'This is silent murder' - are we medicalising human distress caused by the reality of life as an asylum seeker in the UK?

The number of displaced people, including asylum seekers and refugees, in the UK continues to rise. This article highlights findings from two participatory community listening exercises on the topic of health of displaced people.

Mice expressing nonpolymerizable fibrinogen have reduced arterial and venous thrombosis with preserved hemostasis

ABSTRACT

Elevated circulating fibrinogen levels correlate with increased risk for both cardiovascular and venous thromboembolic diseases. In vitro studies show that formation of a highly dense fibrin matrix is a major determinant of clot structure and stability. Here, we analyzed the impact of nonpolymerizable fibrinogen on arterial and venous thrombosis as well as hemostasis in vivo using FgaEK mice that express normal levels of a fibrinogen that cannot be cleaved by thrombin. In a model of carotid artery thrombosis, FgaWT/EK and FgaEK/EK mice were protected from occlusion with 4% ferric chloride (FeCl3) challenges compared with wild-type (FgaWT/WT) mice, but this protection was lost, with injuries driven by higher concentrations of FeCl3. In contrast, fibrinogen-deficient (Fga-/-) mice showed no evidence of occlusion, even with high-concentration FeCl3 challenge. Fibrinogen-dependent platelet aggregation and intraplatelet fibrinogen content were similar in FgaWT/WT, FgaWT/EK, and FgaEK/EK mice, consistent with preserved fibrinogen-platelet interactions that support arterial thrombosis with severe challenge. In an inferior vena cava stasis model of venous thrombosis, FgaEK/EK mice had near complete protection from thrombus formation. FgaWT/EK mice also displayed reduced thrombus incidence and a significant reduction in thrombus mass relative to FgaWT/WT mice after inferior vena cava stasis, suggesting that partial expression of nonpolymerizable fibrinogen was sufficient for conferring protection. Notably, FgaWT/EK and FgaEK/EK mice had preserved hemostasis in multiple models as well as normal wound healing times after skin incision, unlike Fga-/- mice that displayed significant bleeding and delayed healing. These findings indicate that a nonpolymerizable fibrinogen variant can significantly suppress occlusive thrombosis while preserving hemostatic potential in vivo.

Fibrinogen γ' promotes host survival during Staphylococcus aureus septicemia in mice

BACKGROUND

Staphylococcus aureus is a common gram-positive bacterium that is the causative agent for several human diseases, including sepsis. A key virulence mechanism is pathogen binding to host fibrinogen through the C-terminal region of the γ-chain. Previous work demonstrated that FggΔ5 mice expressing mutant fibrinogen γΔ5 lacking a S. aureus binding motif had significantly improved survival following S. aureus septicemia. Fibrinogen γ' is a human splice variant that represents about 10% to 15% of the total fibrinogen in plasma and circulates as a fibrinogen γ'-γ heterodimer (phFibγ'-γ). The fibrinogen γ'-chain is also expected to lack S. aureus binding function.

OBJECTIVE

Determine if human fibrinogen γ'-γ confers host protection during S. aureus septicemia.

METHODS

Analyses of survival and the host response following S. aureus septicemia challenge in FggΔ5 mice and mice reconstituted with purified phFibγ'-γ or phFibγ-γ.

RESULTS

Reconstitution of fibrinogen-deficient or wildtype mice with purified phFibγ'-γ prior to infection provided a significant prolongation in host survival relative to mice reconstituted with purified phFibγ-γ, which was superior to that observed with heterozygous FggΔ5 mice. Improved survival could not be accounted for by quantitative differences in fibrinogen-dependent adhesion or clumping, but phFibγ'-γ-containing mixtures generated notably smaller bacterial aggregates. Importantly, administration of phFibγ'-γ after infection also provided a therapeutic benefit by prolonging host survival relative to administration of phFibγ-γ.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide the proof-of-concept that changing the ratio of naturally occurring fibrinogen variants in blood could offer significant therapeutic potential against bacterial infection and potentially other diseases.

Loss of P2Y1 receptor desensitization does not impact hemostasis or thrombosis despite increased platelet reactivity in vitro

BACKGROUND

The hemostatic plug formation at sites of vascular injury is strongly dependent on rapid platelet activation and integrin-mediated adhesion and aggregation. However, to prevent thrombotic complications, platelet aggregate formation must be a self-limiting process. The second-wave mediator adenosine diphosphate (ADP) activates platelets via Gq-coupled P2Y1 and Gi-coupled P2Y12 receptors. After ADP exposure, the P2Y1 receptor undergoes rapid phosphorylation-induced desensitization, a negative feedback mechanism believed to be critical for limiting thrombus growth.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the role of rapid P2Y1 receptor desensitization on platelet function and thrombus formation in vivo.

METHODS

We analyzed a novel knock-in mouse strain expressing a P2Y1 receptor variant that cannot be phosphorylated beyond residue 340 (P2Y1340-0P), thereby preventing the desensitization of the receptor.

RESULTS

P2Y1340-0P mice followed a Mendelian inheritance pattern, and peripheral platelet counts were comparable between P2Y1340-0P/340-0P and control mice. In vitro, P2Y1340-0P/340-0P platelets were hyperreactive to ADP, showed a robust activation response to the P2Y1 receptor-selective agonist, MRS2365, and did not desensitize in response to repeated ADP challenge. We observed increased calcium mobilization, protein kinase C substrate phosphorylation, alpha granule release, activation of the small GTPase Rap1, and integrin inside-out activation/aggregation. This hyperreactivity, however, did not lead to increased platelet adhesion or excessive plug formation under physiological shear conditions.

CONCLUSION

Our studies demonstrate that receptor phosphorylation at the C-terminus is critical for P2Y1 receptor desensitization in platelets and that impaired desensitization leads to increased P2Y1 receptor signaling in vitro. Surprisingly, desensitization of the P2Y1 receptor is not required for limiting platelet adhesion/aggregation at sites of vascular injury, likely because ADP is degraded quickly or washed away in the bloodstream.

Applying the Ugandan Sexual Health and Pastoral Education whole institution approach at the Ugandan UK Health Alliance Summit 2018

The Ugandan UK Health alliance (UUKHA) promotes collaboration between UK- and Uganda-based organisations working in health in order to further global learning and the sharing of best practice. On 22–23 March 2018, the UUKHA held the third East African Health Improvement and Investment Summit in Kampala, Uganda. This is the report of a dynamic workshop which was aimed at encouraging thought and discussion on an innovative approach to tackling common health problems such as family planning, alcohol and malnutrition.

Plastic Surgery and Acellular Dermal Matrix: Highlighting Trends from 1999 to 2013

The last decade has ushered in a rapidly expanding global discussion regarding acellular dermal matrix (ADM) applications, economic analyses, technical considerations, benefits, and risks, with recent emphasis on ADM use in breast surgery. This study aims to evaluate global trends in ADM research using bibliometric analysis. The top nine Plastic Surgery journals were determined by impact factor (IF). Each issue of the nine journals between 1999 and 2013 was accessed to compile a database of articles discussing ADM. Publications were further classified by IF, authors' geographic location, study design, and level of evidence (LOE, I-V). Productivity index and productivity share were calculated for each region. In total, 256 ADM articles were accessed. The annual global publication volume increased significantly by 4.2 (0.87) articles per year (p<0.001), with a mean productivity index of 36.3 (59.0). The mean impact factor of the nine journals increased significantly from 0.61 (0.11) to 2.47 (0.99) from 1993 to 2013 (p<0.001). Despite this increase in the global ADM literature, the majority of research was of weaker LOE (level I: 2.29% and level II: 9.17%). USA contributed the most research (87%), followed by Asia (4.76%) and Western Europe (4.71%). USA contributed the greatest volume of research. Regarding clinical application of ADM, the majority of publications focused on ADM use in breast surgery, specifically breast reconstruction (154 articles, 60.2%). The majority of research was of lower LOE; thus, efforts should be made to strengthen the body of literature, particularly with regard to cost analysis.

Porcine circovirus 2 inclusion bodies in pulmonary and renal epithelial cells

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is the cause of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS). The most common lesions of PMWS are lymphohistiocytic to granulomatous lymphadenitis, interstitial pneumonia and interstitial nephritis, with intracytoplasmic amphophilic botryoid inclusion bodies in macrophages. In addition to these typical changes, intracytoplasmic botryoid inclusion bodies were observed in bronchial, bronchial glandular, and renal tubular epithelium of several pigs from 4 different farms in Western and Eastern Canada. PCV2 inclusion bodies were demonstrated to be located in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells by immunohistochemical staining for PCV2 and cytokeratin antigens and by ultrastructural demonstration of viral particles in the inclusion bodies within renal tubular epithelium.

High-Dose Insulin in the Treatment of Antihypertensive Overdose

Objective

To describe a case of calcium channel blocker overdose along with an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor and angiotensin receptor blocker, which was successfully treated with high-dose insulin with dextrose and potassium supplementation (HDIDK).

Case Summary

A 52-year-old woman was transferred to an admitting hospital after ingesting 14 tablets of trandolapril/verapamil SR ( Tarka)4 mg/240 mg, 15 to 16 tablets of olmesartan ( Benicar) 20 mg, and an unknown amount of (escitalopram) Lexapro combined with unknown quantities of alcohol and benzodiazepines. This combination caused hypotension and electrocardiogram changes. The patient was treated for hypotension-induced shock with epinephrine, glucagon, HDIDK, magnesium, and fluids. An insulin infusion ran for 24 hours. The patient was discharged to a psychiatric facility 3 days after admission.

Discussion

The non-dihydropyridine, verapamil, causes dilation of the coronary and peripheral vasculature by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions through L-type calcium channels. HDIDK is thought to be a useful treatment in the state of hypoinsulinemia, which prevents the uptake of glucose by myocytes and can lead to decreased inotropy and eventually shock. High-dose insulin allows glucose to be properly used for energy by the myocytes.

Conclusions

Currently HDIDK therapy is recommended as an adjunct to conventional therapy in calcium channel blocker poisoning only after fluids, high-dose calcium salts, and vasopressors. In this case, early implementation of HDIDK treatment was shown to shorten the length of therapy.

The immunohistochemical detection of Mycoplasma bovis and bovine viral diarrhea virus in tissues of feedlot cattle with chronic, unresponsive respiratory disease and/or arthritis

The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of selected pathogens in the tissues of a group of feedlot cattle with chronic disease (most often respiratory disease and/or arthritis). Samples of lung and joint tissues from 49 feedlot animals that had failed to respond to antibiotic therapy were tested by immunohistochemical staining for the antigens of Mycoplasma bovis, Haemophilus somnus, Pasteurella (Mannheimia) hemolytica, and bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). Mycoplasma bovis was demonstrated in over 80% of cases, including in 45% of joints and 71% of lungs tested. Mycoplasma bovis was the only bacterial pathogen identified in the joints. Haemophilus somnus and Pasteurella (Mannheimia) haemolytica were found in 14% and 23% of cases, respectively, and were confined to the lungs in all instances. Infection with BVDV was demonstrated in over 40% of cases. Mycoplasma bovis and BVDV were the most common pathogens persisting in the tissues of these animals that had failed to respond to antibiotic therapy.

Spongiotic vesicular dermatitis as a cutaneous reaction pattern in seven horses

Over a 6-year period seven adult horses of different breeds and genders developed multifocal, exudative, oozing dermatitis characterized histologically by epidermal spongiotic vesicles and perivascular eosinophilic, neutrophilic and mixed mononuclear inflammation. Three horses were pruritic. Systemic disease was not noted. Two horses had a history of recurrent urticaria (hives) and one horse had nodules or welt-type lesions that progressed to exudative, oozing lesions. Interepithelial immunoglobulin (Ig)G was detected by avidin-biotin complex-peroxidase staining, but the pattern of staining was more consistent with epithelial oedema than specific IgG deposition associated with pemphigus. The exudative oozing lesions developed under circumstances suggesting that dermal oedema progressed to intracellular and intercellular epidermal oedema, which in turn progressed to the spongiotic vesicular epidermal lesions.

Multiple porcine circovirus 2-associated abortions and reproductive failure in a multisite swine production unit

Porcine circovirus type 2 was detected in several stillborn and nonviable neonatal piglets presenting with chronic passive congestion, cardiac hypertrophy, and severe diffuse myocarditis. The presence of the virus in the heart and other tissues of affected piglets was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry, and virus isolation techniques. Other reproductive losses and associated infectious agents in the herd are discussed.

Diagnosis of persistent bovine viral diarrhea virus infection by immunohistochemical staining of formalin-fixed skin biopsy specimens

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of immunohistochemical (IHC) staining for diagnosis of persistent bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) infection using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded skin biopsy specimens. Skin from 41 of 42 calves shown to be persistently infected (PI) with BVDV by repeated virus isolation more than 3 weeks apart were immunohistochemically positive for BVDV antigen. Positive IHC staining was most pronounced in the keratinocytes and in hair follicle epithelium, hair matrix cells of the hair bulb, and the dermal papilla. All of the skin sections from 10 calves experimentally infected postnatally with BVDV (10(5) median tissue culture infective doses [TCID50]) and biopsied on days 0, 5, 7, and 9 postinfection were negative for viral antigen. Ten calves from a second group experimentally infected with a higher dose of BVDV (10(8) TCID50) were biopsied when viremic between 10 and 14 days postinfection and 4 calves exhibited positive IHC staining for BVDV; however, staining in these skin biopsies was confined to small foci in the nonfollicular epidermis and follicular ostia. This staining was distinct from that observed in skin obtained from PI cattle. Skin biopsy represents an effective method for identifying animals PI with BVDV.

Porcine postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in Korean pig: detection of porcine circovirus 2 infection by immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction

This report describes the first diagnosis of porcine circovirus (PCV) infection in weaned pigs with postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in Korea by immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction. The most unique lesions were multifocal granulomatous inflammation affecting lymph nodes, liver, and spleen, characterized by infiltrates of epithelioid macrophages and multinucleated giant cells. Circoviral antigen was detected in formalin-fixed sections and was usually present in large, round, dendritic cells in the white pulp of spleen and remnants of follicles in lymph nodes. Lymphoid follicles in the tonsils also contained PCV antigen. A 530-bp DNA fragment of circovirus was successfully amplified from all tested lymph nodes, liver, and spleen.

Coinfection by porcine circoviruses and porcine parvovirus in pigs with naturally acquired postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome

Postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) is an emerging disease in swine. Recently, the disease has been reproduced with inocula containing a newly described porcine circovirus (PCV), designated PCV 2, and porcine parvovirus (PPV). In order to determine if these viruses interact in naturally acquired PMWS, affected tissues from field cases were examined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for PCV 2 and PPV, as well as by PCR for the other recognized porcine circovirus, PCV 1. Porcine circovirus 2 was detected by PCR or IHC in affected fixed or frozen tissues from 69 of 69 cases of PMWS collected over 3 years from 25 farms. Porcine parvovirus was detected in 12 of the same cases, and PCV 1 was detected in 9 of 69; however, an apparent decrease was found in the sensitivity of the PCRs used to detect the latter 2 viruses when fixed tissue from the same cases were compared with the use of frozen tissues. Porcine circovirus 2 was not detected by PCR in affected tissues from 16 age-matched pigs that had Streptococcus suis-associated disease. Electron microscopic examination of plasma pooled from 15 pigs with PMWS revealed the presence of PCV and PPV, whereas these viruses were not observed in pooled plasma from 5 age-matched clinically normal pigs. These results confirm and extend previous findings documenting a consistent association of PCV 2 with PMWS. As well, infection by PPV or PCV 1 or both may be an important cofactor in the pathogenesis of some, but apparently not all, cases of PMWS.

Osteochondrosis and epiphyseal bone abnormalities associated with copper deficiency in bison calves

Two bison calves were submitted to the Western College of Veterinary Medicine to confirm suspected copper deficiency. In addition to clinical signs, there were pathologic changes in the cartilage and subchondral bone of several joints. Water analysis indicated high levels of sulfate in the drinking water, contributing to a secondary copper deficiency.

Myocarditis and abortion associated with intrauterine infection of sows with porcine circovirus 2

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is a recently identified agent that has been associated with postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) in swine populations. In this report, the potential spectrum of disease associated with PCV2 is expanded by evidence of vertical transmission and associated reproductive failure. PCV2 was isolated from a litter of aborted piglets from a farm experiencing late-term abortions and stillbirths. Severe, diffuse myocarditis was present in 1 piglet associated with extensive immunohistochemical staining for PCV2 antigen. Variable amounts of PCV2 antigen were also present in liver, lung, and kidney of multiple fetuses. The presence of other agents that have been associated with fetal lesions and abortion in swine, including porcine parvovirus, porcine reproductive respiratory syndrome virus, encephalomyocarditis virus, and enterovirus, could not be established.

Immunohistochemical detection of canine distemper virus in haired skin, nasal mucosa, and footpad epithelium: a method for antemortem diagnosis of infection

A reliable antemortem diagnostic method is needed for determining infection with canine distemper virus (CDV). The utility of immunohistochemical detection of CDV antigen was examined was examined for samples of nasal and footpad epithelium and haired skin in dogs with and without detectable CDV antigen in the lung and/or brain. Tissues from 57 dogs at risk of CDV infection were tested. Viral antigen was found in the lung and/or brain of 28 dogs. Among these dogs, viral antigen was demonstrated in the epithelial cells of the nasal mucosa in 24 of 27 dogs, in the footpad epithelium in 24 of 26 dogs, and in the haired skin of the dorsal neck in 26 of 27 dogs. Among the 29 dogs without CDV antigen in either the lung or brain, 1 dog had positive staining for viral antigen in the skin and nasal mucosa. Biopsies of haired skin of the dorsal neck, which is relatively simple to sample, can be used for immunohistochemical testing for acute and subacute infection with CDV.

Isolation and characterisation of circoviruses from pigs with wasting syndromes in Spain, Denmark and Northern Ireland

A porcine circovirus (PCV) was isolated from tissues of pigs with wasting syndromes from Spain, Denmark and N. Ireland. The antigenic profiles of these viruses were determined by indirect immunofluorescence assays using polyclonal antisera and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) prepared against previously isolated PCVs. A rapid and convenient PCR-based test was developed and used for the genotyping of these PCV isolates. These PCV isolates were found to be antigenically and genomically similar to previously reported isolates of PCV from pigs with wasting disease (PCV2), but distinct from the isolate of PCV from continuous PK/15 cell cultures (PCV1).

The effect of formalin-inactivated vaccine on respiratory disease associated with bovine respiratory syncytial virus infection in calves

The effect of vaccination with a formalin-inactivated, alum-precipitated (FI), bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) vaccine on BRSV induced respiratory disease in calves was investigated. Six month old BRSV-naive calves were vaccinated with either a FI, a modified live virus (MLV), or virus antigen negative control vaccine (n = 4 per group). One month after the second vaccination, the calves were aerosol challenged with lung wash from a newborn calf infected with a field isolate of BRSV. Moderate to severe clinical disease occurred in all calves. Calves that received FI vaccine had a significantly earlier (day 2 vs. day 4-5) onset of pyrexia and dyspnea (P < 0.05). Pulmonary lesions, consisting of cranioventral atelectasis and dorsal emphysema, occurred in all groups. Two calves that received MLV, and three that received FI vaccine, had reduced pneumonic lung area relative to controls. Vaccination with the FI vaccine resulted in more rapid onset of clinical disease, but ultimately, reduced pulmonary pathology in most recipients.

Black hair follicular dysplasia, an autosomal recessive condition in dogs

Using histology, a coat color abnormality and the subsequent hair loss were diagnosed as black hair follicular dysplasia. A pedigree analysis of an affected litter and literature review suggests that this is inherited as an autosomal recessive trait. The melanocyte stimulating hormone receptor gene is ruled out by using linkage analysis.

Characterization of novel circovirus DNAs associated with wasting syndromes in pigs

Porcine circovirus (PCV) was initially recognized as a contaminant of continuous pig kidney cell lines and was not thought to be pathogenic. Antibodies reactive to the cell culture isolate of PCV (PCV PK-15) are prevalent in the swine population worldwide. Recently, PCV PK-15-like antigen and nucleic acid were demonstrated in lesions associated with wasting syndromes in pigs in North America and Europe. Monoclonal antibodies raised to circoviruses isolated from pigs with wasting syndromes highlighted differences between these circoviruses and the PCV PK-15 cell culture isolate. This has led to speculation that a new pathogenic PCV may have emerged in the swine populations of several countries. We report the cloning and characterization of novel circovirus DNAs purified from virus isolates made from tissues of North American and European pigs with wasting syndromes. These North American and European circoviruses form a closely related group at the nucleotide sequence level (> 96% intra-group nucleotide sequence identity) but exhibit < 80% nucleotide sequence identity with the PCV PK-15 cell culture isolate. This report provides evidence for a new type of possibly pathogenic PCV. We propose that these new circoviruses should be referred to as PCV2 as opposed to the original PK-15 cell culture isolate, which should be referred to as PCV1.

Circovirus-like viral associated disease in weaned pigs in Indiana

Inclusion bodies with staining affinity and ultrastructural characteristics typical of circoviruses that stained positive for porcine circovirus (PCV)-like virus were demonstrated in association with granulomatous lesions in multiple tissues of three clinically ill 10- to 12-week-old pigs. A syndrome of poor growth and wasting in 5-15% of weaned pigs was an intermittent problem on a 450-sow one-site farrow-to-finish swine farm in Indiana. Routine diagnostic testing did not demonstrate a cause. Gross examination of three representative weaned pigs from two farrowing groups over a 1-month period revealed generalized lymphadenopathy and interstitial pneumonia. A unique microscopic finding for all three pigs was granulomatous inflammation of lymphoid tissues associated with large numbers of multinucleate giant cells and characteristic viral inclusions in the cytoplasm of macrophages. These inclusions were round, homogeneous, and magenta to basophilic, varied in size (5-25 microm), and either were single or formed botryoid clusters. Ultrastructurally, these inclusions were composed of electron-dense paracrystalline arrays of small nonenveloped icosahedral viral particles that were approximately 17 nm in diameter. The sizes and shapes of the virus particles, the unique microscopic appearance of the inclusions, and the positive staining of the intracytoplasmic viral inclusions by the Feulgen technique are consistent with circoviruses. Immunohistochemistry for PCV-like virus demonstrated viral antigen in the cytoplasm of macrophages that were within inflammatory infiltrates in a variety of organs. The described inclusion bodies stained positively.

Bovine respiratory syncytial virus

Since the first report of BRSV in the 1970s, the understanding of this agent and its respective disease has increased dramatically. Current evidence supports a major role for this virus in bovine respiratory disease. Advances in diagnostics have increased the ability to demonstrate this virus in field outbreaks of respiratory disease. The clinical signs and pathologic features have been well described, and vaccines are available to aid in prevention and control. Still, many questions remain to be answered with respect to BRSV. It appears there may be antigenic subgroups of BRSV, but the epidemiologic significance and relevance to immunization of this remains unknown. The question of differences in virulence among isolates of this virus has yet to be addressed. From an epidemiologic standpoint, the means by which BRSV perpetuates in the cattle population has yet to be elucidated. Although progress has been made in understanding the pathogenesis and immune response to BRSV, the mechanism of disease production and immune protection is incomplete. Lastly, efficacy testing of existing vaccines need to continue, as well as the development of new vaccines and new approaches to vaccination.

Fertility effects of the 14;20 Robertsonian translocation in cattle

Superovulation and embryo collection procedures were used to study the effect of the 14;20 Robertsonian translocation on fertility and embryo viability. Karyotypes were successfully completed on cells from 77 of the 279 embryos prepared for such analysis. Embryos from 4 cows heterozygous for the translocation were studied. Two bulls with the same condition were studied by using their semen in artificial insemination of cows with normal karyotypes. The proportions of fertilized ova and transferable embryos were not different between cows with the 14;20 translocation and those with normal karyotypes, indicating that fertilization rates were not affected by the translocation. Twenty-two percent of the embryos which were karyotyped had an unbalanced karyotype and would theoretically not have survived to term. All of the theoretically predicted chromosome complements from such a translocation were observed as were three 58,XX,t karyotypes and a 58,XX karyotype. There was no difference in the percentage of embryos with abnormal karyotypes whether the cow or bull was the carrier. Results therefore indicate that fertility is rather severely impaired in carriers of the 14;20 translocation, as was observed with the 1;29 translocation, with most loss due to embryo mortality rather than a lowered conception rate.

Disseminated lymphangiosarcoma in a dog

This case is unusual due to its extended clinical course. Clinical, histopathological, and immunohistochemical findings are presented.

Persistent papillomavirus infection in a cat

A seven-year-old, neutered male, crossbred Persian was diagnosed as having persistent, cutaneous papillomavirus infection. The skin lesions consisted of round, multifocal-to-confluent, raised, black plaques on the neck, thorax, shoulders, and forelegs. Papillomavirus virions were demonstrated in negative-stained, electron microscopic preparations of homogenized skin lesions and within the nuclei of cells from the stratum granulosum. Avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase stains were positive for papillomavirus in the same cells. The cat was euthanized due to a clinical diagnosis o concurrent, severe, chronic pancreatitis.

Chromosomal aneuploidy associated with spontaneous abortions and neonatal losses in cattle

Pericardial sac samples from 77 bovine aborted fetuses and stillborn calves were submitted for tissue culture; cells from 55 of these samples were grown successfully in culture. Six of the 55 karyotyped fetuses (10.7%) had an abnormal chromosome complement, in 3 of which (5.5%) the abnormality was probably the cause of death. This level of abnormality is relatively high when one considers that most fetuses were >8 months gestational age. Approximately 5-7% of human stillbirths and 50% of first-trimester aborted fetuses have chromosome anomalies. If a similar situation exists in cattle, as suggested by these data, chromosome abnormalities may be a major cause of early fetal loss in cattle. Most chromosomally abnormal fetuses had multiple malformations, which suggests that the diagnostic use of chromosome analysis is most cost effective for malformed fetuses and newborns. Twins were present in a higher proportion of these fetuses than expected based on their incidence among liveborn cattle.

The relationship between the presence of Helicobacter pylori, Clostridium perfringens type A, Campylobacter spp, or fungi and fatal abomasal ulcers in unweaned beef calves

A case-control study involving 30 unweaned beef calves was conducted to determine whether specific species of bacteria or fungi were associated with fatal abomasal ulcer formation. Special microbiological and histological techniques were used to detect Clostridium perfringens type A, Helicobacter pylori, or Campylobacter spp. It has been speculated that these bacteria are potential ulcerogenic agents of unweaned beef calves. Calves were recruited for the study at necropsy, with those dying of either a perforating or a hemorrhagic ulcer representing the cases, and calves of a similar age dying of a disease unrelated to the abomasum representing the controls. Helicobacter pylori was not visualized in or cultured from any of the abomasal tissue samples. Clostridium perfringens type A was isolated from 78.6% of the cases and 75% of the controls. These isolates were further dichotomized into "heavy" and "light" growth; no significant association was found between ulcers and the amount of growth. A light growth of Campylobacter spp. was recovered from 3 cases and 3 controls. There was no compelling evidence to suggest that Clostridium perfringens type A, Helicobacter pylori, or Campylobacter spp. were involved in ulcer formation.

Screening of depigmenting compounds for the development of an alternate method of branding beef cattle

The impetus to find alternative methods to stressful routine management procedures has increased in recent years in the hope of improving animal welfare. The potential of using depigmenting compounds to create a permanent visible mark was evaluated in two beef heifers. Eight compounds (hydroquinone [H], 4-ethoxyphenol [4-EP], 4-methylcatechol [4-MC], 4-tert-butylcatechol [4-t-BC], 4-methoxyphenol [4-MP], monobenzone [M], hydroquinone bis (2-hydroxyethyl) ether (HHEE), and catechol [C]) were injected intradermally at concentrations of 10 and 20%. These compounds were screened in four different carriers (ethanol, glycerol, propylene glycol, and liposome cream) to test their effectiveness in producing depigmented hair. Transdermal patches containing 5, 7, and 10% liposome preparations of 4-MC and 4-MP produced depigmentation, but this depigmentation was not as visible as when the same preparations were injected. Histological examination of biopsies and observations of the injected sites were compared to sites that were only injected with the carrier solution. Compounds H, 4-EP, 4-MC, 4-t-BC, 4-MP, and M produced visible depigmentation lasting up to 3 mo. The duration of the effect seemed dependent on the hair cycle length and stage of cycle at time of application. None of the depigmenting compounds tested produced a permanent depigmenting effect.

A case of cutaneous sterile pyogranuloma/granuloma syndrome in a golden retriever

Images

Immunohistochemical detection of swine influenza A virus in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues

An avidin-biotin complex (ABC) immunohistochemical method utilizing a commercially-available polyclonal antiserum to human influenza A virus was used to detect antigens of influenza A virus in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues of swine. Influenza A antigens were immunohistochemically detected in 28/30 cases in which influenza A virus was demonstrated by virus isolation and in 5/22 cases suspected to be influenza A-infected by clinical and histological criteria, but from which the virus was not isolated. Viral antigen was not demonstrated in 30/30 cases not suspected clinically or histologically to be associated with influenza infection. This method is a convenient, sensitive, and specific means of influenza A virus detection and is applicable to both routine diagnosis of influenza A virus infection and to retrospective and prospective studies of the occurrence and the pathogenesis of this virus in pigs.

Monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies for immunohistochemical detection of bovine parainfluenza type 3 virus in frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues

Accurate identification of bovine parainfluenza type 3 virus in bovine respiratory disease requires dependable, sensitive, and specific techniques for detection in affected animals. Immunohistochemical testing can be a rapid and reliable means of demonstration of virus in tissues from suspect cases; however, this procedure is dependent upon the quality of the antisera directed against the viral antigens. The production of rabbit polyclonal and murine monoclonal antibodies directed against bovine parainfluenza type 3 virus and techniques for their use in fresh-frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues in immunofluorescence and immunoperoxidase-based immunohistochemical tests are described.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Usefulness of clinical signs, bronchoalveolar lavage, and lung biopsy as diagnostic and prognostic aids

We examined 18 horses with clinical signs of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) using physical examination, cytological and bacteriological evaluation of bronchoalveolar fluid, and percutaneous lung biopsy. In 16 cases, histological examination of lung tissue confirmed the diagnosis of COPD. Two horses were excluded: one had uncomplicated bacterial pneumonia and in the other a satisfactory lung biopsy could not be obtained. In horses with COPD, the most common historical complaint was coughing, which was reported in 88%. The most frequently detected abnormal finding on physical examination was abnormal lung sounds; these were detected in 69% of horses at rest and in 88% of horses breathing deeply into a bag. A novel finding was that 29% of horses had lung sounds that were quieter than would be expected for the degree of respiratory effort. Horses with COPD had increased percentages of neutrophils and decreased percentages of lymphocytes and macrophages in their bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Bronchiolar neutrophil infiltration and peribronchiolar mast cell accumulation in lung biopsy tissue had the highest correlation with clinical condition. The severity of pathological changes in biopsies of lung did not predict whether the horse would die in the two to four year follow-up period. Horses that died in the follow-up period were more severely affected clinically at initial presentation than horses that were alive at the end of the follow-up period.

Distinctive blunt force injuries caused by a crescent wrench

Prompt recognition of patterned injuries by the forensic pathologist can greatly facilitate the investigation and resolution of injury and death cases. Careful observation and description of injuries may provide identification of an assault or murder weapon and contribute to the reconstruction of circumstances of injury. The two cases herein described manifest unusual and distinctive injuries resulting from multiple impacts by adjustable crescent wrenches. Detailed photographs and descriptions of these injuries are provided.

Monoclonal antibody-based immunohistochemical detection of bovine viral diarrhea virus in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues

Thirty-two monoclonal antibodies directed against epitopes on bovine viral diarrhea virus proteins and glycoproteins were tested for immunohistochemical reactivity with bovine viral diarrhea virus in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded tissues from 45 cases of bovine viral diarrhea virus-associated mucosal disease. Only one antibody, designated 15C5, which reacts with the 48-kD glycoprotein of bovine viral diarrhea virus, detected an epitope preserved in these specimens. Monoclonal antibody 15C5 and a polyclonal antibody to bovine viral diarrhea virus successfully detected bovine viral diarrhea viral antigens in 44/45 cases of mucosal disease and did not react with formalin-fixed tissues from 30 uninfected cattle. Monoclonal antibody-based immunohistochemical detection of bovine viral diarrhea virus is routinely fixed tissue specimens has advantages over other currently available techniques in terms of the convenience of specimen submission, the relative ease of method standardization, and the rapidity of the test, and by enabling identification of the virus in association with specific tissues, cell types, and histologic lesions.

Cutaneous lymphangioma in a young dog

Images

Experimental reproduction of respiratory tract disease with bovine respiratory syncytial virus

An experiment was conducted to reproduce respiratory tract disease with bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) in one-month-old, colostrum-fed calves. The hypothesized role of viral hypersensitivity and persistent infection in the pathogenesis of BRSV pneumonia was also investigated. For BRSV inoculation a field isolate of BRSV, at the fifth passage level in cell culture, was administered by a combined respiratory tract route (intranasal and intratracheal) for four consecutive days. Four groups of calves were utilized as follows: Group I, 6 calves sham inoculated with uninfected tissue culture fluid and necropsied 21 days after the last inoculation; Group II, 6 calves inoculated with BRSV and necropsied at the time of maximal clinical response (4-6 days after the last inoculation); Group III, 6 calves inoculated with BRSV and necropsied at 21 days after the last inoculation; Group IV, 6 calves inoculated with BRSV, rechallenged with BRSV 10 days after initial exposure, and necropsied at 21 days after the initial inoculation. Clinical response was evaluated by daily monitoring of body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, arterial blood gas tensions, hematocrit, total protein, white blood cell count, and fibrinogen. Calves were necropsied and pulmonary surface lesions were quantitated by computer digitization. Viral pneumonia was reporduced in each principal group. Lesions were most extensive in Group II. Disease was not apparent in Group I (controls). Significant differences (p less than 0.05) in body temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, arterial oxygen tension, and pneumonic surface area were demonstrated between control and infected calves. Results indicate that severe disease and lesions can be induced by BRSV in one-month-old calves that were colostrum-fed and seropositive to BRSV. BRSV rechallenge had minimal effect on disease progression. Based on clinical and pathological response, results did not support viral hypersensitivity or persistent infection as pathogenetic mechanisms of BRSV pneumonia.

Enzyme immunohistochemical staining of formalin-fixed tissues for diagnosis in veterinary pathology

Disease diagnosis often relies on the detection of specific antigens in tissue specimens. Enzyme-based immunohistochemical stains of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues may be used to identify antigens associated with viral, bacterial and protozoal microorganisms, autoimmunity, and neoplasia. The detection of antigens in routinely fixed tissues offers several advantages over other diagnostic techniques. Sample submission is convenient and facilitates safe handling of potential human pathogens. Retrospective studies of stored specimens are possible. The technique is relatively rapid and enables detection of nonviable microorganisms. In addition, the ability to detect antigens in fixed specimens allows simultaneous visualization of the antigen and the histological lesion which may enhance the accuracy of diagnosis.

The role of passive immunity in bovine respiratory syncytial virus-infected calves

The role of passive immunity in bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) infections in neonatal calves was evaluated. Calves were divided into groups as follows: colostrum-deprived, sham-inoculated; colostrum-deprived, BRSV-inoculated; and colostrum-fed, BRSV-inoculated. Calves were inoculated with a low-passage field isolate of BRSV for 4 consecutive days by a combined respiratory tract route and were euthanized 6 days after receiving the last inoculation. Arterial oxygen tension (Pao2) decreased significantly over time in colostrum-deprived, BRSV-inoculated calves (P less than .01) and was significantly different among treatment groups (P less than .05). A significant decrease in arterial oxygen saturation was observed in this same group over time (P less than .01). Mean percentage of pneumonic lung volume (determined by computer data digitalization) was significantly greater in infected, colostrum-deprived calves compared with the other groups (P less than .01), and BRSV antigen was detected in these calves by avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase staining. Thus, passive immunity derived from colostrum feeding decreased the severity of BRSV infections in calves.

Systemic lupus erythematosus in a filly

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was diagnosed in a 2-year-old Standardbred filly. Clinical signs of SLE included weight loss, bilateral symmetric alopecia, seborrhea, oral ulceration, and lymphadenopathy. Abnormal laboratory findings included a Coombs test-positive hemolytic anemia and positive antinuclear antibody test result. Histologic evaluation of multiple skin biopsy specimens revealed interface dermatitis with linear deposition of IgG at the basement membrane zones of the epidermis and hair follicles. The filly did not respond to glucocorticoid treatment and was euthanatized. Necropsy findings included membranous glomerulonephritis and fibrous synovitis. On the basis of these findings, SLE should be considered in the differential diagnosis of immune-mediated skin disease in horses. Definitive diagnosis of SLE relies on recognition of multisystemic disease and confirmatory histopathologic and immunopathologic findings.

Idiopathic granulomatous disease involving the skin in a horse

Clinical signs of generalized granulomatous disease in a horse included depression, generalized lymphadenopathy, scaly skin, and dependent edema. Diagnosis was confirmed histopathologically by diffuse granulomas in more than one organ system (lymph nodes and skin), and by ruling out etiologic agents. Response to treatment with corticosteroids was favorable. The clinical features and response to treatment in this horse were different from classic textbook descriptions of equine generalized granulomatous disease. Equine granulomatous disease appears to be comparable to human sarcoidosis. To avoid confusion between human medical and veterinary medical terminology, the authors suggest that the equine disease be referred to as equine idiopathic granulomatous disease and that a complete diagnostic description should include a reference to the organ systems involved.

Roxarsone (3-nitro-4-hydroxyphenylarsonic acid) poisoning in pigs

Young pigs, six to ten weeks of age, from two unrelated swine operations were fed a grower ration obtained from a common commercial supplier. Following ingestion of the feed for approximately two weeks, pigs in both groups developed neurological disturbances characterized by blindness, ataxia, incoordination, muscle tremors, posterior paralysis, and quadriplegia. Vocalization described as "screaming" was also observed in several animals. Necropsy findings and tissue arsenic concentrations were consistent with a diagnosis of phenylarsonic acid poisoning. The liver and kidney contained an average arsenic content of 2.9 and 1.8 mg/kg (wet weight), respectively. The feed contained 38 mg of arsenic/kg corresponding to 133 mg roxarsone (3-nitro-4-hydroxyphenylarsonic acid)/kg. This level of roxarsone is approximately three to five times higher than the levels recommended for swine rations. The feed company had placed roxarsone in the ration at levels recommended for the less toxic arsanilic acid. It was assumed that the two organic arsenicals could be added to the rations interchangeably at the same level of formulation. The present investigation indicated that roxarsone is more toxic than arsanilic acid and the margin of safety in swine rations is low.