bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface Ultrastructural Studies on Penetration and Infection Process of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides on Mulberry Leaf Causing Black Spot Disease
Authors: Kumar Vineet , Gupta V. P. , Babu A. M. , Mishra R. K. , Thiagarajan V. , Datta R. K.
Published: March 2003

Unicelled conidia of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides germinated 3 h after inoculation producing single germ tubes. The orientation of the germ tubes and their lateral branches as they grew was towards the open stomata and away from closed stomata. By 24 h post‐inoculation, the lateral branches had developed specialized infection vesicles either over the stomata or within the stomatal cavities. The infection vesicles produced primary infection hyphae which entered the leaves through stomatal openings. The disease symptoms became apparent by 6 days post‐inoculation when clusters of abundant conidiophores emerged by rupturing the leaf epidermal layer, forming acervuli mostly near the base of idioblasts. The pressure exerted by the emerging conidiophores caused stretching of epidermal layer leading to the widening of the acervuli. The conidia are borne on the tips of the erect conidiophores.
Host Species‐Specific Protoplast Damaging Activity of Spore Germination Fluids of Blast Pathogen Magnaporthe grisea
Authors: Rathour R. , Singh B. M. , Plaha P.
Published: March 2003

The effect of spore germination fluids (SGFs) of rice and ragi (Eleusine coracana) limited forms of Magnaporthe grisea was studied on the protoplasts of host and non‐host species to determine their host specificity. The concentrated SGFs of rice strain of M. grisea exhibited strong disruptive activity against the protoplasts of two rice cultivars, Fukunishiki and Caloro, but had little effect on the protoplasts of ragi cv. VL 17 and Podophyllum hexandrum. However, the SGFs of ragi strain of M. grisea showed a high tendency to disrupt ragi protoplasts but inflicted less damage on protoplasts of the two rice cultivars and P. hexandrum. These results suggest that SGFs of M. grisea contain some factor(s) which exhibit host species‐specific activity and may be the determinants of basic compatibility.
Genome Organization of an Infectious Clone ofTomato Leaf Curl Virus(Philippines), a New MonopartiteBegomovirus*
Authors: Kon Tatsuya , Dolores Lolita M. , Murayama Akiko , Bajet Narceo B. , Hase Shu , Takahashi Hideki , Ikegami Masato
Published: March 2003

Complete nucleotide sequence of infectious cloned DNA ofTomato leaf curl virusfrom Philippines (ToLCV‐Ph) was determined. The single circular DNA molecule comprises 2755 nucleotides. ToLCV‐Ph DNA contains six open reading frames (ORFs) each capable of encoding proteins with a molecular weight greater than 10 kDa. A partial dimeric ToLCV‐Ph DNA clone was constructed in a binary vector and used to agroinoculate tomato plants (Lycopersicon esculentumMill. cv. Zuikou 102). Typical leaf curl symptoms were observed, showing that the single DNA component is sufficient for infectivity. In total nucleotide sequence comparisons with other geminiviruses, ToLCV‐Ph was most closely related toAgeratum yellow vein virus(AYVV) (79% identity), ToLCV‐Laos (78%),Soyabean crinkle leaf virus‐Thailand (78%) and ToLCV‐Taiwan (77%). The significant but relatively low sequence identity in the genomic DNA between ToLCV‐Ph and other geminiviruses suggests that it is a distinct geminivirus in the genusBegomovirus.
Benzothiadiazole (BTH) Induces Cell‐Death Independent Resistance in Phaseolus vulgaris against Uromyces appendiculatus
Authors: Iriti M. , Faoro F.
Published: March 2003

Benzo‐(1,2,3)‐thiadiazole‐7‐carbothioic acid S‐methyl ester (BTH), trade name Bion®, was used to induce resistance in bean cultivars Borlotto Nano Lingua di Fuoco (BLF), Borlotto Taylor, Cannellino, Cannellino Montalbano, Saxa and Top Crop, against rust caused by Uromyces appendiculatus. A single 0.3 mm BTH spray 7 days before inoculation was sufficient to fully control the disease in all the examined cultivars. As regards the more susceptible BLF, either a single treatment 14 days before inoculation, or three applications on the third, fifth and seventh day before inoculation, were equally effective to prevent infection. Histochemical and cytochemical investigations showed that BTH causes hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) accumulation in the treated tissues. H2O2 deposits were localized in situ for the first time in the apoplast of the leaf epidermis. No cell death was detected at BTH concentrations below the phytotoxicity threshold, suggesting that acquired resistance against bean rust is mainly related to the enhanced activity of anionic peroxidases, promoted by H2O2 accumulation, thereby leading to cell wall strengthening. This hypothesis is also supported by the long induction phase required to establish complete resistance.
Studies on Equine Lipid Metabolism ‐ 2. Lipolytic Activities of Plasma and Tissue Lipases in Large Horses and Ponies
Authors: Breidenbach A. , Fuhrmann H. , Deegen E. , Lindholm A. , Sallmann H.P.
Published: March 2003

The enzymatic fundamentals of lipid metabolism of equine have not been thoroughly investigated at this point in time. It is still unclear why ponies in contrast to horses may become hyperlipaemic when coming negative energy balance. In this study, the activities of the triglyceride‐cleaving key enzymes of ponies are large bred horses were investigated in order to obtain insight into the aetiology of the syndrome. The objective of the study was to measure the activities of hormone‐sensitive lipase (HSL), lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and hepatic triglyceride lipase (HTGL) in ponies and horses in ex vivo in vitro assays. Norepinephrine (NE) stimulated pony adipocytes to release FFA in a linear fashion (4.57 ± 2.09 nmol FFA · 105 cells−1 · min−1). This was not observed in horses. Lipolysis was significantly higher in fat cells of ponies than in horses when adenosine deaminase (ADA) and NE were added (12.71 ± 3.12 vs. 1.96 ± 1.22 nmol FFA · 105 cells−1 · min−1). Relative inhibition of lipolysis by the action of insulin was comparable in adipocytes of horses and ponies. However, absolute FFA release in pony fat cells was as high as the maximal NE and ADA stimulated lipolysis in horse adipocytes. Postheparin plasma lipase activities in ponies and horses did not differ between the sub‐species. This finding was supported by the results obtained from measurement of LPL activity in adipose and muscle tissue showing only a tendency of increased activities in pony explants when compared to horse tissue incubations. This study further supports the hypothesis that differences in regulation of TG release from fat stores rather than clearance of TG from plasma is causative for the development of hyperlipaemia in ponies.

 Abbreviations used: ADA, adenosine deaminase; BW, body weight; FFA, free fatty acid; HSL, hormone‐sensitive lipase; HTGL, hepatic triglyceride lipase; LPL, lipoprotein lipase; NE, norepinephrine; SDS, sodium dodecyl sulfate; TG, triglyceride; VLDL, very low density lipoprotein.
Unexpected Outcome after Two Consecutive Infusions of Disodium EDTA. in Dairy Cows
Authors: Liesegang A. , Riond J.L. , Wanner M.
Published: March 2003

Disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (Na2EDTA) is a cation chelator which is used as an anticoagulant in blood samples and as a therapeutic agent in lead poisoning. Several experiments have been carried out with EDTA to induce hypocalcemia in cows and other animals, and toxic effects have rarely been reported. In this study, hypocalcemia was induced by means of a 5 % Na2EDTA infusion (0.55 mg/kg/min Na2EDTA for 5 h = total dose of 100.6 g). Accidental acute toxicity and fatalities occurred after a consecutive second infusion in several cows. Researchers designing new experiments should be aware of a potential EDTA toxicity at a routinely used dose and rate of administration.
Comparison of a Conventional Reproductive Management Programme Based on Rectal Palpation and Uterine Treatment of Endometritis with a Strategic Prostaglandin F2α. Programme
Authors: Tenhagen B.A. , Heuwieser W.
Published: March 2003

Two reproductive management programmes were implemented on a dairy farm with 780 cows in milk to compare their effects on reproductive efficiency and endometritis. The herd was divided into two groups. All cows in Group 1 received 0.15 mg of D‐cloprostenol (Preloban®, Hoechst Roussel Vet, Wiesbaden) intramuscularly (im) at 14‐day intervals starting at 22–28 days postpartum (pp) until breeding. Group 2 was examined by rectal palpation twice during the third and fifth weeks pp, respectively. Cows that showed signs of endometritis were treated with a uterine infusion of 720 mg polycondensated m‐cresolsulphuric acid‐formaldehyd (14 : 1) in 150 ml of water (Lotagen®, 2 %, Essex Tierarznei, München). For both groups, the voluntary waiting period was set at 50 days pp. Cows were bred on observed oestrus. Cows not bred until day 71 pp were examined by rectal palpation and treated according to a predefined protocol.

Group 1 had a higher service rate, and reduced days to first service (P < 0.05) and days open (7.6 days, P = 0.08). First service conception rate and total conception rate were lower than in Group 2 (P < 0.05) and first service conception rate was considerably lower than second service conception rate in Group 1 (P < 0.01). Days open were 4.5 days higher and conception rates were lower in cows with endometritis than in cows without endometritis at post‐partum examination (P > 0.05). Results indicate that reproductive management programmes based on strategic use of prostaglandin F2α present an alternative to conventional reproductive management programmes based on rectal palpation and uterine infusions in large dairy herds.
Phenotypic Analysis of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid Lymphocytes in Horses with Chronic Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Kleiber C. , Grünig G. , Jungi T. , Schmucker N. , Gerber H. , Davis W. C. , Straub R.
Published: March 2003

A panel of specific antibodies against CD3, CD4, CD5, CD8, MHC I and II was used in single and two colour flow cytometry to define T cell subpopulations in bronchoalvelar lavage fluid of horses affected with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and of healthy controls. According to the results of the clinical examination including bronchoscopy and cytology of the tracheal aspirate the horses were divided into four groups (healthy, subclinically to mildly affected; moderately affected, and severely affected).

All groups of horses had a similar percentage of CD3+ cells in the BALF. Compared to controls, severely affected horses had a significantly increased number of CD4+ cells in the BALF, but a similar percentage of CD4+ cells whereas mildly and moderately affected horses had a decreased percentage. The percentage and number of CD8+ cells and the percentage of CD8+ /MHCII+ cells in the BALF was found to be higher than normal and varied according to the disease state. This novel finding raises the possibility that not only the CD4+ cells but also the CD8+ cells are involved in the pathogenesis of COPD. The percentage and the number of CD8+ cells in BALF might be of diagnostic value to detect subclinical to mild cases of COPD.
Comparison of Cardiopulmonary Effects of Medetomidine–Midazolam, Acepromazine–Butorphanol and Midazolam–Butorphanol in Dogs
Authors: Kojima K. , Nishimura R. , Mutoh T. , Takao K. , Matsunaga S. , Mochizuki M. , Sasaki N.
Published: March 2003

Cardiopulmonary effects of intramuscualar administration of medetomidine–midazolam at 20 μg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg, respectively (MM), acepromazine–butorphanol at 0.05 and 0.2 mg/kg, respectively (AB), and midazolam–butorphanol at 0.1 and 0.2 mg/kg, respectively (MB), were compared in dogs. MM produced relatively large cardiovascular changes such as bradycardia, hypertension, a decrease in cardiac output and vasoconstriction. AB produced moderate cardiovascular changes. Hypotension was observed within 5 min after administration and the mean arterial blood pressure decreased by 30 % at 20 min after administration. MB produced decreases in arterial blood pressure and cardiac output, but these changes were small and, of the combinations evaluated in this study, MB had the mildest cardiovascular effects.
Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Selçuk, Konya, Turkey
Authors: Arican M. , Ceylan C.
Published: March 2003

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are thought to be involved in eye disease and may be present in tears. MMP activity was measured by gelatine zymography. Active gelatinase levels were determined by a gelatine degradation ELISA. Potential MMP‐9 (gelatinase‐B) monomer enzyme activity was elevated (P < 0.001) in keratoconjunctivitis in comparison to normal tears. MMP‐9, dimer form, enzyme activity was elevated (P < 0.001) in fluids from keratoconjunctivitis cases in comparison to fluids from normal eyes. Significant increases in gelatinase bioactivities were seen in tears from keratoconjunctivitis disease cases (P < 0.01). Enzymes in dogs with eye disease were biologically active indicating that both the active forms of the enzyme were present. Hence, they could be an important indicator in deterioration of the cornea during eye disease.
Department of Animal Health, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Tokyo, Japan
Authors: Murakami S. , Azuma R. , Oomi H. , Watanabe T. , Suzuki S. , Koeda T. , Fujiwara H.
Published: March 2003

The present experiment was performed to test the pathogenicity of Actinomyces‐like bacteria in experimental animals and swine. Two rough (R) strains of Actinomyces‐like bacteria isolated from a site of arthritis and from the tonsil in pigs were used as inocula. To investigate their susceptibility to Actinomyces‐like bacteria, BALB/c, SS and ddY mice and guinea‐pigs were inoculated intraperitoneally with the strains of Actinomyces‐like bacteria. The ddY mice were used for the long‐term observation of Actinomyces‐like bacteria lesions and the mammary tissue of a sow was inoculated with Actinomyces‐like bacteria isolated from swine tonsil. Macroscopic observation revealed many abscesses on the surfaces of the abdominal and/or thoracic organs in the mice, but not on those of the guinea‐pigs. The sow developed firm nodules at the inoculation site in the mammary glands. Histopathologically, the lesions in the mice were characterized as actinomycotic abscesses in the early stage and as pus‐forming granuloma (PFG) in the advanced stage; the lesions were accompanied by crystalloid particles. Actinomyces‐like bacteria induced granulomatous mastitis in the sow, and the lesion was characterized as PFG. The characteristic actinomycotic lesions in swine mammary glands were reproduced by experimental infection.
Fructo‐Oligosaccharide Supplementation: Effects on Metabolic, Endocrine and Hematological Traits in Veal Calves
Authors: Kaufhold J. , Hammon H. M. , Blum J. W.
Published: March 2003

Fructo‐oligosaccharides (FOS) are soluble fibres which exert various effects in the gastrointestinal tract, and induce metabolic and endocrine changes. The effects are favourable in diabetes mellitus, and may be favourable in veal calves, which during late periods of fattening often develop hyperglycemia, glucosuria and insulin resistance, especially during high lactose intake. Based on this we have studied metabolic, endocrine and haematological traits in veal calves (Simmental × Red Holstein) fed FOS (10 g/day; group GrF) or no FOS (group GrC). Whole milk and milk replacer in both groups, on a kg body weight basis, were fed in identical amounts. Experiments, lasting for 3 weeks, started when calves were 10 weeks old and weighed 117 kg. During week 3 lactose was supplemented to enhance post‐absorptive glucose loads. Feed intakes were similar in both groups, but weight gain tended to be higher in GrF than GrC. The post‐prandial increase of glucose concentrations was significantly smaller, of lactate tended to be smaller, and growth hormone peak frequency tended to be lower, whereas maximal insulin concentrations reached post‐prandially were significantly higher in GrF than GrC. Eosinophil granulocytes increased during FOS feeding. In conclusion, FOS had basically similar effects on metabolic and endocrine traits in veal calves as in animals and humans with diabetes mellitus, but changes were small, albeit more prominent after lactose loads.
Serum Progesterone Levels in Post‐Partum Dairy Cows after Repeated Application of the Prostaglandin F2α Analogue D (+) Cloprostenol Sodium
Authors: Tenhagen B.‐A. , Birkelbach E. , Heuwieser W.
Published: March 2003

Reproductive management programmes based on strategic use of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) to induce and synchronize oestrus in post‐partum dairy cows are widespread. Repeated shortening of the oestrous cycle during early lactation in high‐yielding dairy cows, however, could impair corpus luteum function and thus decrease fertility. The objective of this study was to analyse the effect of repeated treatments with the prostaglandin F2α analogue D (+) cloprostenol sodium on progesterone concentrations indicative of a functional corpus luteum in post‐partum dairy cows. Furthermore, the influence of milk production, parity and endometritis on progesterone concentrations under these circumstances were studied. Eighty‐four cows of a commercial dairy operation were treated three to four times with D (+) cloprostenol sodium (Preloban® Hoechst Roussel Vet, Wiesbaden, Germany) at 14‐day intervals, starting 22–28 days post‐partum. Blood samples were collected prior to treatment 1 (sample 1) and 14 days after treatments 1, 2 and 3 (samples 2–4) and serum progesterone (P4) levels were determined. The percentage of cows with P4 levels < 1 ng/ml decreased from 51 % in sample 1 to 23 % in samples 3 and 4. More primiparous cows had low P4 levels 14 days after the second treatment than older cows (P < 0.05). Cows with low progesterone levels in sample 3 or 4 had lower protein contents in milk on the second milk test day post‐partum and in their cumulative milk yield of the first 100 days of lactation. Clinical endometritis at post‐partum examination did not influence progesterone levels after treatment with PGF2α. Repeated application of PGF2α (more than twice) in the post‐partum period does not influence serum progesterone levels 14 days after treatment. Failure to develop luteal tissue after treatment contributed to the conception failures after first service.
Frequency of Traumatic Cow Injuries in Relation to Housing Systems in Swiss Organic Dairy Herds
Authors: Busato A. , Trachsel P. , Blum J. W.
Published: March 2003

A study was performed to estimate the extent of cow injuries as an indicator of animal welfare in organic dairy farms in Switzerland. The study was conducted during the winter feeding period of 1997/98 and was part of a larger project on animal health, nutrition and production in certified organic dairy herds in Switzerland. Potential predictors of injuries related to animal housing were quantified and relations between occurrence of injuries and nutritional status and production were evaluated. The investigation was designed as a cross‐sectional study and included a representative sample of 152 farms and 1856 cows. Every farm was visited once and each cow was scored for claw‐, skin‐ and joint‐lesions and body condition. Statistical analyses were performed appropriate for a stratified and one‐stage cluster sample weighted for the entire population of organic dairy farms in Switzerland. Possible individual and environmental predictors of cow injuries were analysed using multinomial logit models for ordinal outcomes. The overall frequencies of injuries were 10.4 % for joint lesions, 12.8 % for soft‐tissue injuries and 3.6 % for claw lesions. Most joint injuries (84.9 %) were observed at the hock joint, 9.4 % at the carpus and 3.1 % at the knee joint. The analysis of the association between frequency of injuries and potential predictors revealed heterogeneous results and the risk profiles were different between the categories of injuries measured in the study. These observations support the assumption that variations in type and severity of injuries are due to specific differences of animal management, housing design and due to different characteristics of individual cows.
The Effectiveness of the Haemodialysate Solcoseryl® for Second‐Intention Wound Healing in Horses and Ponies
Authors: Wilmink J. M. , Stolk P. W. Th. , Van Weeren P. R. , Barneveld A.
Published: March 2003

Second‐intention healing of limb wounds in horses is often problematic. Solcoseryl® is a protein‐free, standardized dialysate/ultrafiltrate (HD) derived from calf blood, which has been shown to improve healing in both animals and humans. The efficacy of HD in the healing of deep wounds in horses and ponies was investigated. Deep wounds of 20 by 35 mm were created on both metatarsi (skin, subcutis, periosteum) and on both femoral biceps muscles (skin, subcutis, muscle) of five horses and five ponies. The wounds on one side were treated with HD, four times a week during the period that the wounds were bandaged and once daily thereafter. The wounds on the other side were left untreated. In the first 4 weeks of the healing period HD stimulated healing but inhibited healing thereafter. This pattern was significant for all wound groups (P < 0.001). Because of this change in effect, the overall effect on wound healing over the entire period was not significant (P = 0.77). HD stimulated healing initially by provoking a greater initial inflammatory response, faster contraction and faster formation of granulation tissue. Subsequently, HD inhibited healing because it significantly delayed epithelialization and caused protracted inflammation. The effects of HD were most pronounced in the horses. Because this study distinguished between contraction and epithelialization, it could be shown that HD stimulated contraction but inhibited epithelialization. Therefore, HD is useful in horses for the treatment of deep wounds during the initial phase of healing by second intention, i.e. during the first weeks when wound contraction can be expected. Treatment should be ceased when epithelialization becomes predominant.
Clinical Experiences of Treating Septic Arthritis in the Equine by Repeated Joint Lavage: a Series of 39 Cases
Authors: Meijer M. C. , Van Weeren P. R. , Rijkenhuizen A. B. M.
Published: March 2003

The condition of septic arthritis was treated in 12 foals with 21 affected joints (Group I) and in 27 adult horses. The adult horses were divided into three groups, based on aetiology of the condition: haematogenous (Group II,n= 6), iatrogenic (Group III,n= 6), and perforating trauma (Group IV,n= 15). The treatment consisted of an initial systemic antibiotic that anticipated the microbial agents that were considered most likely per group, repeated through‐and‐through joint lavages every other day and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. The antibiotics were adjusted to the results of bacteriological culture and susceptibility tests. Joint lavages were continued until the white blood cell count dropped below 15 G/l and bacteriological culture was negative, after which a single dose of a short‐acting corticosteroid was administered intra‐articularly. Joint recovery rate in group I was 71 %. Patient recovery rate of the foals, however, was lower (42 %). Three foals were killed for reasons other than arthritis; one foal because of an arthritis‐related problem and three foals because of persistent arthritis. Overall joint recovery rate, equalling patient recovery rate, in the adult horses was 81 %. The expected predominance ofStreptococcusspp. in haematogenous arthritis in adult horses was not confirmed, indicating that in these cases also, an initial antibiotic treatment with a broad‐spectrum combination is preferable. It is concluded that with intensive treatment, the prognosis of septic arthritis in the adult horse can be classified as fair to even good. Results in the foals are not as good, but this seems to be more due to the specific problems surrounding the equine neonate than to unresponsiveness to the treatment.
Effect of Calcium Supplements to a Maize—Soya Diet on the Bioavailability of Minerals and Trace Elements and the Accumulation of Heavy Metals in Growing Rats
Authors: Walter A. , Rimbach G. , Most E. , Pallauf J.
Published: March 2003

Thirty‐five (five groups with seven animals each) male albino rats (initial average weight = 44 g) were fed phytate‐rich diets (analysed phytic acid concentration = 6.9 g/kg) based on maize and soy bean meal (5 g Ca, 3 g P, 1.2 g Mg, 23 mg Zn, 10 mg Pb, 5 mg Cd/kg diet). Experimental diets were supplemented with 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 g calcium from CaCO3 per kg. The supplementation of increasing amounts of calcium resulted in a dose‐dependent decrease in the apparent absorption of phosphorus. Furthermore, apparent zinc absorption and femur zinc concentration were moderately decreased due to the calcium supplementation. Kidney Cd concentration was significantly lower in rats that were fed the high calcium diets in comparison with the control animals. Femur lead concentration and hepatic δ‐aminolevulinic acid dehydratase, which are known to be sensitive parameters of lead accumulation remained unchanged by the different dietary treatments. Magnesium absorption as well as liver and plasma zinc concentration and activity of plasma alkaline phosphatase were also unaffected. Although calcium supplementation may lead to a decrease in the accumulation of certain heavy metals such as cadmium, the carry‐over of lead was not affected under the given experimental conditions. Furthermore, calcium—phytate—zinc interactions may adversely affect zinc bioavailability in growing rats.
Characteristics of the response of ovine granulocytes (PMNs) to zymosan‐activated serum (ZAS) and to recombinant human interleukin‐8 (IL‐8)
Authors: Paltrinieri S. , Panelli S. , Sartorelli P.
Published: March 2003

The chemotactic activity of zymosan‐activated serum (ZAS) and of two concentrations of recombinant human IL‐8 (IL‐825, 25 ng/ml; IL‐850, 50 ng/ml) for ovine polymorphonuclear granulocytes (PMNs) was tested in a modified Boyden chamber. Thick cellulose acetate filters and the leading front method were used to quantify the movements of the cells. Both ZAS and IL‐825 exerted a chemotactic effect on ovine PMNs (P < 0.01): IL‐850 induced a more homogeneous response (P < 0.001). To verify the characteristics of the responsiveness to the chemokines after short‐term (st) or long‐term (lt) repeated samplings, chemotaxis was investigated 1 (T1st), 2 (T2st), 24 (T3st) and 48 h (T4st) after the basal sampling (T0st) and 15 days (T1lt) after the basal sampling (T0lt). No differences in chemotaxis were found in long‐term repeated samplings. In contrast an increase in the responsiveness to IL‐825 and to IL‐850 (P < 0.05) was detected at T2st in comparison with T0st. Furthermore, the significance of the distance run by activated PMNs compared with the controls, increased from T0st to T2st, as a sign of a more homogeneous response to the chemokines. In the absence of evident changes in circulating leucocyte numbers and in serum cortisol concentrations, these findings could be interpreted as a consequence of a different expression of chemoattractant receptors on the membrane of PMNs collected at different times.
Biochemical Indicators of Bone Metabolic Activity in Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) During Late Pregnancy and Early Lactation*
Authors: Ciaramella P. , Piantedosi D. , De Luna R. , Oliva G. , Consalvo F. , Persechino A.
Published: March 2003

Blood levels of calcium, inorganic phosphorus, magnesium, osteocalcin, intact parathyroid hormone, calcitonin, alkaline phosphatase activity, creatinine and thyroid hormones were estimated in 10 healthy buffalo during late pregnancy (30, 15 days and 7 days before calving), within 12 h after calving and 7–15–30–45 and 60 days after calving. The almost constant serum levels of calcium, phosphorus, intact parathyroid hormone, and the low calcitonin concentration indicate that these buffalo need to utilize only a little of their endogenous mineral resources. Bone‐turnover could be demonstrated by variations in the serum levels of osteocalcin and alkaline phosphatase activity. A study of these bone markers could be useful for other research purposes and for future clinical application in pathological conditions.
Retrospective Study of Serum Glucose Concentration in Cattle with Mucosal Disease
Authors: Lorenz I.
Published: March 2003

The clinical and laboratory findings concerning 154 cattle aged 10 weeks to 6 years with mucosal disease were evaluated retrospectively. Upon arrival at the clinic, 86 % of the animals had a serum glucose concentration above 4.4 mmol/l. A distinct hyperglycaemia with more than 10 mmol/l was present in 30 % of the animals. Significant associations were found between serum glucose level and the degree of dehydration as well as the albumin concentration in the serum. Negative correlation was found between serum glucose and serum sodium levels. In older animals higher glucose levels were found on average. As in humans, stress reactions, for example, due to dehydration, in addition to diabetes mellitus, probably cause hyperglycaemia in cattle suffering from mucosal disease.
The Influence of Ventilation Mode (Spontaneous Ventilation, IPPV and PEEP) on Cardiopulmonary Parameters in Sevoflurane Anaesthetized Dogs
Authors: Polis I. , Gasthuys F. , Laevens H. , Van Ham L. , De Rick A.
Published: March 2003

The purpose of this study was to investigate the cardiopulmonary influences of sevoflurane in oxygen at two anaesthetic concentrations (1.5 and 2 MAC) during spontaneous and controlled ventilation in dogs. After premedication with fentanyl–droperidol (5 μg/kg and 0.25 mg/kg intramuscularly) and induction with propofol (6 mg/kg intravenously) six dogs were anaesthetized for 3 h. Three types of ventilation were compared: spontaneous ventilation (SpV), intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV), and positive end expiratory pressure ventilation (PEEP, 5 cm H2O). Heart rate, haemoglobin oxygen saturation, arterial blood pressures, right atrial and pulmonary arterial pressures, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure and cardiac output were measured. End tidal CO2%, inspiratory oxygen fraction, respiration rate and tidal volume were recorded using a multi‐gas analyser and a respirometer. Acid–base and blood gas analyses were performed. Cardiac index, stroke volume, stroke index, systemic and pulmonary vascular resistance, left and right ventricular stroke work index were calculated. Increasing the MAC value during sevoflurane anaesthesia with spontaneous ventilation induced a marked cardiopulmonary depression; on the other hand, heart rate increased significantly, but the increases were not clinically relevant. The influences of artificial respiration on cardiopulmonary parameters during 1.5 MAC sevoflurane anaesthesia were minimal. In contrast, PEEP ventilation during 2 MAC concentration had more pronounced negative influences, especially on right cardiac parameters. In conclusion, at 1.5 MAC, a surgical anaesthesia level, sevoflurane can be used safely in healthy dogs during spontaneous and controlled ventilation (IPPV and PEEP of 5 cm H2O).
Equine Endotoxemia: Pathomorphological Aspects of Endotoxin‐induced Damage in Equine Mesenteric Arteries
Authors: OIKAWA M. , SHIGA J.
Published: March 2003

To evaluate the effects of endotoxin on the morphology of the equine mesenteric vasculature, each of two thoroughbred horses were given two intravenous injections (24 h apart) of a sublethal dose of endotoxin (10 μg/kg). Each injection produced results similar to those of clinical cases of equine colic with obstructive nature of the loop of bowel: diarrhoea within 2 h after administration, followed by cessation of both faecal excretion and sounds of intestinal peristalsis. The most prominent morphological change was the development of moniliform appearance of small mesenteric arteries, in which there were contracted and dilated segments of the small mesenteric arteries. This was accompanied by parietal hyalinization and intramural and extramural haemorrhage. These mesenteric vascular changes appear to reflect dynamic vasoconstriction in the living animal, resulting in reduction of mesenteric and intestinal blood flow and possibly inducing alterations of gastrointestinal function such as cessation of intestinal peristalsis.
Serum Fluoride Concentrations, Biochemical and Histopathological Changes Associated with Prolonged Sevoflurane Anaesthesia in Horses*
Authors: DRIESSEN B. , ZARUCCO L. , STEFFEY E. P. , MCCULLOUGH C. , DEL PIERO F. , MELTON L. , PUSCHNER B. , STOVER S. M.
Published: March 2003

The volatile anaesthetic sevoflurane is degraded to fluoride (F−) and a vinyl ether (Compound A), which have the potential to harm kidney and liver. Whether renal and hepatic injuries can occur in horses is unknown. Cardiopulmonary, biochemical and histopathological changes were studied in six healthy thoroughbred horses undergoing 18 h of low‐flow sevoflurane anaesthesia. Serum F−concentrations were measured and clinical laboratory tests performed to assess hepatic and renal function before and during anaesthesia. Necropsy specimens of kidney and liver were harvested for microscopic examination and compared to pre‐experimental needle biopsies. Cardiopulmonary parameters were maintained at clinically acceptable levels throughout anaesthesia. Immediately after initiation of sevoflurane inhalation, serum F−levels began to rise, reaching an ongoing 38–45 μmol l−1plateau at 8 h of anaesthesia. Serum biochemical analysis revealed only mild increases in glucose and creatinine kinase and a decrease in total calcium. Beyond 10 h of anaesthesia mild, time‐related changes in urine included increased volume, glucosuria and enzymuria. Histological examination revealed mild microscopic changes in the kidney involving mainly the distal tubule, but no remarkable alterations in liver tissue. These results indicate that horses can be maintained in a systemically healthy state during unusually prolonged sevoflurane anaesthesia with minimal risk of hepatocellular damage from this anaesthetic. Furthermore, changes in renal function and morphology observed after sevoflurane inhalation are judged minimal and appear to be clinically irrelevant; they may be the result of anaesthetic duration, physiological stressors, sevoflurane (or its degradation products) or other unknown factors associated with these animals and study conditions.
Simplified Preparation of a Specific S. enteritidis Antigen for ELISA and Other Immunological Techniques
Authors: Zamora B. M. , Hartung M. , Hildebrandt G.
Published: March 2003

This study was conducted to prepare a specific S. enteritidis antigen (FG‐Antigen) for the serological detection of S. enteritidis infections in chicken flocks. This antigen (FG‐Antigen) consistent mainly of the flagellar fraction H : g and partly of the fimbrial fraction SEF14 from a S. enteritidis‐phage type 4 strain. The initial steps followed in the preparation of this antigen were conducted based on a previously described procedure, which involved the application of heat at 60°C. The purification process (filtration and concentration) enabled the exclusion of the cross‐reaction causing LPS antigens from the preparation and allowed the retention of S. enteritidis‐specific antigens composed of fimbria and H : g fractions. As a result, no cross‐reaction with S. typhimurium nor with S. gallinarum was exhibited by the prepared FG‐antigen. To characterize and determine its specificity, the following laboratory tests were conducted: indirect ELISA, immunoblotting and a SEF14 agglutination test. In these examinations, rabbit and chicken reference sera as well as chicken field sera and absorbed hyperimmune sera against H : g‐carrying serovars were used.
Serological Survey of Viral Antibodies in Llamas (Lama glama) in Argentina
Authors: Puntel M. , Fondevila N. A. , Viera J. Blanco , O’Donnell V. K. , Marcovecchio J. F. , Carrillo B. J. , Schudel A. A.
Published: March 2003

This study analysed sera from 390 llamas (Lama glama) from nine farms located in three different Argentine provinces: Buenos Aires, Cordoba and Jujuy. The samples were tested for antibodies against 8 virus known to infect cattle: bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BHV‐1), bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV), bovine adenovirus (BAdV III), bovine enterovirus (BEV), bovine rotavirus (BRV), bluetongue virus (BTV), bovine leukaemia virus (BLV), and foot‐and‐mouth virus (FMDV) by conventional methods such as seroneutralization, immunoperoxidase staining, and agar gel immunodiffusion.

The antibody prevalences detected in llamas were: BHV‐1 in 0.77 % (3/390), BVDV in 2.05 % (8/390), BAdV III in 5.13 % (20/390), BEV in 4.10 % (16/390), BRV in 87.69 % (342/390). No antibodies against BTV, BLV and VIAA (FMDV infection associated antigen) were detected.
Outbreak of Septicaemic Colibacillosis in Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Authors: Arenas A. , Vicente S. , Luque I. , Gomez‐Villamandos J. C. , Astorga R. , Maldonado A. , Tarradas C.
Published: March 2003

We have carried out an aetiological and pathological study of an outbreak of septicaemia caused by the O165 serogroup of Escherichia coli in Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) which resulted in high mortality (90 %). After treatment with amoxicilin in drinking water (200 mg/l), morbility and mortality rates dropped markedly. Microbiological studies showed that the organism responsible was an atypical E. coli strain, on the basis of the non‐fermentation of lactose (ONPG–), which belonged to the O165 serogroup and was highly virulent for 1‐day‐old chickens.
Epidemiology of Streptococcus uberis Intramammary Infections in a Dairy Herd
Authors: Jayarao B. M. , Gillespie B. E. , Lewis M. J. , Dowlen H. H. , Oliver S. P.
Published: March 2003

From 1987 to 1991, almost 36 000 quarter samples of mammary secretion representing 1790 lactations of 510 dairy cows from a research herd were collected for bacteriological examination. The percentage of cows infected with Streptococcus uberis ranged from 12 to 16 % of cows/year. S. uberis was isolated from 14.2 % of lactations over the 5‐year period. The prevalence of S. uberis intramammary infection (IMI) was significantly higher in cows with ≥4 lactations than in cows with 3 or fewer lactations. Regardless of lactation number, the prevalence of S. uberis was highest before parturition, during early lactation and near drying off. The prevalence of S. uberis infected quarters ranged from 1.3 to 2.3 % of quarters/year; the prevalence rate for the 5‐year period was 2 % of quarters. The quarter prevalence of S. uberis was lowest in cows with ≤3 lactations, increased significantly with lactation number and was highest in cows with ≥6 lactations. The percentage of quarters infected with S. uberis varied significantly by year. The majority (95 %) of S. uberis IMI were subclinical. The ratio of subclinical IMI to clinical IMI was lowest during early lactation, and increased with days in milk, and with lactation age except for cows in their 5th and 6th lactations. Results of this epidemiological investigation suggest that opportunities exist where suitable control measures could be applied to reduce the impact of S. uberis infections in the dairy herd.
Coagulase‐negative Staphylococci and Mammary Gland Infections in Cows
Authors: Chaffer M. , Leitner G. , Winkler M. , Glickman A. , Krifucks O. , Ezra E. , Saran A.
Published: March 2003

Coagulase‐negative staphylococci (CNS) are the most frequently isolated bacteria from bovine mammary gland milk samples. The objective of this study was to determine the type of inflammation evoked by CNS in the mammary gland of cows during their first lactation. Twenty‐four Israeli‐Holstein heifers in their first lactation were tested for bacteriological status, somatic cell count (SCC) and differential leucocyte count in milk 60–120 days postparturition and every 50–60 days after until drying off. Following the first testing, the 96 quarters of the 24 heifers were classified as follows: 69.8 % as no bacterial growth (NBG), 27.1 % infected with CNS and 3.1 % infected with Staphylococcus aureus. During lactation, 84.5 % quarters had no change in their classification, 6.2 % were newly infected with other pathogens, 3.1 % were classified as self‐cured and in 6.2 % sporadic bacteria were isolated. Among the CNS, S. intermedius, S. chromogenes and S. haemolyticus were the most frequently isolated. Milk from CNS‐infected quarters had significantly higher SCC than milk from NBG quarters. An analysis of the leucocyte pattern in milk from CNS vs. NBG quarters revealed a significant increase in polymorphonuclears and a significant decrease in the percentage of total lymphocytes and lymphocytes bearing CD4+ or CD8+. The high percentage of CNS‐infected quarters that remained unchanged in their bacterial status during the first lactation, indicates that those CNS have the ability to elude the immune system and persist in the mammary gland for a long time. The persisting infection, resulting to some extent from an increase of SCC by some CNS strains, suggests that in the near future control steps will have to be taken into consideration, in order to enhance the improvement of milk quality.
Pigeon Paramyxovirus‐1 (P‐group) as the Cause of Severe Outbreaks in Fancy Columba livia in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Elzein E. M. E. Abu , Manvell R. , Alexander D. , Alafaleq A. I.
Published: March 2003

An avian paramyxovirus‐1, which was previously isolated from ailing fancy Columba livia in Saudi Arabia, was characterized in this study using monoclonal antibodies (Mabs). The results indicate that although the virus belongs to the pigeon paramyxovirus‐1 (PPMV‐1) group ‘P’ still it shows some variation in its binding pattern to the Mabs.
Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV): Kinetics of Infection in Lymphatic Organs and Lung
Authors: Beyer J. , Fichtner D. , Schirrmeir H. , Polster U. , Weiland E. , Wege H.
Published: March 2003

Pigs were infected by the oronasal route with European isolates of the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV; I10 and Cobbelsdorf). The kinetics of infection in lymphatic organs and the lung were analysed by immunofluorescence detection of virus antigen, re‐isolation of the virus and reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) for PRRSV‐specific RNA. The kinetics of PRRSV infection proceeded in three phases, irrespective of the varying infestation of lymphatic organs within the first days post‐infection (p.i.). First, an early acute infection of lymphatic organs developed within the first week and was characterized by a high number of antigen‐positive macrophages. Second, a delayed acute infection of the lung was observed, which was most pronounced during the second and third week p.i. when a high number of infected alveolar macrophages was observed. The acute infection of lymphatic organs had resolved at this time. Infected cells in the lung were predominantly located in pneumonic lesions. Third, a persistent infection was demonstrated by RT‐PCR and immunohistology when the experiments were terminated at day 49 p.i. The virus persisted in lymphatic organs, especially in the tonsils, and in the lung. At this stage, indications for a re‐occurrence of acute infection were observed in restricted areas of the lung.
Abscess Disease, Caseous Lymphadenitis, and Pulmonary Adenomatosis in Imported Sheep
Authors: Møller K. , Agerholm J. S. , Ahrens P. , Jensen N. E. , Nielsen T. K.
Published: March 2003

The occurrence of abscess disease, caseous lymphadenitis, and pulmonary adenomatosis in sheep in Denmark is reported for the first time. Subcutaneous abscesses were observed in imported 4‐ to 5‐month‐old lambs of the Lacaune breed 10 days after arrival in Denmark. Abscesses were mostly located in the head, neck and shoulder regions close to the regional lymph nodes. Bacteriological examinations revealed growth of Staphylococcus aureus ssp. anaerobius in all animals with subcutaneously located abscesses containing a viscous white‐yellow odourless mass. In addition, Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis was isolated from abscesses in one animal and lesions consistent with pulmonary adenomatosis were found in four animals.
Some In Vitro Invasion Inhibition of Red Cells by In Vivo Non‐protective Anti‐LDH Antibodies of Plasmodium berghei
Authors: Kumar S.
Published: March 2003

In Plasmodium berghei, sephadex G‐200 purified lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) fraction immunized mice did not exhibit protection when challenged with 1 × 106P. berghei‐parasitized erythrocytes. However, LDH immunized mice seroconverted and showed an antibody titre of 1:2048 by indirect haemagglutination (IHA) and 1:160 by indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) assays. Fluorescence was distributed evenly on P. berghei‐parasitized red cells showing no specific location of parasite LDH. Anti‐LDH antibodies supplemented in 19 h in vitro culture of P. berghei exhibited 9.2% invasion inhibition into the fresh red cells.
The In Vitro Secretion of Acetylcholinesterase by Adult Stages of Heligmosomoides polygyrus: the Effects of Broad‐Spectrum Anthelmintics
Authors: Alonso‐Villalobos P. , Martinez‐Grueiro M. M.
Published: March 2003

The secretion of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) by female and male Heligmosomoides polygyrus was studied in different in vitro culture media. AChE secretion was increased in the presence of fetal calf serum or bovine serum albumin (BSA). In the absence of crowding effects, specific AChE activity in excretion/secretion products was higher for male (2.41 ± 0.07 µmol min−1 l−1 mg−1) than for female (0.56 ± 0.04 µmol min−1 mg−1) worms but on a per nematode basis both sexes showed comparable rates of secretion. Acetylthiocholine iodide was the favoured substrate of the enzyme. When the nematodes were incubated in vitro with albendazole (ABZ), ricobendazole (RBZ), mebendazole (MBZ), levamisole (LVM), morantel (MRT) or ivermectin (IVM), at concentrations from 1 mM to 10 nM, in RPMI medium for 2 or 6 h and then transferred to a drug‐free medium (RPMI medium supplemented with 0.5 % BSA) for 24 h or continuously exposed to the drugs in supplement‐free medium (24 h), the concentration‐ and time‐dependent inhibitory effects on AChE secretion were observed. The continued exposure to the drugs for all incubation periods (with a single exception for LVM 1 mM) produced the highest levels of inhibition. Under these conditions, the concentrations inhibiting the secretion of AChE by 50 % (IC50) relative to drug‐free controls were estimated. The IC50 values ranged from 0.012 µM (IVM) to 2.96 µM (MRT). The potential of this bioassay for the selective primary evaluation of new compounds with broad‐spectrum anti‐nematodal activity is discussed.
A Comparative Study of a New Rapid and One‐Step Test for the Detection of Parvovirus in Faeces from Dogs, Cats and Mink
Authors: Esfandiari J. , Klingeborn B.
Published: March 2003

A one‐step immunochromatographic test, based on the use of monoclonal antibodies, was developed for the detection of canine parvovirus (CPV) in dog faeces. In addition to canine parvovirus the test can also be used for the diagnosis of infections with viruses causing parvovirus enteritis in cats (feline panleukopenia virus) and mink (mink enteritis virus). Four hundred and forty‐three faecal samples were evaluated by comparative testing between this one‐step test and three different enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) in Sweden, Denmark and The Netherlands. The result of the evaluation showed an overall relative sensitivity and specificity of 95.8 and 99.7 %, respectively. Furthermore, the comparative testing of 83 dog samples in Germany between the one‐step test and an immune electron microscopy (IEM) agreed to 85.5 %. The sensitivity and specificity were 83.9 and 88.9 %, respectively. These results show that the one‐step test is a rapid, simple, reproducible and sensitive diagnostic test for the detection of parvovirus in faecal samples of dogs, cats and mink.