bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glucocorticoid Receptors in the Pig Intestinal Tract and Muscle Tissue
Authors: Claus R. , Raab S. , Dehnhard M.
Published: May 2010

Due to the known differences of protein turnover in skeletal muscle (slow turnover) and intestinal tract (rapid turnover), these tissues were analysed for the free glucocorticoid receptor (GR) concentrations. Cytosol was prepared from different parts of pig intestinal tract and two different muscles (longissimus thoracis: ML; trapezius: MT) under either energy restriction (5.8 MJ ME; 4 kg/d) or sufficient supply (14.0 MJ ME; 4 kg/d) for 4 days before sacrification. Care was taken that all samples were obtained within 15 min post‐mortem and that premortem treatment did not elevate circulating cortisol. A Scatchard plot was performed both for muscle and gut tissue and the KD (0.4 ± 0.04 nM; 0.7 ± 0.02 nM) as well as Bmax (0.2 ± 0.01 nM; 1.2 ± 0.02 nM) pointed to specific binding.

GR were generally high in intestinal tract irrespective of the anatomical site, but were significantly (P ≫ 0.001) higher under energy restriction compared to adequate feeding (103.2 vs. 76.5 fmol/mg protein).

GR was much lower in muscle tissues and tended to be slightly higher in MT (with high proportion of red fibres) compared to ML (white fibres) (12.4 vs. 9.1 fmol/mg protein). GR in muscles was not significantly influenced by energy. The tissue specific differences in GR provide the explanation for the known differences in the protein turnover rate.
Management of Malunion of Metacarpus III/IV in Two Calves
Authors: Steiner A. , Hirsbrunner G. , Geissbühler U.
Published: May 2010

This report describes the case histories of two calves with non‐functional malunion of the metacarpus (MC) III/IV. In both cases, severe valgus deviation occurred after closed reduction and external coaptation of a shaft fracture of MC III/IV. The malunion was corrected by closing wedge osteotomy and internal fixation. Long‐term follow‐up of both cases revealed complete healing in good alignment without any signs of impairment of gait.
Formation and Persistence of N7 ‐ and O6 ‐Methyl‐Guanine in DNA of Chick Embryo Brain Cells in ovo Following Administration of N‐Nitroso‐N‐Methylurea
Authors: Schleifer S. , Tempel K.
Published: May 2010

Previously, O6 ‐methyl‐guanine‐DNA alkyltransferase (AT) of the chicken embryo has been investigated in vitro. In the present studies, the effect of in vivo (in ovo) treatment with methylnitrosourea (MNU) was examined at a developmental stage of 15 days and doses of 1.25–20 mg/egg, yielding about 1–16 mmol MNU/kg embryo weight. At intervals of 1–24 h, DNA of the brain was prepared. N7 ‐methylguanine and O6 ‐methylguanine were quantified by combining a rapid method of DNA isolation, high‐pressure‐liquid‐chromatography (HPLC) and electrochemical detection of the guanine‐alkyl adducts. In parallel, the AT activity of brain homogenates was determined. Within the range of the detection limits (N7 ‐methylguanine: 16 nM, O6 ‐methylguanine: 2.5 nM), no repair of the guanine adducts, being about 500 nmol O6 ‐methyl‐ and 1800 nmol N7 ‐methyl‐adducts per mmol guanine 1 h following administration of 10 mg MNU/egg, was evident. The rather low acute toxicity of MNU in the chicken embryo at the 15th day of development DL50/24 h being > 4 mg MNU/embryo, argues, therefore, for an additional repair mechanism, e.g. cell replacement repair.
Cardio‐respiratory and Plasma Lactate Responses to Exercise with Low Draught Resistances in Standardbred Trotters
Authors: Gottlieb‐Vedi M. , Essén‐Gustavsson B. , Lindholm A.
Published: May 2010

Five Standardbred trotters performed treadmill exercise with incrementally increasing trotting velocities for 2 min intervals in three different tests until fatigue. Each test was performed with draught loads of either 10, 20 or 30 kilopond (kp). Each trotting interval was followed by 2 min periods at a walk without draught load. Recordings were made of heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), plasma lactate (PLA) and stride frequency (SF) at the end of each trotting interval. The HR increased to average values of 191 ± 10 and 214 ± 7 bpm and PLA increased to 3.8 ± 0.7, 7.3 ± 3.8 and 10.8 ± 6.4 mmol/I at 9 m/s in the three tests, respectively. The HR response to exercise was significantly higher with increasing draught loads, and PLA was significantly higher with 30 kp compared to 10 kp draught resistance. The lowest respiratory rate was seen in the test with 30 kp loading. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) was measured in a separate test on a sloped treadmill with increasing velocities without draught load and averaged 70.4 ± 9.11/min. Muscle biopsies were taken from the gluteus muscle. Individual variations were seen in VO2peak, muscle fibre composition and HR and PLA responses to exercise. In conclusion, at a certain velocity a small increase in draught resistance from 10 to 30 kp significantly increases both the HR and PLA responses. At comparable work intensities the horses differed in circulatory and metabolic responses to exercise.
Gut Regulatory Peptides in Young Cattle and Sheep
Authors: Guilloteau P. , Huërou‐Luron I. Le , Chayvialle J. A. , Toullec R. , Zabielski R. , Blum J. W.
Published: May 2010

This review summarizes recent advances on blood plasma patterns, receptors, secondary messengers and metabolism of gut regulatory peptides (i.e. gastrin, secretin, somatostatin, cholecystokinin, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, pancreatic polypeptide, gastric inhibitory polypeptide, motilin), in young ruminants during fetal and perinatal stages, during the preruminant stage and at weaning. It also deals with their role in the digestive tract function and postabsorptive changes. Some pathological situations in young ruminants are considered. Recent molecular aspects of digestive enzyme synthesis are also reported.
Lactate Transport across the Bovine Rumen Epithelium in vitro
Authors: Moller P. D. , Diernæs L. , Sehested J. , Hyldgaard‐Jensen J. , Skadhauge E.
Published: May 2010

The in vitro transport of L‐lactate across rumen epithelium was found to be a passive, mass‐action regulated diffusion, and no saturable transport mechanisms were involved at concentrations from 2–20mmol/L. During this increase in L‐lactate concentrations the epithelial resistance and potential difference increased significantly, indicating an epithelial change towards a more tight epithelium. The net sodium transport was significantly reduced by 45% at 20 mmol/L lactate as compared to lactate free conditions.
Evaluation of Hematological, Serum Biochemical and Cerebrospinal Fluid Parameters in Experimental Bacterial Meningitis in the Calf
Authors: Nazifi S. , Rezakhani A. , Badran M.
Published: May 2010

To evaluate the effects of bacterial meningitis on blood and CSF parameters, an experiment was conducted with five Iranian crossbred male calves. Blood and CSF samples were collected 3 times within a 5‐day interval before the administration of bacteria for obtaining control values. Following the injection ofE. coli, K12into the cerebrospinal fluid from the lumbosacral space, samples were collected and clinical signs of meningitis were observed. Blood and CSF samples were obtained from the meningitis group 3 times at 1, 3 and 5 days post injection. The treatment of the infected calves using lincospectin and tetracycline was carried out immediately after the onset of clinical signs. After the treatment, blood and CSF samples were obtained 3 times during a 5‐day period. Following the induction of meningitis, the number of WBCs, neutrophils, eosinophils and monocytes significantly increased (P < 0.05). However, the percent of lymphocytes decreased significantly (P < 0.05). The concentrations of glucose, potassium and activity of AST, LDH, CK significantly increased (P < 0.05). In contrast, the concentrations of phosphorus, sodium and magnesium significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Furthermore, following the induction of meningitis, the CSF was slightly xantochromic and turbid. The concentrations of protein, cholesterol, phosphorus, potassium, the activities of AST, LDH, CK, and the cell numbers in the CSF increased significantly (P < 0.05). In contrast, the concentration of glucose and pH in the CSF decreased significantly (P < 0.05).

This study showed that bacterial meningitis can have profound effects on blood and CSF parameters which enable one to reach diagnosis.
Transport of Propionate across the Distal Colonic Epithelium of Guinea Pig in the Presence and Absence of Bicarbonate and of Chloride
Authors: von Engelhardt W. , Busche R. , Burmester M. , Hansen K. , Becker G.
Published: May 2010

Short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA) are rapidly absorbed in the large intestine. However, the mechanisms involved have not been fully delineated. Findings indicate mat absorption of SCFA occurs in the undissociated form as well as by an anion exchange, whereby marked species and segmental differences are present. The guinea pig distal colon has certain peculiarities. Unidirectional fluxes of propionate across guinea pig distal colon were studied under short‐circuit current conditions in Ussing chambers. Removal of bicarbonate caused reduction of mucosal‐to‐serosal fluxes by 30%, serosal‐to‐mucosal fluxes were little affected. In chloride‐free solution unidirectional fluxes were also reduced. However, in the presence of transepithelial chloride‐gradients with the Cl−‐free solution only at the luminal side, no such effects were seen. Findings support the presence of SCFA−‐HCO−3 exchange in guinea pig distal colon. Chloride seems not of major importance for SCFA transport.
Pulmonary Function Values in Friesian and Double‐Muscled Calves during Acute Poikilocapnic Hypoxia
Authors: Rollin F. , Amory H. , Desmecht D. , Linden A. , Art T. , Lomba F. , Lekeux P.
Published: May 2010

The effects of an acute non‐isocapnic hypoxia on ventilation and pulmonary mechanics were investigated in 6 healthy unsedated Holstein‐Friesian (HF) calves and in 7 double‐muscled calves of the Belgian White and Blue (BWB) breed known to develop more severe hypoxemia during exercise and respiratory diseases.

Data were collected at 1 min intervals throughout the following protocol: breathing air (FIO2= 21%), then breathing hypoxic gas mixture (FIO2= 10%) for 5 min, and, finally, breathing air again for 5 min of recovery. Arterial blood was sampled at rest and at the 4th min of hypoxia for blood gas analysis.

In HF and BWB calves, hypoxia induced a significant increase in tidal and minute volume, but did not change respiratory rate, dynamic lung compliance and total pulmonary resistance. However, with regard to their ventilation during normoxia at rest, BWB calves showed a comparatively greater rise in ventilation than HF calves during the first 4 min of hypoxia. On the contrary, by the 5th minute of hypoxia, ventilation of BWB calves declined to the normoxic level while HF calves largely sustained hyperventilation. This hypoxic ventilatory depression in BWB calves could be explained by the proportionately greater initial increase in ventilation. It was concluded that BWB calves supported this hypoxic challenge less easily than HF calves.
Changes of Blood Metabolites and Hormones in Breeding Calves associated with Weaning
Authors: Hugi D. , Blum J. W.
Published: May 2010

Changes of blood metabolites and hormones were studied in female breeding calves before, during and after weaning from 4 to 18 weeks of age. Calves were initially fed increasing amounts of whole milk (up to 7 kg/day in week 8 of life). Milk intake was then gradually decreased up to the age of 16 weeks, when calves were completely weaned and only fed hay and concentrates. Average daily gain was 0.85 kg. Postprandial concentrations of glucose, insulin, insulin‐like growth factor‐I and 3.5.3′‐triiodothyronine concentrations gradually decreased (P < 0.05) with age, while those of β‐hydroxybutyrate, protein, albumin, haemoglobin and iron increased (P < 0.05). Concentrations of cholesterol transiently increased, whereas those of urea reversibly decreased. Non‐esterified fatty acids, triglycerides and growth hormone did not consistently change during the duration of the study. In conclusion, changes of glucose, β‐hydroxybutyrate, haemoglobin, iron, insulin, insulin‐like growth factor‐I and 3.5.3′‐triiodothyronine were markedly different from those usually seen in veal calves of the same age.
Epithelial Neoplasms of the Skin, the Cutaneous Mucosa and the Transitional Epithelium in Dogs: An Immunolocalization Study for Papillomavirus Antigen
Authors: Schwegler K. , Walter J. H. , Rudolph R.
Published: May 2010

In order to study the prevalence of papillomavirus antigen in canine epithelial neoplasms, 535 neoplastic and hyperplastic specimens of the skin, the cutaneous mucosa and the transitional epithelium were immunohistochemically stained with a polyclonal antiserum against papillomavirus antigen. A positive staining result occurred in 44.2% in a total of 95 papillomas and in 27% of 100 diagnosed squamous cell carcinomas, other tumours did not react with the applied antiserum. Papillomavirus antigen was detectable in 54.2% of all oral and ocular papillomas and in 37.0% of all cutaneous papillomas. The majority of the squamous cell carcinomas with detectable papillomavirus antigen were considered positive but not without restrictions. The average age of dogs with viral oral and ocular papillomas was 2.3 years, with viral cutaneous papillomas it was 3.2 years. The average age of dogs with virus‐positive squamous cell carcinomas was nearly 11 years. Papillomavirus‐like particles were demonstrated by means of transmission electron microscopy in three positive oral papillomas, in the positive squamous cell carcinomas virion detection failed.
Heart Rate and Blood Lactate Responses to Submaximal Treadmill Exercise in the Normally Performing Standardbred Trotter — Age and Sex Variations and Predictability from the Total Red Blood Cell Volume
Authors: Persson S. G. B.
Published: May 2010

The purposes of this study were to elucidate the influences of age and sex on the heart rate (HR, bpm) and blood lactate (LA, mmol/l) related exercise tolerance parameters V200 (treadmill velocity at HR 200), VLA4(velocity at LA 4), W200(power output at V200), and WLA4, (power output at VLA4), and to establish reference values for these in normally performing Standardbred trotting race horses. A further aim was to improve the predictability of individual normal values by correlating them with the total red blood cell volume (CV) alone or in combination with the blood lactate response at Va200(LA200).

In total 205 horses were included in the study. According to their owners and/or trainers they were all performing satisfactorily (in racing or training) for shortly impending racing. The exercise test was performed on an inclined (3.5°) high speed treadmill and consisted of four sequentially increasing speeds, each of 2 min duration, aiming at a final HR at or exceeding 200 bpm. HR was monitored continuously and recorded in parallel with blood sampling during the last 15s of each speed. Blood volume determination was done with the Evans blue dye dilution technique immediately after the exercise test to ensure complete emptying of the splenic red cell reservoir.

Both age and sex influenced significantly on all parameters. These were also all strongly dependent on the total red cell volume.

Consequently, it was concluded that markers for work tolerance based on heart rate and blood lactate responses to submaximal treadmill exercise reliably reflect circulatory and muscle metabolic capacities. Further, individual normal values are predictable from the red cell volume alone with variation coefficients between 5 and 9.1%, or, in combination with LA200, between 4.4 and 6.2%. Disregarding the regression with CV, predictability of normal values is improved by considering age and sex variations.
Postpartum Adrenal, Pituitary and Ovarian Functions in Dairy Cows
Authors: Torres E. , Nakao T. , Osawa T. , Moriyoshi M. , Kawata K. , Nakada K.
Published: May 2010

Postpartum stress and the resumption of pituitary and ovarian functions were investigated in 29 dairy cows during the first month after calving. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH, 25 i.u., IM) challenge tests for adrenal function at 8 and 22 days postpartum and gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH, 50 μg, IM) challenge tests for pituitary function at 7 and 21 days postpartum were conducted. Ovarian function, particularly the interval to first ovulation, was evaluated through weekly rectal palpation and ultrasonographic examination, as well as thrice weekly milk progesterone levels. Elevated basal Cortisol levels were found in 24.1% and 20.7% of cows at 8 and 22 days postpartum, respectively. Adrenal response to ACTH was similar at 8 and 22 days postpartum with low, medium and high peak responses in 13.8%, 62.1% and 24.1% of cows, respectively. A moderate correlation was observed between basal and peak Cortisol levels. Peak pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) response was low in 65.5%, medium in 27.6% and high in 6.9% of cows at 7 days postpartum. Pituitary responsiveness improved by day 21 with low in 34.5%, medium in 37.9% and high in 27.6% of cows. About a week after calving, a negative correlation between peak Cortisol and peak LH levels was observed. First ovulation occurred in 28%, 48% and 17% of postpartum cows during the second, third and fourth week, respectively. These results indicate a negative effect of peak Cortisol levels on pituitary responsiveness to GnRH stimulation during the first week, altered adrenal and pituitary function in a third of the cows until the third week and restoration of ovarian function in most cows (93%) a month after parturition.
Clinical Assessment of Udder Health Status of Sows at Time of Weaning with Special Reference to Bacteriology and Cytology in Milk
Authors: Persson A.
Published: May 2010

The main objective of this study was to obtain data about the frequencies of teat injuries, udder skin lesions and abnormal palpatory findings of the mammary glands at the day of weaning and 7 days after weaning. Milk samples were collected from mammary glands and teats without clinical changes and from glands and teats showing abnormal clinical appearance. Bacteriological examination was performed and evaluated. The total cell content (TCC) and the polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNLs) were counted and used as indicators of inflammatory response.

Sixty per cent of the lactations showed teat injuries and (or) udder skin lesions irrespective of lactation number. The prevalence of palpable changes increased gradually from the first to the second and subsequent lactations (15%, 30% and 60%), the increase from the first to the second and from the first to the third and subsequent lactations being significant or highly significant (P < 0.05 and P < 0.001). The average number of teats injured per ‘lactation with teat injuries’ showed a numerical but not significant decrease (3.0, 3.2 and 2.4, respectively). The average number of palpable changes per ‘lactation with palpable changes’ varied from 1.7 to 2.5. The teat injuries were numerically more frequent within the two thoracic and first three abdominal teat pairs, varying from 11% to 16%. The clinical appearance of the teat injuries and palpatory changes subsided rapidly, 76% and 49% being scored as clinically normal when the reexamination was performed 7 days after weaning.

Irrespective of clinical group, the milk collected at the day of weaning yielded non‐ as well as α‐ and β‐haemolytic streptococci. The β‐haemolytic streptococci turned out to be more frequently isolated from milk collected from clinically abnormal glands and teats. The limited number of secretion samples obtained and cultured 7 days after weaning yielded staphylococci andActinomyces pyogenes, which indicated a bacterial flora known to cause infectious mastitis.

A cytological comparison between milk from clinically normal and abnormal mammary glands and teats revealed almost significantly or significantly increased levels of TCC and PMNLs (12.17 vs. 17.76 × 106cells/ml and 1.40 vs. 2.77 × 106cells/ml). A comparison between levels of TCC and PMNLs in milk collected from the two clinical groups of sows, but where the bacteriological growth turned out to be negative, also revealed significant increases in the levels of the two cell parameters emanating from clinically abnormal glands and teats. The individual sow, but not herd or lactation, showed a significant influence on the variation of TCC.
Pyogranulomatous Pleuritis with Empyema in Hunting Dogs
Authors: Frendin J.
Published: May 2010

Nine hunting breed dogs were treated for thoracic empyema of undetermined origin. Seven dogs returned to normal health after combined pleural drainage by modified Seldinger technique and long‐term chemotherapy. Two were destroyed in the early phase of treatment. One died and one was destroyed due to recurrence. Associated signs in four of the dogs included thoracic wall swellings. In two of these, very small foreign bodies of plant origin were found intrathoracically at surgery. Predominantly anaerobic commensals of the mucous membranes were isolated from pleural exudate. Post‐mortem examination in the four cases showed productive, pyogranulomatous intrathoracic inflammation and pleural adhesions. It is proposed that inhaled small plant parts, by synergism with endogenous microorganisms of mucous membrane origin, may be of aetiologic importance in seemingly idiopathic pyogranulomatous pleuritis with empyema in hunting dogs.
A Comparison of Serum Ionized Calcium Concentrations and Serum Total Calcium Concentrations in Dogs with Lymphoma
Authors: Teachout D.J. , Taylor S.M. , Archer F.J.
Published: May 2010

Serum ionized calcium and total calcium concentrations were measured in 16 dogs with lymphoma and 49 healthy control dogs. Blood samples for all determinations of ionized calcium were collected into tubes containing silicone separator gel and processed under a closed anaerobic system. An ionized calcium analyser with ion selective electrodes was used to determine pH, ionized calcium and ionized calcium adjusted to pH 7.4.

Reference ranges for ionized calcium (iCa pH 7.4) of 1.30–1.46 mmol/l, and for total calcium of 2.37–2.82 mmol/l were established.

A stronger correlation (r = 0.85) was found between measured ionized calcium and total calcium levels in dogs with lymphoma and hypercalcaemia than in those with lymphoma and normocakaemia (r = 0.64). Measurement of serum ionized calcium was diagnostically concordant with the measurement of serum total calcium in the determination of calcium status in all dogs with lymphoma. Serum ionized calcium did not provide a diagnostic advantage over total calcium in the detection of hypercalcaemia of malignancy in these dogs.
Morphology of Starch Digestion in The Horse
Authors: Kienzle E. , Pohlenz J. , Radicke S.
Published: May 2010

Structure of starch in feed and chyme of horses (7 with a cannula at the caudal end of the jejunum and 2 with a cecal fistula) after feeding high starch diets (maize: whole, broken, ground, expanded and as silage, oats: whole, rolled or ground, rolled barley, raw potatoes, and tapioca) was investigated by light and electron microscopy. Structure of feed starch and morphology or starch degradation in the chyme corresponded to data on preileal starch digestibility which was investigated in a parallel study. Barriers for starch digestion in the gastrointestinal tract of the horse were structure of the plant storage organ, as, for example, a tight connection between starch granules in maize grains as well as the structure of the starch granules itself. The highly digestible oat starch was degraded by exocorrosion around the grains, whereas in other, less digestible, starch types degradation occurred by endocorrosion via pin holes. The number and size of the pin holes increased with increasing preileal starch digestibility. The effect of various ways of decomposition on preileal digestibility increased with advanced destruction of the original starch structure. Expanding was most effective. The granules were destroyed completely and the starch became soluble. Simple examination by light microscopy is a fast method to evaluate the degree of starch decomposition in the feed.
The Effects of Age and Reproductive Status on Serum and Blood Parameters in Merino Breed Sheep
Authors: Alonso A. J. , de Teresa R. , García M. , González J. R. , Vallejo M.
Published: May 2010

Merino breed female sheep (225 in total) were used to study the effects of age and reproductive state on the values of 31 physiological parameters. Of these 31 parameters, 23 were affected by the age of animals, by their reproductive state, or by the interaction between these two factors.

The statistical weighing of each of the factors of variability was determined. This revealed that the effects produced by them were indeed systematic. In order to demonstrate the systematic nature of the factors of variability, an attempt was made to classify each animal with respect to its reproductive state and age group, given only the set of biochemical values relating to it. The number of correct assignments to an age group achieved was 84.41%, and this rose to 92.17% with regard to reproductive state. A figure of 100% of correct assignments was reached with the adult age group and animals in oestrus.

Thus, although the range of values observed for physiological parameters can, on occasions, be very large, this must be seen as a result of physiological deviations from average. These deviations are systematic and quantifiable, whether analysed in isolation or together as part of a multivariate analysis.
Microbiology and Pathology of Fibrinous Pericarditis in Danish Slaughter Pigs
Authors: Buttenschøn J. , Friis N. F. , Aalbæk B. , Jensen T. K. , Iburg T. , Mousing J.
Published: May 2010

The prevalence of fibrinous pericarditis detected at slaughter in Danish slaughter pigs is approximately 0.02%. The microbiology and pathology of this disorder was studied through 46 field cases collected at slaughter from May 1994 to August 1995. Mycoplasmas(Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, M. hyosynoviaeandM. hyorhinis) were isolated from the pericardium in 38 cases and from the joints in six.M. Hyopneumoniaedominated with 33 isolates from the pericardium.Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniaewas isolated from the pericardium in three cases (as mono‐infection in one and together withM. hyopneumoniaein two cases) andActinomyces pyogneswas isolated from the pericardium twice (as mono‐infection in one case and together withM. hyopneumoniaein another).A pyogeneswas also present in the lung, liver and kidney in one of these cases.Streptococcus suiswas isolated together with mycoplasmas from the pericardium in three Cases. The pericardium was sterile in three cases and contained a low grade mixed flora in two; the latter is believed to be a result of the slaughter procedure rather than an infection. No chlamydiae were found in connection with me microbiological examination. Parvovirus was found in one case in the pericardium and in two cases in me spleen. Forty‐five cases were subacute to chronic. The gross pathological examination showed mat bronchopneumonia, chronic pleuritis and synovitis or a low grade arthritis occurred in most cases. Only the arthritic lesions are believed to be pathogenetically concurrent with the pericarditis. Slight evidence of stasis of the liver and/or periangiolar edema was present in six cases. The histopathological examination confirmed the above mentioned findings. Bacterial colonies were found within the fibrinous layer on the pericardium in all cases from which eitherA pleuropneumoniae, A pyognesorS. suiswas isolated. It is concluded that in this study mycoplasmas, particularlyM. Hyopneumoniae, are the more likely cause of fibrinous pericarditis in slaughter pigs.
Effects of Hypocalcaemia on Blood Flow to the Ovaries of the Sheep
Authors: Jonsson N. N. , Daniel R. C. W.
Published: May 2010

The objectives of the study were to use sheep as a model to determine whether a reduction in plasma calcium concentration similar to that observed during periods of postpartum subclinical hypocalcaemia in lactating dairy cattle might affect the blood flow to the ovaries. Different levels of hypocalcaemia were induced in each of six, non‐pregnant sheep by the slow intravenous infusion of Na2‐EDTA. Measurements of blood flow to the ovaries were made before and after the induction of hypocalcaemia, using113Sn and46Sc radiolabeled microspheres. As plasma ionized calcium was reduced, there was a significant decline in ovarian blood flow. Ovarian blood flow (percentage of resting) = 0.54Ca++(percentage of resting) + 58.4. This model was significant at P < 0.01, withR2= 0.92. Accordingly, a reduction in plasma ionized calcium of 50% would yield a reduction in ovarian blood flow of 16%.
Influence of Feeding Hay on the Alopecia of Breeding Guinea Pigs
Authors: Gerold S. , Huisinga E. , Iglauer F. , Kurzawa A. , Morankic A. , Reimers S.
Published: May 2010

Animals with partial alopecia were seen frequently in a breeding colony of guinea pigs. No pathologic aetiology could be determined. An influence of nutrition on the density of the hair coat was considered. Breeding groups were fed one of the commercial guinea pig diets of differing composition, with or without the addition of hay. Observation occurred over a period of months and the quality of the hair coat was evaluated periodically using a semi‐quantitative scoring system. More extensive and more frequent fur defects were found in guinea pigs receiving a breeding diet with a high content of crude protein (23%) and a low level of crude fibre (12%), offered hay only restrictively compared with animals receiving a diet with a lower content of crude protein (15.5%) and a higher level of crude fibre (19.5%), offered the same amount of hay. The amount of hay offered is of paramount importance. Animals fed only the diet with the higher level of crude fibre (19.5%), according to the manufacturer's instructions as a complete food, without the addition of hay, showed a less dense hair coat within 4 weeks. In our colony a group of five breeding animals and their young required 200 g of hay daily in order to improve their hair coat quality to normal Conversely, animals receiving less hay had progressively deteriorating hair coat density. Not only the amount of hay offered, but also the accessibility for all animals plays a role in preventing alopecia in guinea pigs. In larger cages (twice the usual ground surface area) fur defects were seen when the same amount of hay (200 g) was offered in only one central area, rather than spread out evenly throughout the cage. Hair loss was observed to be the result of trichophagia between adult animals kept in the same cage. The need for crude fibre of breeding animals does not appear to be completely met by pellets rich in fibre segments.
Inhibition of Antigen‐Induced Muscle Contractions by‐Inhibitors of Thromboxane Pathway in Rat Small Intestine
Authors: Amstutz I. , Diener M.
Published: May 2010

Rats were sensitized against egg albumin and the response of the longitudinal muscle from the proximal small intestine to the antigen was tested. Egg albumin (1–100 μg/ml) concentration‐dependently induced a contraction of the longitudinal muscle in tissues from sensitized animals but not from non‐sensitized animals. The response to the antigen was resistant to neuronal blockers like tetrodotoxin, atropine and hexamethonium. Inhibitors of thromboxane synthesis such as the cyclooxygenase inhibitor, indomethacin, the thromboxane synthase blocker, 1‐benzylimidazole, or the combined cyclooxygenase/lipoxygenase/thromboxane synthase inhibitor, sulfasalazine, inhibited the contraction evoked by egg albumin. A similar concentration‐dependent inhibition of the antigen response was observed with two thromboxane A2receptor blockers, SK&F 88046 and KW‐3635. None of these blockers affected the response to the muscarinic agonist, carbachol, excluding unspecific effects of the drugs on smooth muscle contractility.

The effect of antigen was reduced by the mast cell stabilizing agent, quercetin, and by the histamine H1receptor blocker, mepyramin. These drugs, however, also inhibited the response to carbachol. When contractions were stimulated directly by the stable thromboxane derivative, carbocyclic thromboxane A2, the smooth muscle proved to be more than three orders of magnitude more sensitive to this agonist of the thromboxane pathway compared to histamine. Consequently, thromboxane A2seems to be one of the main mediators of anaphylactically induced longitudinal muscle contractions in the rat small intestine.
An Apparent Flea‐allergy Dermatitis in Kids and Lambs
Authors: Yeruham I. , Rosen S. , Perl S.
Published: May 2010

Heavy infestation of lambs in two herds and kids in one herd with the cat flea, CtenocephaUdes felis felis, accompanied by severe anaemia, eosinophilia and exudative dermatitis, is described. Flea infestation was more widespread during the summer months, when optimal climatic conditions for flea development prevail.

The clinical and histological findings are discussed in the light of the pertinent literature. Recovery of the affected animals and normalization of the haematological values were observed after the insecticide treatment. Flea‐allergic dermatitis is apparently the cause of the skin lesions in the Iambs and kids.
Blood Metabolites and Hormones—Especially Glucose and Insulin—in Veal Calves: Effects of Age and Nutrition
Authors: Hugi D. , Gut S. H. , Blum J. W.
Published: May 2010

Veal calves often develop insulin resistance, hyperglycaemia and glucosuria. We have studied effects of age and nutrition on blood metabolites and hormones, with major emphasis on glucose and insulin, in four groups of veal calves from 66–69 kg until slaughter at 175–196 kg. Calves were fed milk replacers which differed with respect to lactose, total sugar, protein and fat content. Mean intakes in groups 1, 2, 3 and 4 of lactose (1.24, 1.08, 0.95 and 0.66 kg/d), total sugar (1.27, 1.10, 1.01 and 96 kg/d), crude protein (0.40, 0.48, 0.65 and 0.49 kg/d) and crude fat (0.32, 0.31, 0.37 and 0.46 kg/d) were different. Average daily gains were 1.46–1.49 kg and feed/gain ratios were 1.49–1.61 kg/kg. Glucose and insulin concentrations were not associated with protein and fat intakes, but followed lactose and total sugar intakes, albeit differently at the start and end of the growth trial. Thus, insulin concentrations were higher (P < 0.05) at the end than at start of the growth trial in all 4 groups, whereas glucose concentrations increased (P < 0.05) with increasing age in only group 2. In conclusion, lactose and total sugar intakes affected the degree of hyperglycaemia and modified hyperinsulinemia at a given age, but the age‐dependent rise of insulin concentrations could not be explained by hyperglycaemia alone.
Bacteriological Findings, Blood Chemistry Profile and Plasma Endotoxin Levels in Bitches with Pyometra or other Uterine Diseases
Authors: Fransson B. , Lagerstedt A.‐S. , Hellmen E. , Jonsson P.
Published: May 2010

Uteri from 60 bitches with a clinical diagnosis of pyometra, or with an enlarged uterus as revealed radiographically or ultrasonographically, underwent histopathological examination, at which a diagnosis of pyometra was established in 48 of the 60 (80%) cases.Escherichia coliwas isolated from 43 (90%) of the 48 uteri with pyometra. In 8 of the 60 cases, other pathological uterine conditions, such as endometrial hyperplasia, adenomyosis, mucometra or hydrometra, were diagnosed histopathologically. No bacterial growth was observed in the uteri of these 8 cases. Four of the 60 bitches (6%) showed no pathological changes in the uterus, and in 3 of these no bacteriological growth was seen in the uterus, while in one case a sparse growth of mixed culture was found. Blood samples from bitches with uterine infection caused by gram‐negative bacteria showed marked hematological changes. These included higher total WBC counts and a more marked left shift in the differential WBC count than among the other bitches. Toxic degeneration of neutrophils was present among the bitches with gram‐negative uterine infection and the serum ALP level was slightly higher than in the other groups of bitches. The plasma endotoxin concentration was determined in 53 bitches before surgery, in 28 bitches after surgery and in 11 control dogs. Only in 7 of the samples was endotoxin detected. The general condition of the bitches included in the present study was only mildly to moderately affected, and in no case indicated severe endotoxemia.
Total Protein and Immunoglobulin Concentrations in Equine Tears
Authors: Martin E. , Molleda J. M. , Ginel P.J. , Novales M. , Lucena R. , López R.
Published: May 2010

Lacrimal fluid represents a major ocular surface defensive mechanism providing different concentrations of all immunoglobulin classes. In this report, four classes of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, IgG and IgGT) have been measured in horse tears. As in others species, IgA is the main immunoglobulin responsible for local protection and constitutes quantitatively, 50% of all lacrimal proteins. The rest of immunoglobulins studied are normally present in equine tear fluid (though in lower concentration) and contribute to ocular surface immune protection. Female and adult horses showed significant higher mean IgA concentration than male and young horses. The lack of a significant correlation between plasma and tear immunoglobulin level suggest the presence of active transport or secretion mechanisms similar to that reported for IgA in other species.
Androgen Receptors and Skeletal Muscle Composition in Trotters Treated with Nandrolone Laureate
Authors: Hyyppä S. , Karvonen U. , Räsänen L. A. , Persson S. G. B. , Pösö A. R.
Published: May 2010

To study the effects of nandrolone laureate (19‐nortestosterone) on muscle hypertrophy and concentration of androgen receptors (AR), biopsy specimens were taken from the middle gluteal muscle of 6 Finnhorse trotters (geldings and mares) undergoing training before, immediately after, and 13 weeks after a 14‐week treatment with nandrolone. Another 6 similarly trained horses served as controls. An additional 10 mares and 10 geldings were used to study annual variation in muscle concentration of AR.

AR was immunohistochemically localized in the nuclei. AR concentration remained constant during the first 14 weeks of the study, but increased significantly during the 13‐week follow‐up period in both groups. This finding can be explained by the annual variation in AR.

In the anabolic steroid (AS)‐treated horses, but not in the controls (C), the cross‐sectional area of the type I fibres increased significantly during the treatment period, and the percentage of type IIA fibres correlated positively with AR concentration at the end of nandrolone treatment. In the AS group, the concentration of DNA decreased during the 13‐week follow‐up period, and the percentage of H‐chains in the isoenzymes of LDH increased. Protein concentration increased in both groups during the follow‐up period. Glycogen content and the activity of citrate synthase in muscle during the study remained unchanged.

It can thus be concluded that AS produce differing effects on type I and type II fibres, and the AR concentration in equine muscle may contribute to the change observed in the middle gluteal muscle.
The Association Between Ionized Calcium in Blood and Selected Parameters in Dairy Cows with Left Displaced Abomasum
Authors: Geishauser T. , Oekentorp N.
Published: May 2010

The objective of this study was to examine the association between blood calcium (Ca) and left displaced abomasum (LDA), and between Ca and selected anamnestic, blood and urine parameters in cows diagnosed with LDA. One hundred and forty‐four cows diagnosed with LDA and 20 controls were used. The association between Ca and LDA was evaluated using linear regression. Possible associations between anamnestic, blood and urine parameters and blood calcium were assessed using a forward stepwise procedure in linear regression. Ca was not significantly associated with LDA. In control cows, Ca was explained by urea alone (R2= 0.6); this was a negative association. In cows diagnosed with LDA, the final model of Ca included base excess (partial R2= 0.31), urea (partial R2= 0.11), phosphorus (partial R2= 0.03) and potassium (partial R2= 0.03). A negative linear association was found between base excess and Ca. A quadratic association was found between urea and Ca. We conclude that Ca is significantly associated with urea in dairy cows. Ca is not significantly associated with displaced abomasum in cows diagnosed with LDA. Blood base excess and urea explain Ca in cows diagnosed with LDA.
Leukocyte Infiltration and Collagenolysis in Cervical Tissue from Intrapartum Sheep
Authors: Luque E. H. , Bassani M. M. , Ramos J. G. , Maffini M. , Canal A. , Kass L. , Caldini E. G. , Jr J. M. C. Ferreira , Toro M. Muñoz de , Montes G. S.
Published: May 2010

Sheep uterine cervices and cervical mucus were heavily infiltrated by neutrophils during labour, whereas samples of cervices obtained from non‐pregnant controls had no infiltrate. The neutrophilic infiltrate of the sheep uterine cervix at term was not homogeneously distributed throughout the organ: luminal mucus contained more neutrophils than tissues which, in turn, displayed a differential distribution, the superficial subepithelial layer being more heavily infiltrated than the deeper submucous layers. A widespread collagenolysis was observed in the sheep uterine cervix at term. The homogeneous morphological aspect of degradation of collagen fibres throughout the whole cervical stroma contrasted with the above‐mentioned differential distribution of neutrophils. On the basis of previous reports showing that collagenolysis follows the leukocytic invasion of human and rat cervices at term, a possible role for the neutrophilic infiltrate of the sheep uterine cervix is discussed.
Glucose and Insulin Responses to Glucagon Injection in Dairy Cows with Ketotis and Fatty Live
Authors: Steen A. , Grønstøl H. , Torjesen P. A.
Published: May 2010

The purpose of this investigation was to study the metabolic situation in clinical cases of bovine ketosis and to diagnose additional diseases. Extensive clinical examination, clinical biochemistry, haematology and fine‐needle aspiration biopsy Of liver was performed on 17 ketotic and eight control dairy cows in the field, and on seven hospitalized hyperketonaemic fatty liver patients. Additional findings in the ketotic group were heat (n = 7), indigestion (n = 5), endometritis (n = 2), cystic ovaries (n = 1), and mastitis (n = 1), and in the fatty liver group displaced abomasum (n = 4), abomasal ulcers (n = 3), mastitis (n = 2), laminitis (n = 1), bronchopneumonia (n = 1), and hypomagnesaemia (n = 2). There were no additional findings in the control group. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and creatine kinase (CK) were elevated in the ketosis and fatty liver groups. Total bilirubin, gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) and glutamate dehydrogenase (GD) were elevated in the fatty liver group and in some animals in the ketosis group. Total bile acid was not different between the groups. The free fatty acid/cholesterol ratio was higher in the fatty liver group compared with the control and ketosis groups. There was no or only slight fatty degeneration of the liver cells in the control and ketosis groups. Glucose and insulin preinjection concentrations and changes from basal values after glucagon injection were significantly lower in the ketosis group if compared with the control group. The responses in the fatty liver animals after glucagon injection were more heterogeneous than in the control and ketosis animals, a sign of disturbance in the metabolic adaptation, which together with high free fatty acid (FFA) levels can lead to fatty liver in cows with concurrent diseases.
Effects of Feeding Colostrum, Glucose or Water on the First Day of Life on Plasma Immunoglobulin G Concentrations and γ‐Glutamyltransferase Activities in Calves
Authors: Hadorn U. , Blum J. W.
Published: May 2010

Plasma immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations and γ‐glutamyltransferase (GGT) activities were measured in neonatal calves fed colostrum on days 1 and 2 of life, then milk up to day 7 (group C), while groups G and W were fed glucose or water, respectively, on day 1, colostrum on days 2 and 3 and milk up to day 7 of life. Glucose administration in group G on day 1 caused significantly more marked hyperglycaemias than in group C, while glucose concentrations in group W remained low. However, glucose concentrations on day 2 were significantly higher in group C than in groups G and W. Concentrations of IgG in group C significantly increased on day 1 and decreased after day 2, while GGT activity significantly increased after the first colostrum feeding only and decreased on day 2. Concentrations of IgG and GGT activity in groups G and W remained low on day 1 and increased on day 2. However, IgG remained significantly lower up to day 7 than in group C, while GGT reached the values of group C on day 2. Concentrations of IgG and activities of GGT on day 2 tended to increase less in group W than in group G. In conclusion, both plasma IgG concentration and GGT activity increased after colostrum intake, but only IgG remained elevated and thus informed on colostrum intake up to day 7. Intake of glucose relative to water did not significantly reduce the rise of IgG and GGT.
Diagnostic Studies of Abortion in Danish Dairy Herds
Authors: Agerholm J. S. , Willadsen C. M. , Nielsen T. K. , Giese S. B. , Holm E. , Jensen L. , Agger J. F.
Published: May 2010

Diagnostic findings in 218 aborted bovine foetuses are reported. The materials were examined in a matched case‐control study of 69 Danish dairy herds with a sudden increase in the number of abortions and a corresponding 69 control herds. Foetuses aborted during the subsequent 6‐month period were examined to identify the cause of abortion if possible. A total of 186 specimens were submitted from case herds and 32 from control herds. A likely cause of abortion was diagnosed in 73 foetuses. The most common cause was bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV: 13%) followed by Neospora caninum infection (10%), mycosis (5%) and Bacillus licheniformis infection (4%). Foetal and/or placental lesions were found in a further 27 cases. Only BVDV infection and neosporosis were diagnosed in more than one foetus per herd and only protozoal associated abortions occurred significantly more frequently in the case, rather than in the control, herds.
Giving Selenium Supplements to Dairy Cows Strengthens the Inflammatory Response to Intramammary Infection and Induces a Growth‐Suppressing Effect on Mastitis Pathogens in Whey
Authors: Ali‐Vehmas T. , Vikerpuur M. , Fang W. , Sandholm M.
Published: May 2010

Supplementing the feed of selenium‐deficient dairy cows with selenium (Se)‐yeast or selenite at a level of 0.2 p.p.m. induced self‐cure of subclinical mastitis; the prevalence of quarters harbouring subclinical mastitis (bacteriological criteria) decreased to about one half during the 8 week supplementation period. Three phenomena became apparent to explain the beneficial effect of selenium on mastitis: 1. The recruitment of phagocytes to the infected milk compartment of the udder was improved due to Se‐supplementation; the correlation between infection and the respective inflammatory response, as indicated by the somatic cell count (SCC) and the N‐acetyl‐ß‐D‐glucosaminidase activity (NAGase) of milk, was poor in selenium‐deficient cows. Selenium supplementation significantly improved the correlation; 2. Selenium supplementation induced an unspecified antibacterial activity in milk lactoserum (whey), restrictingin vitrogrowth of the mastitis pathogensEscherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus agalactiaeandStreptococcus uberis; bacterial growth rates in whey samples became inversely correlated with the respective blood glutathione peroxidase activities (GSH‐Px); and 3. Selenium supplementation had an effect on redox activities and sulfhydryl activities in whey. These changes were correlated within vitrobacterial growth rates.