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9451806 | Production of germline chimeric chickens by transfer of cultured primordial germ cells. | Primordial germ cells (PGCs) from stage 27 (5.5-day-old) Korean native ogol chicken embryonic germinal ridges were cultured in vitro for 5 days. As in in vivo culture, these cultured PGCs were expected to have already passed beyond the migration stage. Approximately 200 of these PGCs were transferred into 2.5-day-old white leghorn embryonic blood stream, and then the recipient embryos were incubated until hatching. The rate of hatching was 58.8% in the manipulated eggs. Six out of 60 recipients were identified as germline chimeric chickens by their feather colour. The frequency of germline transmission of donor PGCs was 1.3-3.1% regardless of sex. The stage 27 PGCs will be very useful for collecting large numbers of PGCs, handling of exogenous DNA transfection during culture, and for the production of desired transgenic chickens. |
9451807 | Molecular cloning of the bovine alpha 1(IV) procollagen gene (COL4A1) and its use in investigating the regulation of expression of type IV procollagen by retinoic acid in bovine lens epithelial cells. | This report is the first to describe the isolation of a 400 base pair cDNA clone encoding part of the bovine alpha 1(IV) procollagen. Using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), we have amplified a sequence of approximately 400 bp from this gene within the binant phage DNA. The cloned sequence encodes 94 amino acids that form part of the protein's helical region. The sequence contains one interruption in the Gly-Xaa-Yaa repeat unit. The third base of the codon for glycine at several sites differs from those seen in murine and human genes, as does the third base of proline codons. The bovine cDNA also contains fewer thymine residues. Northern blot hybridization has shown that the mRNA for bovine procollagen to be 6.2 kb in size. We have used the cDNA clone to investigate the effect of all-trans retinoic acid (RA) on the gene expression of alpha 1(IV) procollagen in cultured bovine lens epithelial (LE) cells. We have also observed that RA decreases total protein production and itantly increases type IV procollagen in a concentration dependent manner. An increase in alpha 1(IV)mRNA as well as increase in type IV procollagen suggest that the regulation of alpha 1(IV) gene by RA in the LE cells is at the transcriptional level. Further, our results support the hypothesis that RA inhibition of lens epithelium transformation to fibroblast-like cells may be due to the ability of RA to stimulate the production of basement ponents by epithelia. |
9451808 | Blood levels of polychlorinated dibenzodioxins, polychlorinated dibenzofurans and polychlorinated biphenyls in the general population of a Spanish Mediterranean city. | Polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs), Polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are among the most toxic environmental pollutants. We determined blood levels of pounds in a population sample of the city of Mataró, Spain. Blood samples were drawn from a randomly selected sample of 198 subjects, of both genders, aged 18 to 69 years. These samples were pooled into 10 groups for laboratory analysis. For males, total level of PCDDs was 505.7 ppt, of PCDFs was 26.7 ppt, and the international toxic equivalent (I-TEQ) was 12.5. For females the levels were 739 ppt, 28.8 ppt and 14.71-TEQ, respectively. The most important contributors to the total I-TEQ were HexaCDD, PentaCDD and PentaCDF. The blood concentration of total PCBs was 2.02 mg/l in males, and 1.58 mg/l in females. Levels of PCDDs, PCDFs and PCBs increased by age in both sexes. The levels of PCDDs and PCDFs in residents of this Mediterranean city are among the lowest observed in industrialized countries. |
9451809 | Relevance of aquatic biodegradation tests for predicting degradation of polymeric materials during biological solid waste treatment. | The aquatic biodegradability of cellulose and cellulose acetate with degrees of substitution (d.s.) in the range of 1.5 to 3.0, pared with the mineralization under laboratory posting conditions. In line with previous observations, it was found that cellulose acetates with d.s. < or = 2.5 were readily mineralized to CO2 in the posting test. The degradation rate was clearly affected by the degree of substitution (d.s. 1.5 > d.s. 2.5 > d.s. 3.0). Surprisingly, however, biodegradation of cellulose acetate materials was not observed in the aquatic Strum test. Modifications of the pH and the inoculum source in an attempt to improve the activity of fungi and actinomycetes in the aquatic environment, did not increase CO2-evolution. It is concluded that the relevance of modified Strum tests is limited for plete biodegradation of polymeric materials during biological waste processing. For evaluation of postability of polymeric products or packaging materials, more relevant laboratory posting tests should be used. |
9451810 | Distribution pattern of organotin compounds at different trophic levels of aquatic ecosystems. | pounds including methyl- and butyltin species were determined in selected aquatic specimens (fish muscles, fish liver, mussels, algae) as well as in sediment and water from the mud flats of the German North Sea and the River Elbe. The concentration of tributyltin (TBT) ranged between 27-202 ng/g (fresh mass) in fish muscles, 54-223 ng/g (fresh mass) in fish liver, 10-25 ng/g (fresh mass) mon mussels and 42-97 ng/g (fresh mass) in bladderwrack. The concentration of total pounds (mono-, di-, and trimethyltin + mono-, di-, and tributyltin) in water samples along the River Elbe up to the Elbe estuary ranged between 30-96 ng/l. Retrospective investigation of pounds in mussel samples from the North Sea was performed by the analysis of cryogenically stored samples from 1985. parison of the results with that in muscles from 1993 shows that the total tin content and the TBT content decreased from 1985-1993 by a factor of 3.5 and 6.5, respectively. In addition estimated bioconcentration factors (BCF) for pounds in samples from different trophic levels are presented. |
9451811 | Bioavailability in rats of bound pesticide residues from tolerant or susceptible varieties of soybean and canola treated with metribuzin or atrazine. | Susceptible or tolerant varieties of soybean treated with metribuzin, or canola treated with atrazine were grown in a controlled environment. Shoots and fruits were harvested at maturity and extracted exhaustively with methanol. The extracted materials containing bound 14C residues were subsequently fed to rats for two days. The elimination of 14C in urine and feces was monitored for 4 days and the distribution of radioactivity in liver, kidney and heart was studied. Higher 14C residues in urine were present in animals fed pared to shoots of soybean or canola of both susceptible and tolerant varieties. The bound atrazine residues from the pods of Atr Tower (tolerant variety of canola) were more bioavailable than Tower (susceptible variety of canola). Bioavailability of bound atrazine from the shoots of canola in both varieties was very low. In soybean fed animals, bound metribuzin derived 14C from the susceptible variety (Maple Amber) was more bioavailable than from the resistant variety (Maple Arrow). However, feeding the animals with susceptible or tolerant varieties of soybean or canola containing bound residues of 14C metribuzin or 14C atrazine for two days did not result in the accumulation of radioactivity in the body organs studied. Thus our data show that the bioavailability of these bound pesticides was dependent on the type of plant parts ingested and the variety of plant species. |
9451812 | Aliphatic hydrocarbons in wolf tissue samples from Galicia (N.W. Spain). | We have investigated the levels of aliphatic hydrocarbons, UCM and CPI in wolves from Galicia (Spain). The n-alkanes distribution was characterized by a predominance of even carbon n-alkanes. Suprarenal and muscle tissues contained more aliphatic hydrocarbons (AHs) than spleen, liver or kidney. The AHs which were detected were found most frequently in adults and males. The mean concentrations of C10, C33, C34, C35 and C36 were the lowest of pounds quantified (< 1 mg/kg lipid weight) and C12, C14, C16 and C22 were the highest (> 14.2 mg/kg lipid weight). The presence of phytane and UCM (> 3) together to PR/C17 and PH/C18 ratios (both < 1) suggest a large contribution of crude oils. |
9451813 | Aliphatic aldehydes and allethrin in mosquito-coil smoke. | Presence of aliphatic aldehydes and allethrin in the smoke produced by two brands of mosquito-coil was determined by high performance liquid chromatography. It was observed that burning mosquito-coil produces a greater amount of formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and acrolein in the gaseous phase, whereas lesser amount of particulate-bounded aldehydes. Aldehydes bounded in particulates were, however, enriched in terms of concentration. Allethrin was found to occur only in particulates of 0.1-1.0 micron size. The results reveal that allethrin may not be capable of attacking the mosquitoes effectively. |
9451814 | Determination of microbial diversity in environmental samples: pitfalls of PCR-based rRNA analysis. | After nearly 10 years of PCR-based analysis of prokaryotic small-subunit ribosomal RNAs for ecological studies it seems necessary to summarize reported pitfalls of this approach which will most likely lead to an erroneous description on the microbial diversity of a given habitat. The following article will cover specific aspects of sample collection, cell lysis, nucleic acid extraction, PCR amplification, separation of amplified DNA, application of nucleic probes and data analysis. |
9451815 | Osmoregulation and glycerol metabolism in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. | Glycerol is the patible solute in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is accumulated intracellularly when cells are exposed to decreased extracellular water activity. In general, increased intracellular accumulation of a solute may be caused by enhanced production, restricted dissimilation, increased retention by the plasma membrane and increased uptake from the medium. In this review, we evaluate current knowledge concerning mechanisms leading to the accumulation of glycerol in osmotically stressed cells of S. cerevisiae at the molecular and metabolic levels. An overview of glycerol metabolism in S. cerevisiae is provided. |
9451816 | Pseudomonas aeruginosa antigens as potential vaccines. | Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most important opportunistic bacterial pathogens in humans and animals. This organism is ubiquitous and has high intrinsic resistance to antibiotics due to the low permeability of the outer membrane and the presence of numerous multiple drug efflux pumps. Various cell-associated and secreted antigens of P. aeruginosa have been the subject of vaccine development. Among pseudomonas antigens, the mucoid substance, which is an extracellular slime consisting predominantly of alginate, was found to be heterogenous in terms of size and immunogenicity. High molecular mass ponents (30-300 kDa) appear to contain conserved epitopes while lower molecular mass ponents (10-30 kDa) possess conserved epitopes in addition to unique epitopes. Surface-exposed antigens including O-antigens (O-specific polysaccharide of LPS) or H-antigens (flagellar antigens) have been used for serotyping due to their highly immunogenic nature. Chemical structures of repeating units of O-specific polysaccharides have been elucidated and these data allowed the identification of 31 chemotypes of P. aeruginosa. Conserved epitopes among all serotypes of P. aeruginosa are located in the core oligosaccharide and the lipid A region of LPS and immunogens containing these epitopes induce cross-protective immunity in mice against different P. aeruginosa immunotypes. To examine the protective properties of OM proteins, a vaccine containing P. aeruginosa OM proteins of molecular masses ranging from 20 to 100 kDa has been used in pre-clinical and clinical trials. This vaccine was efficacious in animal models against P. aeruginosa challenge and induced high levels of specific antibodies in human volunteers. Plasma from human volunteers containing anti-P. aeruginosa antibodies provided passive protection and helped the recovery of 87% of patients with severe forms of P. aeruginosa infection. Vaccines prepared from P. aeruginosa ribosomes induced protective immunity in mice, but the efficacy of ribosomal vaccines in humans is not yet known. A number of recent studies indicated the potential of some P. aeruginosa antigens that deserve attention as new vaccine candidates. The outer core of LPS was implicated to be a ligand for binding of P. aeruginosa to airway and ocular epithelial cells of animals. However, heterogeneity exists in this outer core region among different serotypes. Epitopes in the inner core are highly conserved and it has been demonstrated to be surface-accessible, and not masked by O-specific polysaccharide. The use of an in vivo selection/expression technology (IVET) by a group of researchers identified a number of P. aeruginosa proteins that are expressed in vivo and essential for virulence. Two of these in vivo-expressed proteins are FptA (ferripyochelin receptor protein) and a homologue of an LPS biosynthetic enzyme. Our laboratory has identified a highly conserved protein, WbpM, and P. aeruginosa with a deficiency in this protein produces only rough LPS and became serum sensitive. Results from these studies have provided the foundation for a variety of vaccine formulations. |
9451817 | Extracellular annexin II. | Annexin II belongs to a family of calcium-dependent, phospholipid binding proteins. Annexin II was first identified as an intracellular protein and attributed intracellular functions. Although it lacks a signal peptide and its mechanism of secretion is unknown, extracellular annexin II has recently been found in several tissues as both soluble and membrane-bound protein. Cell-surface annexin II has been identified as a receptor for a number of polypeptide ligands. Extracellular annexin II may be important in several biological processes, such as fibrinolysis, cell adhesion, ligand-mediated cell signaling and virus infection. These processes provide several possibilities for therapeutic approaches targeting extracellular annexin II, and future research should further illuminate the biology of this molecule. |
9451818 | The GTP-binding protein Rho. | RhoA, RhoB and RhoC are three closely related proteins, and are members of the Ras super-family of small GTP-binding proteins. They bind and hydrolyse GTP, and are active in the GTP-bound form. Their activity in cells is regulated by exchange factors, GTPase activating proteins and guanine nucleotide dissociation inhibitors. Several potential downstream target proteins for Rho proteins have been identified, including protein kinases and adaptor-type proteins. Rho proteins regulate actin cytoskeletal organization; for example in fibroblasts RhoA induces the formation of actin stress fibres. Rho proteins are also involved in regulating secretion, pinocytosis and clathrin coat-mediated endocytosis, transcriptional activation and stimulation of DNA synthesis. In addition, there is evidence that Rho proteins can play a role in cell transformation, and thus Rho proteins ponents of their signalling pathways may be potential targets for the development of anti-cancer therapies. |
9451819 | Interleukin-16. | Interleukin-16 (IL-16) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine. It is synthesized as a precursor molecule that is processed by cleavage of a C-terminal 14 kDa peptide, which aggregates into bioactive tetramers. IL-16 requires the expression of CD4 for its functions, which include induction of chemotaxis, interleukin-2 receptor and HLA-DR expression, reversible inhibition of TcR/CD3-dependent activation and induction of a repressor of HIV-1 transcription. It represents a major source of the lymphocyte chemotactic activity early after antigen challenge of atopic asthmatics in which the major cell of origin is the epithelium, although mast cells, CD8 cells, CD4 cells and eosinophils are also sources; and the presence of IL-16 directly correlates with the number of infiltrating CD4+ T cells. Potential therapeutic applications are use of inhibitors of IL-16 in asthma and for IL-16 in selective CD4+ T cell immune reconstitution in HIV-1 infection or following chemotherapy. |
9451820 | Melanin. | Melanin is an irregular light-absorbing polymer containing indoles and other intermediate products derived from the oxidation of tyrosine. Melanin is widely dispersed in the animal and plant kingdoms. It is the major pigment present in the surface structures of vertebrates. The critical step in melanin biogenesis is the oxidation of tyrosine by the enzyme tyrosinase. In vertebrates this enzyme is active only in specialized organelles in retinal pigment epithelium and melanocytes. In mammals melanin is formed as intracellular granules. Melanin granules are transferred from melanocytes to epithelial cells and form the predominant pigment of hair and epidermis. Melanin has many biological functions. Reactive quinone intermediates in the melanin biosynthetic pathway exhibit antibiotic properties and the polymer is an important strengthening element of plant cell walls and insect cuticle. Light absorption by melanin has several biological functions, including photoreceptor shielding, thermoregulation, photoprotection, camouflage and display. Melanin is a powerful cation chelator and may act as a free radical sink. Melanin is mercially as ponent of photoprotective creams, although mainly for its free radical scavenging rather than its light absorption properties. The pigment is also a potential target for anti-melanoma therapy. |
9451821 | Cartilage-derived morphogenetic protein-1. | A new morphogenic secreted protein has been identified with direct evidence for its involvement in skeletal development and joint morphogenesis. Cartilage-derived morphogenetic protein-1 (Cdmp1) and its mouse homologue growth/differentiation factor 5 (Gdf5) were discovered independently using a degenerate PCR screen for bone morphogenetic protein-like genes. Cdmp1/Gdf5 belongs to the TGF-beta superfamily, a large group of signaling molecules that are secreted as biologically active dimers with a carboxyl-terminal domain containing seven highly conserved cysteines. Its temporal and spatial expression pattern is mostly restricted to the developing appendicular skeleton. Genetic studies revealed that effective null mutations in the gene are associated with short limbs, brachypodism (bp) in mice and acromesomelic chondrodysplasia in humans. binantly expressed protein initiates and promotes chondrogenesis and to a limited extent osteogenesis in vitro and in vivo. This makes this polypeptide a potential therapeutic agent in the regeneration of skeletal tissues. |
9451822 | Copper deficiency and heart disease: molecular basis, recent advances and current concepts. | Copper is an essential trace element and has profound influence on cardiac myopathy and heart metabolism. Dietary Cu restriction in rats results in cardiomyopathy, and affects the integrity of the basal lamina of cardiac myocytes and capillaries. Decreased levels of delta subunits of ATP synthetase and nuclear encoded subunits of cytochrome oxidase system have been observed. Alteration in expression of glutathione peroxidase and catalase in heart and liver in Cu deficiency (Cu-) has been noted involving both transcriptional and post transcriptional mechanisms. A short description of two genetically inherited disorders of Cu metabolism, i.e. Wilson's disease and Menkes' disease, and Indian childhood cirrhosis (environmental and/or genetic) have been included to illustrate that advances in the knowledge of Cu cellular transport gives a better understanding of the molecular basis of the pathophysiology of these diseases. Menkes' disease, a human model of defective Cu transport and Cu- has shown many pathological changes, similar to those of heart disease in Cu-. The recent cloning of four genes of putative Cu pumping ATPases (Cu-ATPases) from widely different sources, i.e. two from Enterococcus hirae and one each from Wilson's and Menkes disease patients (which are defective in Cu transport and metabolism), has opened a new chapter in the study of Cu cellular transport and metabolism. The encoded gene products, i.e. Cu-ATPases, show extensive homology and are members of a new class of ATP-driven Cu pumps involved in regulation of cellular Cu. Further, Cu transport by Cop B-ATPase (E. hirae) in membrane vesicles and in isolated rat liver plasma membrane has provided biochemical evidence of its role in ATP-driven Cu transport. In this short review I have critically examined the current evidence of the molecular basis of the pathophysiology of cardiomyopathy in Cu- and, have indicated the possible role of P-type Cu ATPase which may be one of the obligatory factors contributing to cardiomyopathy in experimental animals and probably humans. Experimental verification of this hypothesis will be the aim of future studies. |
9451823 | Leptin and the regulation of body weight. | Leptin has received considerable attention as a newly recognized metabolic hormone and for its potential for therapeutic use in the treatment of human obesity. Furthermore, defects in the leptin signal pathway that result in obesity in animal models have raised the possibility of a similar etiology for obesity in humans. This review will summarize the current findings on leptin in both humans and rodents. These findings will be discussed with respect to our view of the physiology and potential for pathophysiology in leptin-mediated regulation of body weight position. |
9451824 | Magnesium deficiency enhances oxidative stress and collagen synthesis in vivo in the aorta of rats. | Magnesium deficiency has been shown to produce vascular lesions in experimental animals, but the underlying mechanisms of vascular injury are not clear. It has been reported that in rodents, magnesium deficiency enhances circulating levels of factors that promote free radical generation and are mitogenic. In pursuance of these observations, the present study tested the hypothesis that magnesium deficiency may enhance oxidative stress and trigger an accelerated growth response in vivo in the aorta of rats. Oxidative stress was evaluated in terms of levels of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances in the serum and aorta and activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase in the aorta; fractional rates of collagen synthesis were assessed using [3H]-proline. Serum and tissue levels of magnesium and calcium were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The present study demonstrated for the first time that magnesium deficiency significantly (P < 0.001) increases levels of thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances in the aorta of rats. Other changes in the aorta of animals on the Mg-deficient diet included a significant reduction (54%, P < 0.001) in the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase (37%, P < 0.01) and a 19% increase in net fractional rates of collagen synthesis (P < 0.05). While serum magnesium was significantly reduced in these animals (P < 0.001), aortic tissue levels of magnesium in these animals remained unaltered throughout the duration of the study, suggesting the existence of other control mechanisms, apart from reduced tissue levels of magnesium, mediating the observed effects. These findings suggest that magnesium deficiency may trigger a wound healing response, involving oxidative injury and growth stimulation, in the vascular system. |
9451825 | Inhibition of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase by adrenaline in isolated guinea-pig papillary muscles. | Purified S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase from Dictyostelium discoideum or rabbit erythrocytes is inactivated when incubated with cAMP. The aim of this study was to investigate whether adrenaline, which increases cytosolic cAMP and calcium concentrations, is able to modify in situ the activity of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase in the heart. The enzyme was assayed in a crude extract obtained from superfused guinea-pig papillary muscles with the different tested substances. Adrenaline was found to inhibit S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase in papillary muscles in a concentration-dependent fashion. This inhibition was associated with an increase in the concentration of S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine (326%), and a decrease of adenosine (40%). beta-Adrenoceptors are involved in the effect of adrenaline, since isoproterenol, a beta-adrenergic agonist, inhibited the enzyme, whereas the beta-adrenergic blocker, propranolol, prevented this inhibition. Participation of calcium in the inhibitory effect of adrenaline was suggested because the calcium channel blocker, verapamil, suppressed this inhibition, and high calcium in the perfusion medium inhibited the enzyme. In vitro experiments with calcium were performed in a semi-purified fraction of the enzyme, resulting in a concentration-dependent inhibition of the enzyme. Calcium concentration, which inhibited the enzyme 50%, was in the millimolar range for control and in the micromolar range for the obtained enzyme from adrenaline-treated muscles, indicating a different sensitivity to calcium inhibition. We conclude that adrenaline inhibits S-adenosyl-L-homocysteine hydrolase in situ, probably by a calcium-modulated mechanism. |
9451827 | Estimation of oxidative stress in Saccharomyces cerevisae with fluorescent probes. | Oxidation of dichlorofluorescin and dihydrofluorescin and transport of their oxidation products were studied in Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells given diacetates of pounds. It was found that addition of peroxidase significantly accelerates the formation of dichlorofluorescein and fluorescein, indicating that peroxidase activity may be a limiting factor in studies of cellular oxidation using these probes. A significant leakage of dichlorofluorescin and dihydrofluorescin, and of their oxidized forms from the yeast cells, was found, without any apparent lag period. This plicates interpretation of data obtained with the fluorescent precursors used but, on the other hand, points to the possibility of using measurements of dichlorofluorescein or fluorescein in the extracellular medium for studies of cellular oxidation processes. |
9451826 | Inhibitory potency of R-region specific antisense oligonucleotides against in vitro DNA polymerization and template-switching reactions catalysed by HIV-1 reverse transcriptase. | Antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) targeted to the R-region near the 5'-LTR of HIV-1 genomic RNA inhibited both the synthesis of (-) strong stop DNA and the first template-switch reaction catalysed by HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) in vitro. The 18 nucleotide (nt) AONs used were identical in sequence but differed in the ponent of the 3'-terminal nucleotide, with either 2'-deoxy-D-ribose (DNA), 2'-deoxy-L-ribose (L), or arabinose (ARA) in this position. All three AONs hybridized plementary 18 nt RNA (T(m) approximately 70 degrees C) and specifically interacted with the target RNA HIV-1 sequence at 37 degrees C. L was unable to serve as primer for RT-catalysed DNA polymerization, whereas priming from ARA was about 30% that noted with DNA. Each of the three AONs resulted in similar 85-95% decreases in the amount of full length (-) strong stop DNA and up to 75% decreases in the first template-switch reaction products formed by RT, implying that elongation of the AONs did not enhance the inhibitory activity in vitro. A itant increase in a truncated DNA product corresponding to polymerization termination at the 5'-end of the AON was noted, indicating that RT was unable to displace the AON. Interestingly, near maximal inhibition in vitro an AON:target RNA template ratio of 1:1 was noted. Our results confirm the validity of our in vitro system for the analysis of potential antisense oligonucleotide inhibitors, and suggest that antisense oligonucleotides directed to the R-region of HIV-1 RNA may be effective inhibitors of the initial stages of HIV-1 proviral DNA synthesis. |
9451829 | Fungal metabolism of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons: past, present and future applications in bioremediation. | This article examines the importance of non-ligninolytic and ligninolytic fungi in the bioremediation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon contaminated wastes. The research from the initial studies in Dave Gibson's laboratory to the present are discussed. |
9451831 | Biocatalysis, biodegradation and bioinformatics. | Biocatalysis, biodegradation and bioinformatics are prominent scientific fields in industrial microbiology and biotechnology. This paper describes developments in these fields with a focus on the role of David T Gibson as a researcher and mentor. He has pioneered studies on the mechanisms by which aerobic microorganisms transform aromatic hydrocarbons. In addition, his research has served as a model for further investigations into bacterial atrazine and dichloromethane catabolism described here. Microbial catabolism research requires information on organic chemistry, microorganisms, metabolic pathways, catabolic genes, and enzymes. These information needs are now being met prehensively by development of the University of Minnesota Biocatalysis/Biodegradation Database. |
9451838 | In vitro studies of porcine lactobacilli for possible probiotic use. | Fourteen strains of lactobacilli isolated from the gut of suckling pigs were identified and studied to determine their susceptibility to antimicrobial feed additives, acid tolerance, adherence to epithelial cells from the porcine intestine and antimicrobial activity. Four strains were identified as Lactobacillus casei subsp. casei, two strains as Lactobacillus rhamnosus as well as Lactobacillus reuteri and three strains as Lactobacillus salivarius. The remaining strains could not be identified. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests showed susceptibility of the lactobacilli to many of the antimicrobial feed monly used in pigs. Strains resistant to cyadox and nourseothricin occurred in high numbers. The tested lactobacilli were acid-resistant at pH 3. Thirteen strains of lactobacilli exhibited strong adherence to epithelial cells from the porcine intestine while one strain was classed as weakly-adherent. All lactobacilli showed inhibitory activity against indicator bacteria in the presence of glucose. Lactate and acetate were the principal final products of glucose fermentation in all strains. Only three strains produced H2O2 in detectable amounts. |
9451832 | Purification and properties of ferredoxinBPH, a component of biphenyl 2,3-dioxygenase of Pseudomonas sp strain LB400. | The ponent (ferredoxinBPH) of biphenyl 2,3-dioxygenase was purified to homogeneity from crude cell extract of Pseudomonas sp strain LB400 using ion exchange, hydrophobic interaction and gel filtration column chromatography. The protein was a monomer with a molecular weight of 15,000 and contained 2 gram-atoms each of iron and acid-labile sulfur. Ultraviolet-visible absorbance spectroscopy showed peaks at 325 nm and 460 nm with a broad shoulder around 575 nm. The spectrum was partially bleached in the visible region upon reduction by reductaseBPH with NADPH as the source of electrons. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectrometry showed no signals for the oxidized protein. Upon reduction with sodium dithionite, signals with gx = 1.82, gy = 1.92 and gz = 2.02 were detected. These results indicate that the protein contains a Rieske-type (2Fe-2S) iron-sulfur center. FerredoxinBPH was required for the oxidation of biphenyl by the terminal ponent of the enzyme and is probably involved in the transfer of reducing equivalents from reductaseBPH to the terminal oxygenase during catalysis. |
9451839 | [Observations on resistance monitoring in animal health]. | This article describes conventional procedures which are used for susceptibility testing of bacteria isolated from food producing animals against anti-infective substances. Interpretation of results obtained from the different test methods and the conditions necessary to conduct these tests in view of a meaningful resistance monitoring are discussed. Currently, published data about the resistance situation in veterinary medicine are either not representative or have been determined under suboptimal conditions. In view of the public and often non-scientifically based discussion about bacterial resistance it is absolutely necessary to generate a scientifically valid database. |
9451834 | Enzymatic synthesis of diastereospecific carbacephem intermediates using serine hydroxymethyltransferase. | The serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) gene glyA was over-expressed in Escherichia coli and the enzyme was purified to near homogeneity. Reaction conditions for E. coli and rabbit liver SHMTs were optimized using succinic semialdehyde methyl ester (SSAME) and glycine. The catalytic efficiency (kcat/K(m)) of E. coli SHMT for SSAME was 2.8-fold higher than that of rabbit liver enzyme. E. coli SHMT displayed a pH-dependent product distribution different from that of rabbit liver enzyme. For the pyridoxal-5'-phosphate (PLP)-dependent reaction, E. coli and rabbit liver SHMTs showed a high product diastereospecificity. The stoichiometric ratio of PLP to the dimeric E. coli SHMT was 0.5-0.7, indicating a requirement for external PLP for maximal activity. Using SSAME or its analog at a high temperature, E. coli SHMT mediated efficient condensation via a lactone pathway. In contrast, at a low temperature, the enzyme catalyzed efficient conversion of 4-penten-1-al via a non-lactone mechanism. Efficient conversion of either aldehyde type to a desirable diastereospecific product was observed at a pilot scale. E. coli SHMT exhibited a broad specificity toward aldehyde substrates; thus it can be broadly useful in chemo-enzymatic synthesis of a chiral intermediate in the manufacture of an important carbacephem antibiotic. |
9451833 | Evidence for the evolution of a single component phenol/cresol hydroxylase from a multicomponent toluene monooxygenase. | We have previously reported on the organization of a unique toluene-3-monooxygenase pathway for the degradation of alkyl-substituted petroleum hydrocarbons including characteristics of the second step in the pathway transforming phenols to catechols. In the present work we have focused on the regulation and unusual genetic organization of this metabolic step. In particular, we have sequenced the 3-kb DNA interval between the region encoding the tbuD gene product (phenol/cresol hydroxylase) and part of the toluene-3-monooxygenase operon of strain PKO1. Then, various regions of this DNA were fused to a LacZ expression system to ascertain the location of the tbuD gene promoter and the binding site for its regulator, TbuT. The 5' end for transcripts for the putative promoter of the tbuD gene was also analyzed using primer extension analysis. Collectively, these results revealed that the promoter was located 2.5-kb upstream of the region encoding the tbuD gene product whose N-terminal region had been previously determined by peptide sequencing. Remarkably, the intervening 2.5-kb region showed sequence identity to results we reported previously for a multi-subunit toluene-2-monooxygenase cloned from a different bacterium, strain JS150, for which phenols are also substrates and effectors. When the DNA sequence for the tbuD gene and its contiguous 2.5-kb upstream region pared to the entire toluene-2-monooxygenase sequence cloned from strain JS150, a promoter proximal region encoding three reading frames showed 99% identity to subunits for the toluene-2-monooxygenase operon. Within the contiguous tbuD gene region, however, DNA sequence homology was reduced to 64% overall identity and deduced amino acid sequence homology was only 21% similar. Although regions internal to the tbuD gene showed homology to corresponding toluene-2-monooxygenase subunits, domains associated with the putative functions proposed for such subunits were deleted. We believe that these results suggest that through evolution either tbuD was derived from the 2-monooxygenase pathway by deletions and molecular rearrangements, or alternatively the tbuD gene recruited part of the 2-monooxygenase pathway and its regulatory system which is activated by benzene, alkyl-substituted benzenes and phenols. |
9451840 | [Optimization of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection and characterization of shigatoxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in food]. | The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was improved to detect shigatoxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) in milk. Numbers of colony forming units (cfu) in test samples, concentrations and types of primers, amount of MgCl2, types of thermostable DNA-Polymerase, and cycling programs were modified up to obtain the cleanest electrophoretic pattern and the highest sensitivity. Experimental conditions for further characterization of STEC-isolates by means of PCR are given by summarizing data from literature. |
9451830 | Evolving enzyme technology for pharmaceutical applications: case studies. | The case studies focus on two types of enzyme applications for pharmaceutical development. Demethylmacrocin O-methyltransferase, macrocin O-methyltransferase (both putatively rate-limiting) and tylosin reductase were purified from Streptomyces fradiae, characterized and the genes manipulated for increasing tylosin biosynthesis in S. fradiae. The rate-limiting enzyme, deacetoxycephalosporin C (DAOC) synthase/hydroxylase (expandase/ hydroxylase), was purified from Cephalosporium acremonium, its gene over-expressed, and cephalosporin C biosynthesis improved in C. acremonium. Also, heterologous expression of penicillin N epimerase and DAOC synthase (expandase) genes of Streptomyces clavuligerus in Penicillium chrysogenum permitted DAOC production in the fungal strain. Second, serine hydroxymethyltransferase of Escherichia coli and phthalyl amidase of Xanthobacter agilis were employed in chemo-enzymatic synthesis of carbacephem. Similarly, echinocandin B deacylase of Actinoplanes utahensis was used in the second-type synthesis of the ECB antifungal agent. |
9451835 | Microbial models of soil metabolism: biotransformations of danofloxacin. | Danofloxacin is a new synthetic fluoroquinolone antibacterial agent under development for exclusive use in veterinary medicine. Such use could lead to deposition of low levels of danofloxacin residues in the environment in manure from treated livestock. This study was conducted to evaluate the potential for indigenous soil microorganisms to metabolize danofloxacin. Cultures of 72 soil microorganisms representing a diverse panel of bacteria, fungi and yeast were incubated with danofloxacin mesylate substrate and samples analyzed periodically by high performance liquid chromatography for loss of danofloxacin and formation of metabolites. Some samples were further analyzed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and mass spectrometry to confirm metabolite identification. Twelve organisms, representing eight different genera, biotransformed danofloxacin to metabolites detectable by the chromatographic methods employed. Two Mycobacterium species, two Pseudomonas species, and isolates of Nocardia sp, Rhizopus arrhizus and Streptomyces griseus all formed N-desmethyldanofloxacin. The formation of the 7-amino danofloxacin derivative, 1-cyclopropyl-6-fluoro-7-amino-4-oxo-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxylic acid by cultures of Candida lipopytica, Pseudomonas fluorescens, two Mycobacterium species and three Penicillium species demonstrates the propensities of these cultures pletely degrade the piperazine ring. At least two additional and unidentified metabolite peaks were observed in chromatograms of Aspergillus nidulans and Penicillium sp cultures. Radiolabled [2-14C]danofloxacin added to cultures of the fungus Curvularia lunata was apparently mineralized, with approximately 31% of the radiolabel recovered as volatile metabolites after 24 h of incubation, indicating the susceptibility of the quinolone ring to microbial metabolic degradation. |
9451841 | [Herpesvirus infections in free living black tufted ear marmosets (Callithrix penicillata, E. Geoffroyi 1812) at the State Park of Serra da Tiririca, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil]. | The mortal cause of black-tufted-ear marmoset (Callithrix penicillata), living in a conservation unit of State Park of Serra da Tiririca-Niterói-RJ, Brasilien, has been investigated in 1995 based on different examinations realized in one animal. After clinical, light and electron microscopic investigations, herpesvirus infection was found to be the etiological agent of the disease. |
9451842 | [Veterinary medicine and preventive medicine]. | Veterinary medicine concentrates its main activities onto the curative practice for animals but also onto the field of health protection for men since a very long time. But as late as in the year 1900 the first regulation by law within the modern world was edited in Germany. It was initiated by the well-known pathologist Virchow in Berlin and elaborated, besides other veterinarians, by the first food hygienist at the Veterinary School of Berlin, Robert von Ostertag. At that time, the protection of men from the classical infections caused by bacteria was the target, e.g. tuberculosis and the so-called food poisoning. Also, parasitoses like trichinellosis or hydatidosis were the most fought enemies. Nearly 100 years after the application of this regulation by law new types of zoonoses or zooanthroponoses get importance in the view of preventive medicine fulfilled by veterinarians. That are infections which can not be recognized visually and clinically in the new breeding and fattening ways for animals. Such latent infections are the main targets in the present goals and objectives of food hygiene. An undefined and unsolved problem seems to be the occurrence of the BSE of cattle in Great Britain. It may be regarded as a new and intermediate form of a latent and apparent disease of animals which may be dangerous by an unknown way also for men. Since the seventies of this century, the interest of veterinary medicine was focussed also onto residue levels within the products from food animals. These are caused by "substances with pharmacological efficacy", illegally handled by agronoms or veterinarians or by "poisons from the contaminated environment" provoked by industrial emission or manipulations by men. A classical task of food hygiene within the veterinary medicine is to protect the consumer from being taken advantage of through the sale of products containing substantial disregulatory structures of animal tissues. |
9451836 | Cloning and sequence analysis of a catechol 2,3-dioxygenase gene from the nitrobenzene-degrading strain Comamonas sp JS765. | Comamonas sp strain JS765 utilizes nitrobenzene as a carbon and nitrogen source. The initial attack on nitrobenzene is carried out by nitrobenzene 1,2-dioxygenase, which converts nitrobenzene to an unstable nitrohydrodiol that spontaneously poses to form catechol and nitrite. Catechol is then degraded via a meta cleavage pathway. We now report the cloning of a DNA fragment carrying a catechol 2,3-dioxygenase gene from JS765. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed three open reading frames (ORFs) predicted to encode proteins of 33.6, 13.0, and 35.0 kDa. Homology searches of the deduced amino acid sequences of three proteins suggested that ORF1 encodes a LysR-type transcriptional regulator, ORF2 encodes a XylT-type ferredoxin, and ORF3 encodes a catechol 2,3-dioxygenase. The putative regulatory gene, designated cdoR, is divergently transcribed from the ferredoxin and catechol dioxygenase genes, cdoT and cdoE, respectively. The catechol 2,3-dioxygenase is most similar in amino acid sequence to the 1.2.C subfamily of extradiol dioxygenases which include 3-methylcatechol 2,3-dioxygenase from the aniline- and toluidine-degrading Pseudomonas putida UCC2, TbuE from the toluene monooxygenase pathway of Pseudomonas pickettii PKO1 and catechol 2,3-dioxygenase II from the TOL plasmid pWW15. The substrate range of the catechol 2,3-dioxygenase produced by the binant E. coli strains was very similar to that of the enzyme present in nitrobenzene-grown JS765, suggesting that we have cloned the catechol 2,3-dioxygenase gene required for nitrobenzene degradation. |
9451844 | [Antithrombin III activity in health cats and its changes in selected disease]. | Measurements of the antithrombin III (AT III) activity in feline plasma with a thrombin dependent chromogenic substrate assay using an automatic analyzer showed a high within run precision. The coefficient of variance was 1.82% (normal AT III activity) or 3.19% (decreased AT III activity), respectively. parison with the feline pool plasma the AT III activity in canine plasma was similar (93.7%) and in human reference plasma was lower (71.7%). Respecting healthy cats aged more than three months no distinct influence could be demonstrated on the AT III activity neither of age nor of gender (p = 0.2180). Based on the 2.5%- and 97.5%- quantile the reference range was 83.5-122.5% respecting the total number of healthy cats (n = 138) or 82.6-121.5% concerning the 116 European Shorthair cats. AT III activity of cats infected with feline immunodeficiency virus (n = 37) or teline leukemia virus (n = 20) as well as of cats suffering from different solitary tumors (n = 8) was not distinctly different from the control group (p > 0.05). On the contrary, a significant decrease of AT III activity was found in traumatized cats (n = 20; median = 80.8%, p < 0.0001) as well as in animals with chronic renal failure (n = 20; median = 91.7%, p = 0.0228) which can be mainly attributed to a consumption reaction or excessive renal loss, respectively. |
9451843 | [Current information on the composition and breed distribution of urinary stones in dogs]. | 5706 canine urinary stones were analyzed by means of infrared spectroscopy from 1984-1996. The stones were sent in together with epidemiologic data (breed, age, sex, localisation of the stones, type of stone removal, stone frequency etc.) by more than 800 veterinarians from Germany, the Netherlands, Austria, and Switzerland. Irrespective of stone type, urinary stones were observed in almost all breeds, but small breeds like dachshound, poodle, terrier, schnauzer, and pekingese have a higher tendency to form stones. With 59.5% struvite is the most frequent stone type, followed by cystine with 15.5%. Cystine stones are ing less frequent during the observation time, whereas the share of calcium oxalate (14.2%) and ammonium urate (6.0%) stones remains unchanged. The latter stone types are found predominantly in specific breeds. The stone formation appears predominantly at the age of 7. Male dogs form stones twice as often as female dogs. 98% of the stones were located in the lower urinary tract. About 90% of the urinary stones required surgical treatment. |
9451837 | Genetics of naphthalene and phenanthrene degradation by Comamonas testosteroni. | Naphthalene and phenanthrene have long been used as pounds to investigate the ability of bacteria to degrade polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The catabolic pathways have been determined, several of the enzymes have been purified to homogeneity, and genes have been cloned and sequenced. However, the majority of this work has been performed with fast growing Pseudomonas strains related to the archetypal naphthalene-degrading P. putida strains G7 and NCIB 9816-4. Recently Comamonas testosteroni strains able to degrade naphthalene and phenanthrene have been isolated and shown to possess genes for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon degradation that are different from the canonical genes found in Pseudomonas species. For instance, C. testosteroni GZ39 has genes for naphthalene and phenanthrene degradation which are not only different from those found in Pseudomonas species but are also arranged in a different configuration. C. testosteroni GZ42, on the other hand, has genes for naphthalene and phenanthrene degradation which are arranged almost the same as those found in Pseudomonas species but show significant divergence in their sequences. |
9451845 | [Changes in hemostasis in dogs with chronic renal insufficiency]. | The study enclosed 30 dogs with severe or end stage chronic renal failure showing distinctly increased concentrations of urea and creatinine. In most of the 15 cases, where a pathologic-histological investigation of the kidney was carried out, a glomerulonephritis was observed (n = 11), partly panied by an interstitial nephritis or tubulonephrosis, respectively. Compared to the control group (n > or = 100) the most significant changes were the distinctly increased concentrations of fibrinogen (6.22 [2.95-11.83] g/l; median [minimum-maximum]) and activity of the coagulation factors V (median = 165%), VII (198%), X (176%), VIII:C (154%), and IX (178%) as well as of protein C (147%) (each: p < 0,0001 [Mann-Whitney-Test]). Thereby, the latter does not contribute to hypercoagulability in dogs with chronic renal insufficiency. The activity of antithrombin III was clearly diminished (69[41-112]%), and was closely correlated to the albumin concentration (r = 0.7000; p = 0.001) reflecting the joint renal loss of these proteins of nearly a size. Surprisingly a reagent dependent prolongation of the activated partial thromboplastin time appeared. Against that, a corresponding diminution of the activity of single coagulation factors was demonstrated only seldom, reaching only a small degree, and related almost exclusively to the contact activating system. Compared to the respecting reference range the concentrations of soluble fibrin or fibrin degradation products were increased in 15 or 21 (of 29) samples, and were, thereby, significantly higher than in the control group (p < 0.0001). This reflects the enhanced intravascular coagulation occurring possibly limited to the region of the renal alteration that should be more noticed in therapy. |
9451846 | [Influence of species of animal on radionuclide metabolism (review)]. | With special regard to radiojodine, radiocesium and radiostrontium a review is given parative metabolism of some nuclides in various species. From data regarding exposure, absorption, distribution, retention and excretion of radionuclides species specific peculiarities are suggested which, in a fundamental manner, concern the toxicological evaluation of radionuclides as well as the possibilities of inter-specific extrapolation and the estimation of the transfer of radionuclides through the food chain. |
9451847 | [Cortisol levels in blood and urine of trotting horses]. | Statistical analysis of normally occurring cortisol levels in serum and urine of horses served to mend thresholds for this corticosteroid in these body fluids, as application of exogenous cortisol as well as ACTH may elevate the cortisol concentrations above the proposed threshold. The present study contributes to the general issue of how to establish thresholds for trotting horses upon sportive examination. 100 randomly selected petition serum and urine samples, respectively, were submitted to cortisol analysis by means of HPLC. Concentrations of the endogenous corticosteroid in serum and urine followed a log-normal distribution with mean values of 61 and 49 ng/ml, respectively. The probability was 1: 100,000 to exceed concentration limits of 230 (serum) and 394 ng/ml (urine). Designation of thresholds for cortisol has proven problematic and is discussed here. |
9451848 | [PARS--a software program for pathologic anatomic diagnosis of wild animals]. | puter programme (PARS) was designed for the collection of Pathological-Anatomical References of the Institute for Zoo Biology and Wildlife Research. We systemized more than 40,000 postmortem cases in order to develop a data bank for wild animal pathology. The PARS-programme was designed on the basis of PARADOX 7 for WINDOWS. As a netwoking programme with a central server it offers direct access to the data of the IZW case documentation for all scientists. In order to minimize desk work, the programme contains tables of zoological systemic (amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals) as well as tables for systemic assignment (bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, helminths and arthropods) for mon species. The records and findings of the necropsies can be printed immediately. |
9451855 | [Nematode and trematode fauna of the muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus LINK, 1795) in Lower Saxony]. | From January 1995 to December 1995, 991 muskrats were examined for the occurrence and the regional prevalence of nematodes and trematodes. The muskrats were trapped in all parts of Lower Saxony. 77.2% of the studied population were less than one year old, 22.8% were older. The male to female ratio was 54.5% to 45.5%. One genus of nematodes, Trichuris spp., was found in the colon in 1.9% of the animals in the south of the investigated area. A species differentiation was not possible, as exclusively female parasites had been found. Additionally, two genera of trematodes (Echinostoma spp. and Quinqueserialis quinqueserialis) belonging to two different families were detected in 2.5% of the muskrats. In the north of the investigated area the prevalence was significantly higher than in the south. As to the echinostomatides, no species-differentiation was made because, according to KANEV (1985), many echinostomatides have not been described correctly in the past. Some echinostomatides cannot be differentiated until today. There was no statistically significant correlation between parasite infections and sex of the animals. Concerning Echinostoma spp. and Quinqueserialis quinqueserialis, a highly significant correlation was found between the age of the muskrats and the trematode-infections. Young animals were infected more often than older animals, none of the younger animals was infected with Trichuris spp. |
9451856 | [Reactions of non pregnant and and of cattle at different stages of pregnancy from the Holstein Friesian breed (HF) and from the old type German black and white breed (DSB) exposed to transport stress: variation and individual reaction patterns of hormone metabolic and hematologic variables]. | Breeding animal transports between parts of our institute were used assessing effects of age of animals, of breed, of their functional state and of individual specificity of reaction patterns using peripheral venous blood samples. Increased mean values of Hb, Hk, body temperature, total protein, albumin, FT4, T4, FT3, T3, cortisol, adrenaline and decreased ones of body weight, Pa, Fe, noradrenaline were found after transport stress. Comparing age matched groups of DSB and HF breed higher concentrations of total protein, creatinine, lactate, cortisol, FT4, T3 and FT3 and lower ones of albumin, blood urea and Fe could be observed in animals of DSB breed before and after transport. Strong correlations existed on 14 variables within animals before and after transport stress meaning there could be individual specificity of some blood parameters. |
9451857 | [Demonstration of tissue lesions after intramuscular injection by determination of creatine kinase in blood]. | Local muscle tissue damage by Terramycin-LA (20 mg/kg BM) injected at the neckmuscle was tested with seven pigs prepared with veneous catheters. Four of the pigs were used as the control group and were treated with an intramuscular injection of 0.9% NaCl-solution into the opposite neckmuscle later on. The tissue damage was clinically, pathologically and enzymatically examined. A significant rise of creatinkinase (CK) in bloodplasma up to 48 hours after intramuscular injection of Terramycin-LA proves to be a good indicator of local muscle damage. Based on enzymekinetic calculations it was possible to estimate the amount of muscle laesions after intramuscular injection of Terramycin-LA up to 13 g/100 kg BM and of NaCl-solution up to 0.5 g/100 kg BM respectively. The difference is significant. |
9451858 | [Estimation of body composition based on total body water determination using phenazone for assessment of body fat gain in cattle. 1. Relationship between body fat content and live weight]. | position based on total body water analysis using phenazone were estimated in 251 beef heifers, aged 3 to 17 months, 27 beef bulls aged 15 months and 200 Holstein dairy cows of different age and stage of lactation. Correlation coefficients between body fat content and live weight were estimated to be between 0.59 and 0.97 for groups of animals. In beef heifers there was a fat gain of 294 g per live weight gain of 1 kg, in beef bulls 247g, in cows until third lactation 418 g and 731 g respectively 791 g in entirely full-grown cows. Cows of first lactation showed loss in body fat content with simultaneous gain in live weight. Hence, using body weight for assessment of change in body fat content is dependent on special prerequisites, which will be discussed. |
9451852 | [Insulinomas--nesidioblastomas. Clinical experience]. | Between 1980 and 1996, 16 patients (10 women) with pathologically confirmed insulinomas were operated on; they represents a median of 0.9 per year and 1.1 per cent from the total of pancreatic tumors. Median age was 47.2 (+/- 22.8) years old (range 23-68). Insulinomas occurred with following frequency in: head--2 patients, body and tail--11 patients and diffuse forms (nesidioblastomas)--3 patients. The specific clinical forms only with tumoral syndrome (without hypoglycemic manifestations) and one was an intraoperative discovery. In the case of the four patients two presented with splenic-portal hypertension +/- upper digestive haemorrhages and the other two only tumoral syndrome. The surgical approach was: the midline (ten), uni- or bilateral subcostal (five), and other incisions one. There were performed tumor exeresis through: enucleation (three), segmentary pancreatectomies (two), spleno-left-pancreatectomies (nine) and the extension of an anterior pancreatectomy (one). In one case biopsy alone was done. The tumors were not intraoperatively identified in three cases (blind left spleno-pancreatectomies). The malignancy index was 4/16 (25 per cent). Postoperative mortality rate was 12.5 per cent (two patients: one acute necrotizing pancreatitis and one pulmonary embolism). |
9451859 | Toxicity of Piper abyssinica seeds to Nubian goats. | An investigation is described in which Nubian goats were given daily oral doses of Piper abyssinica seeds at 0.25; 1 and 5 g/kg body weight. The results of liver and kidney function tests were correlated with the clinical and pathological changes. In goats receiving the plant seed at 5 g/kg body weight/day, death occurred within 5-14 days and the main signs were bloated rumen, diarrhoea, dysponoea and ataxia. Enterohepatonephropathy was panied by increases in the activity of serum ALP and GGT, in the concentration of cholesterol, globulin, total lipids and urea and decreases in the level of albumin. Piper seed was toxic but not lethal to goats at doses of 0.25 and 1 g/kg body weight. |
9451860 | [Technical aspects of extraction of platelet concentrates from dogs with an automated cell separator]. | The results of this work point out that the cell separator AS 104 (Fresenius AG, Bad Homburg), which is developed to obtain platelet concentrates from human beings, can be used for dogs. The base adjustment of the cell separator for human beings (adjustment I) is useful, because of the high yield [platelet count (median): 1.75 x 10(11)] and quality [low leucocyte- (40/microliter) and erythro count (10 x 10(3)/microliter)]. In addition, there was no clear difference between the base adjustment (adjustment I) and an empirical modification (adjustment II). The platelet count of the donor dog decreased during the separation by approximately 140,000/microliter and reached the initial value after four days. Supplementary, the time course of the haematocrit and the concentrations of albumin, total protein and total calcium of the donor dog were measured. It should be mentioned that the concentrations of ionized calcium distinctly decreased during the separation. Synchronously, the concentrations of ionized calcium and of citrat reached the starting-counts 3-4 hours after the ending of the separation. |
9451853 | [Liver transplantation. I. Its history. The indications. Clinical efficacy]. | The aim of this study is to present the actual indications of the liver transplantation in adult as well as in children patients. A parative study based on the already published reports in Europe and in the United States has been done in order to analyse the survival rates for different liver diseases subjected to liver transplantation, as well as the prevalence of these nosologic entities in different hepato-biliary centers. Such an analysis is badly needed in Romania, where the prevalence of liver diseases is relatively high, and in the context of the initiation of transplantation in our country. |
9451854 | [The diagnosis and surgical treatment in the case of 2 rare sites of hydatid cyst in children]. | In the Clinic of Paediatric surgery of the Hospital "Gr. Alexandrescu" there have been hospitalized and operated 2 cases of hydatic cyst within 1990-1993. The both patients had tumoural structures, one of them being placed on left axillary area (S.E.--11 years old) and the other on the left thigh (M.S.--5 years old). The both patients have been surgically operated, the said tumoural structures being eradicated. The anatomic-pathological examination attested that for the both patients the diagnosis was the hydatic cysts are localized on pulmonary, hepatic or splenic areas, we considered to be interesting to inform you about details of two rare localization of this disease. |
9451861 | Changes in blood ionized calcium and some other blood parameters before and after replacement of a left-sided displaced abomasum in dairy cattle. | Concentrations in ionized calcium and some other blood parameters including total calcium, magnesium, inorganic phosphate, sodium, potassium, chloride, acid-base and hematological parameters of 15 German Holstein dairy cows were studied before and after surgical replacement of a left sided displaced abomasum. Mild hemoconcentration and hypochloremia were characteristic findings. These parameters tended to e normal within a few days after surgery. Hypocalcemia and low plasma potassium levels were not characteristic in this study, suggesting that hypocalcemia does not play an important role in the initiation of LDA. It can be supposed from this study that the severity of pathological blood findings depends more on the rate of malfunction of the abomasum than on the length of existence of LDA. |
9451862 | [Consequence of frequent moving among stalls on the economics of swine fattening]. | In an industrial pig productions unit the weaned piglets of 20 sows were assigned to two Groups. The Groups were treated as follows: Group one (99 piglets of 10 sows): the pigs were kept in the same pen of the unit from birth until slaughter and received no prophylactic medication. If illness occurred, only the individual pig was treated. Group two (102 piglets of 10 sows): according to standard operating procedures on this farm, the pigs assigned to Group two were moved during the growing-fattening period three times, having received after moving into Flat-Deck and into the growing-fattening house for one week prophylactic antibiotic treatment. If illness occurred, only the individual pig was treated. The following Parameter were evaluated: A: Mortality B: Food Conversion C: Medicine expenses D: Stress related diseases E: Infectious diseases F: Age at slaughter at 100 kg live weight G: Revenue differences between the Groups The Group one showed regarding all investigated Parameters, pared to the Group two, markedly better results and 15.58 Deutsche Mark cheeper production cost per pig. These result shows, that moving pigs among houses markedly influences the economics in fattening units. |
9451863 | Diagnosis of chronic camel trypanosomosis by detection of the antibody of trypanosome tyrosine aminotransferase. | Sera from animals with acute and chronic T. evansi infections were examined directly for trypanosome tyrosine aminotransferase activity and indirectly for the ability of these area from mice and camels with high parasitaemias contained significant levels of trypanosome tyrosine aminotransferase activity. In contrast the chronic sera from both mice and camels did not contain significant tyrosine aminotransferase activity but the chronic sera were able to neutralize the enzyme activity in trypanosome homogenates. In addition to the sera from other pathological conditions did not neutralize the enzyme activity. It is suggested that the inhibitory factor in the chronic sera is antibody. The potential use of the direct enzyme assay, and the indirect neutralization assay as diagnostic tools are discussed. Finally, the use of these assays to distinguish between early (acute) and late (chronic) infections are also suggested. |
9451864 | [Selenium content in blood of cattle in the Weser-Ems region and effects of Se fertilization of pasture grounds on Se levels in growth and in blood dairy cattle with extreme selenium deficiency]. | The evaluation of 1.974 selenium levels in samples of bovine blood mainly from the Weser-Ems region showed a high rate of selenium deficiency in calves, young cattle and heifers ante partum. More than 50% of cows showed Se deficiency, too. After fertilizing of pasture grounds exhibiting extreme selenium deficiency with 35 g of selenium per hectare, the authors found significantly positive effects on plant selenium levels and in blood of grazing young cattle. At the same time, the selenium contents in blood of the control animals decreased extremely as the result from being cut off from the selenium supply in the young stock shed during winter time. |
9451865 | [Radiotherapy of localized prostatic carcinoma]. | 112 patients with localized prostate cancer, clinical stage A2-C, were treated by definitive radiotherapy between 1982-1988. Radiation volume passed the prostate, seminal vesicles and pelvic lymph nodes. The 10-year actuarial survival figures were: overall 51%; stage A2 87%; stage B 50%; stage C 36%; well differential tumors 67%; moderately differentiated 50%; poorly differentiated 32%; patients with local tumor control 55%; and patients with minimal local control 36%. It is concluded that external beam irradiation is effective in localized prostatic cancer. Stage and grade are prognosticators of survival. |
9451866 | [Compulsory, ambulatory psychiatric treatment]. | The Treatment of Mentally Sick Persons Law of 1955, was repealed and replaced by the Law of 1991. Under the latter, the Order for Compulsory Ambulatory Treatment (OCAT) was addressed for the first time (Section 11, a-d). According to this law, the district psychiatrist instead of issuing a hospitalization order, may issue an OCAT, under which the required treatment is given within the scope of a clinic which he designates, for up to 6 months and under conditions which he specifies. This is done on the basis of psychiatric examination, or an application in writing from the director of a hospital or clinic, when continued ambulatory treatment is needed after discharge from hospital or instead pulsory hospitalization. The district psychiatrist may extend the period of treatment for further periods, none of which is to exceed 6 months. Compulsory ambulatory treatment is to enable patients to benefit from the positive aspects of living freely in munity, while receiving prompt treatment pulsory conditions. The concept offers a partial solution, achieving a balance between civil liberties and clinical needs, between over-confinement and under-treatment which might be dangerous or neglectful. The clinical impression has been that the OCAT has not fulfilled expectations. The purpose of this study was to examine the topic in a systematic way in Jerusalem and the southern districts for the 4 years since inception of the law. In 44.4% of cases OCAT was proven to be effective, while in 33.1% it was found to be ineffective and did not pulsory hospitalization, one of its main goals. It was partially effective in the rest of the cases. It is mended that suitable means for the enforcement of the law be allocated and that the subject of forceful hospitalization and OCAT be made a mandatory subject in the residency program of psychiatrists. |
9451867 | [Sunscreen use in an urban Negev population]. | The use of sunscreen in the Negev population was assessed. The study population included 1458 subjects, mean age 35.5 +/- 14.2 years, half born in Israel and 25% in East Europe. Two-thirds were exposed to the sun 1-2 hours a day and 13% 4 hours a day or more. Only about 15% used sunscreen while shopping, 69% used it at the beach, and less than half applied it to children being sent to school. Sunscreen use was greater in women (p < 0.000001), especially those with sensitive skin (p < 0.0001) and red hair (p < 0.0001). No significant association was found with age, education or country of birth. |
9451868 | [Evolving role of radiation therapy in nonmalignant disorders]. | Various nonmalignant disorders have traditionally been treated with radiation therapy. It has pletely been discontinued due to reports of secondary malignancy. During the past 15 years there has been an evolving role for radiation therapy in various nonmalignant disorders such as meningioma, A-V malformation, prevention of vascular restenosis and heterotopic bone formation. Appropriate follow-up of such patients for diagnosis of secondary malignancy is mended. Radiation therapy should be carefully considered in diseases not successfully treated with conventional means. |
9451869 | [Primary subclavian vein thrombosis after intensive physical exertion]. | Subclavian vein thrombosis accounts for approximately 1-2% of recorded deep venous thromboses. It may be primary or secondary, and insertion of a central venous catheter is the mon cause of secondary subclavian vein thrombosis. Traumas, anatomic abnormalities and carcinoma are important additional risk factors for secondary thrombosis. Primary thrombosis of the subclavian veins is known as Paget-Schroetter syndrome. New criteria for its diagnosis include a history of increased upper extremity use prior to onset of symptoms, the presence of a venographically demonstrated thrombus and absence of any definable causes. We describe a 42-year-old woman with a history of intensive physical exertion admitted with swelling, pain and difficulty moving her arm. The diagnosis of primary subclavian vein thrombosis was established from the history of physical effort, results of Doppler ultrasound, and exclusion of other causes of subclavian vein thrombosis. This case suggests that primary subclavian vein thrombosis should be considered in young patients with subclavian vein thrombosis after exclusion of secondary disease. |
9451870 | [Pyogenic liver abscess in children]. | 2 children with pyogenic liver abscesses were hospitalized during the past 2 years. A 6-year-old boy had high fever and hepatomegaly, and a large liver abscess was found in the right hepatic lobe. Streptococcus milleri was isolated from the pus. Treatment with bination of prolonged drainage of the abscess and antibiotic therapy was successful. A 4-month-old girl who had prolonged fever was found to have osteomyelitis of 3 thoracic vertebrae and 2 liver abscesses in the right lobe. She was treated successfully with broad spectrum antibiotics. Additional workup revealed that she had chronic granulomatous disease. |
9451871 | [Acquired torticollis in hospitalized children]. | Torticollis results from various pathological mechanisms, and its elucidation depends on identifying diseases of musculoskeletal, neural and ocular tissues. This study characterized the underlying diseases of children hospitalized with torticollis, excluding congenital torticollis. Records of 36 children with torticollis seen during 4 years were reviewed and categorized according to presumed etiology. Most could be classified into 2 categories: in 39% it was due to trauma and in 36% to upper respiratory tract infection. Most girls were in the first group and most boys in the second group. There were 3 cases of ocular torticollis due to superior-oblique muscle palsy, 1 with a post-burn eschar, 2 with neurological disorders (intramedullary cervical astrocytoma and leukodystrophy with macrencephaly), and in 3 no associated cause was found. There was a clear seasonal trend with 58% of cases presenting from November through February, 33% from April through July, and the rest, of neurological or ocular origin, during the rest of the year. In cases of post-traumatic torticollis 21% had neurological symptoms such as weakness of the limbs, headaches or incontinence. Only a few had prior upper respiratory tract infection. All children whose torticollis was assigned to infection had had fever. Only 8% had had plaints or vomiting, half of whom presented with fever exceeding 37.5 degrees C. 46% had restriction of movement and 38% had tenderness. In over 60% of those in this group there were signs of an upper respiratory tract infection, such as lymphadenopathy or a white blood cell count exceeding 15,000/microliter, 3 patients with recurrent torticollis were diagnosed as having severe neurological diseases. Mean hospitalization time was 4 days (range 1-28). Hospitalization periods were similar for all kinds of patients and treatment by traction or fixation did not affect this period. |
9451872 | [Airbag-associated ocular trauma]. | Airbags have received widespread recognition as an effective means of enhancing automobile safety. They are particularly effective in frontal and front angle collisions which otherwise would be fatal or cause serious injuries. Inflation of the bag helps protect the driver and front-seat-passenger from hitting the steering wheel, dashboard or windshield. In frontal crashes airbags have reduced driver deaths, hospital admission rates, and incidence of brain injury. On the other hand, an increasing variety of airbag-associated organ injuries has been reported, including blunt ocular and chemical trauma, 2 cases of ocular trauma due to airbags which resulted in choroidal rupture with disastrous e in terms of visual acuity are presented. Since the very first report in May 1991 of airbag-associated ocular trauma until June 1996, there has apparently been only 1 case of choroidal rupture due to airbag-associated trauma, presented in 1 sentence of a brief report. Although airbag-related eye trauma may be relatively infrequent, the severity of the injuries incurred, especially when the posterior segment of the eye was involved, warrants research on new airbag design that minimizes the risk of ocular injury. Meanwhile all cases of airbag-associated ocular trauma should be reported, so that medical staff, the general population and car manufacturers will e more aware of this medical issue. |
9451883 | [Trauma registry database]. | Trauma registry is vital for every trauma center. In 1995, data on all injured patients who reached our trauma unit were collected. 3.040 patients were hospitalized, of whom 416 were transferred from other hospitals. We describe the distribution of the patients to in-patient wards and present the relationship between mortality and injury severity score. 1102 hospitalized patients underwent a total of 1599 operations with an overall mortality of 2.63%. |
9451884 | [ATLS course for surgery residents--should it be mandatory?]. | Senior surgeons were asked about mandatory participation of general surgery residents in the advanced trauma life support (ATLS) course. Although trauma care in Israel is given by surgical residents, in the opinion of their senior mentors the course should continue to be mandatory for them. |
9451886 | [Technetium 99-m sestamibi bone scan in musculo-skeletal neoplasms]. | It is often difficult to assess accurately the nature of a skeletal lesion. Problems include differentiating a malignant from a benign bone tumor, as well as determining the cause of a pathologic fracture. Such fractures may occur through osteoporotic bone as well as through neoplasm-affected bone. Thus, development of an imaging modality capable of distinguishing between such lesions is of importance. During 1996, we ran a prospective study in which results of Tc-99m-methyl-diphosphate (MDP) bone scans pared with those of sestamibi (MIBI) bone scans and with subsequent biopsy and clinical course. The results of the bone scans were assessed by 2 independent "blinded" observers, and the ratios of counts in lesions to those in normal tissue (L/N ratios) were calculated. In cases of malignant (7) and benign (8) tumors, intensity of uptake in MDP scans were not predictive of degree of aggressiveness. On the other hand, MIBI bone scans demonstrated significant difference in intensity of uptake between benign and malignant bone tumors (L/N ratios 2.05 vs 2.75). In 5 of 8 benign lesions the L/N ratio was 1. In the others, increased uptake was minimal. In 2 patients changes in uptake in MIBI bone scan following chemotherapy appeared to be related to the degree of tumor necrosis achieved. While the MIBI bone scan cannot replace tissue biopsy as a definitive diagnostic modality in bone neoplasms, it does appear to allow better preoperative assessment and prognosis. |
9451885 | [Telling the bad news: do the elderly want to know their diagnoses and participate in medical decision making?]. | In view of reported changes in western countries in the preferred model of doctor-patient relations, we evaluated the wishes of elderly persons for open munication with regard to terminal disease. Data was collected in 1994 from 987 elderly persons (70+) by structured interviews. Most of respondents wanted munication and wished to be involved in medical decisions regarding life-sustaining treatment. However, only a minority tell their physicians and/or family members of their wishes. This suggests that most of the elderly expect physicians to be the first to initiate discussions of these issues. The results also indicate that among the elderly, those more educated, less religious, and those living in Israel longer, are more likely to want munication with their physicians. This is explained by the relationship of these characteristics with the dominant cultural values of this group, and its acceptable models of relations in other areas of life. |
9451887 | [Surgical approach to benign cecal ulcer]. | Benign cecal ulcer is a rare lesion, usually diagnosed during operation for suspected acute appendicitis or peritonitis of unknown origin. In the past, right hemicolectomy was mended as the treatment of choice because of the difficulty in differentiating malignant lesions from benign cecal ulcers. However, in recent reports a more conservative approach has been suggested, consisting of selective colectomy followed by frozen section biopsy. This approach is aimed at preventing unnecessary excision of the colon and conserving the ileocecal valve. We present a 47-year-old woman operated for right lower quadrant peritonitis, believed to be due to acute appendicitis. On exploration, a biopsy-proven benign cecal ulcer was found and resected. |
9451888 | [Central cord syndrome in the elderly who fall: a diagnostic trap]. | Acute post-traumatic spinal injury mon and usually poses no diagnostic difficulties. Following a low-energy fall, the onset of acute central cord syndrome in the elderly is mon and is frequently misdiagnosed. Men aged 60 and 81, and a woman aged 75 are described, in whom central cord syndrome was overlooked. Awareness of this condition is important to avoid incorrect diagnosis and hazardous management. |
9451889 | [Balance disturbances in children with middle ear effusions]. | Vertigo and dizziness are plaints in childhood, but probably present more often than has been thought. These symptoms, caused mainly by otitis media (OM) and middle ear effusion (MEE), are 2 of the mon diseases in children, and until recently had long been neglected in the literature and in practice. We determined objectively the incidence of balance-related symptoms in children with long-lasting MEE, and resolution following insertion of ventilation tubes (VT). 36 children, aged 4-9 years, were studied using electronystagmography (ENG) and the Bruininks-Oseretsky tests for motor proficiency, before and after ventilation of the middle ear. Results pared to those in 74 healthy children with no history of middle ear disease. Abnormal ENG findings were found in 58%, and 71% had low Bruininks-Oseretsky (BO) test scores. The ENG was abnormal in only 3 of the controls, 1 of whom also had low BO test scores. The symptoms and signs of balance disturbances resolved in 96% following VT insertion. These results indicate that balance-related symptoms often encountered in young children may result from chronic MEE, and that they resolve following evacuation of the effusion and ventilation of the middle ear. |
9451890 | [Incomplete penile amputation: diagnostic and therapeutic challenge]. | Traumatic penile amputation is a severe injury associated with a potential for multidisciplinary dysfunction. Since such injuries are rare, diagnostic and therapeutic experience is minimal. plete penile amputation is a straight-forward diagnosis, plete amputations are not as evident and diagnosis may be delayed. The therapeutic endpoint includes restoration of an acceptable appearance of the phallus and a urethral meatus that allows normal voiding. Other objectives include re-establishment of sexual potency and fertility. As in other amputations, the treatment of choice is meticulous microsurgical replantation, including re-anastomosis of dorsal and cavernosal arteries, the deep dorsal vein, the urethra and nerves, as well as suturing the tunica albuginea. While appropriate cosmetic results and normal voiding can be achieved in most cases, potency is less frequently achieved due to neurological deficit leading to impaired erection and loss of sensation. Penile amputation is thus plex therapeutic challenge, as meticulous anatomic reconstruction of blood vessels and nerves is essential for restoration of function. Since plete penile amputation may be overlooked when other more obvious injuries draw attention, this injury should be suspected in all cases of penetrating injury of the male genitalia. We present a 17-year-old man who sustained an plete penile amputation in a traffic accident. |
9451891 | [Preliminary experience with laparoscopic repair of inguinal hernias]. | During 1992-1996 we performed 163 laparoscopic hernia repairs in 100 men and 2 women. The mean age was 50.6; and in 61 the operation was bilateral, 66 were by transabdominal preperitoneal approach and 36 by total extra-peritoneal approach. There were only a few plications and total recurrence rate was only 4.3%, partly attributable to our learning curve. Laparoscopic inguinal herniorrhaphy reduces postoperative incisional and muscular pain and causes less disruption in the postoperative period than open repair. Return to normal activity and work is faster for laparoscopic than for open repair, but operating room costs are higher (time and equipment). However, economic advantages for the national economy should be considered. |
9451892 | [Bromocriptine for refractory rheumatoid arthritis]. | In recent years prolactin (PRL) has emerged as an important immunomodulator in various autoimmune disorders. Bromocriptine (BRC) is a dopamine agonist that suppresses secretion of PRL. Good clinical response to BRC has been reported in patients with psoriatic arthritis, Reiter's syndrome, and systemic lupus erythematosus. 5 mg of BRC at bedtime were given to 5 patients (aged 35-50) with refractory rheumatic arthritis (RA) who had failed to respond to previous treatment with at least 2 disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs. Patients were assessed at 4-6 week intervals for 6 months, 3 showed more than 25% improvement in the number of tender and swollen joints at 12 weeks of treatment. However, in only 2 of them was improvement maintained till the end of the 6 months. There were no changes in other measures of disease activity, 1 patient dropped out of the study due to acute exacerbation of her disease 4 weeks after initiation of BRC and required intra-articular injections of corticosteroid. The remaining patient did not show any significant clinical changes. No correlation was found between serum PRL levels and disease activity over time. It is suggested that some patients with refractory RA might improve with BRC. Its use in larger doses in larger groups of patients may help elucidate its role in the treatment of RA. |
9451893 | [The parapharyngeal space: tumors and surgical approaches]. | The potential parapharyngeal space contains the great vessels of the neck, cranial nerves IX-XII, the sympathetic chain and lymph nodes. Surgical access is difficult and the infrequency of tumors in it make surgery of this part of the head and neck a challenge, 8 women and 2 men (mean age 54.7, range 31-70 years) with tumors of the parapharyngeal space operated on during the past 6 years are presented. The mon surgical approach was the cervical submandibular, used in 6 of our patients with relative ease and plications. Tumors of deep lobe parotid origin should be operated through a transparotid approach. Large benign or malignant tumors have a better prognosis when the transcervical transmandibular approach is used, providing wider access. |
9451894 | [Postoperative ulnar nerve palsy of the elbow]. | Ulnar nerve neuropathy of the elbow is a plication of surgery involving general anesthesia. In 13 patients, aged 21-76 years, ulnar nerve palsy developed at various times and of varying degrees of severity during the postoperative period. Diagnosis was based on clinical and electrophysiological findings. 3 patients had subclinical entrapment of the ulnar nerve. All were treated conservatively by rest, splinting and physical therapy: 10 improved slowly with time and 3 were operated on, but only 1 recovered fully. Preventive measures, such as proper positioning on the operative table, use of elbow pads, avoiding adduction of the arm, pronation of the forearm and prolonged elbow flexion, may reduce the incidence of ulnar nerve palsy. Unfortunately, treatment of established lesions has yielded mixed results. |
9451903 | [New approach to the management of gastrointestinal tumor]. | The author summarizes the changes recently developed in the treatment of gastrointestinal tumors. He gives a detail analysis of stages of malignant diseases as well as he demonstrates the newest opinion about the lymphadenectomy, tumor resection, and new therapy modalities of liver metastases. |
9451904 | [Effect of combined captopril-spironolactone therapy of cardiac insufficiency on kidney function and serum electrolyte values]. | Author investigated the safety bined ACE inhibitor (captopril) and spironolacton therapy on 237 pts with severe heart failure (NYHA III-IV.) treated with digitalis and loop diuretic during on average 65.4 months follow-up period. Incidence of clinically significant increase in serum urea, creatinine and potassium level was evaluated pared with those of in group treated 47 pts with the same standard therapy captopril, digitalis, furosemide, without spironolacton. There was no significant difference between the incidence of azotemia and hyperkalemia in the two groups. The author emphasizes on the base of their results the safety bined captopril and low dose spironolactone therapy in heart failure. |
9451905 | [Changes in the cytokine concentration during immunotherapy of superficial bladder tumors]. | A growing number of data support the importance of urinary cytokines in the BCG immunotherapy of superficial bladder tumours. To investigate kinetics and stability, urinary levels of IL-8, IL-2 and IL-6 cytokines after BCG treatment, were determined. Significant elevation in the level of IL-8 was established immediately following the first BCG instillation and it reached its highest value 4-6 hours after the treatment. During the first three weeks of the treatment and follow-up period IL-8 peaked significantly earlier than IL-2 or IL-6. Its early appearance associated with high stability makes IL-8 a good candidate for being considered as an effective agent with high predictive value in BCG immunotherapy. |
9451906 | [DNA-based prenatal diagnosis in epidermolysis bullosa]. | Authors report a prenatal diagnosis in a family of Herlitz junctional epidermolysis bullosa with risk of recurrence. The diagnosis in the family was established in the case of the affected older brother using electron microscopy and immunofluorescence microscopy. The underlying mutation was also detected in the gene LAMB3. The affected older brother was homozygous, the parents and one of the siblings proved to be heterozygous carriers for the mutation and the other sibling was genotypically normal. The chorionic villous sample biopsy was carried out in the 11, week of pregnancy in order to extract fetal desoxyribonucleic acid. The previously detected mutation generates new restriction enzyme site, which was tested after the polymerase chain reaction amplification of the exon. Desoxyribonucleic acid samples of the family members and an unaffected unrelated control person were used as controls. The fetus proved to be genotypically normal. |
9451907 | [Management of hydatid disease of the lung]. | Cystic echinococcosis is a worldwide zoonose which is not infectious from man to man occurring seldom in our country. The diagnosis and the treatment of a case of a 4-year-old girl with large left-sided lung cyst were presented. Diagnosis was based on history, clinical findings, imaging techniques (conventional X-ray examination, puter tomography), eosinophilia (7-50%) in blood smear, leucocytosis (28,000), increased sedimentation of blood (85 mm/hour), significantly elevated antibody against of Echinococcus in immunodiagnostic test (passive haemagglutination) with high sensitivity and specificity, light microscopic radiological and scanning electronmicroscopic analysis of cyst content. Continuous thoracic drainage, twice percutan drainage under CT guidance and a new technique for treatment as Puncture-Aspiration-Injection-Respiration and lavage with hypertonic sodium chlorate, long-term chemotherapy with benzimidazole-carbamates (Vermox: 20 mg/kg/day, Zentel: 30-50 mg/kg/day) were reported. The cyst was grown down into a solid mass as large as 4 cm. The body-weight of this child has grown 6 kilograms and laboratory parameters were normalized. |
9451916 | [Women in veterinary medicine--thoughts on the possibility of integration in the professional world]. | In this article an attempt was made to analyze the professional situation of women in Switzerland. Although over 70% female students are registered in both Colleges of Veterinary Medicine in Switzerland, there are still very few women working full time in their later career. Furthermore, only very few female veterinarians are represented in higher positions, either in academia, industry or as head of private hospitals. Even though the professional environment would e those female students, it seems that other than professional reasons may be involved in this discrepancy. Family traditions, unrecognized patriarchal structures in education, but also in philosophical and psychological traditions may be responsible for the deep conflict between the external modern environment and the inner values of women, creating an unsurmountable obstacle for women bine a successful professional and private life. Ideas of how this could be arranged are presented. |
9451917 | [Serologic studies on the occurrence of bovine ehrlichiosis in the cantons Zürich, Schaffhausen, Thurgau, St. Gallen and Obwalden]. | The purpose of this study was to investigate the geographical distribution of bovine ehrlichiosis in the Cantons Zürich, Schaffhausen, Thurgau, St. Gallen and Obwalden. To this end, an indirect immunofluorescence assay was established. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity was estimated to be close to 100% based on the results obtained with several reference sera from the US National Veterinary Services Laboratories and the seroconversion panels of 20 heifers and cows. Blood samples from 2557 healthy cattle were tested for antibody response against Ehrlichia phagocytophila. Ninety-three animals (3.6%) were seropositive with titers ranging from 1:20 to 1:320. Most of the positive animals were found in the area north of lake Zürich spanning to the german border, in the area between Walensee and Bad Ragaz, the Rhine valley and Klein Melchtal. All seropositive animals had grazed on pastures or alps with a favourable biotope for the tick Ixodes ricinus. |
9451918 | [Recent data on the treatment of bovine hypodermyiasis using metrifonate (Neguvon) and ivermectin (Ivomec) in microdoses]. | Large scale preventive treatments against bovine hypodermosis have been performed in the Canton of Grisons and in different Jura areas. Either Metrifonate (Neguvon 10% spot-on, Bayer AG) or Ivermectin "microdoses" (i.e. 0.1 ml Ivomec ad. inj-MSD AGVET-per animal) have been applied. The treatment of dairy cows with Neguvon at the then mended dose (24 ml/animal) showed a low efficacy of 80%, without any correlation to the date of treatment. An increase of the dose to 36 ml/animal revealed an efficacy of 93%, while a weight-dependent dose of 6 ml/100 kg body weight reduced the warble infestation by 97.3% without any drug-related side-effects. The few observed side-effects-salivation and mild meteorism--are likely to be due to the destruction of Hypoderma lineatum larvae in the gullet of treated cows. No case of abortion was reported. The Ivomec--"microdose" applied to young animals or dry cows showed an efficacy > 99.8%. The available drugs would thus allow a quick and efficacious control of bovine hypodermosis, provided they would be used systematically and at an appropriate dose in endemic areas. |
9451919 | Ultrasound spirometry in the horse: a preliminary report on the method and the effects of xylazine and lobeline hydrochloride medication. | A puterised ultrasound-based spirometry system according to Buess et al. (1995) modified by a double flow measurement facility was used to study pulmonary function in healthy horses and horses affected with subclinical and manifest chronic bronchiolitis (CB). The horses were first evaluated at rest without any medication. On another occasion all horses were tested following i.v. administration of xylazine (0.4 mg/kg) and following i.v. administration of lobeline hydrochloride (l.hy.; 0.2 mg/kg) to evaluate the effect of xylazine and l.hy. on different spirometric variables. Ultrasound-based spirometry proved to be an easily applicable method for lung function testing, even in difficult horses. However, there existed a pronounced physiological variation for all measured lung function parameters and no significant differences between healthy horses and horses with chronic bronchiolitis could be found except for the expiratory tidal volume (VTE p < 0.05). Individually, a marked decrease of variability from breath to breath following either xylazine and l.hy. administration could be observed for all parameters, except the flow-time-ratio (Tpef./ Texp.) and the flow-volume-ratio (Vpef./Vexp). |
9451926 | Antibiotic-resistant gram-positive cocci: implications for surgical practice. | Gram-positive infections are causing more serious infections than ever before in surgical patients, who are increasingly aged, ill, and debilitated. Invasive procedures disrupt natural barriers to bacterial invasion, and indwelling catheters may act as conduits for infection. The use of broad-spectrum antibiotics selects for the emergence of resistant pathogens. Potential sites of ial gram-positive infections include the urinary tract, surgical site (including prosthetic devices), intravascular loci, lung and pleural space, facial sinuses, and peritoneal cavity. Responsible organisms include species from the genera Enterococcus and Staphylococcus. Methicillin-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE) emerged during the 1970s, leading to a marked increase in the use of ycin as the treatment of choice. ycin use, in turn, has been implicated (along with widespread cephalosporin use) in the emergence of ycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) during the 1990s. Of great concern is the likely emergence of ycin-resistant staphylococci, which would constitute a public health emergency. ycin remains the treatment of choice for infections caused by MRSA/MRSE, but rampant inappropriate use (e.g., prophylaxis in non-penicillin-allergic patients, treatment of methicillin-sensitive strains) must be curtailed. Chloramphenicol is increasingly the treatment of choice for serious VRE infections. Infection control policy must also minimize the possibility of transmission. All infected or colonized patients should be isolated and all environmental surfaces considered contaminated. Disposable gloves are mandatory for all patient contact, even incidental contact, and must be disposed of after each patient encounter. Hand-washing (the single most effective infection control measure) is mandatory after glove disposal. Gowns should be worn for direct contact with infected patients and masks used when aerosolization or splashing of secretions is likely. |
9451927 | Surgical perspective on invasive Candida infections. | Invasive and disseminated Candida infections have e a major source of morbidity and mortality in the modern surgical intensive care unit. The mon risks for invasion and dissemination are the use of antibiotics, central venous lines, total parenteral nutrition, burns, immunosuppression, and other markers for severity of illness (APACHE > 10, ventilatory use for > 48 hours). Data suggest that colonization can be a late predictor of invasive disease in today's critically ill surgical patient and that prophylaxis or early treatment in high risk patients is warranted, particularly before invasive/disseminated disease es life-threatening. When advanced disease is present, the diagnosis of invasive or disseminated Candida infection is often prompted by clinical suspicion and supported by consistent clinical data; laboratory tests alone lack sufficient sensitivity and specificity to direct therapeutic decision-making. Once the diagnosis of invasive or disseminated Candida infection is ascertained, early systemic treatment, along with treatment of localized infection, is as fundamental as with any other serious infectious disease. Reported toxicity and efficacy supports the use of fluconazole for most patients with invasive/disseminated Candida infections. For the most critically ill surgical patient amphotericin B remains the treatment of choice. Prophylaxis and early treatment strategies with minimally toxic agents may diminish the need to use more toxic therapy in the most severely ill patients. |
9451928 | Burn wound infections: current status. | The burn wound represents a susceptible site for opportunistic colonization by organisms of endogenous and exogenous origin. Patient factors such as age, extent of injury, and depth of burn bination with microbial factors such as type and number of organisms, enzyme and toxin production, and motility determine the likelihood of invasive burn wound infection. Burn wound infections can be classified on the basis of the causative organism, the depth of invasion, and the tissue response. Diagnostic procedures and therapy must be based on an understanding of the pathophysiology of the burn wound and the pathogenesis of the various forms of burn wound infection. The time-related changes in the predominant flora of the burn wound from gram-positive to gram-negative recapitulate the history of burn wound infection. Proper clinical and culture surveillance of the burn wound permits early diagnosis of gram-positive cellulitis, and the stable susceptibility of beta-hemolytic streptococci to penicillin has eliminated the threat of this mon burn wound pathogen. Selection and dissemination of intrinsic and acquired resistance mechanisms increase the probability of burn wound colonization by resistant species such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Even so, effective topical antimicrobial chemotherapy and early burn wound excision have significantly reduced the overall occurrence of invasive burn wound infections. Individual patients, usually those with extensive burns in whom wound closure is difficult to achieve, may still develop a variety of bacterial and nonbacterial burn wound infections. Consequently, the entirety of the burn wound must be examined on a daily basis by the attending surgeon. Any change in wound appearance, with or without associated clinical changes, should be evaluated by biopsy. Quantitative cultures of the biopsy sample may identify predominant organisms but are not useful for making the diagnosis of invasive burn wound infection. Histologic examination of the biopsy specimen, which permits staging the invasive process, is the only reliable means of differentiating wound colonization from invasive infection. Identification of the histologic changes characteristic of bacterial, fungal, and viral infections facilitates the selection of appropriate therapy. A diagnosis of invasive burn wound infection necessitates change of both local and systemic therapy and, in the case of bacterial and fungal infections, prompt surgical removal of the infected tissue. Even after the wounds of extensively burned patients have healed or been grafted, burn wound monly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, may occur in the form of multifocal, small superficial abscesses that require surgical debridement. Current techniques of burn wound care have significantly reduced the incidence of invasive burn wound infection, altered the organisms causing the infections that do occur, increased the interval between injury and the onset of infection, reduced the mortality associated with infection, decreased the overall incidence of infection in burn patients, and increased burn patient survival. |
9451929 | Soft tissue infections. | Soft tissue infections vary widely in their nature and severity, and their nomenclature is confusing. A clear approach to management must allow rapid identification and treatment of the diffuse necrotizing infections because they are life-threatening. This review classifies soft tissue infections by their degree of localization and the presence of tissue necrosis. Most focal nonnecrotizing infections start in the skin or adnexae and are easily recognized and readily treated by local measures. Patients with cellulitis, monest diffuse nonnecrotizing infection, should be stratified from mild to severe plicated and then treated with oral or systemic antibiotics. Focal necrotizing infections are relatively mon, but they are readily diagnosed on sight and effectively managed by local debridement and systemic antibiotics. In contrast, diffuse necrotizing infections may masquerade in many forms, delaying diagnosis and treatment. Edema out of proportion to erythema, subcutaneous gas, and skin vesicles are important markers. Aggressive sequential debridement and broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics revised after 48 hours provide the best strategy for management. |
9451930 | Antibiotic therapy for abdominal infection. | Abdominal infections are treated by resuscitation, abdominal drainage, control of the source of infection, and antimicrobial agents. Ideally, antimicrobial therapy is active against expected pathogens, safe and effective in clinical trials, inexpensive, and unlikely to promote drug resistance. Numerous single-agent bination-drug regimens have been efficacious in clinical trials, based on coverage of Escherichia coli and Bacteroides species, the predominant pathogens isolated. Whether expanded antimicrobial coverage is required, especially in hospital-acquired infections, is controversial. Candida infections should be treated with antifungal therapy in patients with recurrent abdominal infections, immunosuppressed patients, and those with candidal abscesses. Most agents have few serious adverse effects; aminoglycosides are the least expensive agents but cause nephro- and ototoxicity. There is little information on the promotion of drug resistance in this condition. Recent developments include the introduction of ticarcillin/clavulanic acid, ampicillin/ sulbactam, piperacillin/tazobactam, meropenem, aztreonam/clindamycin, and ciprofloxacin/metronidazole; success with once-daily aminoglycosides; evidence that antibiotics limit plications of pancreatitis; controversy over the value of diagnostic cultures; the use of oral therapy; evidence in favor of shorter courses of treatment; and the introduction of pharmacoeconomic studies. Clinical investigators are challenged to improve drug trials by stratifying and controlling for the adequacy of surgical intervention. |
9451931 | Tertiary peritonitis: clinical features of a complex nosocomial infection. | The objective of this study was to define risk factors for and the clinical course of recurrent or tertiary peritonitis. Intensive supportive care of patients with life-threatening intraabdominal infections has led to the emergence of a new clinical syndrome, tertiary peritonitis, defined as the persistence or recurrence of intraabdominal infection following apparently adequate therapy of primary or secondary peritonitis. We undertook a retrospective study of 59 patients admitted with intraabdominal infection to a surgical intensive care unit (ICU). Tertiary peritonitis developed in 74% (44/59) of patients. parable premorbid health status, source of peritonitis, and admission APACHE II scores, patients with tertiary peritonitis had a significantly longer ICU stay (21.8 +/- 14.9 vs. 8.5 +/- 7.9 days), more advanced organ dysfunction reflected in higher organ dysfunction scores (13.3 +/- 5.1 vs. 7.7 +/- 3.3), and higher ICU mortality (64% vs. 33%) than patients with plicated secondary peritonitis. The mon infecting organisms in patients with tertiary peritonitis were Enterococcus, Candida, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Enterobacter. Infectious foci were rarely amenable to percutaneous drainage and were found to be poorly localized at laparotomy. Recurrent, or tertiary, peritonitis is plication of intraabdominal infection in patients admitted to an ICU. It differs from plicated secondary peritonitis in its microbial flora and lack of response to appropriate surgical and antibiotic therapy. Like ial pneumonia in the critically ill patient, the syndrome appears to be more a reflection than a cause of adverse e. |
9451932 | Selective gut decontamination in intensive care and surgical practice: where are we? | Selective decontamination of the digestive tract (SDD) has been widely studied in the intensive care setting. Despite the publication of more than 50 controlled trials, it remains a controversial subject, with widely disparate views on the role of SDD. This article reviews the use of SDD primarily by examining the areas of controversy. The published data seem to show clear evidence that SDD can reduce acquired infection during intensive care. Most individual studies have shown no effect on mortality, but meta-analyses suggest a 10% overall reduction in mortality. Despite the large number of publications to date, there remain several aspects worthy of further study. |
9451933 | Endothelial cells: role in infection and inflammation. | Infection and resulting sepsis continue to be important causes of morbidity and mortality in surgical patients. Although much has been learned about the pathogens and the leukocyte responses to these pathogens, we are only beginning to understand the role of the host in these pathologies. The endothelium is a dynamic participant in cellular and organ function rather than a static barrier as it was once believed. Emerging evidence implicates the endothelium as a central effector in the inflammatory response. Through the expression of surface proteins and secretion of soluble mediators, the endothelium controls vascular tone and permeability, regulates coagulation and thrombosis, and directs the passage of leukocytes into areas of inflammation. Derangements in these normal functions may contribute significantly to a maladaptive inflammatory response leading to systemic inflammation and multiple organ failure. |
9451934 | Role of the coagulation system in the local and systemic inflammatory response. | Activation of the coagulation cascade during the inflammatory response is an ponent of the host response to infection. Coagulation represents a double-edged sword. Necessary for hemostasis and the acute containment of an infective focus, it also amplifies the inflammatory response, decreases bacterial clearance, and in the critically ill patient contributes to end-organ damage and death. Evidence for these concepts is found in the fact that critically ill and septic patients consistently demonstrate marked abnormalities in their biochemical indices of coagulation. Moreover, there is excellent experimental evidence to suggest that replacement or inhibition of individual coagulation factors, either consumed or up-regulated during the inflammatory response, can attenuate both local and systemic injury and protect animals from otherwise fatal es. Based on these facts, novel therapeutic approaches to the treatment of the systemic response to infection have been developed and tested in intensive care settings. Although promising results have been obtained, much work remains to be done in defining exactly which coagulation factors bination of factors) should be inhibited or replaced during treatment of the septic, critically ill patient. The experimental and clinical evidence linking the coagulation cascade to local and systemic inflammation is reviewed, and the status of the clinical trials performed to date is overviewed. |
9451935 | Roles of nitric oxide in surgical infection and sepsis. | Recent advances in nitric oxide (NO) research have begun to elucidate the roles of NO in sepsis and infection. Although adequate levels of NO production are necessary to preserve perfusion and carry out cytoprotective functions in sepsis, overproduction appears to contribute to hemodynamic instability and tissue damage. These observations have led to the development of strategies to inhibit NO synthesis or scavenge excess NO in patients with septic shock. Local expression of the inducible NO synthase also has antimicrobial functions. bination of NO with superoxide forms peroxynitrite which participates in bacterial killing in the peritoneal cavity. The capacity of red blood cells and hemoglobin to remove NO most likely accounts for the adjuvant effect of blood in peritonitis. This review will summarize the pathobiology of NO in surgical sepsis and infection. |
9451936 | Reflex sympathetic dystrophy: model of a severe regional inflammatory response syndrome. | The systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and acute reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSD) share clinical signs of severe inflammation, a protracted course, and a similar problem of impaired oxygen utilization. The difference is that SIRS patients have these signs and symptoms systemically and are severely ill in the intensive care unit (ICU), whereas acute RSD patients are in good health and their problems are limited to one extremity. Both conditions seem to be the result of an exaggerated inflammatory response. As RSD patients have a healthy contralateral extremity, they may be their own control in various flux studies. It is hypothesized that this situation is exquisitely suitable for studying the pathophysiology of severe inflammatory responses in humans. Only a few patients are required to perform studies of, for example, oxygen metabolism and cytokine or oxygen radical production. Assessment methods may be utilized, such as nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, which cannot easily be performed in ICU patients. |
9451937 | Sepsis: stimulation of energy-dependent protein breakdown resulting in protein loss in skeletal muscle. | Muscle catabolism is a characteristic metabolic response to sepsis, severe infection, and injury. In patients with severe and protracted sepsis, the catabolic response results in muscle wasting and fatigue, which may adversely affect the e in these patients. An understanding of the regulation of muscle protein breakdown during sepsis and the mechanisms involved is important from a clinical standpoint and is essential for the development of new therapeutic modalities to prevent protein loss from muscle tissue. Studies in septic patients and experimental animals have provided evidence that the myofibrillar proteins actin and myosin are particularly sensitive to the effects of sepsis. Among the factors that regulate muscle protein breakdown during sepsis, the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-1, together with glucocorticoids, are the principal mediators. Intracellular protein breakdown is regulated by multiple proteolytic pathways. Among these, the energy-ubiquitin-dependent pathway accounts for a major portion of muscle protein breakdown during sepsis. The development of specific proteasome inhibitors may make it possible in the future to target the molecular mechanisms of sepsis-induced increase in muscle proteolysis. Such treatment may prove an important avenue to reduce the metabolic cost in patients with severe infection or sepsis. |
9451938 | Diets and infection: composition and consequences. | This brief review focuses on the effects of position of enteral diets on the e of surgical patients and experimental models of infection. Complete enteral diets binations of immunonutrients (arginine, glutamine, RNA, omega-3 fatty acids), when given postoperatively or after trauma to surgical patients, can reduce hospital stay, overall costs, and the incidence of plications and acquired infections. Immunonutrient diets can also reduce the length of hospital stay when given to patients admitted to the surgical intensive care unit. A high protein diet is usually required for optimal benefit, although administration of high protein immunoenhancing diets may have adverse effects in animals with severe untreated peritonitis because of a sustained overproduction of cytokines. |
9451939 | Nutritional support and infection: does the route matter? | Questions regarding the effects of the route of nutrition began to surface shortly after the introduction of total parenteral nutrition (TPN). Although TPN has e a life-saving therapy for patients who cannot tolerate enteral nutrition, it is not the panacea it was hoped to be. It appears that the enteral route of nutrition decreases rates of pared with parenteral feeding. Reasons for this phenomenon are not clear, but it seems that enteral nutrition supports the gut barrier and gut-associated lymphoid tissue, which may have effects on infections at distant sites such as the lung. These effects do not appear to be due solely to prevention to malnutrition, as the plications develop early after injury or illness. However, the lack of understanding of the mechanisms does not negate the fact that in many clinical studies the enteral route of nutrition is superior to the parenteral route in terms of reducing plications in critically ill or injured patients. |
9451940 | The efficacy of enrofloxacin in-feed medication, by applying different programmes for the control of post weaning diarrhoea syndrome of piglets. | Post weaning diarrhoea syndrome (PWDS) in piglets is caused mainly by enterotoxigenic Escherichia (E.) coli (ETEC) strains. Six different in-feed usage programmes of enrofloxacin (ENR/Baytril; I.E.R. 2.5%) were tested for their efficacy on the control of post weaning colibacillosis in piglets, using seven groups with totally 336 weaned piglets for a 28 day period. One group (negative control) was offered feed free of antimicrobials, three groups were offered feed medicated with 50 ppm of ENR starting on weaning day for 5, 7 and 10 days respectively, three groups were offered feed medicated with 50 ppm of ENR starting 7 days post weaning for 5, 7 and 10 days respectively, and pared with regard to the appearance of clinical signs, mortality, weight gain and feed conversion. The results showed that all ENR treatments reduced the incidence and severity of diarrhoea. Mortality was similar in all ENR treatments, but in the groups where the ENR was added for 10 days immediately after weaning and/or 7 days post weaning for 7 and 10 days respectively was pared to the negative control group (P < 0.05). The evaluation of the weight gain data, as well as feed conversion ratio indicated that the six treated groups performed remarkably better than the control group (P < 0.05). No ETEC were detected on days 21 and 28 in all ENR groups contrary to the untreated control. It was concluded that a strategic medication initiated 7 days post weaning with 50 ppm of ENR and only for 7 and 10 days period of time is a useful tool in controlling PWDS due to ETEC. |
9451941 | The efficacy of enrofloxacin in-feed medication by applying different programmes for the control of post weaning oedema disease in weaned piglets. | Oedema disease (OD) usually occurs after weaning and is due to infection with (ETEEC) enterotoxaemic Escherichia (E.) coli. This study further examines the efficacy of three different in-feed usage programmes of enrofloxacin (ENR/Baytril I.E.R. 2.5%), on the control of post weaning OD in piglets. The mended in-feed dosage of ENR for this clinical indication, i.e. 50 p.p.m., was used. Five groups with a total of 240 weaned piglets for 28 days period were used in this trial. One group (negative control) was offered feed free of antimicrobials, one group was offered feed as that of the negative control group except that the feed consumption was restricted for the first 12 days post weaning, and three groups were offered feed ad libitum medicated with 50 p.p.m. of ENR starting 7 days after weaning for 5, 7 and 10 days, respectively, and pared with regard to their performance. Mortality was pared to the negative control group in all ENR treatments (P < 0.05). The evaluation of the growth performance data, as well as feed conversion ratio, indicated that the three treated groups performed remarkably better than the control group (P < 0.05). It was concluded that a strategic medication initiated 7 days post weaning with 50 p.p.m. of ENR and usually for a 10 day period is useful in controlling and/or preventing post weaning OD due to ETEEC. |