bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies on the Rod‐Coccus Life Cycle of Rhodococcus equi
Authors: Fuhrmann C. , Soedarmanto I. , Lämmler Ch.
Published: May 2010

In the present study all 19 Rhodococcus equi cultures isolated from horses and 19 of 22 R. equi cultures isolated from human patients displayed a rod‐coccus life cycle after cultivation under defined growth conditions. A bacillary growth could be observed after cultivation of the bacteria in fluid media for 4 h at 37°C, a coccoid morphology after cultivation of the bacteria for 24 h either on sheep blood agar plates or in fluid media. The different morphological features did not significantly influence the typability of the bacteria or the expression of surface proteins including 15–17 kDa virulence proteins. Studies on further surface characteristics revealed a relation between haemagglutinating properties, the surface hydrophobicity and adherence properties of the bacteria to HeLa cells. These properties seemed to be influenced by the cultivation conditions but not by the different morphological forms of the bacteria. A haemagglutination reaction, a hydrophobic surface and an enhanced adherence to HeLa cells could be observed with coccoid bacteria after cultivation in fluid media for 24 h at 37°C but not with coccoid bacteria harvested from sheep blood agar plates or with bacillary bacteria after 4 h growth in fluid media. This difference might possibly be caused by the degree of encapsulation of the bacteria after various cultivation conditions and a subsequent masking effect of the hydrophilic polysaccharide capsule of R. equi.
Identification and Characterization of Staphylococci Isolated from Cutaneous Lesions of Goats
Authors: Mahanta P. N. , Thungchamo K. , Dutta G. N. , Devriese L. A.
Published: May 2010

Staphylococci from skin lesions of goats in Assam, India, were found to belong predominantly to the potentially dermatopathogenic species Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus hyicus. These species have not been described as components of the normal flora of the hairy skin of goats.
In vivoandin vitroDetection of Canine Distemper Virus Nucleoprotein Gene with Digoxigenin‐Labelled RNA, Double‐Stranded DNA Probes and Oligonucleotides byin situHybridization
Authors: Gaedke K. , Zurbriggen A. , Baumgärtner W.
Published: May 2010

A single‐stranded RNA, two double‐stranded (ds) DNA probes and 10 oligonucleotides labelled with digoxigenin were comparatively evaluated for their usefulness to detect canine distemper virus (CDV) nucleoprotein RNA inin vitroinfected Vero cells and in tissues of dogs with spontaneous CDV infection byin situhybridization (ISH). In addition, results were compared to CDV nucleoprotein antigen distribution as demonstrated by immunohistochemistry***. The RNA probe was derived from the virulent A75/17 strain, the DNA and oligonucleotide probes from the avirulent Onderstepoort strain of CDV. The two DNA probes were 287 and 126 base pairs long. For ISH, various factors including fixatives, proteolytic digestion, probe concentration, hybridization conditions and detection systems were compared. All probes were suitable for demonstration of CDV RNA inin vitroinfected cells, regardless of the CDV strain employed.In vivoCDV nucleic acid was detected by RNA and the dsDNA probes. However, the probes varied substantially with respect to sensitivity and specificity. The CDV RNA probe was far superior in sensitivity when compared to the DNA probes. Furthermore, the shorter DNA probe displayed a higher sensitivity, indicating that length of the probe is an important parameter when selecting probes. Oligonucleotides displayed only rarely a positive signal and caused frequently hybridization signals in the nucleus, which where considered not specific for CDV. Summarized, the present study reveals that RNA probes are currently the most sensitive tool for detection of CDV RNA in tissues.
Antimicrobial Sensitivity in Microorganisms Isolated from Canine Otitis Externa
Authors: Guedeja‐Marron J. , Blanco J. L. , Garcia M.‐E.
Published: May 2010

It is important to test the antimicrobial sensitivity of the aetiological agents of otitis externa before starting treatment in order to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance in the microorganisms. In this study the sensitivity patterns in bacteria and yeasts isolated as aetiological agents from otitis externa were analysed. Antifungal and antibacterial activity tests were done using the automated system ATB Fungus and the classic diffusion test respectively. The azole compounds had the greatest antifungal properties, while β‐lactams had the strongest antibiotic activity. This study reflects the increasing importance of sensitivity tests in chronic otitis externa due to the increasing antimicrobial resistances in bacteria and yeasts. If it is necessary to initiate an empiric treatment before the results of the antimicrobial test, the application of miconazole or econazole for yeasts and oxacillin or amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid against bacteria is recommended.
Coagulase‐Negative Staphylococcal Intramammary Infections in Cows and Heifers During the Nonlactating and Periparturient Periods
Authors: Oliver S. P. , Jayarao B. M.
Published: May 2010

Coagulase‐negative staphylococci (CNS) are isolated frequently from unbred and primigravid heifers and from lactating and nonlactating dairy cows. The importance of CNS intramammary infections that occur during the nonlactating period has not been adequately delineated. Mammary secretions from udders infected with CNS during early lactation and the nonlactating period have increased somatic cell counts, CNS have been isolated in mammary secretions from cows with clinical mastitis, and a few studies have indicated that CNS infected mammary glands produced significantly less milk during lactation than uninfected mammary glands. In addition, mammary glands of postpuberal heifers infected with CNS were not as well developed as uninfected mammary glands. Consequently, CNS intramammary infections in heifers and cows during the nonlactating period could impair mammary gland growth and development and ultimately influence mammary function during lactation resulting in decreased lactational performance. Some CNS IMI detected in heifers and multiparous cows at calving do not persist into early lactation. Postmilking teat disinfection with an effective germicide and antibiotic therapy during the nonlactating period markedly reduces the prevalence of CNS in dairy herds. Methods of controlling CNS infections in primigravid heifers based on prepartum intramammary antibiotic therapy have been developed, and results have shown that prepartum antibiotic therapy is very effective against CNS and other mastitis pathogens as well. Additional research is required to determine the influence of CNS infections that occur during the nonlactating period on milk yield in the subsequent lactation.
The Use of Baypamun N in Crowding‐Associated Infectious Respiratory Disease: Efficacy of Baypamun N (freeze dried product) in 2‐week‐old Veal Calves
Authors: Ziebell K.‐L. , Kretzdorn D. , Auer S. , Failing K. , Schmeer N.
Published: May 2010

The efficacy of an immunomodulator, Baypamun N, was tested in 10–20‐day‐old veal calves from different farms, which were exposed to stress by transport and commingling (crowding). Verum and placebo animals (n = 50, each group) received three intramuscular injections of the investigational products (days 0,2,4) starting the day of arrival on the farm. Data from 49 calves in each group could be used for statistical evaluation. The incidence of acute bovine respiratory disease was anticipated to be high during the first 2 weeks after arrival on farm based on experience from other years. The clinical scores in the Baypamun N group were significantly reduced by 52.7% (P < 0.001) compared to the placebo group. The number of antibiotic treatments was significantly reduced by 53.8 % (P < 0.001) in the Baypamun N group. Of the calves treated with Baypamun N, 51.02% remained untreated with antibiotics during the first 2 weeks after arrival on the farm compared with only 16.3% of the placebo treated control calves (P < 0.001).
Monoclonal Antibody for the Demonstration by ELISA of Antibodies to Protein p24 of Enzootic Bovine Leukosis Virus in Individual and Pooled Blood Serum and Milk Samples
Authors: Rodak L. , Granátová M. , Veselý T. , Nevoránková Z.
Published: May 2010

A sensitive and specific ELISA for the demonstration of antibodies to the protein p24 of enzootic bovine leukosis virus (EBVI.) using a ‘capture’ monoclonal antibody to this protein (MAb p24) was developed. The method is sensitive enough to detect the international reference serum E4/10 in pooled blood serum samples collected from up to 50 cows, or, if a 10‐fold concentrate of milk whey is tested, in samples of bulk milk collected from up to 400 cows. The application of MAb p24 has considerably increased not only the sensitivity, but also the specificity of ELISA. Moreover it is possible to differentiate reliably between positive and ‘false positive’ reagents by testing a suspicious sample in a pair of wells of which one is coated with MAb p24 alone and the other with the complex MAb p24 + EBLV antigen and the subsequent calculation of ‘specific absorbance’. This method, showing the highest sensitivity of detection of antibodies to EBLV p24 described so far, can become an effective tool on the sanitation of infécted herds as well as in checks of the EBL‐free status. A diagnostic kit suitable for commercial manufacture has been devised.
Histamine and Eicosanoid Levels in Plasma and Peripheral Blood Leucocyte Cultures During Experimental Infection of Cattle with Bluetongue Virus Serotype 11
Authors: Odhon A. C. , Giri S. N. , de la Concha‐Bermejillo A. , Osburn B. I.
Published: May 2010

Three calves were sensitized with three doses of inactivated BTV‐11 UC8 strain and then experimentally infected with the homologous virus. In addition, four BTV‐seronegative heifers were also experimentally infected with BTV‐11. Granulocyte rich fractions of peripheral blood leucocyte (PBL‐GRF) cultures from BTV‐sensitized/infected calves and from control unexposed cattle were exposedin vitrowith BTV‐11. Histamine, leukotriene (LT) C4and prostaglandin (PG) D2were assayed in supernatant fluids. Plasma histamine levels increased in BTV‐infected heifers from 10.1 + 2 ng/ml at Day 0 to 23.1 ± 6.6 ng/ml at Day 12 following virus exposure. In addition, in this experimental group the concentration of PGF2x (mean 551.97 ± 243.54 pg/ml) increased significantly (P ≤ 0.05) compared with control cattle (mean 467.3 ± 73.9 pg/ml). Bluetongue virus induced histamine and LTC4release afterin vitroinfection of PBL‐GRF. Release of LTC4was significandy (P ≤ 0.05) higher in PBL‐GRF cultures from sensitized and control animals than in unexposed PBL‐GRF cultures. In contrast to these results, PGD2was not released after BTV infection of PBL‐GRFin vitro. The histamine release caused by BTV was virus‐specific and mainly mediated by an immunological reaction, since the release was significantly reduced by removal of cell surface immunoglobulins.
The Use of Baypamun N in Crowding Associated Infectious Respiratory Disease: Efficacy of Baypamun N (Freeze Dried Product) in 4–10 Month Old Horses
Authors: Ziebell K.‐L. , Steinmann H. , Kretzdorn D. , Schlapp T. , Failing K. , Schmeer N.
Published: May 2010

The efficacy of an immunomodulator, Baypamun N, was tested in 4–10‐month‐old horses which were exposed to stress by weaning, transport and commingling with yearlings from different breeders (crowding). Verum (n = 26) and placebo animals (n = 27) received three intramuscular injections of the investigational preparations (days 0, 2, 9) starting at the day of commingling in one stable. The incidence of acute respiratory disease was high during the first 4 weeks after commingling. Approximately 50 % of all horses showed seroconversion due to field infection by EHV1 and EHV4 during the observation period. The clinical scores in the Baypamun N group were significantly reduced by 40.3 % (P < 0.05) compared to the placebo group. The proportion of horses with purulent nasal discharge during the observation period (4 weeks) was also significantly reduced by 58.7 % (P < 0.01) in the Baypamun N group. Fifty per cent of the horses injected with Baypamun N showed no purulent nasal discharge and therefore no signs of complicated disease of the upper respiratory airways in contrast to only 14.8% in the non‐protected placebo group. The challenge conditions studied in this investigation were rather severe because of the permanent exposure of Baypamun N treated individuals to the non‐separated and untreated horses (n = 51). This indicates that treatment with Baypamun N is a successful tool to avoid severe clinical consequences of stress in young horses.
Severe Long‐Lasting Contagious Ecthyma Infection in a Goat's Kid
Authors: Elzein E. M. E. Abu , Housawi F. M. T.
Published: May 2010

In this report we describe an unusual orf infection in a goat's kid, which lasted for 6 months. The disease was reproduced in two susceptible goat kids, which both completely recovered within 37 days. Further clinical observations on these kids for 12 months did not reveal any signs of orf disease. The orf virus was isolated and identified from the animals which were involved in the original outbreak, from the kid that showed the long‐lasting disease and from the experimentally‐infected kids. The situation is discussed.
Clinical Disorders in Armadillos (Dasypodidae, Edentata) in Captivity
Authors: Diniz L. S. M. , Costa E. O. , Oliveira P. M. A.
Published: May 2010

The major health problems found in 113 armadillos are presented and correlated with management in captivity. The most common of 217 recorded clinical disorders involved injury (28.5%), digestive system (17.9%), respiratory system (15.2%), nutritional deficiency (13.3%), skin problems (3.6%), septicaemia (1.8%), nervous system (1.3%), urinary system (0.9%) and effects of environmental (0.9%), with 14.7% of the cases inconclusive. Internal parasites were identified in 42.0% of faeces samples, mainly eggs of helminths (66.6%), of which the commonest were Ancylostoma sp. (33.3%), Strongyloides sp. (30.5%), Ascaris sp. (25.0%), Trichuris sp. (11.1%), and also protozoa (13.0%). Enterobacteriaceae were the bacteria most frequently isolated, with Escherichia coli the most prevalent, followed by Salmonella sp. and Enterobacter aerogenes. The most successful treatments are listed. The influence of some captive factors on the onset of the diseases was also analysed: donated animals 91.1% and zoo born 8.8%; quarantine enclosure 84.0% and exhibition 15.0%; and related to time in captivity, 92.2% occurred with animals in the first 6 months in the zoo and 7.8% with animals more than 6 months.
Level of Viral Antigen in Blood Leucocytes from Cattle Acutely Infected with Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus
Authors: Sandvik T. , Fredriksen B. , Løken T.
Published: May 2010

Blood samples from 24 calves undergoing experimental acute infection with a noncytopathogenic bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) were examined for viral antigen in peripheral leucocytes with an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and for presence of virus in blood plasma in a cell culture assay. With the antigen ELISA, low positive values were detected in leucocytes sampled on days 3–4 from two of eight animals inoculated intranasally, and on days 11–13 from three of 16 animals inoculated intramuscularly. From 22 of the animals, low titres of BVDV were detected in blood plasma obtained 2–9 days after inoc***ulation. All other samples, drawn between 2 and 21 days after inoculation, were negative for viral antigen. All animals seroconverted 3–4 weeks after inoculation, some after having shown mild and transient signs of disease.
Virological Protection of Sows upon Challenge with Aujeszky's Disease Virus After Multiple Vaccinations with Attenuated or Inactivated Vaccines
Authors: Nauwynck H. J. , Zonnekeyn V. , Pensaert M. B.
Published: May 2010

The frequency with which sows are vaccinated during eradication programmes has been determined rather arbitrarily in the past, without the necessary scientific support. In the present study the efficacy of repeated vaccinations against Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV) with two inactivated vaccines and with one attenuated ADV‐strain (Bartha) suspended in either oil‐in‐water or saline was evaluated in 40 breeding sows originating from five farms by the assessment of the clinical and virological protection upon an experimental challenge. Sows with two different histories of number of booster vaccinations after a base immunization were selected: young sows which had received 1–3 booster vaccinations and old sows which had received 8–10 booster vaccinations. Two seronegative and two gE‐positive sows were included as controls.

After challenge, clinical signs such as anorexia and fever were observed in the two seronegative sows and only in four out of the 18 sows which had repeatedly been vaccinated with inactivated vaccines. The mean duration of virus excretion significantly differed (P < 0.05) between the experimental groups. In seronegative sows, virus shedding lasted for 12.5 days. This period was reduced to 6.8–7.9 days in the groups of sows vaccinated with inactivated vaccines having no effect by the number of booster vaccinations and type of vaccine. In the groups of sows vaccinated with Bartha vaccine, challenge virus was detected during 3.7–5.3 days when revaccinated 1–3 times. A reduction to 0.7–1.2 days was obtained with a higher number of boosters (8–10) but only when the vaccine virus was suspended in o/w. Considering the mean cumulative values of virus excretion (area under the curve) it can be stated that sows frequently vaccinated with inactivated vaccines excrete significantly (P < 0.05) higher amounts of virus (26.0–31.5) than sows frequently vaccinated with attenuated ones (1.6–23.7). We may conclude from the present data that the attenuated vaccine virus Bartha, especially when suspended in o/w is superior to inactivated vaccines for inducing clinical and virological protection of sows in the field during their whole breeding period.
Presencia de Listeria monocytogenes y Listeria sp. en Longanizas Frescas y Curadas. Utilización de Distintas Condiciones de Tiempo y Temperatura de Incubación
Authors: Rota C. , Yangüela J. , Blanco D. , Carramiñana J. J. , Herrera A.
Published: May 2010

Two different temperatures for enrichment of Listeria monocytogenes and related species have been studied (1) cold enrichment at 4°C (2) enrichment at 30°C (FDA method). Also, two selective media for isolation were tested: Acriflavine‐Ceftazidime agar (A.C.) and Palcam agar. We have studied 72 samples of dry‐cured sausage (called ‘longaniza’) at different stages of maduration: fresh, semicured and cured samples. The most efficient method was cold enrichment at 4°C during 5 days followed by isolation in Palcam agar, but results were only significant for fresh sausages (P < 0.05)
Renal Amyloidosis in Cattle: a Case Report in Iran
Authors: Seifi H. A. , Karimi K. , Movasseghi A. R.
Published: May 2010

Renal amyloidosis is a rare condition in cattle and this report is the first in Iran. A 5‐year old Holstein cow was referred because of profuse diarrhoea, ventral oedema and decreased appetite. Physical examination revealed a well audible ping area on the upper half of the right paralumbar fossa. At rectal examination, a large firm and circular shaped kidney was palpated. Laboratory examination revealed hypoproteinaemia and severe proteinuria. At necropsy, the kidneys were enlarged, yellow and waxy. Amyloid deposits were found in glomeruli by microscopic examination of the kidneys, and with Congo red staining renal amyloidosis was confirmed.
Increase in C‐reactive Protein in the Serum of Piglets (pCRP) Following ACTH or Corticosteroid Administration
Authors: Bürger W. , Ewald C. , Fennert E.‐M.
Published: May 2010

A new isolation procedure for porcine C‐reactive protein (pCRP) by affinity chromatography and ion‐exchange chromatography is described. Antisera against this protein were raised in rabbits. Immunochemical methods indicate a close immunological relationship of pCRP to human CRP (hCRP). The molecular weight of one subunit of pCRP was determined to be 23 400 Da by SDS‐PAGE. Measurements of serum concentration of pCRP by competitive ligand assay and radial immunodiffusion showed a good correlation. Normal values of healthy pigs, kept under good conditions, were 8.35 mg/1 with a normal range up to 16.8 mg/1 (3 × SD).

ACTH or prednisolone were applicated to piglets daily for a period of 2 weeks and the pCRP concentration in serum was measured. There was a strong pCRP elevation during the application period in comparison to a control group. When the stimulus disappeared, the values declined to normal. In the absence of infections and inflammations, the pCRP appears to be a valuable parameter for following the effects of stress on animals.
Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis Infection in Goats in the Czech Republic
Authors: Skalka B. , Literák I. , Michalík I. , Skřivánek M.
Published: May 2010

Prevalence of caseous lymphadenitis was studied in goats from six herds in the Czech Republic. Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis exhibiting typical properties was isolated from clinically affected animals only. Antibodies to C. pseudotuberculosis were identified by means of agar immunodiffusion and the neutralization test using a toxin—phospholipase D (PLD)—as antigen. No clinical manifestations of caseous lymphadenitis or antibodies to C. pseudotuberculosis were found in four herds. In one herd without any history of clinical caseous lymphadenitis, serological positivity was reported in two out of 148 examinations. In a herd with clinical manifestations of caseous lymphadenitis, antibodies were ascertained to a various degree in subsequent samplings (100%, 87% and 64%, respectively). The importance of serologic examination of caseous lymphadenitis in goat herds is discussed.
Water as a Reservoir for Campylobacter jejuni Infection in Cows Studied by Serotyping and Pulsed‐field Gel Electrophoresis (PFGE)
Authors: Hänninen M.‐L. , Niskanen M. , Korhonen L.
Published: May 2010

The occurrence of campylobacters was studied in the faecal samples of a dairy herd with about 20 animals and in the lake which was their source of drinking water during the grazing period from June to September. Of the total of 141 faecal samples studied, 0–21 % were found to be positive for C. jejuni at various sampling times throughout the year. More cows were found to be campylobacter‐positive in summer or in autumn after the grazing period than after the winter, when the animals were inside and their drinking water source was municipal chlorinated tap water. C. jejuni was isolated from most of the lake water samples. Serotyping with heat stable antigens and molecular typing with PFGE using SacII‐ and SmaI‐digested DNA revealed that an animal that was permanently infected with C. jejuni sero‐/PFGE‐type PEN 0:6, 25/I/ND most probably contaminated the lake water in summer 1987. This was the only sero/PFGE‐type isolated from the lake water in summer and autumn 1987 and in spring 1988. This sero/PFGE‐type was also isolated from four other cows in autumn 1987, suggesting that lake water was the source of the infection. This study is first to employ molecular methods to assess the possible role of contaminated drinking water in the transmission of campylobacter infection within a dairy herd.
Microbial Hazard of Salted Om El‐Kholoul (Wedge shell Donax trunculus)
Authors: Mansour N. , Yassien N. , Ibrahim H. M. , Elmossalami M. K.
Published: May 2010

Sixty samples of salted OM El‐Kholoul were collected from different localities in Giza, Alexandria and Ismailia. The samples were examined organoleptically and bacteriological examination of samples were performed for enumeration of aerobic, Enterobacteriaceae, Staph. aureus, Enterococci counts as well as isolation and identification of Vibrio parahaemolyticus. The mean counts/gm of aerobes, Enterobacteriaceae, Staph. aureus, Strept. faecalis and Strept. faecum were 4.9 times 105, 4.8 times 104, 1.9 times 105, 1.5 times 105 and 8 times 102, respectively. V. parahaemolyticus was isolated from all examined samples. Moreover, the weight, pH and sodium chloride percentage of ten samples were estimated. Trial was done to investigate the inhibitory effect of lemon juice (Citrus aurantifolia) on the microbial load of Om El‐Kholoul, where the inhibitory effect of this juice was noticed. The public health significance of isolated microorganisms was discussed, moreover the suggestive measures for improvement of the microbial quality of the product were mentioned.
A Salmonella Monitoring Programme in Egg Production Farms in Germany
Authors: Geue L. , Schlüter H.
Published: May 2010

A programme monitoring the prevalence of Salmonella infections in egg production farms with different types of flock management was conducted over a period of 18 months. Three laying hen farms with floor pens and five farms with batteries were examined from September 1992 to March 1994. A total of 569 samples (293 feed and 276 faeces) were processed in parallel by fivefold fractional enrichment in Rappaport/Vasiliadis medium and in potassium tetrathionate crystal violet broth. By using such elaborate methods, high detection rates of Salmonella were obtained. Two thirds of all isolates were found in the third to fifth selective enrichment procedure. Salmonella (S.) Tennessee was the most common serovar isolated (from 24.5% of the samples) whereas S. Enteritidis was the second most common isolate (23.7%). Salmonella were isolated from 33.1% of the feed samples (97/293), a result which may stimulate further discussion on the prevention of potential contamination of feed stuff with Salmonella and other pathogens. The number of Salmonella isolations from floor pens was significantly higher than from batteries. As time progressed an increase in the number of Salmonella isolations occurred in samples taken from the floor pens. The development of a less costly routine monitoring programme to detect Salmonella in samples taken from barns with layer flocks is recommended.
Late Lesions of Experimental Contagious Caprine Pleuropneumonia Caused by Mycoplasma capricolum ssp. capripneumoniae
Authors: Wesonga H. O. , Lindberg R. , Litamoi J. K. , Bölske G.
Published: May 2010

A clinical, bacteriological, serological and patho‐anatomical study was carried out on 12 goats surviving the acute stage of contagious caprine pleuropneumonia (CCPP), experimentally produced with Mycoplasma capricolum ssp. capripneumoniae (M. capripneumoniae), with the major aims of investigating the chronic stage of the disease and elucidating the possibility of a carrier state beyond the acute fulminant phase. The goats were killed 9, 16, 82 or 126 days after the onset of acute clinical signs. On day 9, clinical signs included low grade fever and persistent coughing. Thereafter, only intermittent coughing was recorded. Serum titres of complement‐fixing antibodies to M. capripneumoniae were high at the period of fever but dropped thereafter. Post‐mortem examination showed acute fibrinous pleuropneumonia on days 9 and 16, and chronic pleuropneumonia on days 82 and 126, including sequester formations in goats killed on day 126. Mycoplasma capripneumoniae was isolated on days 9 and 16 but not on later occasions. The study showed that goats recovered from acute CCPP may have lesions for a long time thereafter but provide no evidence of a carrier state among long‐term survivors.
Control of Proliferative Enteropathy in Growing/Fattening Pigs Using Growth Promoters
Authors: Tsinas A. C. , Kyriakis S. C. , Lekkas S. , Sarris K. , Bourtzi‐Hatzopoulou E. , Saoulidis K.
Published: May 2010

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of different antibiotics used as growth promoters on the control of porcine intestinal adenomatosis when administered in weaning, growing and fattening pig diets, according to Annex I of the European Union directive (70/524/EEC and its subsequent amendments to date) for the use of feed additives. On a farm with a previous history of proliferative enteropathy outbreaks, 648 weaned piglets (23 days old) were divided into nine experimental groups according to bodyweight and sex ratio, each group comprising four pens with 18 pigs in each pen. One group served the trial as a negative (unmedicated) control: another (the positive control) received monensin via feed at 100 p.p.m. up to the end of the growing phase (107 days old) and 50 p.p.m. up to slaughter age (156 days old). The remaining seven groups were offered feed with the addition of the following antibiotics: virginiamycin (50–20 p.p.m.), avilamycin (40–20 p.p.m.), spiramycin (50–20 p.p.m.), zinc bacitracin (50–10 p.p.m.), avoparcin (40–20 p.p.m.), tylosin (40–20 p.p.m.) and salinomycin (60–30 p.p.m.), respectively. The performance of the pigs in the positive control group was very satisfying and among the highest in the trial, verifying earlier field studies. As a general conclusion it seems that all tested growth promoters had a beneficial effect compared with the untreated control, indicated by the decrease of mortality rate, the elimination of diarrhoeal incidence and the enhancement of growth performance, although the proliferative enteropathy control achieved by each substance was not always satisfactory. More specifically, the antibiotic growth promoters tested can be scaled according to their total efficacy as follows: 1. Salinomycin, tylosin, spiramycin; 2. Virginiamycin, zinc bacitracin, avilamycin; and 3. Avoparcin. Finally, it is considered that part of the growth promotion efficacy of the tested substances is due to their potential capacity to control porcine intestinal adenomatosis; thus, in future growth performance trials, the disease background of the trial farms must be examined, especially for porcine enteropathy challenges.
Relationship Between Cell Counts in Bovine Milk and the Presence of Mastitis Pathogens (Yeasts and Bacteria)
Authors: Moretti A. , Pasquali P. , Mencaroni G. , Boncio L. , Fioretti D. Piergili
Published: May 2010

Bovine mastitis is an economically important disease in dairy industry and a variety of pathogen microorganisms are involved. The AA carried out a study to investigate the prevalence of yeasts and bacteria in milk samples (794) from dairy cows of Umbria (Central Italy), belonging to 19 herds, and the relationship between cell counts in bovine milk and the presence of these pathogens. 29.7 % milk samples were positive for pathogen microorganisms, of those 4.9 % were positive for yeasts and bacteria, 4.4 % for yeasts and 20.4 % for bacteria. The species of yeasts and bacteria most frequently encountered were Trichosporon capitatum (31.2%), T. beigelii (18.72%) and Candida albicans (12.48%), C. guillermondii (12.48%), C. tropicalis (12.48%); with regard to bacteria were Staphylococcus aureus (34.3%) and S. albo (19.8%). The presence of yeasts and bacteria in milk samples are correlated to an increase of somatic cell counts even if with different degree. Epidemiological and sanitary correlation were carried out.
A Pathological and Immunohistochemical Study of Goat Kids Undergoing Septicaemic Disease Caused byMycoplasma capricolumsubsp.capricolum, Mycoplasma mycoidessubsp.capriandMycoplasma mycoidessubsp.mycoides(Large Colony Type)
Authors: Rodríguez J. L. , Gutiérrez C. , Brooks D. L. , Damassa A. J. , Orós J. , Fernández A.
Published: May 2010

This paper studies the pathological and immunohistochemical findings in 12 kids experimentally infected withMycoplasma capricolumsubsp.capricolum(Mcc),M. mycoidessubsp.capri(Mmc) andM. mycoidessubsp.mycoides(large colony type), (MmmLC). For the demonstration of Mcc, Mmc and MmmLC antigens an immunoperoxidase technique based on the labelled streptavidin biotin method was used in the 12 kids inoculated with mycoplasmas and the three control kids inoculated with mycoplasma medium. All 12 kids, inoculated by different routes, developed subcutaneous swelling at the point of inoculation and terminated in fatal septicaemia from 1 to 5 days post inoculation. The histopathological findings consisted of cellulitis at the point of inoculation, acute diffuse interstitial pneumonia, arthritis and multifocal necrotic purulent splenitis in some kids. The Mcc, Mmc and MmmLC antigens were detected immunohistochemically in all kids with specific punctiform labelling inside the cytoplasm of the leucocytes or extracellularly at the inoculation point, respiratory airways, spleen, liver, joints, tonsils and lymph nodes. The results obtained in this study showed that the inoculation of these mycoplasmas by parenteral routes caused mycoplasmaemia. Moreover, the immunohistochemical results appear fully to confirm that the mycoplasmas were the cause of the death of the kids because of a septicaemic state.
Reproducibility of Antibiogram of Bovine Mammary Gland Staphylococci under Conditions of Repeated Subculturing
Authors: Muhammad G. , Hoblet K. H. , Bech‐Nielsen S. , Jackwood D. L. , Smith K. L.
Published: May 2010

The reproducibility of antibiogram profiles of 10 staphylococcal isolates of bovine mammary gland origin was tested under conditions of repeated subculturing. Prototype (original or index) antibiogram profiles were determined by subculturing these isolates from stock cultures stored at −70°C. The isolates were then subcultured four times on blood agar and antibiogram profiles determined at each subculture on Mueller‐Hinton agar. The antibiogram profiles of each isolate at each subculture were compared with the prototype profiles of that isolate. At repeat antibiogram determinations, deviations of ≤ 5 mm in the individual zones of inhibition of penicillin, ampicillin and streptomycin from the prototype antibiogram profiles, resulted in a shift of only three isolates from the resistant to intermediate and one isolate from intermediate to resistant status of antibiotic susceptibility classification. It is suggested that in the interpretation of antibiogram, susceptibility classification (resistant, intermediate, or susceptible) variations accruing from a few millimetres differences in the diameter of the zones of inhibition should probably be disregarded.
Assaying Granulocyte Phagocytosis by Chemiluminescence: Effect of Storage Time and Temperature of Blood Samples
Authors: Magnusson U. , Holst H.
Published: May 2010

The objective was to study the effect of storage of blood samples for up to 4.5 h at either room temperature or on ice on granulocyte phagocytosis as assessed by chemiluminscence. The study included three groups of animals: eight pigs, seven cows and eight horses, which were bled at one occasion. The blood samples were divided into two and stored either at room temperature or on ice. Granulocyte phagocytosis in the samples was then assessed every 60 min starting 30 min and finishing 4.5 h after bleeding. The phagocytosis was recorded as the AUC of chemiluminescence following phagocytosis of opsonized zymosan particles. The time of storage of blood samples had a significant (P < 0.001) overall effect on the chemiluminiscence following phagocytosis in all species tested, as was the case with storage temperature (P < 0.001). It should be noted, however, that there were considerable species differences in the effect of the storage on the granulocyte phagocytosis. Hence, for valid comparisons of data on granulocyte phagocytosis assessed by chemiluminiscence it is important that the handling procedures of the blood samples have been applied consistently even if the assays have been performed only a few hours after blood collection.
Untersuchungen zur Migration und Translation vonOesophagostomum‐quadrispinulatum‐Larven aus dem Kot
Authors: Barutzki D. , Gothe R.
Published: May 2010

Studies on the migration and translation of larvae ofOesophagostomum quadrispinulatumout of faeces

Investigations on the migration and translation of free‐living stages ofOesophagostomum quadrispinulatum, using faeces containing eggs as starting material, revealed that mostly third stage larvae and very few second stage larvae migrated out of faeces, whereas first stage larvae remained in the faeces. The emigration rates depended on ambient relative humidity. Compared with the control, third stage larvae emigrated out of faeces at rates of 0.3%, 1.6% and 12.2% at 50%, 75% and 100% relative humidity, respectively. Offering helminth‐free faeces, emigrated third stage larvae returned into faeces at rates of 0.4–1.2%, 5.8–17.7%, 39.0–52.7%, and 45.2–60.7% after 1 h, 24 h, 5 days and 14 days, respectively. After a period of 1, 2, 3 or 4 weeks staying out of faeces, emigrated third stage larvae returned into faeces at rates of 23.3%, 8.8%, 22.1% and 6.0%, respectively. An examination of the horizontal translation revealed that most of the third stage larvae migrated distances up to 80 cm and a few even up to 150 cm returning into helminth‐free faeces.
Experimental Infection withBabesia divergensin Cattle Persistently Infected with Bovine Virus Diarrhoea Virus
Authors: Brun‐Hansen H. , Christensson D. A. , Eide D. M. , Grønstøl H.
Published: May 2010

Nine Norwegian Red cattle, aged 7–14 months, persistently infected with bovine virus diarrhoea virus (BVDV) were inoculated with a Swedish strain ofBabesia divergens. Six persistently infected cattle of the same age and breed were kept as controls. Blood and serum samples were collected regularly during the observation period. Rectal temperatures were recorded every morning for 25 days post infection, and the animals were examined clinically on a daily basis. Sera were examined for antibodies toB. divergensby indirect immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT). Eight of the infected animals developed fever of 2–5 days duration.Babesia divergensorganisms appeared in the erythrocytes of all infected animals on the day after inoculation. The parasitaemia lasted for 4–11 days. One animal had a transient haemoglobinuria. Compared with the control group, there was a 20% decrease in the haematocrit. There was a transient lymphopenia and thrombocytopenia during the period of fever. There were no differences in mean numbers of neutrophils between the two persistently infected groups. Compared with cattle free of BVDV, the persistently infected cattle had consistently lower total leucocyte count that was mainly due to decreased mean numbers of neutrophils and monocytes. All infected animals developed antibodies ≥ 1: 1280 between day 7 and 10 post infection. The magnitude of the antibody response was considerably lower than that of BVDV‐free animals inoculated with the same strain and dosage ofB. divergens.
Measurement of Actinomyces pyogenes Specific Antibodies in Bovine Blood Samples by an Enzyme‐linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Ding H. , Lämmler Ch. , Vecht U.
Published: May 2010

In the present investigation Actinomyces pyogenes specific antigens caused an antibody response in the host. This could be determined by two enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) using cell extracts and a haemolysin preparation as antigens. An increased antibody titre was detectable in the sera of cows vaccinated with culture supernatants of A. pyogenes and Peptococcus indolicus, in the sera of cows infected with live cells of A. pyogenes and P. indolicus, in the sera of cows suffering from ‘summer mastitis’, and in part of the sera of nonvaccinated, apparently healthy cows. However, the titre of the cows that were vaccinated with culture supernatants decreased 8–9 months after inoculation. Because of this wide variation in antibody titre the determination of A. pyogenes specific antibodies seems to be only of limited use for the control of this infection.
Efficacy of Difloxacin in Growing Broiler Chickens for the Control of Infection due to Pathogenic Mycoplasma gallisepticum
Authors: Kempf I. , van den Hoven R. , Gesbert F. , Guittet M.
Published: May 2010

Chickens 14 days old were experimentally inoculated with Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) R‐P10 strain. After development of respiratory symptoms, birds were left unmedicated or medicated for 5 consecutive days with Difloxacin 5, 7.5 or 10 mg/kg body weight per day or Enrofloxacin at the dose level of 10 mg/kg body weight per day. Evaluation of efficacy was based on body weight, symptoms, post‐mortem findings, re‐isolation of MG and serology. Results indicated that under the conditions of this experiment, treatment with 7.5 mg Difloxacin per kg body weight for 5 days was already effective against pathogenic MG infection. The dose of 10 mg/kg Difloxacin was equally effective as a dose of 10 mg/kg Enrofloxacin in treating respiratory symptoms.
Characterization of Protease(s) in Adults of Trichuris globulosa (Nematoda: Trichuridae)
Authors: Kocher D. K. , Sood M. L.
Published: May 2010

The activity of protease(s) has been observed separately in male and female Trichuris globulosa. Different fractions showed optimum protease activity at 37 °C, pH 9.5 and 1.5 mg casein concentration. Excretory/secretory (E/S) products showed maximum protease activity, which might be helpful in the degradation of mucosal tissue of the host gut. Male parasites appear to feed extensively on connective tissue collagen/elastin, while females feed on both connective tissue and body/cellular fluids. Inhibition/activation studies revealed the presence of four kinds of protease in the E/S products, cytosolic‐and membrane‐bound fractions performing different functions.
Amprolium‐Induced Cerebrocortical Necrosis (CCN) in Dromedary Racing Camels
Authors: Wernery U. , Haydn‐Evans J. , Kinne J.
Published: May 2010

Amprolium was successfully used to induce cerebrocortical necrosis (CCN) in dromedary racing camels, only when they were fed on a barley diet. Camels which were fed on hay ad libitum did not suffer from CCN, although their thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) reached similar levels as in camels fed on barley. The reason for this phenomenon is discussed. Five camels which suffered from CCN had TPP values of 80–115 % and were euthanized on humane grounds when they were in lateral recumbency. Pathohistological investigations revealed a polioencephalomalacia of the dorsal cerebral cortex with oedema and status spongiosus. Cerebral autofluorescence was observed under untravoilet light. The major clinicopathological changes were a slight anaemia and a decreased potassium value whereas glucose, muscle enzymes, leucocyte counts and differential counts were elevated. A TPP effect of 12 % was found during this study in healthy dromedary racing camels and symptoms were observed when TPP values reached 80–115%. The test is now being widely used during the camel racing season.
Clinical, Clinico‐Pathological and Serological Studies of Babesia ovis in Experimentally Infected Sheep
Authors: Yeruham I. , Hadani A. , Galker F. , Avidar Y. , Bogin E.
Published: May 2010

Clinical, clinico‐pathological and serological studies were performed in sheep experimentally infected with Babesia ovis.

Acute babesiosis occurred in all the lambs infested with adult Rhipicephalus bursa ticks and in one lamb infested with the larvae. The rate of parasitaemia and the degree of anaemia were not correlated. Decrease in the packed‐cell volume ranged from 30 to 40 %. Parasitized erythrocytes were not observed to block capillaries in the brain, which explained the absence of nervous symptoms in acute babesiosis. The kidneys were the most severely affected organs, exhibiting acute glomerulonephritis. The lesions observed were suggestive of vascular alteration and vascular stasis, leading to anoxia of the tissues. A disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) syndrome was recorded in sheep infected with babesiosis.

A marked increase in the enzymes of the transaminase groups, mainly aspartate aminotransferase (AST), was observed. Enzymatic changes (increases in AST, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and lactic dehydrogenase (LDH) and decreases in sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and malic enzyme (MEZ)), decreases in total proteins and albumin, and increases in urea and creatinine might reflect the degree of severity of the damage to the liver and kidney tissues.

Most of the lambs (85 %) that were infested with larvae, and all lambs infested with adult R. bursa ticks, reacted serologically to B. ovis antigen. The serological reactions following infestation with the larvae occurred much later than those following infestation with the adult stage.

The lambs which were infested with larvae showed mild clinical reactions when challenged by infected R. bursa adults, as compared with the reactions to the challenge in naive control animals.

The serological findings, in addition to the fact that one splenectomized lamb reacted to larval infestation with acute ovine babesiosis, show that the preimaginal stages of R. bursa can transmit B. ovis, usually causing a sub‐clinical disease. It is suggested that infections derived from preimaginal ticks in the winter can preimmunize sheep for the subsequent more severe infections derived from adult ticks in the summer. Furthermore, in the absence of a reliable vaccine against B. ovis, grazing flocks in the enzootic regions should be exposed to the preimaginal stages during their activity period (October—February) before exposure to the adult ticks in spring and summer (April—July).
Evaluation of a Commercial ELISA Test for the Detection of Allergen‐Specific IgE Antibodies in Atopic Dogs
Authors: Ginel P. J. , Riaño C. , Lucena R.
Published: May 2010

A commercial enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) designed to detect allergen‐specific immunoglobulin (Ig)E antibodies was evaluated in 36 atopic dogs and in 12 normal dogs. The test showed a sensitivity of 72.23 % and a specificity of 41.6 %. Positive and negative predictive values were 76.47 and 35.71 % respectively. Correlation between the ELISA kit results and intradermal skin testing varied depending on the allergen and ranged from 47.1 to 80.4%, although positive correlation (i.e. allergens positive in both tests) ranged rom 2.7 to 19.4 %. In conclusion, this serological test gave both false positive and false negative results. Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values indicate that this ELISA may not be useful in canine atopy. Although correlation studies were hampered by the impossibility of using the same allergenic extracts, the correlation observed between intradermal and serological testing indicates that results from both tests are not interchangeable.
Macrophages in the Chicken Oviduct: Morphometrical Studies by Light and Transmission Electron Microscopy and the Possible Influence of Sex Hormones
Authors: Khan M. Z. I. , Hashimoto Y. , Iwanaga T.
Published: May 2010

Light and electron microscopic techniques were used to study the morphometry and dynamic changes of macrophages in the postnatal and sex hormone‐treated chicken oviduct, respectively. Abundant typical macrophages, containing clear vacuoles, well‐developed mitochondria, Golgi complexes and lysosomal bodies in their cytoplasms, were observed in the lamina propria of all segments of the postnatal chicken oviduct, occurring more frequently in the vaginal part. When 7‐day‐old chickens were injected with diethylstilbestrol (DES), and DES plus progesterone, infiltration of a significant number of macrophages in both groups, but not in controls could be seen. The light and electron microscopic structures of the macrophages in both postnatal and sex hormone‐treated chicken oviduct were similar. These results show that typical macrophages are present in the chicken oviduct; their frequency of occurrence varies with different oviductal segments, and they are influenced by sex hormones.