bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathogénie Comparée et Signe Sexuel des Isolats Marocains dePyricularia grisea (Magnaporthe grisea)Originaires de Riz et deStenotaphrum secundatum
Authors: Benkirane R. , Douira A. , Selmaoui K. , Lebbar S.
Published: March 2003

Des isolats marocains dePyricularia grisea (Magnaporthe grisea)originaire d’Oryza sativaet deStenotaphrum secundatumont été croisés avec des isolats standard fertiles (signe sexuel Mat 1.1 et Mat 1.2) par l’utilisation de la méthode de culture de trois points sur milieu avoine. Les résultats obtenus ont montré que les isolats du riz sont de signe sexuel Mat 1.1 et peuvent être considérés comme des isolats mâles, alors que les isolats originaires deS. secundatumne sont ni de signe Mat 1.1 ni de signe Mat 1.2. Les inoculations croisées ont montré que les isolats deP. griseaoriginaires deS. secundatumsont pathogènes sur certaines variétés du riz. De même,S. secudatums'est montré sensible à certains isolats originaires du riz.
Ultrastructural and Cytochemical Studies on Cellulose, Xylan and Pectin Degradation in Wheat Spikes Infected by Fusarium culmorum
Authors: Kang Z. , Buchenauer H.
Published: March 2003

The cell wall components cellulose, xylan and pectin in different tissues of noninoculated healthy and Fusarium culmorum (W. G. Smith) Sacc‐infected wheat spikes were localized by means of enzyme‐gold and immuno‐gold labelling techniques. The cell walls in the ovary, lemma and rachis of the healthy wheat spike showed labellings in different patterns and densities with cellulase‐gold and xylanase‐gold probes, as well as with the antipectin monoclonal antibody JIM7. The inter‐ and intracellular growth of the pathogen in the ovary, lemma and rachis of the infected wheat spike, not only caused pronounced alterations of cell walls and middle lamella matrices, but also led to marked modifications of cell wall components. The enzyme‐gold and immuno‐gold labellings in the infected host tissues revealed that the labelling densities for cellulose, xylan and pectin were significantly reduced in the cell walls of infected ovary, lemma and rachis as compared with corresponding healthy host tissues. The host cell walls in contact with or close to hyphae of the pathogen showed more marked morphological changes and much greater reduction of the labelling density than those in distance from the hyphae. These results provide evidence that F. culmorum may produce cell‐wall‐degrading enzymes such as cellulases, xylanases and pectinases during infection and colonization of wheat spikes tissues. Furthermore, at the early stage of infection (e.g. 3 days after inoculation), the degradation of pectin was greater than that of cellulose and xylan in the cell walls of the same infected host tissues, indirectly suggesting that the pectinases may be secreted earlier or exert higher activities than cellulases and xylanases.
Variation in Response of Wild Lycopersicon and Solanum spp. against Tomato Powdery Mildew (Oidium lycopersici)
Authors: Mieslerová B. , Lebeda A. , Chetelat R. T.
Published: March 2003

A set of 154 accessions of nine wild Lycopersicon spp. and five accessions of three closely related Solanum spp. were tested for resistance to tomato powdery mildew (Oidium lycopersici). Screening revealed valuable sources of resistance, mainly among L. hirsutum, L. pennellii, L. cheesmanii, L. chilense, L. peruvianum and L. parviflorum. L. esculentum (all ssp.) and L. pimpinellifolium expressed high susceptibility to O. lycopersici inoculation. Results of variance and cluster analysis of responses to O. lycopersici coincide with recent taxonomic classification and genetic relationships within genus Lycopersicon.
Influence of the Mode of Tillage on Diseases of Culm Base in some Winter Wheat varieties, Oats and Spring Wheat
Authors: Weber  , Hryńczuk  , Runowska‐Hryńczuk  , Kita
Published: March 2003

The influence of simplified soil cultivation techniques on the complex of culm base diseases was tested in seven varieties of winter wheat. The results were compared with those obtained in spring wheat Ismena and oat variety Dragon. A 1‐year intermission in growing cereals after conventional models of tillage (rye; rape; winter wheat) was found to have brought about an intensified occurrence of culm base diseases. However, with ploughless cultivation the infection was less. Among the fungi species tested there was found a high percentage of Fusarium culmorum and Fusarium equiseti, which occurred to a considerably lower degree in ploughless treatments. The wheat varieties Sakwa and Mikon were found to be less sensitive to the culm base diseases.
Biological Control ofBotrytis cinereaPers. ex Fr. in Strawberry byPaenibacillus polymyxa(Isolate 18191)
Authors: Helbig
Published: March 2003

Isolate 18191, obtained from mature strawberry fruit and determined asPaenibacillus polymyxahas shown an antagonistic potential againstBotrytis cinerea, the causal agent of grey mould in strawberries. Germ tube growth of conidia ofB. cinereawas strongly inhibited by the culture suspension of the antagonist in aqueous strawberry fruit pulp suspension (1%) but germination rate of conidia was not affected. The application of the culture suspension and the washed cells on detached strawberry leaf discs reduced conidiophore density ofB. cinereaby 67 and 84%, respectively. The treatment of detached leaf discs with culture suspensions of different cell densities (1 × 106, 1 × 107, 1 × 108) showed that the lowest density already reduced incidence ofB. cinereaby 68% after 8 days incubation period. Investigating the influence of the temperature on the effectiveness ofP. polymyxait was observed that the antagonist was highly effective already at 10°C and reduced incidence and conidiophore density ofB. cinereaby 53 and 58%, respectively. In 3‐year field trials the effectiveness ofP. polymyxawas in a range of 24–36% as compared to the water control.
Hypersensitivity of Plum Genotypes to Plum Pox Virus
Authors: Kegler  , Grüntzig  , Fuchs  , Ranković  , Ehrig
Published: March 2003

The hypersensitive response (HR) of plum hybrid K4 as an active defence mechanism is directed against certain plum pox virus (PPV) strains/isolates of the type CG but not against type DI. There is no clear correlation between the HR of K4 and serological differences of the PPV strains D, M and C, respectively. A total of 14 genotypes out of 21 progenies of K4 reacted necrotically and were proved to be either hypersensitive and field resistant or highly sensitive and not field resistant. The HR can be connected with a complete or with an incomplete virus localization in K4 and some of its progenies. The remaining genotypes were more or less sensitive and tolerant, respectively. Growth of buds from PPV‐CG‐infected plum cultivars on K4 differed in the degree of systemic virus invasion in the plant as a trait of quantitative virus resistance. The percentage of growing buds correlated with the level of quantitative PPV resistance.
Phenylpyrrole Fungicides: Mitotic Instability in Aspergillus nidulans and Resistance in Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Ziogas B. N. , Kalamarakis A. E.
Published: March 2003

The somatic recombinogenic activity of the phenylpyrrole fungicide fludioxonil, in diploid Aspergillusnidulans was found similar to that caused by aromatic hydrocarbon and dicarboximide fungicides (AHDFs), such as iprodione, chlozolinate and tolclofos–methyl. All these fungicides not only increased the number of mitotic recombinants but also provided similar appearance, small sectors, of white and yellow mitotic recombination products. Fludioxonil highly resistant strains (resistant factor approximately 5000) of Botrytis cinerea were isolated at high frequency (1.08 × 10−5). Study of cross‐resistance patterns of mutant strains to other fungicides, revealed cross‐resistance of fludioxonil with dicarboximides (iprodione, procymidone, and chlozolinate) and aromatic hydrocarbons, such as tolclofos–methyl, pentachloronitrobenzene (PCNB), tecnazene and chloroneb. The positive cross‐resistance relationships found between phenylpyrroles and members of the AHDFs and their ability to increase mitotic instability in diploid A.nidulans, indicate that phenylpyrroles should be included with AHDFs. A study of fitness parameters in wild‐type and representative fludioxonil‐resistant mutants of B. cinerea, showed that the mutation(s) leading to fludioxonil resistance may or may not affect some fitness‐determining characteristics, such as sensitivity to high osmolarity, growth rate, conidial germination and germ‐tube elongation. Pathogenicity tests on cucumber seedlings showed that an osmosensitive representative strain of B. cinerea, resistant to fludioxonil, was as virulent as the wild‐type strain. The phenylpyrrole fungicide was ineffective, even in high concentrations, to control grey mould caused by this isolate.
Isolation and Characterization of the algD gene of Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola and its distribution among other Pseudomonads and related Organisms
Authors: Koopmann B. , Rollwage H. , Nöllenburg M. , Rudolph K.
Published: March 2003

The gene coding for GDP‐mannose dehydrogenase (algD) was isolated from a Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola genomic library using a polymerase chain reaction‐generated heterologous DNA‐probe from Pseudomonas aeruginosa. A total of 2123 base pairs were sequenced (accession number AF001555) and analysed for homologies to the alginate gene cluster of P. aeruginosa. Downstream from algD an alg8 homologue was found suggesting a similar arrangement of the alginate gene cluster in P. syringae pv. phaseolicola to that in P. aeruginosa. Also, the deduced amino acid sequence of algD shows high similarity to that of P. aeruginosa (0.9) and Azotobacter vinelandii (0.88). Southern hybridization experiments revealed that algD is widely distributed among members of the Pseudomonas rRNA homology group I. Among others, sequences homologous to algD were detected in the P.syringae pathovars lachrymans, mori, morsprunorum,pisi, savastanoi, tabaci and tomato as well as in Pseudomonas amygdali. For most of the algD positive organisms synthesis of alginate has been reported by other studies. However, algD homologues were also detected for the species Pseudomonas corrugata, Pseudomonas marginalis and Pseudomonas avenae (Acidovorax avenae), for which alginate biosynthesis has not yet been reported.
Differences in Strain Virulence of the European Stone Fruit Yellows Phytoplasma and Susceptibility of Stone Fruit Trees on Various Rootstocks to this Pathogen
Authors: Kison H. , Seemüller E.
Published: March 2003

Twenty strains of the European stone fruit yellows (ESFY) phytoplasma showed great differences in virulence when examined by graft inoculation of trees on peach, peach hybrid GF 677 and P.‘Marianna’ GF 8/1 rootstocks. The most virulent strains killed all trees on peach rootstocks whereas the mild strains did not cause mortality but induced only mild foliar symptoms and slightly reduced vigour. Virulence often depended on the pathogen–scion combination and was in several cases most severe when the scion consisted of the original host of the pathogen. To examine resistance in stone fruits, trees on a total of 23 rootstocks were inoculated with the ESFY strains. Trees on the Prunusdomestica stocks Ackermann’s, Brompton and P 1275 and on Prunuscerasifera stock Myrabi were little affected. Slightly more damage occurred in trees on rootstocks GF 677, GF 8–1, and the P.insititia stocks St Julien A and St Julien GF 655/2. Ishtara, P.cerasifera stock Myrobalan, and peach rootstocks Higama and GF 305 were shown to be moderately susceptible and a high susceptibility was found in trees on peach rootstocks Montclar, peach seedling, Rutgers Red Leaf, and Rubira, on apricot seedlings and St Julien 2. Of flowering cherry trees on various rootstocks, the least susceptible were those on Gisela 3 and F 12/1 whereas Gisela 1, Weihroot 158 and Gisela 5 were more affected. Phytoplasmas were detected by either DAPI (4′‐6‐diamidino‐2‐phenylindole) staining or polymerase chain reaction in all rootstocks and scions tested. However, detection frequency and phytoplasma concentrations were usually lower in the more tolerant hosts than in susceptible genotypes.
Genetic Control of Resistance to the Piperidine Fungicide Fenpropidin in Ustilago maydis
Authors: Markoglou A. N. , Ziogas B. N.
Published: March 2003

Mutants of Ustilago maydis (DC.) Corda, resistant to the piperidine fungicide fenpropidin, were isolated in a mutation frequency of 3.2 × 10–5, after UV‐irradiation and selection on media containing 75 μg/ml fenpropidin. Genetic analysis with 15 such mutant isolates resulted in the identification of two unlinked chromosomal loci, U/fpd‐1 and U/fpd‐2. The U/fpd mutations are responsible for moderate resistance levels to fenpropidin (Rf: 42–56 or 15 based on effective concentration causing a 50% reduction in the growth rate (EC50) or minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values, respectively). Haploid strains carrying both U/fpd mutations do not exhibit higher levels of resistance to fenpropidin, indicating no additivity of gene effect between non‐allelic genes. Cross‐resistance studies with other Sterol Biosynthesis inhibitors (SBIs) showed that the U/fpd‐mutant isolates exhibited a positive cross‐resistance to the piperidine piperalin and to the related morpholine fungicides fenpropimorph and tridemorph, but not to the inhibitors of C‐14 demethylase and squalene epoxidase. Crosses between mutants carrying the U/fpd‐genes with compatible isolates carrying the U/fpm or U/tdm mutations, which have been identified in previous genetic studies for resistance to morpholine fungicides fenpropimorph and tridemorph, yielded, with the exception of U/fpd‐2 × U/fpm‐2 crosses, a large number of recombinants with wild‐type sensitivity, indicating that the mutant genes involved were not allelic. Analysis of progeny from crosses between U/fpd‐2 and U/fpm‐2 mutants yielded no recombinants with wild‐type sensitivity, but a 1 : 1 progeny segregation was observed at the MIC for the U/fpd‐2 isolates, indicating that these genes are alleles of the same locus. A study of the fitness of fenpropidin‐resistant isolates showed that the U/fpd mutations do not affect the phytopathogenic fitness‐determining characteristics such as growth in liquid culture and pathogenicity on young corn plants.
Isolation of a Potato Acidic 39 kDa β‐1,3‐glucanase with Antifungal Activity against Phytophthora infestans and Analysis of its Expression in Potato Cultivars Differing in their Degrees of Field Resistance
Authors: TONÓN C. , GUEVARA G. , OLIVA C. , DALEO G.
Published: March 2003

A β‐1,3‐glucanase (GLU‐39) was isolated from a potato cultivar with a high level of field resistance (Solanum tuberosum L. cv Huinkul), after 72 h of infection with Phytophthora infestans when β‐1,3‐glucanase activity was markedly increased. Purification was performed by anion exchange chromatography, gel filtration and by chromatofocusing. A size of 39 kDa was estimated by sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in denaturing conditions and by gel filtration, indicating the monomeric nature of GLU‐39. The enzyme produces a direct inhibitory effect on the germination of sporangia of P. infestans. Differential expression (determined by immunoblotting assays) of GLU‐39 was observed between two potato cultivars with different degrees of field resistance to P. infestans. In the resistant cultivar (cv Pampeana INTA) GLU‐39 induction (four‐fold with respect to healthy tubers) occurred 14 h after inoculation and remained over basal levels at 38 h after inoculation. By contrast, in the susceptible cultivar (cv Bintje), GLU‐39 was induced at lower levels than those observed in cv Pampeana INTA, and no differences were detected between wounding and infection. The localization, expression pattern and in vitro activity suggest that GLU‐39 may have a major role in field resistance.
Identification and Characterization of Colletotrichum spp. affecting Fruit after Harvest in Brazil
Authors: PERES NATÁLIA A. R. , KURAMAE EIKO E. , DIAS MÁRIO S. C. , DE SOUZA NILTON L.
Published: March 2003

Colletotrichum spp. cause anthracnose in various fruits post‐harvest and are a particularly important problem in tropical and subtropical fruits. The disease in fruits of avocado, guava, papaya, mango and passion fruit has been reported to be caused by C. gloeosporioides, and in banana by C. musae. In subtropical and temperate crops such apple, grape, peach and kiwi, the disease is caused by C. acutatum. The variation in pathogenic, morphological, cultural and molecular characteristics of Brazilian isolates of Colletotrichum acutatum Simmonds and isolates from post‐harvest decays of avocado, banana, guava, papaya, mango and passion fruit was evaluated. The fruits were inoculated with mycelium of C. acutatum, Colletotrichum spp. and C. musae on a disc of potato dextrose agar. The morphological, cultural and molecular characteristics studied were conidia morphology, colony growth at different temperatures, colony coloration and PCR with primers CaInt2 and ITS4 for C. acutatum and CgInt and ITS4 for C. gloeosporioides. C. acutatum was pathogenic to avocado, guava, papaya, mango and passion fruit, but it was not pathogenic to banana. The morphological, cultural and molecular studies indicated that the avocado, papaya, mango and passion fruit isolates were C. gloeosporioides. The natural guava isolate was identified as C. acutatum, which had not been found previously to produce anthracnose symptoms on guava in Brazil.
Morphology and Amplitude Values of the P and T Waves in the Electrocardiograms of Spanish‐Bred Horses of Different Ages
Authors: Ayala I. , Gutierrez C. , Benedito J. L. , Hernández J. , Castillo C. , López Alonso M. , Miranda M. , Montes A.
Published: March 2003

This investigation was undertaken to determine values of electrocardiographic parameters in Spanish‐bred horses at different stages of growth. The study was carried out on 179 healthy Spanish‐bred (Andalusian) horses (98 females and 81 males), which were aged between 1 month and 17 years. The ECGs showed P waves of different configurations. The bifid shape deflection of the P wave was generally more frequent than the simple one in animals from 6 months of age. The first component of bifid P waves (P1) did not vary in a statistically significant way with increasing age, showing a mean value of 0.105 mV. The amplitudes of the P2 (the second component of the bifid P waves) and simple P waves showed statistically significant differences between the age groups. The highest values were found in animals up to 3 months and over 2 years of age. Several configurations of the T wave were observed in the different age groups: a negative shape was generally present for the youngest animals (foals up to 2 years old); the biphasic (/+) pattern became more frequent in animals 3 and 4 years old. In adult horses the positive configuration was the most frequent. No statistically significant differences according to age were found for the amplitude values of the different T‐wave configurations.
Efficacy of an Immune Modulator in Enzootic Pneumonia of Dairy Calves
Authors: Metzner M. , Behrmann K. , D D. , öpfer . , Klee W.
Published: March 2003

The objective of this cohort study was the evaluation of the efficacy of an immune modulator in the prophylaxis, metaphylaxis and treatment of enzootic bronchopneumonia (EBP). A total of 552 dairy calves on 13 farms were included. Groups of calves were included in the study if the prevalence of respiratory disease on the first visit was at least 50 %, and the number of animals aged 2–16 weeks was at least 10. Controls were treated with a placebo. Animals of both groups were treated antibiotically if body temperature exceeded 39.5°C. A clinimetric system was devised and used for classifying the animals into one of seven categories (healthy, beginning respiratory disease, acute BP, subacute BP, chronic BP, acute flare‐up of chronic BP, and other disease). Animals were examined clinically on days 1, 3, 10, and 28.

In animals treated prophylactically, the incidence of BP on day 10 was significantly higher (51 %) than in those that received the placebo (31 %). In animals treated metaphylactically, the average number of treatment days was significantly lower (2.86) than in the placebo group (3.81). In animals treated therapeutically, the incidence of EBP on day 10 was significantly lower than in the placebo group.
Mast Cell Density and Subtypes in the Skin of Shar Pei Dogs with Cutaneous Mucinosis
Authors: Welle M. , Grimm S. , Suter M. , Von Tscharner C.
Published: March 2003

Skin biopsies from 13 Shar Peis showing signs of cutaneous mucinosis and 13 control dogs of different breeds with no clinical or histological evidence of skin disease were examined. One section of each tissue sample was stained with haematoxylin and eosin, and another with toluidine blue to demonstrate the sulphated acid glycosaminoglycans in mast cell (MC) granules. To investigate the MC subtypes involved, the tryptase and chymase content of mast cells was evaluated by a double enzyme‐immunohistochemical staining technique. Regardless of the staining technique, a significantly lower mast cell density in the skin of Shar Peis was demonstrated. In the dermis of control dogs, we detected a median mast cell density of 31.2 MC/mm2 using the toluidine blue staining method and 27.5 MC/mm2 using the double labelling technique. In Shar Peis only 9.1 MC/mm2 were found by toluidine blue staining (P = 0.001) and 14.8 MC/mm2 by the double labelling method (P = 0.0387). The percentile distribution of mast cell subtypes was also significantly different in Shar Peis as compared to control dogs. Whereas in the dermis of control dogs the predominant mast cell subtype was the tryptase and chymase containing MC (TC‐MC) (60.4 %), in Shar Pei skin the only chymase containing MC (C‐MC) predominated (62.2 %) and the percentage of TC‐MC was significantly lower (32.9 %P = 0.0016). The percentage of only tryptase containing MC (T‐MC) (4.7 %) was higher in Shar Peis compared to control dogs (1.9 %P = 0.0178). The data obtained indicate a possible involvement of mast cell subtypes in the pathogenesis of cutaneous mucinosis.

Further investigations on the pathophysiological role of mast cell subtypes may foster understanding of the pathogenesis of cutaneous mucinosis.
Comparison of Xylazine and Lidocaine Effects for Analgesia and Cardiopulmonary Functions Following Lumbosacral Epidural Injection in Goats
Authors: Mpanduji D. G. , Mgasa M. N. , Bittegeko S. B. P. , Batamuzi E. K.
Published: March 2003

The present study was carried out in order to compare the effects of xylazine and lidocaine on analgesia and cardiopulmonary parameters following epidural injection in goats.

Twelve healthy Small East African goats of both sexes (mean ± SD; 15.6 ± 1.9 kg body weight) were used. The goats were randomly assigned to two groups of five and seven animals. The first group (n = 5) was given 2 % lidocaine‐HCl at 4400 μg/kg body weight. The second group (n = 7) was administered 2 % xylazine‐HCl at 150 μg/kg body weight. All drugs were diluted in 5 ml of sterile water and were injected epidurally through the lumbosacral interspace with the injection taking over 20 s.

Both drugs induced analgesia within 5 min. Signs of sedation, cardiopulmonary changes and lateral recumbency developed within 5–7 min after administration of epidural xylazine. Tail flaccidity and hind limb paralysis developed 3 min after epidural administration of lidocaine. The time from recumbency to regaining normal stance was 60 and 158 min for xylazine‐ and lidocaine‐treated animals respectively.

Xylazine induced adequate analgesia of the flank and perineum, which extended to the head and forelimbs. In contrast, lidocaine induced adequate bilateral flank and perineal analgesia extending up to the third thoracic vertebra. For both drugs, analgesia of the flank and perineum persisted for the entire 180‐min observational period. Epidural injection of xylazine and lidocaine caused variable depression effects on the cardiopulmonary values but was not so low as to cause concern.

It is concluded that lumbosacral epidural injection of xylazine at 150 μg/kg body weight in 5 ml of water for injection offers the most desirable sedation and analgesia of the flank and perineum. The longer duration of analgesia may be useful for postoperative analgesia and relief of continuous straining in goats.
Anaesthetic and Cardiopulmonary Effects of Balanced Anaesthesia with Medetomidine–Midazolam and Butorphanol in Dogs
Authors: Itamoto K. , Hikasa Y. , Sakonjyu I. , Itoh H. , Kakuta T. , Takase K.
Published: March 2003

The anaesthetic and cardiopulmonary effects of combinations of medetomidine (Me), midazolam (Mi) and butorphanol (Bu) were evaluated in dogs. The characterization of anaesthetic effects was assessed using a scoring system. The combinations tested were 20 or 40 μg/kg Me and 0.5 mg/kg Mi (20Me–Mi or 40Me–Mi) followed by either an intravenous injection of physiological saline solution (PSS) or Bu (0.1 or 0.3 mg/kg). The mixture of Me and Mi was injected intramuscularly, followed 15 min later by an intravenous injection of Bu or PSS in all six groups. The combined Me–Mi induced deep sedation but not profound anaesthesia. The effect of the subsequent Bu administration was observed in the scores related to its analgesic effect. There were no significant differences between the two doses of Bu, following either 20Me–Mi or 40Me–Mi in the duration of anaesthesia, heart and respiratory rates, rectal temperature, and anaesthetic and analgesic scores except for palpebral reflex, and interdigital web clamping scores. Therefore, we concluded that the addition of 0.1 mg/kg Bu to Me–Mi elicits adequate anaesthesia with adequate analgesic effect, and side‐effects such as bradycardia, hypertension, and slight respiratory acidosis in some dogs.
Haematology and Plasma Biochemistry of Stamboek Pre‐pubertal Gilts in Italy: Reference Values
Authors: Faustini M. , Munari E. , Colombani C. , Russo V. , Maffeo G. , Vigo D.
Published: March 2003

Blood samples were taken between February and April from 105 healthy Stamboek pre‐pubertal gilts, aged 1–3 months, which were housed at a modern pig farm in northern Italy. The blood was analysed for nine haematological and nine selected haematochemical variables by means of automated and semi‐automated blood analysis apparatus. After detection and rejection of outliers, the data were submitted to reference limits evaluation, also taking into account the limits for the red blood cell volume histogram as the anisocytosis index. Some haematological reference values deal with previously published data; in the haematochemical parameters, several discrepancies between evaluated limits and existing reference limits were noted, mainly for aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase and lactate dehydrogenase levels and total protein concentration. The results confirm the relevance of age in determining blood reference intervals and that ‘normal’ values should be determined by each laboratory, taking into account the age of subjects, the sample size and methods of analysis.
Immunohistological Demonstration of Erythroid Cells in Canine Bone Marrow
Authors: Müller M. , Breuer W. , Hermanns W.
Published: March 2003

In an immunohistological/cytological study of canine bone marrow, the aim was to demonstrate canine erythroid cells with the help of various commercially available antibodies against human antigens (monoclonal antibody against glycophorin A, polyclonal antibodies against haemoglobin and spectrin). In order to preserve possible cross‐reacting epitopes various fixation methods (cross‐linking, precipitating and dehydrating fixing agents, partly in combination with unmasking measures), decalcification techniques [acid or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) decalcification] and tissue‐embedding methods (paraffin embedding, cryostat sectioning technique) were used. Alternative methods, such as the preparation of cell smears and immunoblotting, were also employed. The only result that was of use for routine diagnostic procedures (paraffin sections) was that obtained by using polyclonal antibodies against haemoglobin. Best results were achieved when tissue was fixed in a formaldehyde–glutaraldehyde mixture, decalcified in EDTA and treated with microwave irradiation. The primary antibody was used in a dilution of 1 : 500 and incubated for 16 h. With the exception of mature red blood cells and proerythroblasts, different stages of erythrocytopoietic cells in canine bone marrow were shown to be arranged in erythrons. The polyclonal antibody against spectrin also showed clear cross‐reactivity, but was only employable in other systems (immunoblotting). The monoclonal antibody against glycophorin A reacted only when used on human tissue or cells.
The Application of an Indenter System to Measure Structural Properties of Articular Cartilage in the Horse. Suitability of the Instrument and Correlation with Biochemical Data
Authors: Brama P. A. J. , Barneveld A. , Karssenberg D. , Van Kampen G. P. J. , Van Weeren P. R.
Published: March 2003

A recently developed indenter system that aims at determination of local structural properties of the cartilage surface was evaluated for suitability in the horse. To this aim, maximum indenter force was measured of the articular surface and related to biochemical characteristics of the cartilage at different sites of the distal metacarpal bone (MC). Significant topographical variation exists in structural properties of the articular surface of the MC. The dorsal margin showed a significantly lower maximum indenter force than more centrally located areas, indicating an increased compliance under load. A high maximum indenter force correlated positively with high glycosaminoglycan levels. No correlation was found between measured indenter force and collagen content of the cartilage. It was concluded that the instrument is able to quantify differences in structural properties of the cartilage surface which reflect glycosaminoglycan content and hence is capable of giving some indication of cartilage quality. The instrument is a potentially useful tool, but use is limited due to geometrical constraints.
Comparison of Medetomidine and Dexmedetomidine as Premedication in Isoflurane Anaesthesia for Orthopaedic Surgery in Domestic Sheep
Authors: Kästner S. B. R. , Von Rechenberg B. , Keller K. , Bettschart‐Wolfensberger R.
Published: March 2003

The objective of the present study was to determine the potency of dexmedetomidine in relation to medetomidine in sheep undergoing orthopaedic surgery by comparing the anaesthetic requirements and cardiovascular changes at a dose relationship that represented equipotencyin vitro. Twenty‐four non‐pregnant, female sheep were used. The study was carried out as a blind, randomized, experimental trial. Group 1 received 5 μg/kg bodyweight (BW) dexmedetomidine and group 2 received 10 μg/kg BW medetomidine intravenously 5 min prior to induction of anaesthesia. Anaesthesia was induced with ketamine (2.0 mg/kg BW intravenously) and maintained with isoflurane in 100 % oxygen. End expired anaesthetic concentration (FÈIso), end expired carbon dioxide concentration (FÈCO2), respiratory frequency (fR), direct arterial blood pressures, heart rates (HR) and arterial blood gases were monitored. Data were averaged over time and tested for differences between groups by independentt‐tests, and analysis of variance for repeated measures. Average FÈIsoconcentrations required to maintain a surgical plane of anaesthesia were not different between groups (1: 1.02 ± 0.04%; 2: 0.99 ± 0.07%). There was no difference in HR, arterial blood pressures, fR, FÈCO2and arterial blood gases between groups. Average mean PaO2were 279.54 ± 113.37 mmHg and 220.21 ± 102.15 mmHg with individual minimum values of 27.2 mmHg and 58.5 mmHg in groups 1 and 2, respectively. In conclusion, intravenous dexmedetomidine at 5 μg/kg BW and medetomidine at 10 μg/kg BW have the same effects on isoflurane requirements and cardiopulmonary parameters in sheep, indicating an equipotent dose relationship. Both preparations induced moderate to severe hypoxaemia in individual sheep.
Analgesic Effect of Butorphanol and Levomethadone in Detomidine Sedated Horses
Authors: Schatzmann U. , Armbruster S. , Stucki F. , Busato A. , Kohler I.
Published: March 2003

The analgesic potency of butorphanol 25 μg/kg bodyweight (BW) and levomethadone 100 μg/kg BW, administered together with detomidine 10 μg/kg BW, was measured in twelve Warmblood horses in a randomized, blinded cross‐over study. Detomidine with saline 10 ml 0.9 % was used as placebo. The nociceptive threshold was determined using a constant current and a pneumatic pressure model for somatic pain. Detomidine alone and in combination with butorphanol or levomethadone caused a significant temporary increase (P < 0.05) of the nociceptive threshold with a maximum effect within 15 min and a return to baseline levels within 90 min. Butorphanol and levomethadone increased the nociceptive threshold and prolonged the duration of anti‐nociception significantly from 15 to 75 min (P < 0.05) after drug administration compared with detomidine alone to both test methods. No significant difference between butorphanol and levomethadone was registered. It is concluded that the addition of butorphanol or levomethadone to detomidine increases the nociceptive threshold to somatic pain and prolongs the analgesic effect of detomidine in the horse.
Long‐Term Observation of Subclinical Chronic Copper Poisoning in Two Sheep Breeds
Authors: Humann‐Ziehank E. , Coenen M. , Ganter M. , Bickhardt K.
Published: March 2003

Fourteen castrated male sheep of two breeds, the Mutton Merino (MMB) and Blackhead Suffolk cross breed (BSC), were exposed to an oral copper (Cu) intake of 3.7 mg/day per kg body weight for 84 days (high Cu group, HCu), and 11 castrated male sheep received a daily oral Cu intake of 0.16 mg/day per kg body weight (controls). Liver Cu concentration was measured in liver biopsies until 2.7 years after Cu overdose. Haematologic parameters, plasma Cu, enzymes and metabolites were analysed and post‐mortem examinations were carried out. No haemolytic crises occurred. The highest liver Cu concentrations (133–677 mg/kg wet weight) were measured in HCu sheep around day 110 with significantly higher values in BSC than in MMB. The very slow decreases of liver Cu concentration of HCu sheep after day 215 showed individual half‐life periods of 175 ± 91 days. A progressive Cu retention in the liver of HCu sheep during Cu supplementation indicates strong Cu binding and storage in the liver. High values of glutamate dehydrogenase (20–940 U/l) measured frequently until day 700 and a diminished plasma clearance of bromosulphthalein as well as pathohistological findings of focal liver necrosis confirm the markedly chronic character of Cu poisoning.
Enzyme Activities, Protein Content and Cellular Variables in the Pulmonary Epithelial Lining Fluid in Selected Healthy Pigs
Authors: Hennig‐Pauka I. , Ganter M. , Gerlach G.‐F. , Rothkötter H.‐J.
Published: March 2003

Reference values of cellular and non‐cellular components in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) were established from the BALF specimens obtained from 52 healthy pigs. Using urea as an endogenous marker of dilution, the reference values in the epithelial lining fluid (ELF) were calculated: total cell count 2.71 × 109–56.49 × 109litre–1ELF, alveolar macrophages 2.02 × 109–49.91 × 109litre–1ELF, lymphocytes 0.10 × 109–4.74 × 109litre–1ELF, polymorphonuclear neutrophils 0.01 × 109–3.48 × 109litre–1ELF, protein 0.10–13.13 g litre–1ELF, lactate dehydrogenase 127–1843 Units litre–1ELF, and alkaline phosphatase 86–994 Units litre–1ELF. The problems of quantification of BALF components are discussed and a standardized lavage protocol in swine is described, which is essential for the interpretation of diagnostic findings and for the comparison of different BALF specimens.
Comparative Pharmacokinetics of Theophylline in Camels (Camelus dromedarius) and Goats (Caprus hircus)
Authors: Elsheikh H. A. , Ali B. H. , Zahurin M. , Mustafa A. M. , Alhadrami G. , Bashir A. K.
Published: March 2003

A comparative randomized crossover study was conducted to determine the pharmacokinetics of theophylline in male and female camels (Camelus dromedarius) and goats (Caprus hircus). Theophylline is an established `probe drug' to evaluate the drug metabolizing enzyme activity of animals. It was administered by the intravenous (i.v.) route and then intramuscularly (i.m.) at a dose of 2 mg/kg. The concentration of the drug in plasma was measured using a high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique on samples collected at frequent intervals after administration. Following i.v. injection, the overall elimination rate constant (λz) in goats was 0.006 ± 0.00076/min and in camels was 0.0046 ± 0.0008/min (P < 0.01). The elimination half‐life (t1/2λz) in goats (112.7 min) was lower than in camels (154.7 min) (P < 0.01). The apparent volume of distribution (Vz) and the total body clearance (Cl) in goats were 1440.1 ± 166.6 ml/kg and 8.9 ± 1.4 ml/min/kg, respectively. The corresponding values in camels were 1720.3 ± 345.3 ml/kg and 6.1 ± 1.0 ml/min/kg, respectively. After i.m. administration, theophylline reached a peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of 1.8 ± 0.1 and 1.7 ± 0.2 μg/ml at a post‐injection time (Tmax) of 67.5 ± 8.6 and 122.3 ± 6.7 min in goats and camels, respectively. The mean bioavailability (F) in both goats and camels was 0.9 ± 0.2. The above data suggest that camels eliminate theophylline at a slower rate than goats.
Experimental Reconstruction of Teat Mucosa by Vestibular Mucosal Graft in Cows. A Histopathologic and Radiographic Study
Authors: MOLAEI M. M. , OLOUMI M. M. , MALEKI M. , ABSHENAS J.
Published: March 2003

Injuries to the teat in dairy cows can result in partial or complete obstruction of the teat lumen. Different treatment techniques have been used to restore normal function in injured teats, one of which is autogenous mucosal grafts. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the vestibular mucosa as a replacement for teat mucosa in severe teat injuries. Sixteen teats of four healthy, mature, non‐gravid Jersey cows were randomly divided into two equal groups. Under high epidural analgesia and after surgical preparation a 1 × 1.5 cm piece of teat mucosa was removed. In group 1, the defect was replaced by a 2 × 2.5 cm vestibular mucosa, whereas in group 2, the defect was left open. In both groups, a sterile disposable teat cannula was inserted into the teat cistern following surgery. To evaluate luminal diameter, double contrast radiography with constant air pressure was performed every 25 days till day 125, after which the animals were slaughtered and teats removed for histopathological study (H&E staining). On the basis of radiographic examination, luminal narrowing in group 2 was significantly more severe than in group 1. Histopathologically, the entire mucosal grafts of group 1 were taken and a good adhesion could be seen between the graft and the host epithelium. In group 2, severe submucosal fibrosis and mucosal papilloid hyperplasia resulted in severe narrowing of the teat cistern. According to the results of this study, it can be concluded that using vestibular mucosal grafts with temporary insertion of teat cannula can be considered as a method of treating teat mucosal injuries.
Sebaceous Carcinoma of the Salivary Gland in a Cat
Authors: SOZMEN M. , BROWN P. J. , EVESON J. W.
Published: March 2003

Sebaceous carcinoma of the submandibular salivary gland is described in a cat; tumour cells were characterized histologically by moderate amounts of pale eosinophilic or vacuolated cytoplasm. Tumour cells were stained with antibody to cytokeratins (CKs 5, 6, 8, 17 and 19) and with lectins Con A and wheat germ agglutinin (WGA); this occurs in many other types of salivary gland tumour and is a feature of normal salivary gland acinar cells.
Molecular Biological Characterization of Equine Surfactant Protein A
Authors: Hospes R. , Hospes B. I. L. , Reiss I. , Bostedt H. , Gortner L.
Published: March 2003

In the following, we describe the isolation and sequencing of the equine surfactant protein A (Sp‐A) as found in both the cDNA and the genomic DNA. We found a length of the cDNA sequence of 747 bp (base pairs), in translation into amino acids of 248. Compared with the known molecular biological facts about Sp‐A in other species, the cDNA sequence obtained showed highest homology with that of sheep (85.01%). The genomic DNA of equine Sp‐A, as in other species, includes three introns. There were no hints for the existence of two different Sp‐A genes. These results should form the basis for a better understanding of respiratory failure in foals and adult horses, and also lead to further studies on this item.
Sertoli Cell Tumour with Call‐Exner‐Like Bodies in a Dog
Authors: Bazzo R. , Sarli G. , Mandrioli L. , Marcato P. S.
Published: March 2003

An histological diagnosis of Sertoli cell tumour and concurrent seminoma was formulated after complete resection of the right testicle in a 8‐year‐old Doberman. The unusual histological feature of abundant eosinophilic material with a extracellular location forming the Call‐Exner‐like bodies is reported.
Eosinophilic Crystals as a Distinctive Morphologic Feature of a Hyaline Droplet Nephropathy in a Mouse Model of Acute Myelogenous Leukaemia
Authors: Marchesi F. , Monestiroli S. V. , Capillo M. , Gobbi A. , Minucci S. , Pelicci P. G. , Scanziani E.
Published: March 2003

Eosinophilic crystals have been described in the upper and lower respiratory tract, gall bladder, intrahepatic bile ducts and glandular stomach of different laboratory mice strains. They have been recently identified as chitinase–like (Ym1/Ym2) proteins. Here we describe the occurrence of eosinophilic crystals in the renal tubules of mice with experimentally induced acute myelogenous leukaemia. Fourteen FVB/N and 29 129Sv mice of both sexes, 8–10 weeks of age, were employed to establish a model of human acute myelogenous leukaemia. Nine mice that developed a widespread acute myelogenous leukaemia revealed the presence of eosinophilic crystals in renal tubules. The presence of eosinophilic crystals in the kidneys was constantly associated with a hyaline droplet nephropathy. Immunohistochemistry showed that the crystals and the hyaline droplets were composed of chitinase‐like (Ym1/Ym2) proteins. Furthermore, immunoreactivity for Ym1/Ym2 proteins was also detected in the crystalline material stored in the cytoplasm of large macrophage‐like cells or in extracellular localization within the leukaemic infiltrates. On the basis of our results we hypothesize that the detection of the Ym1/Ym2 proteins in the urine of mice might represent a feasible indicator of the burden and progression of the leukaemic condition in our murine model.
Periparturient Endocrine and Metabolic Changes in Healthy Cows and in Cows Affected by Mastitis
Authors: Nikolić J. A. , Kulcsár M. , Kátai L. , Nedić O. , Jánosi Sz. , Huszenicza Gy.
Published: March 2003

Transition from pregnancy to lactation in dairy cows involves considerable metabolic adaptation. Additional stress is incurred during infections such as periparturient mastitis. Multiparous Holstein–Friesian cows kept under normal production conditions (n = 15) were used to evaluate changes in circulating metabolite and hormone concentrations from 5 days before to 5 days after calving. Insulin‐like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP) profiles were also monitored. Marked time‐related changes were observed for plasma thyroid hormone, IGF, cortisol, insulin, β‐hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations but not for plasma leptin. A decrease in IGF‐II concentration and maximal intensity of the putative IGFBP‐1 band occurred at parturition. When compared with the five healthy cows, low IGF‐II levels were prolonged to day 2 post‐partum in five cows with Escherichia coli‐associated mastitis. However, marked decreases in IGFBP‐2 band intensity were evident only in two of the four cases examined. Individual total ligand (IGF‐I + IGF‐II) concentration and IGFBP pattern pre‐partum were largely regained 5 days post‐partum in all cows. Hormone and metabolite concentrations in the two cows with Staphylococcus aureus‐associated mastitis were very similar to those in the five healthy cows. Plasma thyroxine (T4) was lower 2 days pre‐partum in the cows, which later developed Gram‐negative mastitis. Multiregression analysis showed that variance in T4 concentration was significantly and independently associated with triiodothyronine (T3) and IGF‐I positively and with cortisol negatively (R2 = 0.648). This study confirms the close inter‐relationship between the thyroid hormone and IGF axes in cattle and indicates possible effects of Gram‐negative mastitis infection on IGF‐II metabolism.
Serological Cross‐sectional Study of Paratuberculosis in Cattle in Austria
Authors: Gasteiner J. , Wenzl H. , Fuchs K. , Jark U. , Baumgartner W.
Published: March 2003

From 1995 to 1997, the prevalence of serum antibodies against Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (M. av. ssp. ptbc.) – the causal agent of paratuberculosis (Johne’s Disease) – was examined in 11 028 Austrian cattle. Samples from the four oldest cattle on 2757 farms were collected according to a specific sampling schedule for this epidemiological study. District, age and breed of animals were included as variables in this study. For antibody screening against M. avium subspecies paratuberculosis, a modified, commercially available ELISA (ALLIED Monitors, Fayette, USA) was employed. A total of 2253 samples that were found to be positive or questionable were subjected to further testing with a more specific ELISA (Institute of Microbiology and Infectious Animal Diseases). Results of this study were used for statistical analysis. The average prevalence of antibodies to M. avium subspecies paratuberculosis was 1.99 % in Austria. The highest prevalence was seen in 6‐year‐old cattle (2.84 %) and Holstein Frisian cattle (3.51 %). Sero‐positive animals were found on 6.96 % of farms tested, and the prevalence was highest in Vorarlberg, followed by Salzburg, the Tyrol, Styria and Carinthia. This study is unique in Europe in the use of an adequate random sampling plan for an investigation of this magnitude.
In VitroSusceptibility ofEscherichia coliStrains Isolated from Diarrhoeic Dairy Calves to 15 Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Orden J. A. , Ruiz‐Santa‐Quiteria J. A. , Garcia S. , Cid D. , De La Fuente R.
Published: March 2003

Thein vitroactivities of 15 antimicrobial agents against 195 strains ofEscherichia coliisolated from dairy calves affected by neonatal diarrhoea were determined. Of these strains 137 produced one or more potential virulence factors (F5, F41, F17, cytotoxic necrotizing factor, verotoxin and theeaegene), but the remaining 58 strains did not produce any of these factors. The overall percentage of resistant strains to streptomycin, tylosin and tetracycline was very high (above 65 %). A high level of resistance (from 23 to 50 %) to ampicillin, neomycin, kanamycin, spectinomycin, chloramphenicol, sulphadimethoxine and trimethoprim was also detected. TheE. colistrains were very susceptible (89–95 %) to apramycin and gentamicin and highly susceptible (99–100 %) to polymyxin B, florfenicol and nitrofurazone. Some significant differences (P>0.05) in the frequencies of resistance to some of the antimicrobials tested and in the rates of multi‐drug resistance among the strains producing potential virulence factors and non‐fimbriated, non‐toxigenic,eae‐negative strains were found. Most of the strains showed multi‐resistance: 76.9 >% of the isolates were resistant to at least two antibiotics, 67.7 % were resistant to at least four antibiotics and 50.3 % were resistant to at least six antibiotics.