bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Canaries: Management, nutrition, common disorders
Authors: IORDANIDIS (Π. ΙΟΡΔΑΝΙΔΗΣ) P.
Published: February 2018

Commercial production of canaries, which are among the most popular birds worldwide, is based mainly on the nice singing, good-looking feather coloration and total appearance of these birds. Population of canaries in Greece is bigger in comparison with other birds (psittacines, etc.). These birds live separately in cages or in groups in production units. The number of birds, which are being carried to private surgeries, is continuously increasing. Despite some difficulties, such as small size, great sensitivity, susceptibility to stress, and inconvenience in administrating drugs in accurate doses, a veterinarian may proceed to therapies or even operations in canaries with good results. Principals of canaries' management and nutrition, as well as the most commonly encountered cases are described in the present paper. Such cases include stop of singing, feather problems and severe lisdessness. Brief description of the problems mentioned above and the methods of control may offer to the practitioner the knowledge to approach such cases in his surgery.
Development of suitable technology for the canning of smoked Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) in tomato sauce
Authors: KYRIAZI-PAPADOPOULOU (Α. ΚΥΡΙΑΖΗ -ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) A. , VARELTZIS (Κ. ΒΑΡΕΛΤΖΗΣ) K.
Published: February 2018

The following procedure for the canning of smoked Mediterranean mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) was developed and studied. Mussels from the mussel culture of the East Cost of Thermaikos Bay were washed in running water and steamed at 80 °C for 10 min, in order to remove or open the shells. The mussel meat was salted in brine with 4% sodium chloride for 15 min, in a mussel /brine ratio 1:2, dried at 60-65°C for 13 min and smoked at 65-80°C for 17 min. The smoked mussel meat was placed in cans and filled with tomato sauce, in a ratio 32% mussel to 60% sauce. After the sealing cans were sterilized at 110°C for 21 min, to insure Fo value=4,l min. Chilling with cold water and storage in environmental conditions followed. The results demonstrated that the thermal processing safeguarded the microbiological stability of the canned mussels, due to the smoke components, since no swelling of cans was observed after incubation at 37°C for 7 days and during storage at ambient conditions for 15 months. The results of the sensory evaluation showed that the sauce was preserved without deterioration for 15 months. Also, the mussels' tenderness and their total acceptability lasted for 15 months . But the mussels displayed a grainy texture on chewing after 13 months preservation. Therefore, the procedure, which was developed for the canning of smoked mussels meat in tomato sauce, can provide an acceptable product for 13 months.
Surgery and anesthesia of ostrich
Authors: GIANNARAKOS (Δ.Γ. ΓΙΑΝΝΑΡΑΚΟΣ) D. G. , MOUSTARDAS (Ν. ΜΟΥΣΤΑΡΔΑΣ) N. , GEORGOPOULOU (Ι. ΓΕΩΡΓΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) J.
Published: February 2018

Breeding of ostriches has rapidly developed into an industry in Greece. With the increase in the number of these birds, there is a growing demand for veterinary services, related to their health care. The responsible veterinarian should be aware of the peculiarities of these animal species, in order to prevent and resolve the emerging problems. The present presentation discusses the most frequently occurring surgical problems in ostrich, such as injuries, fractures, dislocations, limb deformities, stomach impaction, intussusception, foreign bodies, prolapse of the cloaca, prolapse of the penis, administration of treatment and the induction of anesthesia.
Conditions of staphylococcal enterotoxin production in milk and milk products
Authors: MANTIS (Α.Ι. ΜΑΝΤΗΣ) A. J. , PAPAGEORGIOU (Δ.Κ. ΠΑΠΑΓΕΩΡΓΙΟΥ) D. K.
Published: February 2018

The authors reviewed the existing scientific data, concerning the ability of Staphylococcus aureus to grow and produce enterotoxins in milk and in dairy products particularly in cheeses. S. aureus can grow well in liquid raw or pasteurized milks and produce enterotoxins if the product is stored in favorable for the pathogen temperature. Cream also supports growth of S. aureus and enterotoxin production, but butter as well as fermented products like yogurt and buttermilk are not favorable substrates for the production of enterotoxins. Cheeses represent a complex environment, due to their great variety in processing technology and environment. Fresh cheeses, soft cheeses and semi-hard and hard cheeses can support growth of S. aureus during the first stages of production up to 48 hours. Normally, the pathogen, if it is present in the milk, will multiply for 3-4 logs and after that, when acidity develops, the populations of S. aureus decrease and usually disappear by the end of the ripening period. However, if enterotoxins are produced during the multiplication phase of the pathogen, it will remain active in the cheese for a long time. Internal mould ripened cheeses (e.g. blue cheese), pasta filata cheeses or the processed cheeses do not represent favorable substrates for the multiplication of S. aureus and enterotoxin production. On the contrary, whey cheeses form a very favorable environment for the enterotoxins' production, because of their high pH and the absence of antagonistic bacterial flora.
Development of an experimental model for Anophryoides haemophila (Scuticociliatida: Orchitophryidae), a parasite of american lobster Homerus americanus
Authors: ATHANASSOPOULOU (Φ. ΑΘΑΝΑΣΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) F. , SPEARE D. , CAWTHORN R. J. , MacMILLAN R. , DESPRES B.
Published: February 2018

The principal lesions due to the ciliate Anophryoides haemophila in experimentally infected lobsters are observed in gills and connective tissue from the 9th week post-infection. These lesions were not related to the inoculum of parasites and were consistent in all inoculum studies (2,000, 10,000 and 500,000 ciliates per lobster) and were present in both euthanized and dead lobsters. The higher inocula resulted only in higher numbers of parasites observed in sections of gills and in the connective tissue of more organs, with no penetration to the parenchyma of any organ. Furthermore, the highest inoculum of ciliates (500,000 per lobster) resulted in a shorter course of disease development and consequendy, experimental lobsters died between 4th and 6th week post-infection. This was not observed at inocula of 2,000 and 10,000 ciliates per lobster, where mortality occurred 11-14 weeks post-infection.
Ringwomb in ewes and does
Authors: MAVROGIANNI (Β.Σ. ΜΑΥΡΟΓΙΑΝΝΗ) V. S.
Published: February 2018

In this paper, the literature on ringwomb in sheep and goats is reviewed. In the first part of the article, the endocrinology of normal parturition in small ruminants is reviewed and the literature on myometrial contractions and the stages of labour is briefly presented. Subsequently, factors that have been associated with this condition are mentioned and the pathogenesis of the disorder is discussed. The literature on the significance of ringwomb as a cause of dystocia is reviewed and methods for treatment of the disorder are presented.
Chlamydial abortion of ewes and goats. I. Current aspects on etiology, pathogenesis, immune mechanisms and epizootiology of disease
Authors: SIARKOU (Β. ΣΙΑΡΚΟΥ) V.
Published: February 2018

Chlamydial abortion constitutes one of the major causes of infectious abortion in sheep and goats. The disease leads to considerable losses in most sheep and goat-rearing countries, as well as, in Greece. In this paper, a review of the causative agent, pathogenesis, host immune response and epizootiology is presented. After recent changes, that have occured in the taxonomy of chlamydiae, it is necessary to refer to new families, new genera and new species within the order Chlamydiales, with emphasis on new species of Chlamydophila abortus, the causal agent of chlamydial abortion. This study reviews the recent experimental data which indicate the sites of entry of the organism, the way of its dissemination and establishment to the placenta. It also reviews current research on the humoral and cell-mediated immune responses, the role of the IFN-γ in latent infection and this of Tcells in the protective immune response. Finally, particular reference is given on the role of the male in the disease transmission and the role of inter-species contamination in chlamydial abortion.
Detection of antibodies against Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Mycoplasma synoviae in day-old broiler chicks and broilers
Authors: GEORGIADES (Γ.Κ. ΓΕΩΡΓΙΑΔΗΣ) G. K.
Published: February 2018

During the last decade, in die Clinic of Poultry Diseases, 882 sera were examined for the detection of antibodies against Mycoplasma gallisepticum (M.g.) and Mycoplasma synoviae (M.s.), which are usually involved in the respiratory diseases of broilers. Out of these sera, 188 derived from day-old broiler chicks and 694 from broilers with respiratory disease. Rapid serum agglutination test was used as diagnostic method. Among day-old broiler chick sera, 40 (21.27%) were M.g. positive, while 76 (40.42%) were M.s. positive. Among broiler sera, 133 (19.16%) were M.g. positive, while 356 (51.29%) were M.s. positive. The results of the present study show that the prevalence of the M.s. positive sera is significantly higher (P<0.001) than this of the M.g. positive sera, not only in day-old broiler chicks, but also in broilers, which indicates the greater importance of M.s. in the occurrence of respiratory disease in these birds.
The effect of superlevies, due to milk quota excess, on dairy farming profitability in Greece
Authors: VALERGAKIS (Γ. Ε. ΒΑΛΕΡΓΑΚΗΣ) G. E.
Published: February 2018

The effect of superlevies on dairy farming profitability was studied in a sample of 120 dairy farms of medium and large size, in Central Macedonia, Greece. The farms were classified in classes, according to the percentage of their milk production in excess of their quota. There were no differences among the classes in the characteristics of the farms. Profit, net family income and return of capital investment decreased by 47.1%, 24.6% and 19.3% respectively on farms with an average milk quota excess of 15.1%, while on those exceeding their quota by 39,5%, the decrease was 118.6%, 68.6% and 54.5% respectively. The farms of the latter class were operating at a loss. In order to cope with the problem two alternatives were examined: a) a decrease in the number of cows kept on farms in order to decrease milk production to the quota level and b) the purchase of quota in the current (high) market price combined with a short depreciation period in order to cover the excess production. The results showed that a decrease in the number of cows, without considering the expected increase in productivity, will increase profit and keep net family income at the previous levels on farms with an average previous quota excess of 15.1%, while the significant increase in profit on farms with a higher quota excess (39.5%) will improve net family income by almost 1 million drs. The study of the quota purchasing alternative showed that a small profit increase would result only on farms keeping high-producing cows, on farms with considerable size or on those with high on farm feedstuffs production. In both cases and independently of the alternative chosen, the need for: a) an increase in cow productivity and b) a better allocation of the production factors, was evident.
Posterior ataxia-paraparesis syndrome in the large-breed dog
Authors: POLIZOPOULOU (Ζ. Σ. ΠΟΛΥΖΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) Z. S. , KOUTINAS (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F. , KOUTINAS (X.Κ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) C. K.
Published: February 2018

The most common conditions associated with the posterior ataxia-paraparesis syndrome in large breed dogs are degenerative myelopathy, type II intervertebral disk disease, spinal cord neoplasms (extradural, extramedullary, intradural, intramedullary), cervical vertebral malformation-malarticulation, lumbosacral spondylopathy, diskospondylitis and distemper myelitis. These progressive myelopathies, which are often seen in aging dogs, are characterized clinically by posterior ataxia and UMN and/or LMN paraparesis that may result in paraplegia late in the course of the disease. In a certain number of cases the clinical picture is further deteriorated by concomitant hip dysplasia associated with osteoarthritis. Spinal radiography of myelopathic dogs may reveal spondylosis deformans or dural ossification to which their clinical signs could be erroneously attributed. Lesions of the spinal cord are localized and their etiology is determined with the aid of radiography, myelography, CT or MRI, CSF analysis and electrodiagnostic examination (somatosensor evoked potentials, electromyogram). In general, the various therapeutic modalities (decompressive surgeries, medication, exercise, physical therapy, avoidance of the complications associated with prolonged recumbency) usually applied in these cases are also discussed.
Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of cattle in Greece
Authors: DIAKOU (Α. ΔΙΑΚΟΥ) A. , PAPADOPOULOS (Η. ΠΑΠΑΔΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) E.
Published: February 2018

In this study, 600 faecal samples, collected from cattle of various parts of Greece, were examined with two different parasitological methods (sedimentation and flotation). The prevalence of the infection with one or more parasitic species was 53.5%. The animals were found to be infected with the following parasitic species: Entamoeba bovis (0.5%), Eimeria spp. (11.83%), Buxtonella sulcata (7.5%), Dicrocoelium dendriticum (4.5%), Fasciola hepatica (0.16%), Paramphistomum cervi (4.66%), Moniezia benedeni (1.83%), Strongyloidea (41.66%), Neoascaris vitulorum (3.33%) and Trichuris spp. (0.83%). The results are compared to those from similar studies in Greece or abroad. Suggestions for the prevention and control of cattle parasites are discussed.
A new nasal mite of the genus Ptilonyssus (Rhinonyssidae) from Parus caeruleus (Passeriformes) from Russia
Authors: DIMOV I. D.
Published: February 2018

A new species of nasal mite, Ptilonyssus mininovi wt sp> is described from the Azure Titmice Parus caeruteus Lt (Passeriformes: Paridae) from the Leningrad province, Russia, The new species and four previously known species, P, pinicoia Knee 2008, P. plesiotypicus Knee 2008, Pt pari Fain and Hyland 1963, and P. coccothraustis, Fain and Bafort 1963, are arranged here into a "pari" species complex with the genus Ptilonyssus.
Scientific nomenclature of the muscles in the joints of cattle carcass
Authors: ANTONOPOULOS (Ι. ΑΝΤΩΝΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) J.
Published: February 2018

The scientific nomenclature of the muscles in the joints of cattle carcass, as these were defined in the Presidential Decree 186/1981, is mentioned in the present article. The osteal base of the joints, the muscle relations and the origin and insertion of the muscles are also mentioned. The scope of the present article is to juxtapose the scientific name, according to the Nomina Anatomica Veterinaria, next to the trade name of the muscles, solving probable discrepancies about the muscular composition in the joints of catde carcass.
Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) food-borne outbreaks
Authors: PEXARA (Α. ΠΕΞΑΡΑ) A. , ANGELIDIS (Α. Σ. ΑΓΓΕΛΙΔΗΣ) A. S. , GOVARIS (Α. ΓΚΟΒΑΡΗΣ) A.
Published: February 2018

Escherichia coli (E. coli) are Gram negativo, non-sporulating bacteria, which belong to the normal intestinal flora of humans and animals. Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STFC) arc a group of if. coli that is defined by the capacity to produce toxins called Shiga toxins (Stx). hollowing ingestion of STEC, the significant risk of two serious and potentially life-threatening complications of infection, hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), makes STHC food poisoning a serious public health problem. Besides Stx, human pathogenic STFC harbor additional virulence factors that are important for their pathogenicity. Although human infection may also be acquired by direct transmission from person to person or by direct contact of humans with animal carriers, the majority of STFC infections are food-borne in origin.The gastrointestinal tract of healthy ruminants seems to be the foremost important reservoir for STFC and ingestion of undercooked beef one of the most likely routes of transmission to humans, Other important food sources include faecally contaminated vegetables and drinking water, The serogroup classification of STHC is based on the somatic (O) and flagellar (H) antigens, and, to date, more than 200 STFC serogroups have been identified, Human STFC infections are, however, associated with a minor subset of 0;H serotypes. Of these, the 0157:H7 or the 0157 :H- serogroups (STFC 0157) are the ones most frequently reported to be associated with food-borne outbreaks. However other non-0157 STFC serogroups such as E. coli 026, 0103, O l l i , 012I, 045 and 0145 have caused several outbreaks in recent years.Two outbreaks of gastroenteritis caused by E. coli 0157:117 were first reported in the US, following the consumption of undercooked hamburgers, in 1982. Since then several outbreaks were reported worldwide. A major E. coli 0157:117 outbreak occurred in Japan and contaminated radish sprouts was identified as the vehicle of infection. More than 6,000 school children were affected, 101 people were hospitalized with lILS and 12 deaths were recorded. The recent outbreak of STFC 0104:114 infection and HUS reported in Germany in the spring of 2011 was one of the largest outbreaks worldwide. As of 27 July, 3 126 cases of STFC infections, 773 cases of HUS including 46 deaths linked to the outbreak in Germany and occurring in the Furopean Union (FU) (including Norway), Outside the FU 8 cases of STFC and 5 cases of HUS, including 1 death have been reported in the USA, Canada and Switzerland, all with recent travel history to Germany.The present review on major STliC food-borne outbreaks recorded worldwide highlights the need for eontrol measures in order to prevent or at least minimize the occurrence of similar events in the future.
Modified method for qualitative thyroestatic substances determination in muscle tissue and urine of food producing animals and the application of Planar Thin Layer Chromatography 2D and 4x4D horizontal development.
Authors: TYRPENOU (Α.Ε.ΤΥΡΠΕΝΟΥ) A. E. , GOUTA (E.H. ΓΟΥΤΑ) E. H.
Published: February 2018

Substances with thyreostatic action, also known as anti-hormones [AHs], are extracted by methanol in the presence of an internal standard. Percolation of the methanol extract through a mercurated adsorption mini-column allows a selective and reproducible extraction of the AHs by creating a specific complex with Hg ions. After elution of the Ahs with an acidic sodium chloride solution, the pH of the eluate is adjusted with buffer to 8,0 and allowed to react with NBDCl, a reagent which reacts only with thiols and amines. After reaction, the AH-NBD complexes formed are extracted in acid medium using TBME and after it has been dried down and reconstituted with TBME to the required volume, the ether fraction is spotted on to a HPTLC plate for horizontal development using sophisticated instrumentation. A cysteine water solution reacts with the AH-NBD complexes which are not fluorescent and they are converted into cystein-NBD complexes which are strongly fluorescent at 366 nm. This method, based on Verbeke R, de Brabander HF, 1984 method, has been modified in some steps concerning the mini-column preparation, the elution, the buffer replacement and chromatography step. The limit of detection no the plate, has been determined to be lower than lng by direct UV observation at 366nm, while the lower limit of detection achieved in the sample was 25 μg/kg.
Evaluation of the best vaccination regimen against Gumboro disease, based on the histopathologic lesions of bursa of Fabricius, in broilers
Authors: BOUYIOUKLIS (Π. ΜΠΟΥΓΙΟΥΚΛΗΣ) B. , LEKKAS (Σ. ΛΕΚΚΑΣ) S. , GEORGOPOULOU (Ι. ΓΕΩΡΓΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) I. , IORDANIDIS (Π. ΙΟΡΔΑΝΙΔΗΣ) P.
Published: February 2018

For the evaluation of the best vaccination regimen against Gumboro disease using the vaccine strain D-78, based on the histopathologic lesions of bursa of Fabricius, 5 groups of experimental animals (A, B, C, D, E) of 15 chicks each were used. The chicks of group Β received the D-78 vaccine strain with the drinking water at the age of 14 days, those of C at the age of 8 and 11 days, and those of D at the age of 8 and 16 days, while the chicks of the other groups (A and E) remained unvaccinated. In the following, the chicks of the A, B, C and D groups were infected with a field strain of Gumboro disease virus, while those of E remained unvaccinated and uninfected as a control group. After 10 days, all chicks were killed and their bursae examined histological. It was established that the histopathologic lesions to the bursae of group C chicks were of a slighter degree than those of all the other challenged groups and therefore the protection to bursa of Fabricius against the disease is better with this vaccination regimen.
Control of swine enzootic pneumonia by spraying organic acids in fatteners' buildings
Authors: MICHI (Κ. ΜΙΧΗ) K. , KRITAS (Σ.Κ. ΚΡΗΤΑΣ) S. K. , KYRIAKIS (Σ.Κ. ΚΥΡΙΑΚΗΣ) S. C. , SAOULIDIS (Κ. ΣΑΟΥΛΙΔΗΣ) K. , RODI-BOURRIEL (Α. ΡΟΔΗ-BURRIEL) A. , CHRISTODOULOPOULOS (Γ. ΧΡΙΣΤΟΔΟΥΛΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) G.
Published: February 2018

In this study, the possibility to control enzootic pneumonia by spraying mild organic acids in fatteners' buildings was investigated. In a farm with enzootic pneumonia, two groups, each of 120 weaned pigs, were housed in 2 separate rooms. With the pigs inside, the rooms were being sprayed once a week, for a total period of 20 weeks (up to the end of fattening period), either with a mixture of organic acids (1st room= AML-pigs), or with water (2nd room= placebo control pigs). Groups were compared with each other with respect to pigs' health status, mortality, performance parameters (average daily gain, feed conversion ratio) and the presence of specific lesions and pathogens in their lungs. It was shown that the incidence of coughing and the mortality in the AML-pigs were lower (10% and 3.25% respectively) compared to placebo controls (25% and 8.26% respectively). At the age of 70,120 and 165 days, the AML-pigs were 1.9 kg, 2.85 kg and 4.75 kg heavier, respectively, compared to controls (P< 0.001). Also, the pigs of the acid treated group have performed better than the controls with respect to average daily gain (674 g and 640 g respectively) and feed conversion ratio (3,00 and 3,14 respectively) (P<0.05). Lung lesions, characteristic for enzootic pneumonia, were detected in 37.5% of the AML-pigs and in 57.5% of placebo controls. Bacteria in the lungs, possibly complicating the disease, were isolated from more pigs of the control group compared to the acid-treated group. Finally, no clinical side effects following each application of the product were observed. The results of the present study show that, spraying of mild organic acids in a Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae-affected pig farm can be used for controlling the disease and improving performance parameters.
The prevalence of canine dirofilariosis in the region of Attiki
Authors: DIAKOU (Α. ΔΙΑΚΟΥ) A.
Published: February 2018

Blood samples of 900 dogs living in the area of Attiki (Greece) were examined. The dogs were over one year old, of different breeds, both sexes and didn't receive heartworm chemoprophylaxis or chemotherapy. All samples were examined by the modified Knott's method for the detection of microfilariae, while a serological examination (ELISA kit PetChek®, IDEXX) for the detection of parasitic antigen was performed to 552 of them. Six out of 900 (0.7%) of the samples were found positive for Dirofìlaria immitis: in 2 of them both microfilariae and parasitic antigen were detected, in 3 only parasitic antigen and in 1 sample only microfilariae were detected. The animals, in which microfilariae D. immitis were detected, were hunting dogs, often taken for hunting out of Attiki region. Moreover, in 4 of the 900 samples (0,4%) microfilariae Dirofìlaria repens were found. According to these results, the prevalence of D. immitis infection of the dog in Attiki is low. Preventive measures such as chemoprophylaxis against dirofilariosis must be taken in order to keep the infection at low level in Attiki.
An update on canine ehrlichiosis
Authors: MYLONAKIS (Μ.Ε. ΜΥΛΩΝΑΚΗΣ) M. E. , BILLINIS (Χ. ΜΠΙΛΛΙΝΗΣ) C. , KOUTINAS (Α. Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F.
Published: February 2018

Canine ehrlichiosis is a common disease caused by several Ehrlichia species, such as E. canis, E. chaffeensis, E. risticii, E. ewingii, E. equi, E. platys, and an as yet unnamed granulocytotropic species or strain. Ehrlichia are tick-borne gram-negative bacteria that reside in the cytoplasm of various blood cells. The infected dogs, may manifest a wide spectrum of clinical signs, of which anorexia, depression, loss of body weight, peripheral lymphadenopathy, pale mucous membranes and bleeding tendency are the most common. The most consistent clinicopathologic findings are anemia, thrombocytopenia, leucopenia, hyperglobulinemia, and proteinuria. Apart from the clinical and clinicopathologic findings, diagnosis should be based on buffy coat, lymph node or bone marrow cytology, serology (ELISA, IFA) and/or the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Doxycycline with or without imidocarb dipropionate constitute the mainstay of the etiological treatment, while blood transfusions, anabolic steroids, glucocorticosteroids, iron supplements and bactericidal antibiotics may be of some benefit in a certain number of cases. Effective tick control is of imperative importance for the prevention of the infection.
O ρόλος των ενεργοποιών του πλασμινογόνου και της πλασμίνης στην αναπαραγωγή των θηλαστικών
Authors: TSANTARLIOTOU (Μ. ΤΣΑΝΤΑΡΛΙΩΤΟΥ) M. , SAPANIDOU (Β.ΣΑΠΑΝΙΔΟΥ) V. , ZERVOS (Ι. ΖΕΡΒΟΣ) I. , LAVRENTIADOU (Σ. ΛΑΥΡΕΝΤΙΑΔΟΥ) S. , TAITZOGLOU (Ι. ΤΑΪΤΖΟΓΛΟΥ) I. , KOKOLIS (Ν. ΚΟΚΟΛΗΣ) N.
Published: February 2018

The current knowledge of the role of local and directed fibrinolysis controlled by plasminogen activators (PAs) and regulated by plasminogen activator inhibitors (PAls) in reproduction is summarized. The PA system has been found to play an important role in spermatogenesis in testis and modulation of sperm maturation in epididymis while a lot of studies indicate a role for sperm or seminal plasma PAs in sperm hyperactivation and/or capacitation. Hormoneinduced expression of tissue-type PA (tPA) and PAI-1 in the ovary is involved in the processes of ovulation and luteal regression; increases of urokinase-type PA (uPA) and PAI-1 in the early stage of luteinized follicles may be responsible for ovarian tissue remodeling and angiogenesis. The targeted proteolytic activity plays an essential role in the processes of the cyclic uterine angiogenesis, implantation and placentation as well as in the parturition. As the PA system is involved in multiple phases of mammalian fertilization specific regulatory molecules of this system provide opportunities for pharmacological intervention.
Control of liver abscesses in lambs by using marbofloxacin
Authors: ORFANOU (Δ.Κ. ΟΡΦΑΝΟΥ) D. C. , FRAGKOU (Η.Α. ΦΡΑΓΚΟΥ) Ι. Α. , FTHENAKIS (Γ.Χ. ΦΘΕΝΑΚΗΣ) G. C. , MAVROGIANNI (Β.Σ. ΜΑΥΡΟΓΙΑΝΝΗ) V. S.
Published: February 2018

We describe cases of liver abscesses in a group of newborn lambs. Diagnosis was based on the combination of clinical signs with the findings of ultrasonographic examination of the abdomen: oval, hypoechoic structure with regular borders in the liver of the affected lambs. Administration of marbofloxacin (dose rate: 3.0 mg per kg body weight, on three occasions, once daily, two days apart) was effective for treatment; three weeks later, the affected lambs were clinically health.
Normal eye fundus in dog and cat
Authors: LIAPIS (Ι. Κ. ΛΙΑΠΗΣ) I. K.
Published: February 2018

The term eye fundus is clinical and indicates the posterior part of eye globe, which is visible during ophthalmoscopy. In dogs mostly, but also in cats, eye fundus presents an important variability. All globe layers (retina,chorioid and sclera tuniques) could be visualized during ophthalmoscopy. Main anatomic components of fundus image are: a)Retinal vessels,b)The optic disc, c)The retinal pigment epithelium (invisible in albinoid animals) and d) The tapetum lucidum which gives the metallic nuance of fundus and can be hypoplastic or missing. The normalappearance of fundus is completed beyond the 16th week after birth. Until then the image is unclear. Careful estimation of numerous variations of normal eye fundus image is necessary, because plenty of them can be confused with pathologic situations.
Canine babesiosis
Authors: MYLONAKIS (Μ.Ε. ΜΥΛΩΝΑΚΗΣ) M. E. , BILLINIS (Χ. ΜΠΙΛΛΙΝΗΣ) C. , KOUTINAS (X. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) C. , KOUTINAS (Α. Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F.
Published: February 2018

The causative agents of canine babesiosis are Babesia canis and B. gibsoni which are transmitted by various hard tick species and blood transfusions. In the hyperacute form of the disease hypothermia, shock, severe metabolic acidosis and disseminated intravascular coagulation usually precede the death of the dog occuring in less than 24 hours. Severe anemia, icterus, splenomegaly and peripheral lymphadenopathy characterize the acute form of the disease. Intermittent fever and progressive loss of body weight may be noticed in the chronic form of babesiosis, while its many atypical clinical manifestations (e.g. ascites, gastrointestinal signs, CNS disease, subcutaneous edema, masticatory myositis) often cause diagnostic confusion. The organism detection on RBC in thin blood smears made from the buffy coat is a must for definitive diagnosis. The IFA test is a good choice for screening large numbers of dogs for detecting the asymptomatic carriers. Complete parasitological cure can be obtained with imidocarb dipropionate, pentamidine isethionate or diminazene aceturate, while metronidazole and clindamycin have been recently suggested as good alternatives. Supportive care is considered crucial for the survival of the severely affected animals. While effective tick control is the mainstay of prevention, doxycycline and imidocarb may also play a significant role to that goal. The effectiveness of a killed vaccine is still a matter of controversy.
Contemporary aspects on the immunopathogenesis of skin lesions in canine leishmaniosis (Leishmania infantum)
Authors: PAPADOGIANNAKIS (E. Ι. ΠΑΠΑΔΟΓΙΑΝΝΑΚΗΣ) E. I. , KOUTINAS (Α.Φ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) A. F. , KOUTINAS (X.Κ. ΚΟΥΤΙΝΑΣ) C.
Published: February 2018

Dog's immunologic reaction to Leishmania infantum inoculation may determine not only the diversity of the observed skin lesions but also the susceptibility or resistance of the dog to develop the disease.The expression of costimulatory molecules, such as B7, by infected macrophages along with the action of cytokines IL-12 and IFN-γ, results in Thl CD4+ cell activation and their infiltration of the dermis. The latter, in turn, activate macrophages to kill the parasite. Failure of the infected macrophages to express these molecules, results in dermis infiltration with Th2 CD4+ cells and macrophage in activation which facilitates the spreading of parasites and thus the perpetuation of the infection. The normal function of Thl CD4+ cells depends, at least partially, on FasL expression. In the exfoliative dermatitis of canine leishmaniosis the immune response is more efficient than in dermal nodules while in the ulcerative dermatitis a mixed type of immune response occurs. In the exfoliative dermatitis, Τ cells predominate in the inflammatory infiltrate while granulomatous sebaceous adenitis is a common histopathological finding. CD4+:CD8+ ratio is approximately 1 and in both immunocytes half of them are memory cells. Extrapolating from immunopathology, the use of canine CD28 molecule along with that of IL-12 and IFN-γ, may be quite useful in both the antileishmanial treatment and the preparation of an effective vaccine.
A study on Pasteurellosis in a commercial rabbit unit
Authors: SAOULIDIS (Κ. ΣΑΟΥΛΙΔΗΣ) K. , ILIADIS (Ν. ΗΛΙΑΔΗΣ) N. , VLEMAS (Ι. ΒΛΕΜΜΑΣ) I. , SIDIROPOULOU (Α. ΣΙΔΗΡΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) A. , KYRIAKIS (Σ.K. ΚΥΡΙΑΚΗΣ) S. C.
Published: February 2018

This paper studies Pasteurellosis in a commercial rabbit unit, one of the most important and common diseases of rabbits. The morbidity within the 2216 animals of the unit was 8,1%, while the mortality was 58,8%. The percentage of the morbidity tended to increase along with the age of the animals, but this was not statistically significant. It was 11,6% at the age of weaning and 15,48% at the age of fattening. The morbidity of the breeding animals was 10,5%. The clinical findings of the infected rabbits included rhinitis, keratoconjunctivitis, otitis media, pneumonia, enteritis, metritis and subcutaneous abscesses. Thirty seven rabbits were subjected to postmortem examination and the characteristic lesions of Pasteurellosis were observed. Samples of the organs of infected rabbits were used for microbiological examinations by which Pasteurella multocida was isolated.
Fetal bovine serum is associated with polar body degeneration after in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes
Authors: MACÍAS-GARCÍA B. , MACEDO S. , ROCHA A. , GONZÁLEZ-FERNÁNDEZ L.
Published: February 2018

In vitro fertilization (IVF) in cattle is commonly used worldwide. Although extensive research has been conducted using different additives in the different IVF steps, little is known regarding how protein type may affect bovine oocytes during the fertilization period. In addition, unlike Tissue Culture Medium 199 (TCM), fertilization medium may induce oocytes’ chromatin degeneration during prolonged incubation in the horse (Modified Whitten’s medium). Thus, in the present work TCM-199 supplemented with either 7 mg/ml of Bovine Serum Albumin (TCM+BSA) or 10% Fetal Bovine Serum (v/v; TCM+FBS) was used. Bovine oocytes were matured in vitro and placed in the previously mentioned media for further 18 hours, in the absence of added sperm (sham fertilization) and their chromatin conformation was evaluated. After IVM, 78.9% of the initial oocytes had reached the MII stage. After sham fertilization, 58.6% of the oocytes in TCM+BSA while just 28.3% in TCM+FBS maintained the MII chromatin conformation (p < 0.05). Subsequent experiments run using PB extruded oocytes and incubated in TCM+BSA and TCM+FBS during sham fertilization, demonstrated that FBS was consistently associated with polar body dissolution or degeneration.
Κριτήρια επιλογής ραμμάτων και εναλλακτικοί τρόποι σύγκλεισης τραυμάτων στη χειρουργική των ζώων συντροφιάς
Authors: TZIMTZIMIS (Ε. ΤΖΙΜΤΖΙΜΗΣ) E. , PAPAZOGLOU (Λ. ΠΑΠΑΖΟΓΛΟΥ) L.
Published: February 2018

Selection of appropriate suture material is important for successful healing; it is based principally on the propertiesof suture, the type of the tissue to be sutured and the condition of the wound. The mechanical and biological propertiesof a suture and the suture’s size should correlate well to type and properties of the tissue to be sutured. Strategy of sutureselection for specific tissues is discussed. Presence of sutures in a wound can increase the rate of infection of the wound. Theseverity of the infection is related to the suture’s properties when the wound is clean. Closure of infected wounds should beavoided. Stapling is an alternative method for wound closure and offers a significant reduction in the operative time. Varioustypes of staplers are available, depending on type of the tissue and the surgical procedure. Skin staples are widely usedin the skin and other tissues. The use of vascular clips is an alternative way to ligate blood vessels. Tissue adhesives arematerials that can also be used in closure of specific types of wounds. Surgical mesh is useful for closure of large defects.
‘Ξένο’ DNA από τη χορηγούμενη τροφή στον οργανισμό των ζώων και αξιολόγηση της ασφάλειας των γενετικώς τροποποιημένων ζωοτροφών
Authors: ZOIOPOULOS (Π.E. ΖΩΙΟΠΟΥΛΟΣ) P. E. , NATSKOULIS (Π. ΝΑΤΣΚΟΥΛΗΣ) P.
Published: February 2018

The paper starts with the significance of biotechnology for animal nutrition, focusing on transgenic plants where most of genetically modified feedstuffs are. In addition, the significance of genetically modified-plants as animal feeds and the requirement for this crucial issue to be covered by European Union legislation is discussed, since the top cereal and oil-seed crops worldwide, i.e. maize and soya bean, respectively, as well as cottonseed and rapeseed, are within this category of raw materials. The procedure for authorisation of genetically modified feeds in the EU is also discussed. Moreover, various aspects referring to degradation of ‘foreign’ dietary DNA fragments from transgenic plants in the animal’s organism are reviewed. Transfer of DNA from genetically modified crops to the animal’s body and the animal products is also considered. In order to discuss the nutritional quality of genetically modified feeds in animal diets, the term ‘substantial equivalence’ was introduced, referring to the same chemical composition in content of nutrient and undesirable contents, when comparing conventional with genetically modified-dietary ingredients.The debate over ‘substantial equivalence’ principle is also reviewed; this made validity of the procedure in relation to safety evaluation less significant. Safety evaluation procedure of genetically modified-feeds (particularly, herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant maize) by the official EU procedure, where risk assessment is performed by EFSA and risk management and communication by the Commission, is also discussed. Safety evaluation of genetically modified feeds examines  aspects, such as: molecular characterisation, comparative composition analysis with conventional counterparts and nutritional assessment covering toxicology and allergenicity. With reference to environmental implications, certain aspects on post-market environmental monitoring of genetically modified feeds, (e.g., biodiversity, mitigation measures, surveillance plan), are considered.
Effect of culture system on the prevalence of parasites of the Mediterranean mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamark, 1819)
Authors: KARAGIANNIS (Δ. ΚΑΡΑΓΙΑΝΝΗΣ) D. , VATSOS (Ι.Ν. ΒΑΤΣΟΣ) I. N. , THEODORIDIS (Α. ΘΕΟΔΩΡΙΔΗΣ) A. , ANGELIDIS (Π. ΑΓΓΕΛΙΔΗΣ) P.
Published: February 2018

For the production of the Mediterranean mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis, two systems are used in Greece, the ‘long-line’ and the ‘on-table’ system. In the present study, effects of farming system on prevalence of infection by some parasites of Mediterranean mussels were investigated. Three mussel culture sites, located at Thermaikos gulf, with similar profiles, where both farming systems are practiced, were selected. Two samplings took place in 2008, one in July and one in October. From each site, 30 mussels per culture system were collected. From each mussel, tissue samples from the visceral mass, mantle and gills were collected and examined histologically for the presence of any parasites. Number of mussels parasitized by at least one parasitic species was substantially increased in mussels cultured with the ‘on-table’ system. In particular, prevalence of infection by Urastoma cyprinae and Marteilia spp. was substantially increased in mussels cultured with the ‘on-table’ system, while no relation between farming system and prevalence of infection by Eugymnanthea inquilina was observed. Prevalence of infection by Myticola intestinalis, Steinhausia mytilovum and Proctoeces maculatus was considerably low in both culture systems. In addition, in both culture systems, number of the mussels infected by E. inquilina and U. cyprinae was substantially increased in October, while an opposite trend was noted for Marteilia spp.
Clinical characteristics of lameness and potential risk factors in intensive and semi-intensive dairy sheep flocks in Greece
Authors: GELASAKIS (Α.Ι. ΓΕΛΑΣΑΚΗΣ) A. I. , OIKONOMOU (Γ. ΟΙΚΟΝΟΜΟΥ) G. , BICALHO R. C. , VALERGAKIS (Γ.Ε. ΒΑΛΕΡΓΑΚΗΣ) G. E. , FTHENAKIS (Γ.Χ. ΦΘΕΝΑΚΗΣ) G. S. , ARSENOS (Γ. ΑΡΣΕΝΟΣ) G.
Published: February 2018

Objectives of the study were to present descriptive epidemiological characteristics of lameness in intensively and semi-intensively reared flocks of Chios-breed dairy sheep in Greece, as well as to identify potential factors that may affect development, severity and duration of the disorder. In total, 1618 ewes in nine flocks were used for assessment of locomotion score and detailed clinical examination, which were performed fortnightly throughout a milking period. Subsequently, two logistic regression models were employed to assess impact of various variables on occurrence and severity of lameness. Mean lameness incidence in the nine flocks under surveillance during the milking period was 6.8% (110 cases in 1618 ewes); between flocks range of the incidence was 0.4%-22.0%. In 48% of the cases, lameness was considered to  be severe. Foot-rot was found to be the commonest lameness-causing disorder, accounting for 66% of all cases. During the investigation, incidence of lameness in relation to the causing factor was 4.5% for foot-rot, 1% for white line abscesses, 1% for white line disease, <0.5% for pedal joint abscesses and <0.5% for hoof injuries. Farm size, stocking density, parity of the ewes and lambing season were identified as significant risk factors for dairy sheep lameness occurrence. Finally, stocking density was also found to affect lameness severity.
Aflatoxin M1 levels in sow milk
Authors: PRODANOV-RADULOVIĆ J. , ŽIVKOV-BALOŠ M. , JAKŠIĆ S. , GRGIĆ Z. , STOJANOV I. , BOJKOVSKI J. , TASSIS P. D.
Published: February 2018

Aflatoxins (AFs) are one of the most known and investigated group of mycotoxins, which can be found as contaminants in different types of food and feed. Animals are exposed to AFs mainly through the consumption of contaminated feed, particularly products of plant origin. Among AFs, aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) is the monohydroxylated derivative of AFB1 formed in the liver and excreted into the milk of lactating animals. This study encompassed the Vojvodina region of Serbia and was aimed at determining the levels of AFM1 excretion in sows’ milk in the first 3‒5 days of lactation, after consumption of naturally contaminated with AFB1 maize. A total of 110 sows’ milk samples from 11 swine farms in the specific region were analyzed by Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Different levels of AFM1 were detected in the majority (97%) of the examined milk samples. The obtained results showed AFM1 levels ranging from 5 to 165.4 ng/L. The results of this study pose special health concern associated with aflatoxin contamination of swine feed raw materials in this particular part of Serbia. Moreover, such high incidence of AFM1 detection in sows’ milk may suggest the occurrence of long-term low level aflatoxicosis clinical cases.
Effects of concomitant selenium and vitamin E administration on thyroid hormone metabolism in broilers
Authors: PAPPAS A. C. , KOTSAMPASI B. M. , KALAMARAS K. , FEGEROS K. , ZERVAS G. , KALOGIANNIS D. , CHADIO S. E.
Published: February 2018

A total of 400, as hatched, broilers were used to investigate the effect of selenium (Se) and vitamin E supplementation on thyroid hormones metabolism. There were 5 replicates of 4 dietary treatments namely: control (C), a soybean meal maize basal diet with adequate Se and vitamin E (0.3 mg Se per kg diet and 80 mg vitamin E per kg diet), control diet with Se added (Se+, with an additional 1 mg of Se per kg of diet), control diet with vitamin E added (E+, with an additional 350 mg of vitamin E per kg of diet) and Se+E+ (with additional 1 mg of Se and 350 mg of vitamin E per kg of diet). Diets were isonitrogenous and isocaloric. Zinc L-selenomethionine complex was used to increase Se content and dl-α-tocopheryl acetate to increase vitamin E content. The experiment lasted 42 days. Plasma Se concentration increased in Se+ groups, while whole blood glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity increased in Se+, E+ and Se+E+ groups compared to control. Hepatic type I iodothyronine deiodinase (ID-I) and thyroid hormone concentrations were unaffected by any dietary treatment. It is concluded that supplementation with Se or vitamin Ε alone or in combination above animal’s requirements does not affect thyroid hormone metabolism and liver ID-I activity under the conditions examined.
Canine primary encephalopathies: a retrospective study of 48 cases (2008-2012)
Authors: POLIZOPOULOU (Ζ.Σ. ΠΟΛΥΖΟΠΟΥΛΟΥ) Z. S. , ELEKIDOU (Ε. ΕΛΕΚΙΔΟΥ) E. , PATSIKAS (Μ.Ν. ΠΑΤΣΙΚΑΣ) M. N. , BRELLOU (Γ. ΜΠΡΕΛΛΟΥ) G. , SOUBASIS (Ν. ΣΟΥΜΠΑΣΗΣ) N.
Published: February 2018

A retrospective study was performed on 48 dogs with primary encephalopathies, admitted during a 5-year period (2008-2012). Their age ranged from 2 months to 19 years, the majority being older than 10 years. Genders were almost equally distributed and most animals were purebreds or crossbreds. Onset of neurological signs was acute (11/48), subacute (12/48) or chronic (24/48). Lesion localization was focal in 31 and multifocal in 17 dogs. The cerebrum and brainstem were the most common focal localizations, while cerebellar lesions were recorded only in 4 dogs. An aetiologic diagnosis was established in 29 dogs and included primary (8/29) or metastatic neoplasia (2/29), encephalitis of variable etiology (9/29), congenital or inherited diseases (6/29), senile cognitive dysfunction (3/29) and ischaemic encephalopathy (1/29). In the remaining 19 dogs, aetiology of intracranial dysfunction was not determined; however a tentative diagnosis was speculated in eight of these cases and included breed specific and viral encephalitis, neoplasia, ischaemic encephalopathy and inherited disease. Most dogs were euthanized due to the debilitating neurological signs (24/48) or died from complications of their illness (13/48). Six animals are still alive with symptomatic medical treatment and supportive nursing care and 5 were lost to follow up.
Effects of intensity and duration of quantitative restriction of feed on broiler performance
Authors: JAHANPOUR H. , SEIDAVI A. , QOTBI A. A.
Published: February 2018

This study was carried out to evaluate the effects of physical feed restriction method with different intensity and duration on broiler performance. One hundred and fifty Ross-breed 308 male broiler chicks in a completely randomized design were divided into five experimental treatments. The treatments included physical limitations by 25% or 50% of recommended amount on feed of broilers in two periods of 7 or 14 days. One control group was used fed ad libitum. Each limitation’s severity level was applied in τηρεε replications of 10 birds. All experimental treatments before and after the limitation period until slaughter (day 42) were fed ad libitum. The results showed that in total period broilers under the physical limitation of feed had significantly lower feed intake than controls (P < 0.05). In this research, methods and levels of physical restriction intensity and duration of feed had no significant effect on body weight for the whole experimental period. Methods and levels of food restriction severity and duration had significant effect on feed efficiency (P < 0.05).