus and Frog Virus 3
Authors: Ahne W. , Bearzotti M. , Bremont M. , Essbauer S.
Published: May 2010

Iridovirus‐like agents isolated from systemic infected fish (Silurus glanis, SFIR; Ictalurus melas, CFIR I, CFIR II, CFIR III) and from frogs (Rana esculenta, REIR) in Europe, Epizootic Haematopoietic Necrosis Virus (EHNV) isolated in Australia from redfin perch (Perca fluviatilis), and Frog Virus 3 (FV 3) isolated from frogs (Rana pipiens) in the USA were investigated by electron microscopy, polypeptide composition, immunofluorescence, restriction endonuclease digestion, Southern‐blot hybridization and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. All virus isolates proved to be similar in morphology and in size and reacted with EHNV polyclonal antiserum in the immunofluorescence. Whilst DNA restriction profiles of the European piscine isolates cleaved by BamH I were similar, they differed clearly from those of EHNV, REIR and FV 3. Southern‐blot analysis of viral BamH I‐digested DNA using an EHNV DNA probe revealed cross‐hybridization with the DNA of the investigated iridoviruses. Using a set of primers designed for an open reading frame of the EHNV genome, PCR products of about 250 bp were obtained with the DNA of systemic piscine and amphibian iridoviruses. The data suggest that the systemic piscine and amphibian iridoviruses should be regarded as members of the genus Ranavirus within the family Iridoviridae.
Direct Detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex and M. avium Complex in Tissue Specimens from Cattle Through Identification of Specific rRNA Sequences
Authors: Bollo E. , Guarda F. , Capucchio M. T. , Galietti F.
Published: May 2010

Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Direct test and Accuprobe M. avium Complex test, rely on recognition of specific rRNA sequences. The present investigation included sequentially a pre‐evaluation study and a study on non‐visible lesion tuberculin reactor cattle. As regards the first study, tests were performed on tissue samples from 14 reactors with tuberculous‐like lesions and from as many lesion‐free non‐reactors, using culture findings as a reference. MTD and Accuprobe M. Avium Complex tests proved positive in 12 and 2 reactors respectively. Both tests proved negative in all non‐reactors. Data consisted with culture findings. The aim of the second study was to verify the presence of mycobacteria in lymph node and tonsil homogenates from 32 non‐visible lesion cattle. MTD and Accuprobe M. avium Complex tests proved positive in 10 and 14 subjects respectively; no overlap was found. Our research demonstrates that low to minimal amounts of the main pathogenic mycobacteria can be reliably identified from cattle tissues by commercially available tests, which give simple, more rapid results than conventional techniques.
Myocarditis Associated with Theileria spp. in Calves
Authors: Hervás J. , Carrasco L. , Gómez‐Villamandos J. C. , de Lara F. Chacón‐M. , Sierra M. A.
Published: May 2010

Two 3‐week‐old Limousin x Retinta calves from extensive farms in the south of Spain died suddenly. Microscopic examination of the spleen and lymph nodes revealed an intense lymphoid proliferation; the germinal centres were prominent and were surrounded by areas of haemorrhage. Parasitic forms, similar to Koch's bodies, were observed in only a small number of lymphoid cells and macrophages. In the myocardium a severe myocarditis was found. Inflammatory cells were in close contact with damaged myocytes, sometimes surrounding fragments of cells. In some areas the vessels had intraluminal deposits of fibrin. The endothelial damage and thrombosis may have contributed to the damage observed in the myocytes, together with the cytotoxic mechanism associated with the presence of an intense inflammatory infiltrate. The active multiplication of parasites may be due to the age of the animals and their breed, since they are not an autochthonous breed and present low resistance to infection.
Use of the Protective Antigen ofErysipelothrix rhusiopathiaein the Enzyme‐linked Immunosorbent Assay and Latex Agglutination
Authors: Sato H. , Yamazaki Y. , Tsuchiya K. , Aoyama T. , Akaba N. , Suzuki T. , Yokoyama A. , Saito H. , Maehara N.
Published: May 2010

To establish a safe and convenient serodiagnostic method for swine erysipelas, a purified protective protein antigen ofErysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, which included a large amount of protective protein (64 kDa protein), was used for enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and the latex agglutination (LA) test. In the ELISA, the antisera to four different serovars (1a, 2, 5 and 20) of E. rhusiopathiae exhibit a positive reaction, while antisera to other species of bacteria (Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus suis, Rhodococcus equiandCorynebacterium pseudotuberculosis) exhibit a negative reaction. In the LA test, the antisera to three different serovars (1a, 2 and 5) ofE. rhusiopathiaereacted with P64‐sensitized latex beads, while the antiserum to serovar 20 (2553 strain) did not. Moreover, the antisera to other species of bacteria (Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus suis, Rhodococcus equi and Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis) did not in this test. Comparing the results of the growth agglutination (GA), ELISA and LA tests of 284 swine sera, there was a high degree of correlation among the results. The detection of anti‐E. rhusiopathiaeantibodies in the GA, ELISA and LA tests were compared using sera from pigs immunized with P64, alkaline extract (AE) and live‐cell vaccine (LV). In all three tests, anti‐E. rhusiopathiaeantibodies could be detected 1 week after immunization. The serum antibody titre as determined by the LA test increased moderately, as did that by the GA test, while that determined by ELISA increased rapidly. These results suggested that ELISA could be used to monitor changes in anti‐E. rhusiopathiaeantibody titre and the LA test could be used in the screening test for swine erysipelas.
Detection of Mycobacterium bovis in Milk by Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Zanini M. S. , Moreira E. C. , Lopes M. T. , Mota P. , Salas C. E.
Published: May 2010

A simple method was developed for DNA extraction of Mycobacterium bovis in milk and further detection of the bacterium by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Milk previously seeded with M. bovis was used as the starting material. The procedure involved overnight digestion of a milk sample with proteinase K at 56°C and phenol extraction, followed by ethanol precipitation and PCR. The amplification pattern obtained was analyzed with primers BW8‐BW9 which amplify a 248 bp in strains of M. bovis. By using the BW8‐BW9 primers, 103 CFU were detected on silver‐stained PAGE gels. The procedure was validated by PCR analysis of milk in tuberculin‐positive animals. It is anticipated that this method can be used for routine diagnosis of M. bovis in milk samples.
The Effect of Vaccination againstMycoplasma hyopneumoniaein Pig Herds with a Continuous Production System
Authors: Maes D. , Deluyker H. , Verdonck M. , Castryck F. , Miry C. , Lein A. , Vrijens B. , de Kruif A.
Published: May 2010

An inactivatedMycoplasma hyopneumoniaevaccine was evaluated in five pig herds clinically infected with enzootic pneumonia and practising a continuous production system in the growing/finishing unit. In each herd, a vaccinated and control group of approximately 47 pigs each were individually monitored from birth until slaughter. Vaccinated pigs received the first dose at about 1 week of age and the second approximately 3 weeks later. During all production stages, an equal number of vaccinated and control pigs was present in the same pen. Both groups were compared with respect to zootechnical parameters (major variables) and by means of serological, pathological, and bacteriological parameters (ancillary variables). Daily weight gain was improved by 14 gr/day during the period from 8 days of age until slaughter (P = 0.0486) and by 25 gr/day during the growing/finishing period (P = 0.0067). Mortality rate, and the costs for curative medication were not significantly improved by vaccination. The results of the ancillary variables are presented and discussed.
Biochemical and Hormonal Changes Associated with Experimental Infection of Chicks with Infectious Bursal Disease Virus
Authors: Al‐Afaleq A. I.
Published: May 2010

The inoculation of chicks with the infectious bursal disease (IBD) virus manifested typical clinical signs indicative of IBD viral infection. The inoculated birds seroconverted and showed significantly decreased total protein, lipid and a decrease in the albumin to globulin ratio. A significant increase was seen in the concentration of corticosterone and thyroxine but not in the triiodothyronine level.
A Case Control Study of Potential Enteric Pathogens for Calves Raised in Cow‐calf Herds
Authors: Busato A. , Lentze T. , Hofer D. , Burnens A. , Hentrich B. , Gaillard C.
Published: May 2010

A matched case control study was performed to describe the epidemiological features of potential enteric pathogens for calves reared in 53 cow‐calf herds located in western Switzerland. A total of 106 diarrhoeic calves and 126 healthy control calves were collected, all calves were less than 4 months old. Faecal samples were analysed for presence of infectious agents related to calf diarrhoea including enterotoxigenicE. coli, Verotoxin producingE. coli(VTEC),Campylobactersp.,Yersiniasp.,Salmonellasp., rotavirus, coronavirus, helminths and coccidian protozoa. Multivariate logistic models were used to analyse the relationship between presence of infection and onset of diarrhoea. The study provided evidence of significant associations between diarrhoea and infection with rotavirus,Campylobacter coliand the presence of Verotoxin in faecal samples. With the exception ofCryptosporidium parvumintestinal parasites including Strongylidae andEimeriasp. were found to be less prevalent in cases than in controls. Control calves were significantly more frequently infected withStrongyloides papillosusthan case animals.
Apoptosis of Lymphocytes in Mice Administered Lipopolysaccharide from Leptospira interrogans
Authors: Isogai E. , Isogai H. , Kubota T. , Fujii N. , Hayashi S. , Indoh T. , Takagi S. , Miura H. , Kimura K.
Published: May 2010

We report that administration of leptospiral lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice results in massive surface marker changes in the lymphocytes of the spleen. It appears that many of these changes relate to the large number of cells undergoing apoptosis. It is also shown that tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) induces similar effects and is produced in large quantities after injection of leptospiral LPS. It is likely that cytokines such as TNF‐α are involved in apoptosis.
Decreased Growth ofStreptococcus uberisin Milk from Mammary Glands of Cows Challenged with the Same Mastitis Pathogen
Authors: Fang W. , Luther D. A. , Almeida R. A. , Oliver S. P.
Published: May 2010

Milk samples from mammary glands challenged withStreptococcus uberisand from unchallenged mammary glands were selected for analyses of bacterial growth, antibody response, and lactoperoxidase activity. All challenged mammary glands became infected with isolation ofS. uberisand elevated somatic cell counts in milk during the first week after challenge. In vitro growth of the homologous challenge strain and a heterologous strain ofS. uberiswas significantly lower in milk from challenged mammary glands than in milk from control mammary glands at 3, 5, and 7 days after challenge. Removal of casein significantly reduced bacterial growth. In general, antibodies specific toS. uberisstarted to increase at day 3 post‐challenge and were higher in milk from challenged mammary glands than in milk from control mammary glands. There was also a marked increase in total IgG in milk from challenged mammary glands. Growth ofS. uberisincreased following heat treatment at 56 °C of pooled milk or whey samples from challenged mammary glands. Growth ofS. uberiscorrelated negatively with the specific antibody response to the bacteria (P < 0.001). Lactoperoxidase activity varied among cows and among different samples over time and did not appear to contribute to decreased growth ofS. uberis.These results suggest that decreased growth ofS. uberisin milk from challenged mammary glands in comparison to milk from control mammary glands could result from the interaction of antibodies with complement components.