bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inferential analysis of data.
Authors: Andereck K. L.
Published: November 2017

This chapter introduces the concept of inferential data analysis. This form of analysis is used to make general conclusions about a large population based on a sample of that population. The use of inferential analysis relies upon random sampling of members of the larger group of people we are interested in knowing about. The sampling error and confidence interval are directly related to the size of the sample and the amount of variability in the study data. These two aspects of the generated data also influence the statistical significance of the inferential statistics that we use to test relationships among the variables in the data set. The chapter also provides some further discussion on the importance and meaning of tested relationships from a managerial standpoint.
Relationship analysis: t-tests, analysis of variance, cross tabulations and non-parametric tests.
Authors: Gau J. M. , Gursoy D. , Sirakaya-Turk E.
Published: November 2017

This chapter introduces the basic uses of two parametric tests (t-tests and ANOVA) and several non-parametric tests including χ 2 and Mann-Whitney U test. For each test, we discuss the purpose of these tests, the assumptions (if any) underlying it, and the types of data that are appropriate and inappropriate for this test. Moreover, the chapter stresses the difference between statistical significance and substantive meaning. The researcher has an obligation to report fully informative results. The chapter provides discussion on reporting effect sizes and always questioning research results that are not accompanied by effect size estimates.
Describing linear bivariate relationships: correlation analysis.
Authors: Huang ChenChen Huang ChenChen , Pennington-Gray L.
Published: November 2017

This chapter addresses two frequently used statistical analyses: correlation analysis and simple linear regression. The chapter explains several types of relationships between two variables and two methods to explore these relationships. In addition, simple linear regression is introduced as a method to predict the value of a dependent variable by the value of an independent variable. Finally, since tourism researchers and practitioners typically face more complex relationships than merely a bivariate relationship (two variables), multiple regression will also be explored.
Soil fertility in organic farming systems.
Authors: Davis J. , Abbott L.
Published: November 2017

This chapter reviews the components of soil fertility in the context of organic farming systems and how certified organic practices are used to manage soil fertility. Data from long-term field studies evaluating organic farming are discussed in terms of the components of soil fertility. The changes in soil organic matter with implementation of organic matter management treatments in long-term field experiments conducted in South Australia, Switzerland, Norway, California and Washington (USA), are provided. The concept of soil fertility is also viewed in relation to its relevance to the application of organic farming practices across landscapes and soil types in different climatic zones. In addition, the differences in the physical, biological and chemical characteristics of soil fertility in long-term field trials that include organic farming treatment, are also given.
Crop agronomy in organic agriculture.
Authors: Fragstein und Niemsdorff P. von , Kristiansen P.
Published: November 2017

In addition to crop rotations, a range of other cultural strategies used in organic farming to achieve various farm management objectives are discussed, where the main focus is mixed and stockless annual cropping systems, rather than purely perennial farming systems such as tree and vine crops.
Organic plant breeding and seed production: ecological and ethical aspects.
Authors: Bueren E. T. L. van , Verhoog H.
Published: November 2017

This paper specifies the need for better adapted plant varieties, and describe possible ecological and ethical approaches to develop such varieties, and the attempts made to develop organic propagation of varieties to close the chain and refrain from conventionally-produced inputs.
Animal health and nutrition in organic farming.
Authors: Vaarst M. , Weisbjerg M. R. , Kristensen T. , Thamsborg S. M. , White A. , Roderick S. , Lockeretz W.
Published: November 2017

This chapter presents the aspects of animal health and feeding in organic farming systems. A short overview of the current knowledge about animal health, welfare and disease in organic agriculture is given. The interactions between nutrition and animal health and welfare are discussed. Focus is given on dairy cattle and grassland feeding.
Animal welfare and ethics in organic agriculture.
Authors: Lund V.
Published: November 2017

The diverging opinions regarding animal welfare in organic production systems are examined in this chapter. The underlying values in organic farming are evaluated as well as the presence of animal welfare problems in organic farming. The welfare dilemmas that organic farming needs to address are presented. The challenge for organic farming is to develop husbandry systems where animal welfare is an integrated and positive part of the system and not seen as a problem to be solved.
Organic standards and certification.
Authors: Courville S.
Published: November 2017

This chapter (i) outlines the history of the development of organic regulatory structures, (ii) provides a snapshot of the current situation with respect to organic standards setting and conformity assessment activities, and (iii) discusses three key regulatory challenges facing organic agriculture. These include (1) the tensions between the private systems dominated by the International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements (IFOAM) and public systems managed by various national and regional governments; (2) difficulties in balancing producer realities on the ground and consumer requirements for a clear understanding of what organic agriculture means worldwide; and (3) the increasing over-regulation of organic agricultural production and trade that may inadvertently squeeze out key stakeholders (smallholder farms) at the heart of the organic movement. In outlining tentative steps towards addressing these challenges, the chapter briefly sketches possible pathways for harmonization among organic regulatory systems, suggests possibilities for balancing local and global needs through incorporating flexibility into standards-setting processes based on examples from IFOAM processes, and outlines two promising developments for organic smallholder producers (namely, the development and increasing acceptance of internal control systems as a tool for inspection and certification, and the development of participatory guarantee systems for local markets).
Contradictions of principles in organic farming.
Authors: Ikerd J.
Published: November 2017

This chapter argues that the principles of productivity now driving organic food production are direct contradictions of the historic principles of organic farming. Economic demands for greater productivity, for consistency and uniformity of product quality and for dependability and timeliness of delivery, are encouraging organic food producers to standardize, specialize and consolidate control. As a result, organic food production is transforming into an extractive, exploitative process, based on the principles of industry rather than nature.
Understanding the market for organic food.
Authors: Lockie S. , Halpin D. , Pearson D.
Published: November 2017

This chapter examines (i) the organic marketplace in terms of the changing dynamics of supply and demand; (ii) the attributes of those who consume organic foods; (iii) the strategies that have been set in place to recruit more people as organic food consumers; and (iv) the constraints and opportunities for further expansion of the market for organic foods. In doing so, the chapter addresses, at least in part, once of the principal concerns that has arisen within the organic sector as a consequence of its growth, i.e. the concern that expansion has come at the cost of the core values and practices on which organic agriculture was founded.
Food quality.
Authors: Brandt K. , Mølgaard J. P.
Published: November 2017

This chapter focuses on ways to improve food quality in organic production and other systems. The relationships between organic regulations and food quality are discussed. A review of earlier studies of organic food and health is provided. Differences between production systems that may affect food quality are described and strategies to measure the effects of production methods on food quality are presented. Food safety assurance systems to prevent transmission of pathogens by food are summarized. In addition, this chapter discusses synthetic toxins intentionally and unintentionally (pollutants) applied to the food, naturally occurring toxins (mycotoxins and plant toxins), and effects of production methods on health of animals or humans.
Voice from the other side: a Ghanaian view on organics.
Authors: Veluw K. van
Published: November 2017

This paper explains and emphasizes a radical change in agricultural development in Africa. It shows that organic farming and an organic process of development helps Northern Ghanaian farmers better than conventional development projects. It is suggested that: (1) any change in (agricultural) development should start from the existing (agricultural) practices, yield levels, knowledge and attitude and not from the promises, potentials or perspectives of a new, to be introduced, technology; (2) development projects should change from a technical orientation of development into a mix of technical, social and cultural orientation because Africans have a multidisciplinary or integrative view on life, sustainability and on development; (3) development projects should change from top-down processes towards bottom-up processes; and (4) development approaches should change from a disciplinary subject through a top-down extension method into an integrated topic through a participatory development process.
Education and training in organic agriculture: the Nordic region and the USA.
Authors: Sriskandarajah N. , Francis C. , Salomonsson L. , Kahiluoto H. , Breland T. A. , Geber U. , Helenius J.
Published: November 2017

This chapter begins with an overview of organic farming and considers the place of education within it. Focusing primarily on the goals and structure of courses and curricula in the academic environment, it presents the experience of a small group of educators in setting up course units and programmes in the Nordic region and in the USA. Important questions related to agricultural education are considered, and the chapter concludes with a set of perspectives considered useful for the conceptual and structural changes needed towards designing an appropriate learning landscape for organic agriculture.
Toxic plants for livestock in Brazil: economic impact, toxic species, control measures and public health implications.
Authors: Riet-Correa F. , Medeiros R. M. T. , Tokarnia C. H. , Döbereiner J.
Published: November 2017

This chapter describes the toxic plant species for livestock in Brazil and their economic impact, control and public health implications. Tabulated lists of 113 toxic species belonging to 64 genera that have been reported to cause spontaneous intoxication in livestock (e.g. causing sudden death, liver necrosis, hepatic fibrosis, secondary photosensitization and nephrosis) are presented, with their major clinical signs or system affected, economic impact and active principles.
Locoweeds of North America: taxonomy and toxicity.
Authors: Welsh S. L. , Ralphs M. H. , Panter K. E. , Pfister J. A. , James L. F.
Published: November 2017

This chapter describes the taxonomy and toxicity of two locoweeds belonging to the genera Astragalus and Oxytropis, each containing several to numerous species of toxic plant species. Those plants with intoxicant properties have led to numerous livestock deaths, amounting to untold amounts of property loss. The first of those genera, Astragalus, is very large, and only a small proportion of the species have been investigated as to their potential for intoxication of livestock. Some 20 species of Astragalus have been noted as poisonous due to the presence of the indolizidine alkaloid swainsonine in their tissues. Species of Astragalus are present in all of the contiguous United States and Alaska, and in all of the Canadian provinces. Oxytropis is much smaller. Species of Oxytropis are confined mainly to western North America, with a few of the taxa extending across the northern portion of the continent to eastern Canada. Four species of Oxytropis are cited as toxic due to the presence of swainsonine.
Evaluation of plant poisoning reports.
Authors: Wagstaff D. J.
Published: November 2017

This chapter describes the evaluation of plant poisoning reports, focusing on the basic elements of reporting, sections of a report, and a detailed example of reporting deficiencies (taken from a set of five articles by William Hagen and coworkers reporting the first confirmed cases of bracken fern, Pteridium aquilinum, poisoning of cattle in North America).
Comparative studies on the susceptibility of buffalo and cattle to three poisonous plants (Palicourea marcgravii, Palicourea juruana and Arrabidaea bilabiata) in the Amazon Region.
Authors: Tokarnia C. H. , Riet-Correa F. , Barbosa J. D. , Oliveira C. M. C. de
Published: November 2017

A review on studies conducted to verify if buffaloes are more resistant than cattle to three poisonous plants namely: P. marcgravii, P. juruana and A. bilabiata in the Amazon region, Brazil was presented. This paper also presented the results of experiments conducted with A. bilabiata with an aim of verifying differences in the toxicity of the plant with respect to young and mature leaves and also during the different seasons of the year.
Ornamental plants in Southern Brazil with toxic potential for companion animals.
Authors: Sena Filho J. G. , Pontual K. A. Q. , Ferreira C. P. , Florencio D. C. , Xavier H. S.
Published: November 2017

Cases of intoxication of pets were investigated by personal visits to residences, including homes, yards, apartments and common garden areas, in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, from 1998 to 2002 to determine the presence of poisonous plants. The plant species most commonly observed in cases of intoxication of pets (i.e. companion animals) were: Dieffenbachia picta [D. maculata], Sansevieria trifasciata, Allamanda cathartica, A. blanchettii, Euphorbia milii, E. pulcherrima, Lantana camara, Philodendron bipinnatifidum and Brugmansia suaveolens. This information will be useful to educate the public about the potential dangers of some common household plants to companion animals.
Effects of dietary pyrrolizidine (Senecio) alkaloids on plasma and liver vitamin E distribution in broiler chickens.
Authors: Lulay A. L. , Leonard S. W. , Traber M. G. , Keller M. R. , Cheeke P. R.
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of dietary pyrrolizidine (PA) alkaloids (from Senecio) on the plasma and liver vitamin E concentration in broiler chickens. 54 broiler chicks were used in this experiment and were divide into six equal groups. The following diets were then given: (1) control, (2) positive control plus 500 mg vitamine E/kg feed, (3) positive control plus 200 mg vitamine E/kg feed, (4) negative control (chick diet plus tansy (Senecio jacobaea flowers)), (5) negative control plus 500 mg vitamine E/kg feed, and (6) negative control plus 200 mg vitamine E/kg feed. The feeding experiment lasted up to 25 days and results showed that dietary consumption of PA (from diet 4) results in a pronounced reduction in liver and plasma tocopherol concentrations in chickens. This effect is a consequence of PA induced inhibition of hepatic synthesis of vitamin E transporting proteins as has been observed previously with retinol binding proteins.
The effects of vaccination on riddelliine toxicity in rats.
Authors: Stegelmeier B. L. , Lee S. T. , James L. F. , Gardner D. R. , Panter K. E. , Ralphs M. H. , Pfister J. A.
Published: November 2017

To test the efficacy of a pyrrolizidine alkaloid (PA) conjugates against riddelline toxicity 90 rats (animal models) were used in this study. The animals were divided into three equal groups of which the two groups were immunized with two riddelline conjugates while the third group served as control. Results showed that all of the rats, including the high dose groups, had minimal response to the riddelline challenge. Though the high dose animals lost more weight than the other groups they were still in good condition with little evidence of liver disease. However high dose animals (25 mg/kg) had a significant increased in ALP, ALT, AST, LDH, bilirubin and bile acid with a decreased in albumin when compared with the low dose group (0, 1, and 5 mg/kg). In conclusion, the rats had poor and variable response to vaccination with few animals developing titres greater than 1:1000. Although there were no significant biochemical differences between the vaccinated and control groups rats with higher titre appear to have less hepatocellular swelling and necrosis.
Hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids and their N-oxides in honey and pollen.
Authors: Beales K. , Betteridge K. , Boppré M. , Cao Y. , Colegate S. M. , Edgar J. A.
Published: November 2017

The pyrrolizidine alkaloids of 68 Australian honey samples as well as extracts of Australian and New Zealand pollen samples collected from anthers, and pollen baskets harvested from honeybees, were identified and quantified using HPLC-atmospheric pressure chemical ionization (APCI)-MS. HPLC-electrospray ionization (ESI)-MS was applied for simultaneous quantitation of the alkaloids and their N-oxides. The highest level of pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, in excess of 2500 µg equivalents of echimidine per kg of honey (ppb), was observed with an Echium plantagineum-derived sample. Honeys attributed to E. plantagineum, Heliotropium europaeum and H. amplexicaule were determined by the presence of echimidine, heliotrine and indicine respectively as the major alkaloid observed, as identified by HPLC-APCI-MS. Use of the silica-based SCX SPE columns on the honey and pollen samples tentatively identified a new suite of alkaloids/N-oxides characteristic of E. vulgare. The highest level determined was approximately 5000 ppb. Four samples returned levels of between 1200 and 2850 ppb and four were between 550 and 950 ppb. The level of pyrrolizidine alkaloids/N-oxides in the pure pollen was considerably higher compared to the honey at about 11 000 ± 3000 ppm (mg/kg) whereas levels in the pollen baskets from honeybees returned lower levels of alkaloids, with a range of 925 to 4000 ppm and a mean (from 4 samples) of 2125 ppm. The combination of silica-based SCX SPE and HPLC-ESI-MS analysis has confirmed the natural predominance of N-oxides over the parent, tertiary-base pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the honey and pollen samples.
An overview of pyrrolizidine alkaloid toxicity in livestock: microbial and metabolic perspectives.
Authors: Craig A. M. , Duringer J. M. , Blythe L. L.
Published: November 2017

A review on the toxicity of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA) a toxin found in poisonous plants such as Senecio and Crotalaria in livestock animals with emphasis on cattle and sheep was presented. Highlight of the review focused on the mechanism of resistance to PA toxicity in sheep versus cattle as well as the role of rumen microorganisms in the detoxification and hepatic metabolism of both livestock animals.
Acute bovine liver disease: hepatocytotoxicity of Cynosurus echinatus-related Drechslera biseptata.
Authors: Aslani M. R. , Pascoe I. , Kowalski M. , Michalewicz A. , Retallick M. A. S. , Colegate S. M.
Published: November 2017

To find out the toxic effect of Cynosurus echinatus related Drechslera biseptata on cattle, cultures of D. biseptata isolated from outbreaks of acute bovine liver disease (ABLD) were preserved and tested on cultured rat hepatocytes. Results showed that extracts of agar cultures of D. biseptata isolated from outbreaks of acute bovine liver disease were shown to be cytotoxic to cultured rat hepatocytes in the same way that extracts of C. echinatus collected from toxic pastures were also hepatocytotoxic.
Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) toxicity in rodents, sheep, goats and horses.
Authors: Stegelmeier B. L. , Elmore S. A. , Lee S. T. , James L. F. , Gardner D. R. , Panter K. E. , Ralphs M. H. , Pfister J. A.
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study is to evaluate Switchgrass P. virgatum toxicity in rodents, goats, sheep and horses. Six Syrian hamsters, six gerbils and six guineapigs were randomly divided into two groups and fed with switchgrass pellets or control pellets for 45 days. An additional four groups of three hamsters each were orally dosed with concentrated diosgenin and yamogenin from fenugreek seed to obtain doses of 0, 100, 300, and 900 mg saponins per day. Six horses, six sheep and six goats were also divide into two equal groups and were fed with switchgrass for 90 days. Results after the feeding period showed that most of the animals fed with switchgrass hay loss weight and exhibited poor body condition, none of the horses or sheep nor the rodents fed with switchgrass hay developed serum biochemical changes suggestive of hepatic or renal disease. However, some goats fed with switchgrass hay developed skin lesions consistent with phylloerythrin associated photosensitivity. This findings suggest that switchgrass can be toxic under certain conditions and that young goats are found to be more susceptible to poisoning.
The rise and fall of bighead: Tetradymia poisoning of sheep.
Authors: Wagstaff D. J.
Published: November 2017

A historical account on the first recorded case of Tetradymia poisoning in sheep its epidemiology and control was discussed.
Antifertility activity of Carica papaya in male rats.
Authors: Gunawardana V. K. , Tokhi S. G.
Published: November 2017

A study was undertaken to verify whether the seeds of C. papaya (CP) have adverse effects on male reproduction. The bioassays for antifertility activity were carried out in rats using finely ground seeds since the rural farmers use the seeds as an anthelmintic in this form. Two trials were conducted. In trial 1, the control group had 10 animals while in trial 2, the control group had 5 animals. In trial 1, the treated rats received a dose of 0.67 g of the powder kg body weight-1 day-1 for a period of 20 days. In trial 2, the rats were treated for 44 days with a higher dose of 1.34 g/kg body weight. Five days before the end of dosing, each male was paired with a pro-oestrus female. In both trials, the weight gain was very poor compared to the controls. The weight of the testis and epididymis expressed as a percentage of the body weight did not show a significant difference between the treatment and control groups in both trials. All epididymal parameters were affected by treatment with CP. The most drastically affected parameter was the motility of cauda epididymal spermatozoa. In trial 1, two treated animals had immotile spermatozoa and in the others motility was confined to slow vibration of the tail with no forward progression. In trial 2, four treated animals had immotile spermatozoa while the other 2 had spermatozoa showing weak tail movements. A reduction in the epididymal sperm reserve and an increase in sperm abnormality were also observed. Although the highest percentage abnormality was in the head region for all groups, the tail abnormality in the treated group was 5.6 times higher than in the control in trial 1 and it was 4 times higher in trial 2. In the treated group, the mean number of implantation sites was reduced by 35.43% compared to the control in Trial 1. In this trial, of the 7 animals that were pregnant, 2 had all fetuses resorbed. As a result, the number of normal fetuses was less than the number of implantation sites. At higher dose, only 2 animals were able to impregnate receptive females. Of the 2 pregnant animals, one had only one implantation site and the other had 3. In these implantation sites, the fetuses were resorbed.
Fetotoxic effects of locoweed (Astragalus lentiginosus) in pregnant goats.
Authors: Furlan S. , Panter K. E. , Pfister J. A. , Stegelmeier B. L.
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study was to find out the clinical and ultrasonographic effects of locoweed A. lentiginosus in pregnant goats. Five pregnant does were given a dose of finely ground A. lentiginosus on the 30th day of gestation while four other does were given an equivalent amount of ground lucerne hay as negative controls. Blood samples were then collected from the experimental and control animals and results showed that locoweed poisoned goats developed mild proprioceptive deficits within 9 to 10 days of treatment. The clinical signs became more severe with the poisoned animals becoming weak, hesitant to move, prominent intention tremors and proprioceptive deficits. The result suggests that Spanish goats are very sensitive to the negative effects of locoweed as shown on its reproductive performance. The early reduction in fetal movement and fetal death is indicative of this sensitivity.
Pregnancy loss in mares associated with exposure to caterpillars in Kentucky and Australia.
Authors: Perkins N. R. , Sebastian M. M. , Todhunter K. H. , Wylie R. M. , Begg A. P. , Muscatello G. , Gilkerson J. R. , Racklyeft D. J. , Chicken C. , Wilson M. C. , Cawdell-Smith A. J. , Bryden W. L.
Published: November 2017

A report on two cases of pregnancy losses in mares which were associated to exposure with caterpillars in Kentucky, USA and the other one in Australia was presented. Highlight of the report focused on the clinical aspects and on the aetiology of two reproductive disorders namely: mare reproductive loss syndrome (MRLS) and equine amnionitis and fetal loss (EAFL).
Clinical signs and treatment of cattle grazing high molybdenum forage.
Authors: Majak W. , Steinke D.
Published: November 2017

The Highland Valley Copper mine (HVC), near Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada, is in the process of restoring the rangeland disturbed by over 20 years of mining. Of primary concerns are the tailings ponds that can contain elevated levels of molybdenum (Mo), a residue from the copper (Cu) and Mo extraction process. This paper present the results of two studies conducted at Highmont in 1999-2001 and 2002-2004 on the effect of forages with high Mo levels on grazing cattle and whether cattle grazing is a viable option for the reclamation plan of the area. The second study was conducted to test the efficacy of Cu supplementation on the prevention of the onset of clinical signs. In summary, the trials from 1999 to 2001 showed that cattle suffered from lameness as a result of grazing forage with high molybdenum content. However, lameness was resolved in all animals by the end of trial without treatment. Results from the second grazing trials in 2002-2004 showed that with the aid of 2.5% CuSO4.5H2O supplement in loose salt, cattle could graze the site without major problems. Clinical signs were not completely eliminated in the supplemented group, probably because the supplement was free-choice. The overall results showed that 29% of the control cows exhibited primary signs of lameness whereas only 4% of the supplemented cows were affected, usually with attenuated signs. Secondary signs of diarrhoea and hair coat depigmentation were also reduced in the supplemented group. Calves were much less susceptible as only seven of the 230 calves showed clinical signs of lameness during the 6-year period. Cattle grazing might be included in the land use plan for Highmont if CuSO4.5H2O supplement is provided or if previously exposed animals that have developed a tolerance to molybdenum are used.
New applications of Yucca and Quillaja products in animal nutrition.
Authors: Cheeke P. R.
Published: November 2017

Yucca and quillaja have traditionally been regarded primarily as sources of saponins. Saponins have diverse biological effects, some of which are mediated by their ability to form complexes with cholesterol in cell membranes. Recent research indicates that the membrane effects of saponins result in anti-protozoal and anti-nematode activity, and modification in rumen microbe populations. Yucca is also a good source of polyphenolic compounds, including resveratrol and the yuccaols. These compounds function as anti-inflammatory agents and as antioxidants. Anti-inflammatory activity may account for some of the favourable effects of yucca products on animal performance. Finally, yucca and quillaja supplements fed to sows in late gestation reduce the incidence of stillbirths in swine and may enhance the immune function of weanling piglets.
Cutting for silage may not prevent annual ryegrass toxicity.
Authors: Allen J. G. , Masters A. M. , Doncon G.
Published: November 2017

Annual ryegrass toxicity (ARGT) results from the consumption of ryegrass infected with the toxigenic bacterium Rathayibacter toxicus. The bacterium is introduced into the ryegrass by the nematode Anguina funesta that reproduces in galls formed within the seedhead of the ryegrass. If the bacterium is introduced into the nematode gall, it may multiply to kill the nematodes and form a toxic bacterial gall. The toxins produced by R. toxicus are called corynetoxins. This paper reports a case of ARGT in Western Australia affecting several sheep, two bulls, four cows and one horse (February 2002). The animals were fed silage harvested from the Cunderdin area of the wheatbelt in Western Australia the previous year, around the time when ryegrass starts flowering in the area. Analysis of samples collected from silage bales using ELISA for R. toxicus revealed high concentration of bacterial galls and corynetoxins consistent with ARGT.
Poisonous plants affecting the central nervous system (CNS) of cattle in Brazil.
Authors: Rech R. R. , Rodrigues A. , Rissi D. R. , Riet-Correa F. , Barros C. S. L.
Published: November 2017

With the growing importance of surveillance for bovine spongiform encephalopathy, pursuing and accurately diagnosing central nervous system disease in cattle has increased substantially. In Brazil, there are many plants that will induce CNS disease in cattle, including those plants causing lysosomal storage disease (Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa, Phalaris angusta, Sida carpinifolia and Solanum fastigiatum var. fastigiatum), primary neuronal degeneration (Ipomoea asarifolia, Prosopis juliflora) and plants causing spongy degeneration of the CNS white matter (Ateleia glazioviana, Tetrapterys spp. and Senecio spp.). In addition, recently Marsdenia sp. was described causing CNS disease in cattle but no morphological changes could be associated with the disease. This paper reviews these poisonous plants affecting the central nervous system of cattle.
Comparative study of bovine cerebellar cortical degenerations caused by different South American Solanum spp.
Authors: Verdes J. M. , Moraña A. , Gutiérrez F. , Guerrero F. , Goicoa A. , Fidalgo L. E. , Riet-Correa F.
Published: November 2017

This paper reviews the epidemiology, clinical signs, lesions, ultrastructural changes and lectin- and immunohistochemical patterns of natural and experimental cerebellar cortical degenerations in cattle caused by different South American Solanum spp. The identification of other susceptible species and the active fractions in Solanum species are also reviewed.
Poisoning by cyanogenic plants in ruminants in the state of Paraíba, Northeastern Brazil.
Authors: Amorim S. L. de , Medeiros R. M. T. , Tokarnia C. H. , Riet-Correa F.
Published: November 2017

This paper reviews the cyanogenic plants of northeastern Brazil, with emphasis on those occurring in the state of Paraiba, like Manihot esculenta, Manihot glaziovii, Anadenanthera macrocarpa and Piptadenia viridiflora. The results of experiments on the effects of M. galziovii in goats and M. glaziovii and A. macrocarpa in cattle are also presented.
A toxicoproteomic approach to understanding annual ryegrass toxicity.
Authors: Retallick M. A. S. , Colegate S. M. , Michalski W. P.
Published: November 2017

Previous in vivo studies have shown that acute exposure to tunicamycins (TMs) produces a syndrome that is indistinguishable from Annual Ryegrass Toxicity (ARGT) when compared on the basis of clinical and pathological observations. To validate the experimental model at a molecular level, a toxicoproteomic approach, which involved a comparative study of the proteins secreted by an in vitro rat hepatocyte cell line in response to toxin-exposure, was used to evaluate the bioequivalence of corynetoxins (CTs) and TMs. The study showed that exposure to cultured hepatocytes to doses of TMs and CTs>5 and <5000 nM resulted in proteomic changes that were not always identical between the two toxins. This finding highlights the importance of applying molecular techniques to comparative toxicology. Identifying molecular indicators of non-equivalence of tunicaminyluracil toxin-exposure in vitro has important implications for in vivo studies of ARGT that have been modelled with TMs rather than CTs, particularly in the field of biomarker discovery. Candidate protein biomarkers of clinical and subclinical disease may be investigated using TMs-exposed animals, but their capacities to act as diagnostic indicators of ARGT must be confirmed by experimental animal trials involving CTs-exposure.
An assessment of spatial learning and memory in sheep chronically exposed to tunicamycins.
Authors: Lee C. , Fisher A. D. , Michalewicz A. , Colegate S. M.
Published: November 2017

As part of neurological assessment, the spatial learning ability and memory of male and female Merino sheep that had been exposed to various low levels of dietary tunicamycins for 42-48 weeks was investigated. For this purpose, a maze was specifically designed and modified to allow a relatively rapid assessment of the ability of individual sheep to learn and remember the best route through the maze. The capacity for the maze to provide a useful assessment of the spatial learning and memory of sheep was also validated by comparing the performance of control sheep with those that had been administered scopolamine, which is a CNS muscarinic receptor antagonist and a known cognition-impairing substance. Sheep (control, scopolamine-treated and tunicamycins-treated) were assessed in the maize on each of 3 successive days (Days 1, 2 and 3) and this was repeated, for the tunicamycins group, 6 weeks later (Days 42, 43 and 44). The performance of each sheep was a factor of the total time for the subject to complete the maze and the error time (sum of time spent in zones A and B). Exposure of male and female sheep to levels of 40.5, 13.5, 4.5, 1.5 and 0.5 µg tunicamycins/kg body weight/day in their diet for 42-48 weeks did not have any discernible impact on the ability of the exposed sheep to negotiate and remember the maze. This is despite the top dose sheep cumulatively receiving approximately 10 times the oral lethal dose of tunicamycins (approximately 1 mg/kg body weight). The lack of any adverse effect of the tunicamycins as assessed by the maze does not obviate the possibility of other adverse effects that may be used to define the no observed effect level study investigating clinical, biochemical, pathological and behavioural parameters in rats and sheep. The maze test, by virtue of measuring high level biological function, may have applications in other areas, such as intensive management practices and including plant-associated intoxications other than annual ryegrass toxicity (ARGT), where the health and welfare of animals may be compromised.
Dose-related, differential gene expression in cultured rat hepatocytes exposed to tunicamycins: a model for annual ryegrass toxicity.
Authors: Kowalski M. , Doran T. , Cahill D. , Colegate S. M.
Published: November 2017

To further investigate the effects of tunicamycins (TMs) at the molecular level, a toxicogenomic approach was developed to examine the differential gene expression between cultured rat hepatocytes exposed to TMs at low levels and untreated cultured hepatocytes. It was found that exposure of in vitro cultured rat hepatocytes to 0.05 and 50 µM TMs resulted in 38 and 34 genes expressed at significantly different levels, respectively, compared to untreated hepatocyte controls. Statistical analysis of the 51 genes (including housekeeping genes) presented on the DualChip® rat hepato revealed that 24 genes (47%) were upregulated, 14 genes (27%) were downregulated and 13 genes (39%) remained stable following treatment with TMs at 0.05 µM. Dosed at a TMs concentration of 50 µM, 26 genes (50%) were upregulated, eight genes (16%) were downregulated and 17 genes (34%) remained stable. The most highly induced genes consistent within both treatments were: FN, ecoa, MnSOD, mt_Co1 and Osteon, Their functions, including oxidative metabolism and detoxification of radicals which are toxic to biological systems, drug metabolism, lyase activity/β-oxidation and maintaining the integrity of the extracellular matrix, are consistent with expected upregulation following a toxic insult. This toxicogenomic approach to defining the effect of exposure of in vitro cultured rat hepatocytes to tunicamycins will complement previous works that have focused primarily on toxicology, pathology and pathogenesis associated with acute exposure to TMs.
Phytate: an anti-nutritive factor in animal diets.
Authors: Bryden W. L. , Selle P. H. , Ravindran V. , Acamovic T.
Published: November 2017

This chapter describes the antinutritional effects of phytate and phytase in livestock and poultry diets.
Lectin binding pattern in the small intestine of rabbits intoxicated with Solanum glaucophyllum.
Authors: Zanuzzi C. N. , Barbeito C. G. , Fontana P. A. , Portiansky E. L. , Gimeno E. J.
Published: November 2017

This study was conducted to analyse the intestinal carbohydrate expression under the effect of hypervitaminosis D induced by S. glaucophyllum (Sg). Five male 3-month-old New Zealand White rabbits were orally intoxicated with Sg at 125 mg/kg/day twice a week for 1 month. Four animals were used as controls. Samples of duodenum, jejunum and ileum were taken from both groups, sectioned and incubated with seven biotinylated lectins with different carbohydrate specificities for 2 h. There were differences in the lectin pattern between groups. In the duodenum, a reduction in the intensity of lectin DBA labelling was observed in the apical granular cytoplasm of the intoxicated group. Incubation with the lectin PNA in the duodenum and jejunum revealed a heterogeneous pattern in the control rabbits, whereas most of the intoxicated rabbits showed a strong staining of the glycocalix of the whole crypts and in some cells at the bottom of the jejunal crypts. The ileum of the intoxicated group also showed intense labelling with lectins PNA and RCA-1 in the apical glycocalix of the whole crypt. Individual cells at the base of some crypts were strongly labelled with lectin UEA-1 in both groups, mostly in the jejunum and ileum. In conclusion, Sg intoxication could lead to abnormal carbohydrate expression, which could in turn alter enzymatic digestion of food by peptidases of the glycocalix and the absorptive functions and lubrication of the digestive tract in rabbits.
Cutleaf nightshade (Solanum triflorum Nutt.) toxicity in horses and hamsters.
Authors: Stegelmeier B. L. , Lee S. T. , James L. F. , Gardner D. R. , Panter K. E. , Ralphs M. H. , Pfister J. A.
Published: November 2017

Ground cutleaf nightshade at 0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mg in 2 ml of water was fed to 30 Syrian hamsters divided into 5 groups as an animal model for cutleaf nightshade poisoning in horses. The treatments were repeated 4 times a day for 7 days, during which changes in neurologic signs and pupil diameter were monitored. The hamsters were euthanized at the end of the study and blood and tissue samples were collected and analysed. It was shown that none of the treated animals developed cholinergic clinical signs and there were no significant differences in pupil diameter between groups. However, several of the hamsters in the high dose groups developed diarrhoea and small labial ulcerations after several days of treatment. These animals also had sporadic biochemical changes consistent with electrolyte loss and lipid mobilization. At necropsy, hamsters treated with 150 and 200 mg concentrations had segmental dilation of the intestine and stomach. Affected bowels were dilated with gas and mucoid exudates. The mucosa of some animals was red and oedematous, with focally extensive haemorrhagic and necrotizing gastroenteritis which was most severe in the ileum, but also involved the entire small intestine and glandular portion of the stomach. No other significant histologic lesions were found. These findings suggest that cutleaf nightshade toxicity in rodents is due to the direct toxic effects of the glycoalkaloids in the plant. The clinical signs of S. triflorum poisoning in horses are also briefly described.
White locoweed (Oxytropis sericea Nutt.) ingestion by naïve stockers: diet preference patterns of natural "eaters" and "avoiders".
Authors: Jackson K. T. , Cibils A. F. , Graham J. D. , Gould W. R. , Allison C. D.
Published: November 2017

The objective of this study was to determine whether differences in white locoweed preferences exhibited by heifers classified as locoweed eaters or avoiders were dependent on the quality of alternative food choices. Locoweed eaters and avoiders were randomly assigned to two treatment groups: WS, locoweed offered with either high or low availability of low quality food (ground wheat straw) or AL, locoweed offered with either high or low availability of high quality food lucerne hay. The diets were placed in 6-litre rubber bowls in an arena at 50 g per diet. Each heifer was exposed to the arena individually for 10 min daily. The order in which heifers were led into the arena was randomized. It was shown that locoweed eaters had a significantly higher preference for white locoweed than avoiders when the availability of the alternative food choice was high. Locoweed preference was not affected by the quality of the alternative food. Locoweed eaters showed a high preference for locoweed when the quality of the alternative food was low. On the other hand, locoweed avoiders showed a higher preference for locoweed when the quality of the alternative food was high. Intake of alternative foods was similar across treatments except for locoweed eaters, which tended to consume less WS than avoiders. In conclusion, white locoweed preference of heifers classified as natural eaters is higher compared to avoiders, regardless of the quality and availability of alternative food choices.
Water deficit effects on Astragalus mollissimus and Oxytropis sericea swainsonine content, physiology, and growth.
Authors: Vallotton A. D. , Sterling T. M.
Published: November 2017

Astragalus mollissimus bigelovii (Amb), Astragalus mollissimus mollissimus (Amm), Astragalus mollissimus thompsonae (Amt) and Oxytropis sericea (Os) were transplanted into pots, thereafter acclimatized in a greenhouse and replanted into larger pots. Approximately 4 months after collection, they were subjected to two 21-day drought recovery cycles, followed by a final 14-day drought period. There was no species by water interaction for relative water content (RWC). Leaf RWC did not differ between water-deficit vs. well-watered plants, except in Amt, where RWC was reduced 10% under water stress. Under well-watered conditions, photosynthesis was reduced in Amb. Photosynthesis for drought vs. well-watered plants increased in Amb, but decreased in Amm and Amt, and was the same in Os. Under well-watered conditions, transpiration was highest in Amt. Under water-deficit conditions, transpiration increased in Amb, but remained the same in Amm, Amt and Os. Under both water-deficit and well-watered conditions, water use was highest in Amt and lowest in Os. Across both water treatments, water use efficiency was highest in Os. Root:shoot ratio increased with water-deficit stress across all species. Under well-watered conditions, Amb had the lowest root:shoot ratio. Under water-deficit conditions, root:shoot ratio increased in Amb and Os. Regardless of water treatment, Amm and Amt root:shoot ratio remained the same. For any of the species, total dry weight remained the same between water treatments. In water-deficit vs. well-watered plants, Amb and Amm had higher swainsonine, while Os and Amt were unaffected by water treatment. Regardless of water level, Amm produced 4- to 155-fold higher swainsonine than the other species.
The use of fecal NIRS to identify levels of consumption of the toxic shrub juniper in a selective breeding program with goats.
Authors: Campbell E. S. , Engdahl B. S. , Lupton C. J. , Scott C. B. , Taylor C. A., Jr. , Waldron D. F. , Walker J. W. , Whitworth W. R.
Published: November 2017

This paper describes a project which aims to investigate the use of selective breeding to improve the use of goats as biological control agents for juniper (primarily Juniperus pinchotii and J. ashei) control in the Edwards Plateau region Texas, USA. The research involves the use of faecal near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) technology to predict juniper consumption in free-ranging goats, and the prediction of the genetic merit for juniper consumption for individual animals in Boer × Spanish and Angora goat herds in order to divergently select for high and low juniper consumption. NIRS calibration; effect of breed, gender and age of goats and heritability studies were also conducted. It was shown that goats of different genders and ages had different faecal NIRS spectra even when fed the same diet (juniper or pelleted feed). The effect of breed was relatively insignificant. There was a significant difference in high and low juniper-consuming goats, especially in December and January compared to October and November. There was a moderate level of heritability for juniper consumption in Boer × Spanish goats and a lower value in Angora goats based on faecal NIRS. These results show that faecal NIRS technology allows the identification of superior juniper eating goats, monitor their consumption of juniper and predict genetic merit for juniper consumption for use in breeding programmes.
Body condition affects blood alkaloid and monoterpene kinetics and voluntary intake of chemically-defended plants by livestock.
Authors: Launchbaugh K. , Pfister J. , Lopez-Ortiz S. , Frost R.
Published: November 2017

Several studies were conducted in cattle consuming Lupinus leucophyllus and Pinus ponderosa, goats consuming Juniperus coahuilensis and sheep consuming L. argenteus to determine whether a high or low body condition in these animals would affect consumption of poisonous plants and detoxification of plant secondary metabolites. It was shown that animals in low body condition were more likely to consume greater quantities of these plants compared to those with a higher body condition. In sheep, the overall disposition of lupine alkaloids, especially anagyrine, was altered significantly based on body condition. These findings suggest that livestock managers should monitor body condition to mitigate the consumption and effects of poisonous plants on grazing animals.