bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
C‐Reactive Protein — a Characteristic Feature of Health Control in Swine
Authors: Bürger W. , Fennert E.‐M. , Pohle M. , Wesemeier H.
Published: May 2010

In this study 120 weaned female piglets were clinically examined and porcine C‐reactive protein (CRP) concentration determined in blood serum by means of a competitive enzyme ligand assay. CRP values were put into relation to clinical (catarrh, diarrhoea, inflammation and fever) and pathomorphological findings. It was found, that CRP values are clearly elevated during infections with fever and inflammatory processes, but not in the case of catarrh and diarrhoea. The pathomorphological investigations of some animals with clinical findings revealed changes in lungs, bowels and liver.

Special attention has to be paid to the fact that, as in man, CRP is an acute phase reactant, and therefore a sensitive, but non‐specific indicator for infections and inflammation processes. Serum CRP screening seems to be a good means for the supervision of the general state of health in pigs.
The Ultrastructure of Cells and Cell Fragments in Mammary Secretions of Camelus bactrianus
Authors: Abdurahman O. Sh. , Cooray R. , Bornstein S.
Published: May 2010

The fine structure of leucocytes from the udders of 7 lactating and 3 non‐lactating bactrian camels and from peripheral blood were studied. The most important finding was the presence of large numbers of cell fragments in milk. The cell fragments were bounded by a plasma membrane, had no nuclei and contained mitochondria and abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER).

Macrophages were the dominant cells recovered from milk and udder washings during the dry period. Neutrophils and lymphocytes were also present. The dominating leucocytes in blood were neutrophils, followed by lymphocytes, eosinophils, monocytes and basophils.
Vergleichende Untersuchungen diagnostisch bedeutsamer Enzyme in Blutplasma, Euterlymphe und Milch von gesunden und euterkranken Kühen
Authors: Grün E. , Fürll Brigitta , Eichel Victoria
Published: May 2010

A Comparative Study of Diagnostically Important Enzymes in Blood Plasma, Udder Lymph and Milk of Healthy and Udder Disease Infested Cows

Different secretions (colostrum, milk, dry udder secretion) of every quarter, peripheral lymph from superficial lymph vessels of the mammary gland and blood from the V. epigastrica superficialis were obtained in 43 cows at different stages of lactation. In these samples the activity of 5 enzymes (LDH, NAG, AP, LAP, GGT) was determined. Levels of LDH and NAG were highest in blood plasma and udder lymph. Levels of LAP, AP and GGT were highest in milk increasing in this order. LDH, NAG, AP and LAP were correlated in both compartments. Changes of the functional state (dry or colostral period) and tissue disturbances of the mammary gland were accompanied by marked changes of enzyme activity in the secretions, but were without obvious influence on enzyme levels in blood plasma and udder lymph.

Bei 43 Kühen in verschiedenen Laktationsstadien wurde beim morgendlichen Melken aus jedem Euterviertel das Sekret (Kolostrum, Milch, Trockenstehersekret) und anschließend periphere Euterlymphe aus den oberflächlichen Lymphgefäßen sowie Blut aus derV. epigastrica superficialisentnommen. In den Eutersekreten und in Lymph‐ und Blutplasma wurde die Aktivität von 5 Enzymen (Laktatdehydrogenase [LDH], N‐Azetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase [NAG], alkalische Phosphatase [AP], Leuzinaminopeptidase [LAP], gamma‐Glutamyltransferase [GGT]) ermittelt. LDH und NAG sind vorwiegend in Blutplasma und Euterlymphe enthalten, LAP, AP und GGT in steigendem Grad in der Milch. Bei LDH, NAG, AP und LAP bestehen Korrelationen zwischen beiden Verteilungsräumen. Veränderung des Funktionszustandes des Euters (Trockenstellen, Kolostrumbildung) und Schädigung des Eutergewebes bei Mastitis verändert nur die Enzymaktivität in den Eutersekreten tiefgreifend, ist aber ohne wesentlichen Einfluß auf die in Blutplasma bzw. Euterlymphe.
Inhibition of D‐Galactose Transport Across the Small Intestine of Rabbit by Zinc
Authors: Yoldi María‐Carmen Rodriguez , Mesonero J.E. , Yoldi M.‐J. Rodriguez
Published: May 2010

Zinc is an essential trace element necessary to life. Many metallo‐enzymes involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids require zinc for their functions. The aim of this study was to characterize how zinc acts on the intestinal sugar absorption in rabbit. Results obtained show that zinc decreases both D‐galactose accumulation in the jejunum tissue, and mucosal to serosal transepithelial flux of this sugar, in a dose‐dependent way. Furthermore, zinc seems not to modify sugar diffusion across the intestinal epithelium. The inhibition of intestinal sugar transport by zinc seems to be of a competitive type and it is reversed in high proportion with dithioerythritol (thiol groups protector). The results suggest that zinc decreases carrier‐mediated intestinal sugar absorption.
Immunohistochemistry with Keratin Monoclonal Antibodies in Canine Tissues: Urogenital Tract, Respiratory Tract, (Neuro‐)Endocrine Tissues, Chorioid Plexus and Spinal Cord
Authors: Vos J.H. , van den Ingh T.S.G.A.M. , de Neijs M. , van Mil F.N. , Ivanyi D. , Ramaekers F.C.S.
Published: May 2010

Twelve oligo‐ or monospecific monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) directed against human keratin types were used in an immunohistochemical study of the canine male and female urogenital tract, the respiratory tract, the adrenal gland, the (para‐)thyroid gland, the chorioid plexus and the spinal cord. The keratin MoAbs showed differences in staining patterns in the various epithelial tissues and the diverse epithelial cells. The kidney was characterized by a complex keratin staining pattern and the canine urothelium showed regional differences in keratin staining. Also in the female genital tract different keratin staining patterns were observed. Testicular and adrenal gland cells did not react with any of the keratin MoAbs. The keratin staining patterns in the various canine tissues showed, in addition to similarities, also distinct differences when compared to the staining patterns in corresponding tissues of other species, e. g. of man. These staining dissimilarities indicate that the reactivity patterns of the keratin MoAbs with restricted keratin immunoreactivity can not be always extrapolated from one species to another. Nevertheless, MoAbs directed against human keratin proteins can apparently be used to differentiate between various types of canine epithelia or epithelial compartments.
Adaptation of a Commercially Available Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) for the Determination of Thyroxine in Canine Plasma Samples
Authors: Jensen A.L. , Høier R. , Poulsen J.S.D.
Published: May 2010

The purpose of the present study was to modify a previously evaluated enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (Larssonand Lumsden, 1980) for the determination of the thyroxine (T4) concentration in canine plasma samples. The test kit Enzymun‐Test®(Boehringer Mannheim)for determination of T4concentrations in human plasma was used in connection with the analyzer system Enzymun‐Test®(Boehringer Mannheim)System ES‐33. The assay protocol originally used by Larssonand Lumsden(1980) was modified by including an additional standard, prolongation of the incubation period for the immunoreaction and the enzymeassay, and reduction of the amount of T4conjugate. The intra‐ and interassay coefficient of variations ranged from 3.8% to 12.5%. The detection limit of the assay was 3.9nmol/l which is well below the T4concentration observed in plasma from healthy dogs, and the T4concentrations determined in plasma from healthy dogs before and 3 hours after administration of TRH (38.0 ± 7.4 nmol/l and 51.8 ± 8.5 nmol/l, respectively) were comparable to those reported in the literature.
Immunohistochemistry of Hepatic IGF‐I in Calf, Pig, and Rat
Authors: Bestetti G.E. , Blum J.W. , Rossi G.L.
Published: May 2010

The liver appears to be the major site of synthesis of somatomedin C or insulin‐like growth factor I (IGF‐I), yet, the intrahepatic histological localization of this polypeptide is not well known. For this reason we investigated immunohistochemically the liver of calves, pigs, and rats, fixed by perfusion or immersion with Karnovsky solution. In all three animal species the layer of hepatocytes bordering the liver capsule was labeled by anti‐IGF‐I. In the pig and rats all perivenous hepatocytes were intensively labeled whereas in calves only the periportal hepatocytes contained immunoreactive IGF‐I. While preabsorption of the anti‐IGF‐I antiserum with the antigen abolished the immunoreaction, preabsorption with insulin or IGF‐II did not.

No labeling occurred when immersion‐fixed liver tissue was used.
Effects of Diets with Graded Levels of Deoxynivalenol on Performance in Growing Pigs
Authors: Bergsjø B. , Matre T. , Nafstad I.
Published: May 2010

Feeding trials were conducted to evaluate the effect of including deoxynivalenol (DON)‐contaminated oats to provide approximately 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 4.0 mg/kg in the complete diets of growing pigs with initial weight of 25 kg. Performance was recorded as weight gain, feed intake, efficiency of feed utilization and carcass quality. Restricted feeding was compared to ad libitum feeding. For the groups fed diets containing 2 and 4 mg/kg of DON, a dose‐related decrease in weight gain was observed during the first 8 weeks on experimental diets. With 4 mg/kg DON there were decreased feed intake, weight gain and efficiency of feed utilization throughout the experiment. No effect was observed in groups fed diets containing 0.5 or 1.0 mg/kg of DON. The carcass quality was not affected in any group.
Urinary Protein Analysis in Cardiomyopathy‐Affected and Healthy Cattle by SDS‐Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis
Authors: Graber H.U. , Martig J.
Published: May 2010

Urinary proteins of cardiomyopathy (CMP)‐affected (n = 31) and of healthy cattle (n = 35) were analyzed by a combination of SDS‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and silver stain. The following results were obtained: 1) Out of the various urinary proteins found in CMP‐affected and healthy cattle, IgG, Tf, Alb, α1‐acid GP, Apo A1, IgG heavy and light chain could be identified. 2) In CMP‐affected cattle, all the proteins mentioned above were detected in increased amounts in the urine. The quantities of Alb, Tf, and IgG were especially large. 3) In the case of CMP, the permeability of the glomerular filter was highly increased for large serum proteins. The tubular protein reabsorption of small proteins was less altered by the disease. 4) Although the electrophoretic pattern of the urinary proteins was abnormal in all the examined CMP‐affected animals, the urinary protein concentrations were increased (> 230 mg/l) in only 42% of the cases. Consequently, the urinary protein concentration is not a reliable parameter for detecting renal diseases. 5) For both CMP‐affected and healthy cattle the urinary protein pattern depended neither on the urine sampling technique (catheterization, spontaneous urine) nor on the reproductive stage.
Vasointestinal Polypeptide (VIP)‐Immunoreactive Nerves in the Boar Penis
Authors: Dalin A.‐M. , Rodriguez‐Martinez H.
Published: May 2010

Vasointestinal polypeptide (VIP)‐immunoreactivity was localized at LM‐level in cryostate sections using a peroxidase‐anti‐peroxidase technique, and at EM‐level in glutaraldehyde‐fixed, resin‐embedded sections using an immunogold technique, of samples from the penis of 3 Hampshire boars with a history of normal erection and mating behaviour. One boar of the same breed with an impotence diagnosis was also examined. In the normal animals, VIP‐immunoreactivity was localized into nerves associated to blood vessels and non‐vascular smooth muscle in the capsular lamina propria and the fibromuscular layers, and intermingled under the penis epithelium. At EM level, the immunogold localization confirmed the above mentioned results, VIP being localized in nerve terminals. Nerve terminals without VIP‐reactivity had EM appearance of cholinergic or adrenergic nerve terminals. No obvious differences in VIP innervation were noticed among the normal boars. In the impotent animal, a marked depletion of VIP‐immunoreactivity was evident, as well as degenerative changes in the adrenergic and cholinergic nerve profiles. It is concluded that the porcine penis is well innervated, along with adrenergic and cholinergic components, by VIP‐containing nerves. The depletion of the scattered VIP‐containing nerves in the impotent case suggests its involvement in the mechanisms of penile erection in the boar.
Effects of Intraarticular Corticosteroid and Sodium Hyaluronate Injections on Synovial Fluid Production and Synovial Fluid Content of Sodium Hyaluronate and Proteoglycans in Normal Equine Joints
Authors: RONÉUS B. , LINDBLAD A. , LINDHOLM A. , JONES B.
Published: May 2010

Hyaluronate and cartilage proteoglycan fragments in synovial fluid from normal equine joints were determined after repeated intraarticular injections of bethametasone, methylprednisolone, hyaluronate, saline and a combination of bethametasone + hyaluronate and methylprednisolone + hyaluronate. The experimental intraarticular treatments were given at the beginning of the study and after one and two weeks. Synovial samples were obtained at the onset of the study and after 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 weeks.

The synovial volume was determined and showed no significant changes after the repeated arthrocenteses and the experimental treatments.

Corticosteroid injections resulted in increased levels of hyaluronate in the synovial fluid which indicated a stimulatory effect on the synoviocytes to produce hyaluronate. The corticosteroids also resulted in high levels (up to 20 times the initial level) of proteoglycans which indicated joint cartilage degradation. A combined injection of corticosteroids and high molecular weight hyaluronate reduced proteoglycan breakdown which indicated a protective effect of hyaluronate on the articular cartilage.
Effects of Oral and Intravenous Administration of Endotoxin in Prepubertal Gilts
Authors: HOLST H. , EDQVIST L.‐E. , KINDAHL H. , RYLANDER R.
Published: May 2010

The effect of oral intake of endotoxins was studied in 12 prepubertal gilts. The animals were given 30 or 100 mg of ET each in their regular morning feed ration. Blood samples were collected periodically during 24 h and the clinical status, including rectal temperature, was recorded at the same time. Hematological and clinical chemical analyses that included serum bile acids, glutamate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, calcium, iron, zinc and a blood plasma metabolite of prostaglandin F2α, were done. The animals showed no obvious clinical symptoms following endotoxin feeding. The major findings were increased bile acid and glutamate dehydrogenase values with the most prominent rises being recorded 10–12 h after endotoxin intake. In a later experiment, 6 animals were injected i. v. with endotoxin in doses in the range 0.1–0.5 μg/kg b. w. Blood samples were taken and analysed as in the endotoxin‐feeding experiment. Within 1 h of injection, all animals showed symptoms such as vomiting, fever and dyspnea. The clinical signs disappeared within 2–5h. The injections were followed by increases in bile acids, glutamate dehydrogenase and prostaglandin F2α metabolite. To conclude, this study indicates that clinically healthy prepubertal gilts react to ingested endotoxin in feed but that no apparent clinical disturbances ensue.
Polioencephalomalacia Induced with Amprolium in Buffalo Calves: Pathologic Changes of the Central Nervous System
Authors: TANWAR R.K. , MALIK KITAB SINGH , SADANA J.R.
Published: May 2010

Eight apparently healthy male buffalo calves of 6 to 12 months of age were drenched with amprolium*** (300 mg/kg body weight) till the development of clinical signs. Four buffalo calves of the same age group were drenched with tap water only and these served as controls. Amprolium drenched calves were allowed to die after the onset of clinical signs and control calves were euthanised after the death of amprolium fed calves. Tissues were collected for histopathological studies. Formalin fixed brain slices were examined for autofluorescence with the help of ultraviolet light at 365 nm.

Gross and histopathological changes were mainly confined to the brain in amprolium fed calves. Gross lesions included congestion and haemorrhages in the meninges. The cerebral gyri were swollen with yellowish discolouration of cerebral cortex. Microscopic changes in the brain were limited to gray matter structures of cerebral and cerebellar cortex, caudal colliculi of mid brain and thalamus. There was shrinkage of neurons, perivascular and pericellular edema, necrosis of neurons, satellitosis, glial nodule and gliosis. Blood vessel walls were thickened due to hypertrophy and hyperplasia of endothelial and adventitial cells.

In the cerebellar cortex, there was degeneration of Purkinje cells. The caudal colliculi of mid brain showed bilateral malacia. In the necrotic areas, neuropils were fragmented, edematous and hypercellular due to increased number of microglial cells and there was neocapillary formation. Subcortical gray matter of the thalamus showed necrosis of neurons, gliosis with formation of glial nodule.

Formalin‐fixed brain slices of amprolium fed calves showed disseminated areas of greenish yellow autofluorescence in the cerebral cortex when viewed under ultraviolet light at 365 nm.
Biochemical Indicators of Bone Metabolic Activity in Bovine Periparturient Hypocalcemia
Authors: LAPPETELÄINEN R. , LAPPETELÄINEN E. , HASSINEN T. , HAHL M. , PIRSKANEN A. , MÄENPÄÄ P.H.
Published: May 2010

Twenty‐one paretic and 30 nonparetic periparturient ambulatory cows were studied together with 13 non‐pregnant control cows. Blood samples were collected during a time period of 6 hours before or after parturition and from nonpregnant cows. A severe hypocalcemia (‐44%) and hypophosphatemia (‐69%) were found in the paretic vs. nonparetic periparturient animals, whereas serum magnesium concentrations were not altered. Serum alkaline phosphatase activity was modestly (‐12%) but not significantly decreased in the paretic vs. nonparetic periparturient cows. Serum osteocalcin concentrations, which reflect osteoblast activity, were strikingly low during the periparturient period and more in the paretic cows but the difference between the paretic (‐36%) and nonparetic animals was not statistically significant. In the paretic cows, serum 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D concentrations were significantly increased (+53%) and those of hydroxyproline decreased (‐18%) compared with the nonparetic animals. Serum estradiol levels were markedly increased in the periparturient vs. nonpregnant cows and more in the paretic animals, but, again, the difference between the paretic (+47%) and nonparetic animals was not statistically significant. Serum retinol concentrations were significantly lower (‐18%) in the paretic vs. nonparetic periparturient cows probably reflecting increased lactation in the paretic animals. Collectively, the results indicate very low bone metabolic activity in the periparturient vs. nonpregnant cows and support the hypothesis of both osteoblast and osteoclast functions being impaired in the paretic animals.
Clinical Chemical Diagnosis of Diseases Assisted by Logistic Regression Illustrated by Diagnosis of Canine Primary and Secondary Hepatobiliary Diseases
Authors: JENSEN A.L. , HØIER R.
Published: May 2010

Objective: The purpose of the present study was to demonstrate the use of logistic regression models in the prediction of diseases using the prediction of canine primary and secondary hepatobiliary diseases as an example. Briefly, in a logistic regression model independent variables (i.e. the analytical results) are combined in a linear equation that is used to estimate the logarithm of the odds (logit) of an event (i. e. having primary or secondary hepatobiliary disease). From the estimated logit given by the logistic regression model, a conditional probability of the event (i. e. having primary or secondary hepatobiliary disease) can be calculated.

Study Design: Twenty‐six dogs with verified primary and secondary hepatobiliary diseases and 19 dogs, initially suspected to have hepatobiliary diseases, but with apparently other diseases, were included in the study. The following clinical chemical parameters were measured: alanine aminotransferase (ALAT), aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), alkaline phosphatase (AP), bilirubinTotal(TB), urea, glucose, retention of bromosulphthalein (BSP), fasting and postprandial total serum bile acid concentration (FSBA and PSBA). Logistic regression analysis, using the CATMOD procedure in SAS®, was used to select which of the measured parameters should be included in the model, and to derive a logistic regression model using the selected parameters. To observe more closely the potential of the logistic regression model, the model was also used to classify a test group consisting of 13 dogs (6 dogs with hepatobiliary diseases and 7 dogs with other diseases).

Results: By logistic regression analysis, ASAT and PSBA were selected to be included in the final model, and the final logistic regression model was Y = −3.194 + 0.044 · PSBA + 3.251 · ASAT.

The logistic regression model classified correctly 38 (84%) of 45 dogs in the present study. Specifically, 21 (81%) of 26 dogs with verified primary or secondary hepatobiliary diseases and 17 (90%) of 19 dogs with various other diseases were correctly classified by the logistic regression model. When the model was used on the test group, 5 (83%) of 6 dogs with hepatobiliary diseases and 7 dogs (100%) of 7 dogs with other diseases were correctly classified.

Conclusions: Eventhough the logistic regression model derived in the present study only serves as an example, thus reducing the practical usefulness of the derived logistic regression model, the present study indicates a great potential of logistic models for the diagnosis of diseases.
Determination of the Fructosamine Concentration in Bovine Serum Samples
Authors: JENSEN A.L. , PETERSEN M.B. , HOUE H.
Published: May 2010

The study reports on a spectrophotometric assay for the determination of serum fructosamine concentration. The assay was evaluated for use in bovine serum samples by assessment of the precision, accuracy and detectability. A reference interval for the bovine serum fructosamine concentration was also established. Further, the effect of acute changes in blood glucose on serum fructosamine concentration as well as the diurnal variations of the serum fructosamine concentration were investigated. The main conclusions can be summarized as follows:

Determination of bovine serum fructosamines may be achieved by a precise and accurate assay with a detection limit well below the serum fructosamine concentration normally found in bovine sera.

As a reference interval for the bovine serum fructosamine concentration 213.4 μmol/l to 265.0 μmol/l may be used. Serum fructosamine concentration is not affected by acute changes in blood glucose, and it displays no significant diurnal variation in cows.
Hemiplegia laryngisbei Warmblutpferden — eine Untersuchung an Hengsten, Stuten und deren Nachkommen*
Authors: OHNESORGE B. , DEEGEN E. , MIESNER K. , GELDERMANN H.
Published: May 2010

Hemiplegia laryngisin Horses — an Examination on Stallions, Mares and their Offspring

Laryngoscopy examination during sedation was performed on 24 stallions and on their offspring (240 foals and 474 adult horses). Additionally the dams (n = 308) of 35 foals and 216 horses were examined. With the bilateral comparison of the arytaenoid movements the function of the abductory and adductory laryngeal muscles were evaluated and the left abductory dysfunction (idiopathic laryngeal hemiplegia, ILH) was divided into six degrees.

The incidence and degree of ILH depended on age and the occurrence of the same dysfunction in the parents. Foals suffered in significantly lower number (24.7 per cent) than adult horses (49.7 per cent). The progeny of unaffected parents suffered significantly less from ILH (8.9 per cent of the foals, 39.6 per cent of the adult offspring) than did comparable progeny of affected parents (41 per cent of the foals, 60.9 per cent of the adult offspring). There was no correlation between the occurrence of ILH and sex.

120 horses were examined laryngoscopically and during work to get an information about the correlation between a visible ILH and the appearance of a typical inspiratory noise. 54.3 per cent of the horses with ILH had a typical inspiratory noise. 80.9 per cent of the horse with a typical inspiratory noise showed ILH.

Bei 24 Warmbluthengsten sowie 240 Warmblutfohlen und 474 erwachsenen Nachkommen dieser Hengste wurde eine laryngoskopische Untersuchung in Sedierung durchgeführt. Von 205 dieser Fohlen und 216 dieser erwachsenen Nachkommen wurden ebenfalls die Mutterstuten (n = 308) untersucht. Anhand des endoskopischen Bildes wurde die Funktion der abduzierenden und adduzierenden Kehlkopfmuskulatur seitenvergleichend bewertet und eine Störung der linksseitig abduzierenden Funktion (Hemiplegia laryngis sinistra) in sechs Grade eingeteilt.

Die Häufigkeit und der Schweregrad einerHemiplegia laryngis sinistrawar abhängig vom Alter und vom Auftreten der Erkrankung bei den Elterntieren. Bei Fohlen war sie mit 24,7% weniger häufig zu beobachten als mit 49,7% bei Pferden ab zweitem Lebensjahr. Fohlen bzw. erwachsene Nachkommen von nicht betroffenen Elterntieren zeigten zu 8,9% bzw. 39,6% eineHemiplegia laryngis sinistra, Fohlen bzw. erwachsene Nachkommen von betroffenen Eltern zu 41% bzw. 60,6%. Eine Beziehung zwischen dem Auftreten derHemiplegia laryngis sinistraund dem Geschlecht bestand nicht.

Bei 120 erwachsenen Pferden wurde die Beziehung zwischen dem Auftreten eines Atemgeräusches bei Belastung und der laryngoskopisch sichtbaren Funktion des Kehlkopfes geprüft. Bei 54,3% der Pferde mit einerHemiplegia laryngis sinistratrat ein typisches “tonartiges” Atemgeräusch auf. 80,9% der Pferde, bei denen ein typisches “tonartiges” Atemgeräusch wahrnehmbar war, zeigten auch eineHemiplegia laryngis sinistra.
Dicephalus, Arnold‐Chiari Malformation and Spina Bifida in a Japanese Black Calf
Authors: MADARAME H. , ITO N. , TAKAI S.
Published: May 2010

A case of dicephalus, Arnold‐Chiari malformation (ACM) and spina bifida was reported in a Japanese Black calf. Both brains and craniums showed the same abnormalities as those of the monocephalic cases with ACM and were mirror‐images of each other. The common findings were elongation of the brain, caudal displacement and hypoplasia of the cerebellum, dorso‐ventral compression of the skull, platybasia, and enlargement of the foramen magnum. The craniolacunia was also found in our case.
Effects of Insulin Administration at Weaning on Hormonal Patterns and Reproductive Performance in Primiparous Sows
Authors: ROJKITTIKHUN T. , EINARSSON S. , ZILINSKAS H. , EDQVIST L.‐E. , UVNÄS‐MOBERG K. , LUNDEHEIM N.
Published: May 2010

Twelve primiparous sows were grouped into six pairs. One sow from each pair (T) received subcutaneous injections of porcine insulin as follows: pairs 1 and 2, 0.5 IU/kg at 07.00 h; pairs 3 to 6, 0.5 IU/kg at 07.00 and 15.00 h. Insulin administration was started one day before weaning and continued until the last day of post‐weaning oestrus. Control sows (C) received physiological saline solution as a sham treatment. Blood samples were collected every 3 h from 09.00 to 21.00 h and, additionally, at 07.00 h during the period of insulin treatment. Additional blood samples were collected at 15‐min intervals for 6 h for 2 days before and for 3 days after weaning, and for 12 h on the day of weaning (D 35 of lactation). Exogenous treatment with insulin increased plasma levels of insulin (53 v 36 mU/l, P < 0.001) and decreased plasma levels of glucose (4.6 v 5.5 mmol/l, P < 0.001) in T‐sows as compared to C‐sows. During the treatment period, the average levels of cortisol (31 v 35 nmol/l, P < 0.001) and non‐esterified fatty acids (0.13 v 0.16 mmol/l, P < 0.01) were lower in T‐ than in C‐sows. No differences in glucagon or urea levels were observed between the two groups. Plasma levels of LH were higher in T‐ than in C‐sows both before and during the treatment period. However, no differences in number of LH pulses/6 h were found between the two groups. Plasma concentrations of oestradiol‐17β were higher in C‐ than in T‐sows before the treatment started, but no between‐group difference was found during the treatment period. Administration of insulin did not shorten the interval from weaning to oestrus (T‐sows, 5.1 ± 1.0 days; C‐sows, 5.2 ± 1.0 days). The average number of corpora lutea found was lower in T‐sows (13.8 ± 3.4) than in C‐sows (20.1 ± 2.8).
Intestinal Transport of Taurocholate in the Cat*
Authors: WOLFFRAM S. , GRENACHER B. , SCHARRER E.
Published: May 2010

In the present study, the transport of taurocholate by brush border membrane vesicles (BBMV), prepared from the proximal and distal half of the small intestine of cats was investigated. Uptake of taurocholate (0.01 mmol/l) into BBMV from the distal small intestine was clearly enhanced in the presence of an inwardly directed initial Na+ gradient compared to choline+ gradient conditions, whereas uptake by BBMV from the proximal half of the small intestine was not substantially different between the two incubation conditions. Calculated uptake of taurocholate at a 10 s incubation period was mainly due to transfer of taurocholate into the vesicular lumen rather than to extensive binding of taurocholate to the membranes. Evaluation of the kinetics of taurocholate transport across the brush border membrane of the distal half of the small intestine under Na+ gradient conditions revealed a saturable Na+‐dependent component and a diffusive component with the subsequent apparent parameters: Vmax (maximal transport velocity) = 0.59nmol/mg protein · 10 s. KM (affinity constant) = 0.12 mmol/l, D (diffusion constant) = 2.0 μl/mg protein · 10 s. The results indicate Na+/taurocholate co‐transport across the brush border membrane of the distal half of the small intestine in cats. Thus, the carrier‐mediated intestinal bile salt absorption in the cat appears to be similar as described in other species.
Pharmacokinetics and Potential Use of Gentamicin in Budgerigars (Melopsittacus undulatus)
Authors: ITOH N. , OKADA H.
Published: May 2010

The pharmacokinetics of gentamicin were evaluated in budgerigars. Intramuscular (i. m.) administration of 5 and 10mg/kg dosages produced serum gentamicin concentrations of 17.3 and 37.0 μg/ml respectively, at 0.25 hr following injection, but concentrations declined with a terminal half‐life of 0.53 h. Based on these results, a dosage regimen of 5 to 10mg/kg of gentamicin, intramuscularly, every 8 hours for up to 3 days, was considered to be safe and could be used against many of the common bacterial infections in budgerigars.

Serum AST, ALT, LDH, CK, creatinine and uric acid values were determined after i. m. injection of either gentamicin or physiological saline every 8 hours for up to 3 days, and tissue samples of various organs were examined histologically. The most prominent adverse effect found was muscular damage at the injection site. Measurement of AST, ALT and CK activity seemed to be a sensitive method to determine pathological changes at the injection site in the budgerigars.
Hodgkin's‐like Lymphoma in a Dog
Authors: MAEDA H. , OZAKI K. , HONAGA S. , NARAMA I.
Published: May 2010

This is the first reported case of canine Hodgkin's‐like lymphoma in Japan. Tumor growth involved the lymph nodes and multiple visceral organs. Histopathological examination revealed that the tumor consisted of a large number of typical Reed‐Sternberg cells with symmetrically arranged nuclei, the so‐called “mirror‐image” cells, intermingled with various numbers of inflammatory cells and globule leucocytes.
Effect of Graded Dietary α‐Tocopherol Supplementation on Concentrations in Plasma and Selected Tissues of Pigs from Weaning to Slaughter
Authors: HOPPE P.P. , SCHÖNER F.‐J. , WIESCHE H. , STAHLER‐GEYER ANNEMARIE , KAMMER J. , HOCHADEL H.
Published: May 2010

Five groups of six purebred German Landrace barrows were fed from 7 to 100 kg live weight restricted amounts of a complete basal feed containing 5 IU vitamin E/kg and supplemented with 0, 20, 40, 80 or 160 IU all‐rac‐α‐tocopheryl acetate/kg. The concentrations of α‐tocopherol were analysed by HPLC in plasma collected throughout the experiment and in cardiac muscle,M. longissimus, liver and adipose tissue at slaughter after 24 h fasting.

Body mass gain, feed intake and feed conversion rate were not affected by vitamin E. Plasma α‐tocopherol was related to the logarithm of supplemental dietary vitamin E (r2= 0.61). A spell of diarrhea was associated with a significant decrease of plasma levels. In tissues, a clear rank‐order of vitamin E storage was found with adipose tissue containing the highest concentrations followed by, in order of decreasing concentrations, liver, cardiac muscle andM. longissimus.Tissue α‐tocopherol concentrations were related to the logarithm of supplemental dietary vitamin E. Linear correlations were found between α‐tocopherol concentrations in plasma and tissues allowing an assessment of tissue vitamin E status from plasma α‐tocopherol analysis.
Electrocardiographic Features and Incidence of Atrial Fibrillation in Apparently Healthy Dairy Cows
Authors: MACHIDA N. , NAKAMURA T. , KIRYU K. , KAGOTA K.
Published: May 2010

Two hundred and eighty‐five apparently healthy Holstein dairy cows were evaluated serially for atrial fibrillation (AF) over an 18‐month period. AF was noted in 7 cows with an incidence of 2.5%. No particular disease conditions were noted in any case at the time of onset of AF and thereafter. In Cases 1, 2 and 3, arrhythmia developed 30 to 40 days postpartum and persisted thereafter. In Case 4, AF developed 28 days postpartum and lasted for 2 days before spontaneous conversion to normal sinus rhythm. In Cases 5 and 6, AF occurred 2 days after the animals ceased lactation and disappeared spontaneously within a few days. In Case 7, AF developed just before calving and reverted to normal sinus rhythm spontaneously on the 2nd day postpartum. Thus, 3 animals (Cases 1, 2 and 3) exhibited established AF whereas the remaining 4 animals (Cases 4, 5, 6 and 7) demonstrated paroxysmal AF, suggesting that different causative factors may be involved in the genesis of AF in the 7 cases presented here. The genesis of the AF in these cases which had no underlying disease conditions may be interpreted as an increased load imposed on the heart, increased sympathetic tone, or increased vagal tone.
Body Weight Loss during Lactation in Relation to Energy and Protein Metabolism in Standard‐Fed Primiparous Sows
Authors: ROJKITTIKHUN T. , EINARSSON S. , UVNÄS‐MOBERG K. , EDQVIST L.‐E.
Published: May 2010

After 5 weeks of lactation 14 standard‐fed primiparous sows were divided into a low weight‐loss group (L‐gr, loss < 25 kg, n = 7) and a high weight‐loss group (H‐gr, loss ≥ 25 kg, n = 7). Body weights of the sows and their litters were recorded on days 2, 7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 of lactation. Blood samples were collected before the morning feeding on each weighing day. Samples were analysed to determine concentrations of insulin, glucagon, glucose, triglycerides, non‐esterified fatty acids (NEFA), urea and creatinine.

The H‐gr sows lost weight throughout lactation, whereas the L‐gr sows gained weight during the last week. Weight loss was higher in the H‐gr than in the L‐gr during weeks 2, 3 and 5 of lactation. Litter size and litter weight gain were higher in the H‐gr than in the L‐gr. Significant changes in levels of insulin, glucagon, glucose, triglycerides and creatinine were observed over lactation. No significant differences in concentrations of any of the parameters were found between the two groups, except for insulin and cholesterol which were higher in the L‐gr. Catabolism of adipose tissue and muscle protein was observed in both groups during the first week of lactation. This catabolic state was more pronounced and tended to be prolonged in the H‐gr. Concentrations of all parameters seemed to be stable in both groups during the last two weeks of lactation.
Effect of Storage of Blood on the Osmotic Fragility of Mammalian Erythrocytes
Authors: OYEWALE J.O.
Published: May 2010

The osmotic fragility of mammalian erythrocytes during blood storage was determined. Significant changes were observed in the fragility of goat, cattle, pig, mouse, rat and rabbit erythrocytes but not in sheep erythrocytes during the storage of blood for 24 hours at 10°C.
Stress Induced Gizzard Erosion in Chicks
Authors: GRABAREVIĆ Ž. , TIŠLJAR M. , DŽAJA P. , ARTUKOVIĆ B. , SEIWERTH S. , SIKIRIĆ P.
Published: May 2010

A model of stress induced gizzard erosions is described. Three day old chickens were deprived of food for 24 h, and after that they were immersed in tap water (17°C) for five seconds. Group A was sacrificed immediately before being subjected to stress, group B one hour, group C two hours and group D three hours after water immersion stress. Each group consisted of 10 animals. Gizzard lesions in group A were very mild and the main feature was discoloration of the gizzard lining. In groups B, C, and D the lesions were more severe and they were characterised by gizzard erosions, ulcerations and hemorrhages especially pronounced in group D. This model produced lesions in all stressed animals.
Cation‐Induced Aggregation of Cat Tamm‐Horsfall Glycoprotein and its Possible Role in Feline Urolithiasis*
Authors: RHODES D.C.J. , HINSMAN E.J. , RHODES J. A.
Published: May 2010

Thein vitrocation‐induced aggregation properties of cat Tamm‐Horsfall protein (cTHP), a urinary glycoprotein, were examined and related to the potential role of cTHP in feline urolithiasis. The aggregation assay involved adding either CaCl2, MgCl2, or NaCl to solutions containing purified cTHP, and then separating the aggregated cTHP by centrifugation. The concentration of cTHP remaining in the supernatant was quantified using a previously developed enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The effect that buffer pH, cTHP concentration, and urea concentration had on cTHP aggregation also were examined. Of the three salts, CaCl2consistently was most efficient at precipitating cTHP, while MgCl2was slightly less efficient. At least ten times more NaCl than CaCl2or MgCl2was required for comparable cTHP aggregation. As the pH decreased, increasing concentrations of the salts were required to aggregate cTHP. Increased amounts of CaCl2and MgCl2also were required to aggregate cTHP when the urea concentration was increased. As cTHP concentration increased within the physiological range, lower concentrations of CaCl2and MgCl2were required to precipitate 50% of the cTHP. Several aspects of thein vitroaggregation properties of cTHP correlate closely with previously identified risk factors for feline urolithiasis, strengthening the theory that cTHP aggregation may be important in this disease.
Simultaneous Genotyping of Sex and k‐Casein of Bovine in vitro Fertilized Embryos by the PCR Technique
Authors: SCHELLANDER K. , MAYR B. , ERTL K. , PELI J.
Published: May 2010

Sex and the k‐casein genotype of in vitro produced cattle demiembryos was identified by simultaneous PCR‐genotyping using polymorphic sites in ZFY/ZFX and k‐casein genes. We obtained PCR products of 530 bp (k‐casein) and of 445/447 bp (sex). Sex and the two k‐casein alleles could be identified after digestion of the PCR products with Pstl and simultaneous separation of the restriction fragments on one step, allowing a rapid and efficient analyses of embryos.
Effect of Various Dietary Selenium (Se) Intakes on Tissue Se Levels and Glutathione Peroxidase Activities in Lambs
Authors: ZACHARA B.A. , MIKOLAJCZAK J. , TRAFIKOWSKA U.
Published: May 2010

Experiments were conducted to examine selenium (Se) metabolism in tissues of lambs following Se supplementation at varying doses. For three months four groups of lambs were fed either a basal diet (group A) containing 0.082 mg Se per kg dry matter (ppm) or the same diet plus mineral mixture with Se (as selenite) so that the total diet contained 0.25, 0.41 and 0.58 ppm Se (groups B, C and D, respectively). After three months six lambs of each group were slaughtered and tissues were removed for Se level and GSH‐Px activity determinations. Among the tissues of lambs fed the basal diet the highest Se concentration was found in the kidney (1.32 μg/g wet weight), and the lowest in the skeletal muscle (0.030 μg/g wet weight). In the liver, heart, lung and spleen Se concentrations were almost at the same level and varied in the range of 0.14 to 0.18 μg/g wet weight tissue. No increase in Se concentration was found in the kidneys of Se‐supplemented animals. Se concentration in the liver and lung increased linearly with the Se level in the diet. In the spleen, heart and skeletal muscle the highest Se concentrations were found in lambs fed 0.41 ppm Se. Tissue GSH‐Px activities (calculated on the per g protein basis) increased significantly in Se‐treated animals. In the tissues of lambs fed 0.25 ppm Se the enzyme activities were higher in a range of 1.8 to 3.5 as compared to the group fed the basal diet. Higher doses of dietary Se had much smaller effect on the tissues GSH‐Px activity. Basing on the results obtained it can be ascertained that a plateau level of GSH‐Px activity was reached at a dietary Se level of 0.25 ppm for the kidney, liver, spleen and skeletal muscle, and at 0.41 ppm for the lung and heart. In unsupplemented and Se‐supplemented lambs tissue GSH‐Px activities were in the order: spleen > heart > lung > kidney > liver > muscle.
Blood Pressure in the Sow: An Attempt of Indirect Measuring Ante Partum
Authors: MADEC F. , LEON E.
Published: May 2010

Farrowing disorders in the sow have detrimental consequences in pig farming and many points of the condition still remain obscure. It was suggested to investigate blood pressure since this might provide an early indication of farrowing disturbances. A first study involved 29 pregnant sows. Blood pressure was measured indirectly using a pediatric occlusive cuff unrolled around the base of the tail and connected to a manometer. The recordings were made on resting sows in recumbent position. The disposal was considered suitable. The values obtained showed a good repeatability. Then a prospective survey involving 122 sows was undertaken. Blood pressure was measured at the 111th day of pregnancy. Systolic values ranged from 89 to 142 mm Hg (mean : 112.4). Physical profile of the sows (weight, backfat thickness) slightly influenced systolic level. On the other hand the sows obtaining the lowest values for systolic pressure were more prone to develop a prolonged farrowing. According to the lack of a parallel direct blood pressure measurement, these results have to be taken with caution. The perspective of early detection of “at risk” individuals with respect to MMA through blood pressure measurement, needs further work.
Immune Functions of Veal Calves fed low Amounts of Iron*
Authors: GYGAX M. , HIRNI H. , WAHLEN R. Z. , LAZARY S. , BLUM J.W.
Published: May 2010

Immune functions were studied in male calves fed milk replacer (MR) containing 10 or 50 mg iron (Fe)/kg. Calves fed 10 mg Fe/kg MR developed marked hypoferremia and anemia, whereas serum‐Fe and haemoglobin concentration of calves fed 50 mg Fe/kg MR were normal. Growth performance was reduced, while feed/gain ratio, incidence of infections (especially pneumonias), febrile body temperatures and antibiotic treatments were higher in calves fed 10 than 50 mg Fe/kg MR (p<0.05). Whereas antibody production (to horse erythrocytes) and lymphocyte stimulation (by mitogens) were not significantly altered, cell‐mediated immunity (measured as cutaneous delayed‐type hypersensitivity reaction to dinitrofluoro‐benzene), number of neutrophils with phagocytic capacity, activity of the Fe‐containing enzyme myeloperoxidase, blood serum IgG concentration and the number and diameter of germinal centres as a measure of the number and production of B‐cells in cervical superficial lymphnodes in calves fed 10 mg Fe/kg MR were reduced when compared with calves fed 50 mg Fe/kg MR (p<0.05). In conclusion, severe Fe deficiency caused reduced growth performance, associated with and partly due to higher incidence of infections because of defective immune reactions.
Acute Metabolic and Hormonal Effects of Intravenously Administered Sodium n‐Butyrate in Untreated and Alloxan‐Diabetic Sheep
Authors: GÜRTLER H. , GÁLFI P. , FÜRLL M. , NEOGRÁDY S. , KUTAS F. , SCHÄFER M.
Published: May 2010

Experimental diabetes was induced in 4 wethers of the Mutton Merino breed by intravenous injection of alloxan (75 mg · kg−1) in order to determine its impact on plasma glucose, immunoreactive insulin, free fatty acids (FFA), cholesterol, phospholipids, triglycerides, D‐(‐)‐3‐hydroxybuty‐rate (D‐3‐HB), bilirubin and aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT) as well as on the changes of these parameters brought about by an intravenous infusion of sodium n‐butyrate (1 mmol · kg−1).

Alloxan administration caused a significant elevation of plasma glucose, FFA, triglycerides, cholesterol, phospholipids, D‐3‐HB and bilirubin and a decrease of the level of immunoreactive insulin. The increase in glucose level brought about by a bolus injection of sodium n‐butyrate in untreated sheep did not appear in alloxanized animals. Thus, it is suggested that the lack of hyperglycaemic response in diabetic sheep was due to the absence of liver glycogen stores. Unexpectedly in alloxan‐diabetic sheep, a decrease in the plasma level of FFA occurred after the administration of sodium n‐butyrate. Therefore, it may be assumed that beside insulin other factors may contribute to the decrease of FFA under these conditions.
Bone Lesions of Multiple Myeloma in Three Dogs
Authors: MAEDA H. , OZAKI K. , ABE T. , MATSUI H. , SANO M. , NARAMA I.
Published: May 2010

Three cases of canine multiple myeloma that showed monoclonal IgA gammopathy and bone lesions were examined. One dog was associated with Bence‐Jones proteinuria as well. Radiographic examination revealed extensive skeletal involvement of flat bones such as scapula, pelvic bone, costa, and epiphysis of long bones where the hematopoiesis was active throughout the life. Histopathologically, small osteolytic lesions occurred from periosteum and Haversian canal as well as endosteum, and larger lesions were formed by gradual expansion or fusion of small lesions. Osteolytic lesions did not necessarily involve tumor growth, explaining the inconsistent confirmation of tumor cells in biopsy specimens for diagnosis of multiple myeloma and suggesting the possible mechanism for osteolysis by some other humoral factors.
Physiologische Hypothermie der Katzenwelpen bis zur 6. Lebenswoche
Authors: MÄHLER M. , RIEDESEL H. , GÄRTNER K. , MÖRSTEDT R. , IGLAUER F.
Published: May 2010

Physiological hypothermia in kittens during the first 6 weeks of life

Kittens showed a physiological hypothermia until they were 6 weeks of age. In the first 3 weeks of age rectal temperature was constantly low (37.6 ± 0.3 °C). A linear increase of rectal temperature followed from the fourth to the sixth week of age inclusively and from the seventh week on rectal temperature reached the final temperature level (38.4 ± 0.3 °C). This finding has to be considered in clinical assessment of kittens' body temperature.

Katzenwelpen zeigten bis zur 6. Lebenswoche eine physiologische Hypothermie: In den ersten 3 Lebenswochen war die Rektaltemperatur konstant niedrig (37,6 ± 0,3 °C), von der 4. bis zur 6. Lebenswoche einschließlich erfolgte ein linearer Anstieg der Rektaltemperatur und ab der 7. Woche erreichte die Rektaltemperatur das endgültige Temperaturniveau (38,4 ± 0,3 °C).

Dieser Befund ist bei der klinischen Beurteilung der Körpertemperatur von Katzenwelpen zu berücksichtigen.
Observation of Duodenal Bile Shuttle in the Sheep
Authors: BAINTNER K.
Published: May 2010

Relation between duodenal anatomy and function was studied in cannulated sheep. It was concluded that during the interperistaltic periods, gravitational backflow of bile and admixed pancreatic juice towards the pylorus may provide a means for desorption of enterokinase from the mucosal surface of the cranial duodenum. The biliary back and forth (“bile shuttle”) may contribute to the utilization of duodenal enterokinase.