Effect of feeding Mucuna pruriens on helminth parasite infestation in lambs

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mucuna pruriens is a tropical legume anecdotally reputed to have anthelmintic properties. This study was conducted to examine the validity of such claims.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to determine if ingestion of Mucuna seeds reduces helminth parasite infestation in lambs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six Dorper x Katahdin ram lambs were assigned to three treatments, a cottonseed meal based control diet, a diet in which Mucuna replaced cottonseed meal and the control diet with levamisole (7.5mg/kg body weight) administration. All diets were isonitrogenous and isocaloric. The 12 lambs in each treatment were assigned randomly to 4 pens, each containing 3 lambs. Lambs were trickle infected three times per week by gavage with infectious Haemonchus contortus larvae (2000 larvae/lamb) for 3 weeks.

RESULTS

Levamisole treatment decreased fecal egg counts by 87% and abomasal worm counts by 83%. Mucuna intake did not statistically affect fecal egg counts or abomasal worm counts, though numerical (P>0.10) reductions of 7.4% and 18.1%, respectively were evident. Anemia indicators, feed intake, and lamb growth were unaffected by treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Levamisole reduced the Haemonchus parasite burden in lambs significantly but feeding Mucuna reduced the burden by levels unlikely to eliminate the clinical effects of parasitism.

Experimental transmission of a herpesvirus in Greek tortoises (Testudo graeca)

An experimental transmission study aimed at fulfilling Koch's postulates for a herpesvirus-associated stomatitis-rhinitis in Mediterranean tortoises is presented. Clinical, pathologic, serologic, and molecular studies were performed linking tortoise herpesvirus with the pathogenesis of stomatitis-rhinitis. Four adult Greek tortoises received either intranasally or intramuscularly two tortoise herpesvirus isolates by primary experimental infection and secondary challenge 11 months later. After the primary experimental infection and the secondary challenge, clinical signs of illness developed, which included conjunctivitis, diphtheritic oral plaques, and oral discharge. At 4 weeks after the secondary challenge, all tortoises were humanely euthanatized and evaluated. Although neutralizing antibodies developed after the primary experimental infection, they apparently did not prevent the later development of recurrent clinical signs. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse transcription-PCR analyses allowed sensitive characterization of the systemic distribution of the herpesvirus DNA sequences and their presence in the cranial nerves and brains of the infected tortoises. Despite the failure to recover the herpesviruses used in the transmission study, the findings support the premise that tortoise herpes-virus is a primary pathogen of Greek tortoises.

Mycobacterium avium infection in an ostrich (Struthio camelus)

Acid-fast organisms were identified by histopathology of granulomatous lesions in an ostrich (Struthio camelus). The organisms were grown in Herrold's egg media with and without mycobactin and identified as Mycobacterium avium. An agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) test for Mycobacterium avium paratuberculosis was performed for detection of antibody for M. avium in this infected ostrich and seven other ostriches that were in contact. The results of the AGID were consistent with the pathologic diagnosis of mycobacteriosis and the isolation of M. avium in the affected ostrich.

Persistent infectivity of a disease-associated herpesvirus in green turtles after exposure to seawater

Herpesviruses are associated with several diseases of marine turtles including lung-eye-trachea disease (LETD) and gray patch disease (GPD) of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and fibropapillomatosis (FP) of green, loggerhead (Caretta caretta), and olive ridley turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea). The stability of chelonian herpesviruses in the marine environment, which may influence transmission, has not been previously studied. In these experiments, LETD-associated herpesvirus (LETV) was used as a model chelonian herpesvirus to test viral infectivity after exposure to seawater. The LETV virus preparations grown in terrapene heart (TH-1) cells were dialyzed for 24 to 120 hr against aerated artificial or natural seawater or Hank's balanced salt solution (HBBS). Fresh TH-1 cells were inoculated with dialyzed LETV, and on day 10 post-infection cells were scored for cytopathic effect. Virus samples dialyzed up to 120 hr were positive for the herpesvirus DNA polymerase gene by polymerase chain reaction. Electron microscopy revealed intact LETV nucleocapsids after exposure of LETV to artificial seawater or HBSS for 24 hr at 23 C. LETV preparations remained infectious as long as 120 hr in natural and artificial seawater at 23 C. Similar results were obtained with a second culturable chelonian herpesvirus, HV2245. LETV infectivity could not be detected after 48 hr exposure to artificial seawater at 30 C. Since LETV and HV2245 remain infectious for extended periods of time in the marine environment, it is possible that FP-associated and GPD-associated herpesviruses also may be stable. These findings are significant both for researchers studying the epidemiological association of herpesviruses with diseases of marine turtles and for individuals who handle turtles in marine turtle conservation efforts.

Isolation and experimental transmission of a reovirus pathogenic in ratsnakes (Elaphe species)

A reovirus was isolated from juvenile Moellendorff's ratsnakes (Elaphe moellendorffi) and beauty snakes (Elaphe taenuris) that died soon after importation into the USA. Viper heart (VH2) cells inoculated with tissue homogenates showed cytopathic effects consisting of large syncytia formation followed by cell detachment from the monolayer. Tissue culture supernatants failed to hemagglutinate guinea pig and chicken erythrocytes at room temperature. Electron microscopy of purified virions revealed spherical to icosahedral particles measuring 70-85 nm in diameter with a double capsid layer. Preparations of the viral genome contained ten segments of dsRNA when analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. A juvenile black ratsnake (Elaphe obsoleta obsoleta) was experimentally inoculated with the isolate and was found dead 26 days post inoculation. Necropsy revealed diffuse subacute interstitial pneumonia with respiratory epithelial cell hyperplasia and syncytia. Reovirus isolated from this snake was used to inoculate another juvenile black ratsnake which was euthanized 40 days post inoculation. Pneumonia and multifocal subacute proliferative tracheitis were found on necropsy. Reovirus was isolated from the lung of this snake and was demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy. This is the first documentation of a pathogenic reptile reovirus and the first report of experimental transmission of a reovirus in snakes.

Western immunoblot analysis of the antigens of Haemobartonella felis with sera from experimentally infected cats

Cats were experimentally infected with a Florida isolate of Haemobartonella felis in order to collect organisms and evaluate the immune response to H. felis. Cryopreserved organisms were thawed and injected intravenously into nonsplenectomized and splenectomized cats. Splenectomized animals were given 10 mg of methylprednisolone per ml at the time of inoculation. Blood films were evaluated daily for 1 week prior to infection and for up to 60 days postinfection (p. i.). Blood for H. felis purification was repeatedly collected from splenectomized animals at periods of peak parasitemias. Organisms were purified from infected blood by differential centrifugation, separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, and transferred to nitrocellulose membranes for immunoblot analysis. Serum was collected from nonsplenectomized animals prior to and for up to 60 days p.i. and was used on immunoblots to identify antigens. The combination of splenectomy and corticosteroid treatment resulted in marked, cyclic parasitemias without concurrent severe anemia, providing an opportunity to harvest organisms in a manner that was not lethal to the animals. Several antigens (150, 52, 47, 45, and 14 kDa) were identified. An antigen with a molecular mass of approximately 14 kDa appeared to be one of the most immunodominant and was consistently recognized by immune sera collected at various times during the course of infection. These data suggest that one or more of these antigens might be useful for the serologic diagnosis of H. felis infections in cats.

Genetic diversity in twenty variants of the avian polyomavirus

To determine if different pathotypes of the avian polyomavirus (APV) exist and to compare the genomes of APVs originating from different geographic areas, dates, and species of birds, the partial sequences of 18 APVs were determined. New viral sequences were compared with three published APV sequences. Two of the new viruses had identical sequences. Forty point mutations were found at 31 loci. A 27-bp deletion was found in the VP2 and VP3 open reading frames of one virus. A duplication of the putative origin of replication and adjacent enhancer region was previously reported in one APV. Smaller duplications involving the origin in one APV and a second enhancer region in another were discovered. All duplications were in tissue culture-adapted viruses, suggesting they occurred during the isolation process. Excluding duplications and the deletion, maximum variation between viruses was small (11 bp). A maximum parsimony tree was constructed that contained three major branches. The three earliest isolates were on separate branches. The European viruses were confined to branch I, but APVs from the United States were on all three branches. Lovebird, budgerigar, and macaw APVs were also on each of the three branches, suggesting that species-specific pathotypes have not developed. Most nonsynonymous mutations occurred in a small portion of the VP2 and VP3 open reading frames, demonstrating a selection for these mutations. That a glycine at VP2 221 will inhibit virus replication in chicken embryo fibroblasts (CEFs) has been previously reported. In contrast, six of seven of the new APVs isolated in CEFs had a glycine at VP2 221.

Immunoprophylaxis of Rhodococcus equi pneumonia in foals

An immunoprophylaxis program for R. equi infection of foals has been established on a number of thoroughbred breeding farms in Argentina over the past 4 years. Nearly 800 mares annually were immunized subcutaneously during the last 2 months of pregnancy with 2-3 doses of a vaccine containing soluble antigens of R. equi, including the virulence associated protein (VapA) and 'equi factors' exoenzymes. The mortality from R. equi pneumonia in the foals from vaccinated dams dropped from an average of 3% in the 5 years before the vaccination program was initiated to an average of 1.2% in the 4 years during which the program was applied (P < 0.02). On 3 farms, an additional 380 foals of vaccinated dams annually over 3 years also received at 25 days of age 600-1200 ml of hyperimmune plasma from donors immunized with this vaccine, and as well at 4 days of age in foals with poor transfer of R. equi antibodies from their dams. The average foal mortality because of R. equi in the 380 foals annually to which hyperimmune plasma was administered dropped from 5.8% on these 3 farms to 0.2% (P < 0.05). Active vaccination of foals of unvaccinated mares on an enzootic farm at 20, 30, and 40 days of age did not protect them from mortality due to R. equi pneumonia. Serology was done by complement fixation and an agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) tests using antigens prepared in the same manner as the vaccine antigens. The immune responses among hyperimmune plasma donors varied considerably as did the responses of vaccinated mares. Of 1117 serum samples with normal post suckling gammaglobulin levels (> 600 mg%) collected at 2 days of age from foals of vaccinated mares, 36% showed a negative or weak positive AGID reaction, while the remainder had positive to strongly positive reactions.

Immunoperoxidase detection of ophidian paramyxovirus in snake lung using a polyclonal antibody

In a retrospective study of proliferative interstitial pneumonia in viperid and nonviperid snakes, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded lungs from 52 snakes were screened for immunohistochemical reactivity to ophidian paramyxovirus. All snakes were from zoological collections that experienced mortalities attributed to paramyxovirus infection. Of the 52 snakes, 47 had pulmonary lesions compatible with ophidian paramyxovirus infection. Histologic changes in affected lungs included hyperplasia and hypertrophy of septal and faveolar epithelial cells, loss of ciliated cells, mixed leukocytic interstitial infiltrates, fibrinonecrotic exudate in the lumen of proximal and distal faveolar compartments, and occasional epithelial syncytial cell formation or intraepithelial eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusions. Lungs were immunohistochemically stained for paramyxovirus antigens by utilizing rabbit polyclonal antibodies against a paramyxovirus isolate from a black mamba (Dendroaspis polyepis polyepis). Virus infection in 6 snakes was confirmed by virus isolation from frozen lung tissue. Of the 6 lungs from which paramyxovirus was isolated, 5 lungs stained positively for viral antigens utilizing antisera to the black mamba isolate. Altogether, 36 lungs stained positively for paramyxovirus antigens. There was multifocal to diffuse linear staining of the lumenal surface of faveolar epithelium, and there were multiple foci of granular cytoplasmic staining. Immunohistochemical staining of formalin-fixed lungs from snakes with proliferative interstitial pneumonia was helpful as a routine diagnostic test for substantiating a diagnosis of ophidian paramyxovirus infection.

Chronic upper respiratory tract disease of free-ranging desert tortoises (Xerobates agassizii)

Seventeen desert tortoises, Xerobates agassizii, with upper respiratory tract disease were examined; thirteen were euthanatized for necropsy. Four normal control desert tortoises from a clinically healthy population were similarly evaluated. Hemoglobin and phosphorus values were significantly (P less than or equal to 0.05) lower and serum sodium, urea, SGOT, and cholesterol values were significantly higher in ill tortoises compared to controls. No significant differences in concentrations of serum or liver vitamins A and E were found between the two groups. While no significant differences were found for concentrations of lead, copper, cadmium, and selenium, the livers of ill tortoises had higher concentrations of mercury and iron. Lesions were found consistently in the upper respiratory tract (URT) of ill tortoises. In all ill tortoises dense infiltrates of lymphocytes and histiocytes obscured the mucosal epithelium and underlying glands. The mucosal epithelium was variably dysplastic, hyperplastic, and occasionally ulcerated. Electron microscopic studies revealed small (350 to 900 nm), pleomorphic organisms resembling Mycoplasma sp., in close association with the surface epithelium of the URT of ill tortoises. Pasteurella testudinis was cultured from the nasal cavity of all ill tortoises and one of four control tortoises. A Mycoplasma sp. was cultured from the nasal passageways of four ill tortoises and was ultrastructurally similar to the pleomorphic organism present on the mucosa in tissue section.

Erosive polyarthritis in two greyhounds

Clinical signs of disease, treatment, laboratory findings, and gross and microscopic changes of erosive polyarthritis in 2 Greyhounds are described. A microscopic feature that may help distinguish this condition from other types of arthritis is extensive necrosis of deep articular cartilage zones, with relative sparing of the more superficial surface cartilage. We believe that the disease in the 2 dogs of this report was identical to that encountered previously in Britain and Australia. Bacteriologic culture and serologic investigation failed to reveal the causative agent.

Initiation and ultrastructure of a reptilian fibroblast cell line obtained from cutaneous fibropapillomas of the green turtle, Chelonia mydas

Two fibroblastic cell lines were established from explants of fibropapillomas of each of two different green turtles (Chelonia mydas). These cells, designated GTFP (Green Turtle Fibropapilloma), were subcultured approximately 30 times at 30 degrees C in Eagle's minimal essential media supplemented with 2 to 10% fetal bovine serum. The ultrastructural morphology of the cultured fibroblasts is described. The cells contained abundant rough endoplasmic reticulum, polyribosomes, and mitochondria; collagen fibrils were visible in the extracellular space. No viruslike particles or evidence of other pathogenic agents could be demonstrated by electron microscopy in any of the cultured cells examined.

Postoperative examination of the biceps femoris muscle sling used in excision of the femoral head and neck in dogs

Twenty-four dogs underwent unilateral excision of the femoral head and neck. An adjunctive biceps femoris muscle sling procedure was done in 16 dogs. In eight dogs (controls), the flap was dissected and returned to its original position. Four dogs with muscle slings were euthanatized on days 2, 5, 30, and 60, respectively. Four control dogs were euthanatized on day 2 and four dogs on day 5. Limb function did not differ consistently between dogs with muscle slings and control dogs. There was marked swelling and edema of the affected limb in half the dogs with muscle slings but not in the controls. Postoperative temperature elevations were significantly higher in dogs with muscle slings on days 1 and 2 (p less than 0.05). Infection was documented in four dogs with muscle slings. Flaps from control dogs had only minor gross and histologic abnormalities. On days 2 and 5, flaps from dogs with muscle slings appeared congested and swollen beneath and distal to the ostectomy site, with infarction involving 50 to 90% of the muscle mass. On days 30 and 60, the muscle slings were atrophic and fibrous, and by day 60 a synovial membrane covered the surfaces of all slings within the pseudarthrosis. Muscle fiber loss was attributed to infarction, necrosis, and disuse atrophy.

Effects of Newcastle disease virus administration to mice on the metabolism of cerebral biogenic amines, plasma corticosterone, and lymphocyte proliferation

Newcastle disease virus (NDV) administration to mice increased concentrations of plasma corticosterone, with a maximal effect at 8 h. This elevation of plasma corticosterone concentrations was not observed in hypophysectomized animals in which the completeness of the hypophysectomy was verified by functional tests. NDV administration consistently increased concentrations of free tryptophan in all brain regions examined (prefrontal cortex, hypothalamus, and brain stem). It also caused an activation of cerebral catecholamine and indoleamine metabolism as determined by measurement of the amines and their catabolites. 3-Methoxy,4-hydroxyphenylethyleneglycol (MHPG), the major catabolite of norepinephrine (NE), homovanillic acid (HVA), a major catabolite of dopamine (DA), and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), the major catabolite of serotonin (5-HT), were all increased in both hypothalamus and brain stem. Ratios of catabolites to the parent amine, considered to be an index of utilization of the neurotransmitters, were increased for NE, DA, and 5-HT in the hypothalamus and for DA and 5-HT in the brain stem. This pattern of changes resembles that observed following stressors such as footshock or restraint. There were also significant increases of tryptophan, HVA, dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), and 5-HIAA in hypophysectomized relative to sham-operated mice. The NDV treatment also increased thymus weights and markedly decreased the proliferative responses of isolated spleen cells to phytohemagglutinin, concanavalin A, pokeweed mitogen, and Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide. These changes were not caused by increased circulating corticosterone because they were present at equal magnitude in hypophysectomized mice. Thymosin alpha 1 concentrations in the plasma were not altered by NDV or hypophysectomy. These results indicate that administration of NDV to mice can initiate neurochemical and endocrine responses like those observed during stress and can also cause immunosuppression. They are thus consistent with the hypothesis that a virus can be a stressor.

Conjunctivitis, tracheitis, and pneumonia associated with herpesvirus infection in green sea turtles

Fourteen juvenile (15- to 20-month-old) green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), representative of a group of sea turtles with clinical signs of respiratory tract disease, were euthanatized and submitted for necropsy. Macroscopically, lesions included periglottal necrosis, tracheitis with intraluminal caseous and laminated necrotic debris, and severe pneumonia. Several turtles had caseous conjunctival exudate covering the eyes. Microscopically, the turtles had fibrinonecrotic inflammation around the glottal opening, tracheitis, and severe bronchopneumonia and interstitial pneumonia. In multifocal areas, periglottal and tracheal epithelial cells adjacent to areas of necrosis had hypertrophic nuclei with amphophilic intranuclear inclusions. A mixed population of primarily gram-negative microorganisms was isolated from the tracheal and glottal lesions. Attempts at viral isolation in cultures of green sea turtle kidney cells resulted in the development of cytopathic effects characterized by giant cell formation and development of intranuclear inclusions. Using electron microscopy, intranuclear viral particles (88 to 99 nm in diameter) were seen in inclusion-containing tracheal and glottal epithelial cells and infected green sea turtle kidney cells; particles were consistently seen enveloping from nuclear membranes, and mature particles (132 to 147 nm) were found in the cytoplasm. On the basis of size, conformation, location, and presence of an envelope, the particles most closely resembled those of herpes-viruses.

Cutaneous papillomas associated with a herpesvirus-like infection in a herd of captive African elephants

Proliferative cutaneous lesions developed in a herd of captive African elephants (33 from an animal importer in Texas [group 1], and 63 young elephants collected in Zimbabwe [group 2]). Group-1 elephants were purchased 8 months before the arrival of the group-2 elephants. On arrival, 7 group-1 elephants had raised nodular fibrous growths, located predominantly on their trunks. Lesions were not observed in the group-2 elephants until approximately 3 months after they were acquired. Lesions on group-2 elephants began as small focal proliferative growths that regressed or that progressed into large nodular fibrous growths that were similar in appearance to those seen in the group-1 elephants. Lesions at various stages of development were biopsied and examined. Histologically, early lesions were inverted papillomas, with hyperplastic and hypertrophic epithelial cells containing amphoteric intranuclear inclusions in the lesion center. Older, large, nodular fibrous growths were ulcerated and were composed predominantly of a thickened dermis containing fibroblasts, collagen, and a mixed inflammatory cell infiltrate; inclusions were not observed in adjacent epidermal cells. Using a peroxidase-antiperoxidase technique, we did not detect group-specific papillomavirus antigens. Southern blot hybridization analysis of DNA from lesion specimens did not indicate papillomavirus-specific genomes. Electron-microscopically, inclusions consisted of aggregates of virus particles. The particles had electron-dense and electron-lucent cores and were 95 to 103 nm in diameter. Virions developed envelopes from nuclear membranes. Mature particles were seen within the cytoplasm and filled the intercellular spaces. On the basis of size, location, conformation, and envelopment, the particles most closely resembled those of herpesviruses.

A model for experimental bacterial cystitis in the dog

To induce an experimental model of bacterial cystitis, ten preconditioned dogs underwent bladder irritation with a 0.1% alcoholic solution of salicylic acid followed in 24 hours by an intravesicular infusion of Proteus mirabilis. The dogs were observed for the following 14 days (five dogs) and 17 days (five dogs) and then euthanatized and necropsied. Tenesmus, dysuria, hematuria, and pollakiuria occurred in all dogs, but the severity of these signs diminished with time. The total white cell, neutrophil, and monocyte counts in the peripheral blood increased and urinalysis results were consistent with infection and severe inflammation. The infection persisted for the duration of the study, although the average quantitative bacterial count in urine progressively declined. No changes occurred in the measured clinical chemistry values. Severe inflammation was present on gross examination of the bladder and microscopic examination of the bladder, prostate, and renal pelvis. Less severe inflammation was present on microscopic examination of the urethra and ureter.

Amoxycillin and clavulanic acid combination in the treatment of experimentally induced bacterial cystitis in cats

Clavulanic acid (CA) competitively inhibits beta-lactamase hydrolysis of penicillins in vitro. Treatment with amoxycillin combined with clavulanic acid (A-CA) was compared with placebo in a blind study in cats with experimental cystitis caused by Escherichia coli demonstrating in vitro resistance to amoxycillin. Bacterial cystitis was induced in 20 cats by bladder infusion of 5 ml of 0.05 per cent alcoholic salicylic acid followed after 24 hours by a brain-heart infusion broth of E coli (10(8) colony forming units ml-1) previously found to be resistant to amoxycillin in vitro (minimum inhibitory concentration over 512 micrograms ml-1). Four days after infection, cats were randomly divided into two groups of 10 and treated with amoxycillin combined with clavulanic acid or placebo for 10 days. When compared to the placebo-treated group, the A-CA treated group showed: reduced quantitative bacterial counts in urine on days 7 (P less than 0.001) and 14 (P less than 0.02); reduced culture positive urine on days 7 (P less than 0.001) and 14 (P less than 0.001); and less severe inflammation on histological examination of the bladder and urethra (P less than 0.01). It was concluded that A-CA was effective in reducing the bacterial count and reducing the histopathological changes in the bladder and urethra in an experimental model of acute bacterial cystitis in cats infected with an E coli demonstrating in vitro resistance to amoxycillin.

Magnetic resonance imaging of renal abscess in an experimental animal model

The value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis of renal abscess was investigated in an experimental animal model. MRI is capable of depicting the location and extent of the inflammatory process using T1 weighted scans because of relatively long T1 relaxation values which were significantly longer than T1 relaxation times of adjacent normal renal parenchyma.

Panophthalmitis and otitis interna in fire-bellied toads

Microbiologic and histologic studies were made of fire-bellied toads with signs of ocular and central nervous system disease. Providencia alcalifaciens, Citrobacter freundii, Aeromonas hydrophila, and other gram-negative bacilli were isolated from the eyes and multiple tissues of ill toads. The histologic evaluations revealed severe panophthalmitis and otitis interna.

Caprine arthritis-encephalitis: clinicopathologic study

Chronic arthritis caused by caprine arthritis-encephalitis virus was observed after the introduction of new animals into a goat herd. There were high frequency of carpal hygroma and clinical signs of stiffness. The disease was progressive and produced a debilitating lameness among 30% of the affected animals. Laboratory findings were limited to alterations in synovial fluid which showed increased numbers of lymphocytes. Pathologic changes were observed in the joints, bursae, and adjacent tissues. Vascular injury and capillary leakage resulted in exudation into synovial cavities. Fibrin coated the synovial lining and formed (amorphous) long thread-like or broad-based villi. The articular cartilage was eroded. Cartilage erosion and penetration of the articular cartilage by pannus were associated with the presence of subchondral pseudocysts. The morphologic changes in bone and synovial tissues were like those described in human rheumatoid arthritis, except that rheumatoid nodules were not observed.

Herpesvirus-like infection in map turtles

Two map turtles housed in an aquarium with a group of other map turtles became lethargic and anorectic, and subcutaneous edema developed prior to their deaths. Gross postmortem findings included subcutaneous edema and swollen, diffusely pale livers. Histologic examination of the livers revealed multifocal to diffuse areas of necrosis, with intranuclear eosinophilic inclusions in hepatocytes. Intranuclear and intracytoplasmic aggregates of particles morphologically resembling herpesvirus were identified in degenerating hepatocytes by electron microscopy.

Papilloma-like virus infection in Bolivian side-neck turtles

Five Bolivian side-neck turtles had multifocal small, round to confluent, white skin lesions distributed over the head. Several gram-negative microorganisms were isolated from the lesions. Light microscopy revealed hyperkeratosis and hyperplasia of the epidermis. Ultrastructural evaluation demonstrated crystalline aggregates of virus particles within nuclei of cells in the stratum granulosum and free within the stratum corneum. On the basis of size, location, arrangement, and tissue affected, the particles resembled papillomaviruses.

Illness associated with paramyxo-like virus infection in a zoologic collection of snakes

Of 438 snakes in a zoologic collection, 35 died during a 3-month period; all were members of the family Viperidae. Clinical signs consisted of gaping of the mouth followed within 1 day by convulsions. All necropsied animals had a mucoid exudate throughout the respiratory tract. Histologic evaluation of lung revealed evidence of interstitial pneumonia, with occasional eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusions in epithelial cells. A paramyxo-like virus, isolated in viper heart cells from lung tissue, was observed by electron microscopy to be budding from cell membranes. The virus hemagglutinated chicken red blood cells at 5 C, and antibody titers were assayed by hemagglutination inhibition. In a random survey of 22 snakes from the zoologic collection, antibody titers to the virus ranged from 1/20 to 1/2,560.

Morphological and immunological comparison of caprine arthritis encephalitis and ovine progressive pneumonia viruses

Caprine arthritis encephalitis virus (CAEV) causes a variety of pathological conditions ranging from mild to very severe and from acute to chronic, depending upon the age of initial infection and other variables. Although the virus has been reported to have properties of characteristic of retroviruses and to be related to maedi-visna virus (also called progressive pneumonia virus [PPV]), relatively little information about its morphological and immunological characteristics has been reported. We describe the morphological features of CAEV replicating in cultured caprine cells. Although the virus replicates slowly and very little virus is released from productively infected cells, it is apparent that the morphogenesis of CAEV is strikingly similar to that of maedi-visna. After the transmission of CAEV to a more permissive permanent cell line derived from Himalayan tahr ovary, it was possible to grow and purify enough virus to initiate biochemical characterization. The structural proteins of CAEV are generally very similar to those of PPV, suggesting that the two viruses are closely related but not identical. This was substantiated by showing that serum from a CAEV-infected goat immunoprecipitated both CAEV and PPV virion structural antigens from extracts of radiolabeled virus and also precipitated putative nonstructural viral antigens from extracts of both CAEV- and PPV-infected cells.

Paramyxo-like virus infection in a rock rattlesnake

A rock rattlesnake (Crotalus lepidus) with a history of progressive central nervous disease was submitted for necropsy. The histopathologic findings included evidence of interstitial pneumonia, multifocal areas of gliosis in the brain, and ballooning degeneration and demyelination of brainstem and upper spinal cord axons. By electron microscopy, brainstem tissue was found to contain numerous virus particles in the extracellular spaces. A paramyxo-like virus, isolated in viper heart cells from lung tissue, was observed by electron microscopy to be similar in size and shape to the particles seen in nerve tissue.

Mycotic pneumonia in mariculture-reared green sea turtles

Microbiologic examination of 29 juvenile green sea turtles with a buoyancy abnormality revealed pulmonary infection with Sporotrichium sp, Cladosporium sp, and Paecilomyces sp. Histologic examination of the lungs revealed granulomatous lesions containing branching septate hyphae. The diagnosis was mycotic pneumonia.

Poxlike skin lesions in captive caimans

Three juvenile captive spectacled caimans (Caiman sclerops) had scattered, gray-white, circular, 1- to 3-mm skin lesions. In one caiman, the lesions were particularly prominent on the phalanges, palpebrae, and integument overlying the maxillae and mandible. Digital biopsy revealed large eosinophilic intracytoplasmic inclusions within epithelial cells. Transmission electron microscopy of lesions from the lower jaw revealed viral particles morphologically similar to poxvirus.

Herpesvirus-like infection of the venom gland of Siamese cobras

The light and electron microscopic appearance of venom glands from two Siamese cobra snakes with a history of production of poor-quality venom was determined. Light microscopy revealed degeneration and necrosis of patches of columnar epithelial cells of glands and infiltration of the subepithelium by inflammatory cells. The lumina contained debris, venom, and necrotic cells. Electron microscopy revealed a deficiency of microvilli on the luminal surfaces of both degenerated and necrotic epithelial cells. The lumina contained fragmented microvilli, coated vesicles containing venom, and degenerated and necrotic cells. Naked and enveloped herpesvirus-like particles were seen in necrotic and ruptured cells. Occasionally, naked herpesvirus-like particles were seen in the nuclei of attached epithelial cells. It was concluded that herpesvirus-like infection of the venom gland was the probable cause of the production of poor-quality venom.

Ehrlichiosis in wolves, dogs, and wolf-dog crosses

Canine ehrlichiosis was diagnosed in wolves, dogs, and wolf-dog crosses at a small zoo in northcentral Florida. Five of 9 adult canids and all 8 pups confined to a common kennel died as a result of the infection. The epizootic was associated with a massive Rhipicephalus sanguineus infestation. Hematologic and pathologic findings in an adult wolf-dog cross that died were characteristic of canine ehrlichiosis. That animal and four other canids were seropositive for Ehrlichia canis. No deaths occurred following the oral treatment of remaining canids with tetracycline hydrochloride and the treatment of canids and premises with acaricides.

Effects of influenza, mumps, and western equine encephalitis viruses on fetal rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)

Pregnant Rhesus monkeys were infected via instillation of influenza, mumps and western equine encephalomyelitis viruses respectively into the amniotic sacs at approximately 90 days gestation to determine if fetal infections would occur. Virus was recovered from fetal tissues after seven days in 100% of the exposed animals. Thus, the viruses are capable of causing fetal infection. Rhesus monkey fetuses were inoculated with influenza, mumps and WEE viruses by the direct intracerebral route at approximately 90 days gestation to determine possible teratogenicity of the viruses. influenza virus caused no malformations or measurable fetal effects. Mumps virus resulted in significant fetal mortality. WEE virus resulted in a 100% incidence of encephalitis and hydrocephalus. Thus, mumps and WEE viruses are teratogens in primates and are potential teratogens of man.

Fetal mortality and malformations associated with experimental infections of western equine encephalomyelitis vaccine virus in rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta)

Pregnant Rhesus monkeys were infected via installation of Western Equine Encephalomyelitis (WEE) vaccine virus into the amniotic sacs at 50 and 80 days gestation to determine if the resulting infections would produce fetal mortality or fetal malformations, particularly within the central nervous system. Of those receiving virus at 50 days gestation, 13 of 18 fetuses were aborted or dead in utero at time of Caesarean section; 2 of 18 were malformed (hydrocephalus and polyarthrosis); and 3 of 18 were anatomically normal. Of those receiving virus at 80 days gestation four of eight fetuses were aborted or dead in utero at time of Caesarean section, one of eight was malformed (hydrocephalus) and three of eight were anatomically normal. Three of three controls receiving neutralized virus at each gestational age were anatomically normal. Fetal WEE vaccine virus infection significantly increased fetal mortality and resulted in a significant incidence of fetal malformations.

Effects of diet on feline urine

Urine specific gravity, osmolality, and the incidence of proteinuria were assessed in 18 caged cats. The values for these parameters were increased when dry, as compared to moist, cat food was fed. Failure to recognize these characteristics of feline urine could lead to erroneous interpretations of laboratory data since elevation of these values, particularly protein, has been associated with renal disease.

Feline myeloproliferative disease. Changing manifestations in the peripheral blood

A 4 1/2-year-old cat had myeloproliferative disease characterized by severe anemia. Peripheral blood had a profusion of relatively normal-appearing nucleated erythroid cells in all stages of development and a few primitive cells with nucleoli. The term "erythremic myelosis" best described the appearance of the peripheral blood. Two weeks later, the peripheral blood picture was that of regenerative anemia. During the next 2 months the cat made an apparent clinical recovery without treatment, but relapsed 3 months after the initial examination. One-fourth of the cells in circulation at the time of relapse contained nucleoli and appeared identical to those described in reticuloendotheliosis in cats. This transition suggested the progressive development of a greater degree of immaturity of erythroid precusors with time. The use of the term "reticuloendotheliosis" in conjunction with feline myeloproliferative disease was considered and determined inappropriate.

Cyclic thrombocytopenia induced by a Rickettsia-like agent in dogs

Hematologic manifestations and the ultrastructure of a platelet-specific microorganism isolated from a dog in Florida were studied. The agent was readily transmitted experimentally to adult dogs by intravenous inoculation with infected blood. Parasitemias and concomitant thrombocytopenias were cyclic in that both recurred within relatively constant periods of one to two weeks following experimental infections. Hemorrhage was not a manifestation of the disease even though thrombocytopenias were severe. Microorganisms were visualized by light and electron microscopy. They were observed only in platelets and were composed of single or multiple subunits (morula forms). The microorganisms were ultrastructurally very similar to those reported in Ehrlichia canis infections of dogs and Anaplasma marginale infections of cattle. Microorganisms were surrounded by single membranes which more or less conformed to the external surfaces of subunits that were surrounded by double membranes. From electron microscopic studies, it is suggested that these organisms be classified in the order Rickettsiales.

Encephalomyocarditis virus infection of captive elephants

Four African elephants at each of 2 widely separated zoologic gardens in Florida died following a fulminating illness. Tissue suspensions obtained from an elephant from each of the zoologic gardens were inoculated into newborn mice, 3- to 4-week-old mice, and buffalo green monkey and baby hamster kidney cell cultures. Encephalitis and myocarditis developed in the mice. The cell cultures were destroyed within 24 to 72 hours, and intracytoplasmic viral inclusions were observed in infected cells by electron microscopy. The viral agent was neutralized by known antiserum to encephalomyocarditis virus.

An epizootic among knots (Calidris canutus) in Florida. I. Disease syndrome, histology and transmission studies

About 150 knots found sick or dead had distention of serosal blood vessels, and small, raised hemorrhagic foci on the serosal surface of the jejunum and ileum. The principal finding was endaortitis with large intimal multinucleated cysts that contained a protozoan parasite within a cytoplasmic vacuole. There was endarteritis of mesenteric arteries and muscular arteries of the external layers of the intestinal tract. Single or multiple schizont-like stages containing zoites were in the wall of the small intestine and close to affected muscular arteries. The more usual intestinal lesion was an aneurysm of the inflamed muscular artery. It was concluded that endarteritis led to colonic infarction. Schizonts in medullary renal tubular cells were smaller than stages in the intestine. There was necrosis of epithelial cells of themedullary collecting ducts and inflammatory and regenerative changes. Schizonts and zoites were free in collecting ducts and ureters.

An epizootic of waterfowl associated with a red tide episode in Florida

During February and March, 1974, an epizootic involving lesser scaup (Aythya affinis) occurred in the Tampa Bay area on the west coast of Florida. Several thousand ducks are estimated to have died. Concurrent with this epizootic was a red tide caused by heavy blooms of the toxic dinoflagellate Gymnodinium breve intoxication were evident in some of the lesser scaup. A controlled experimental feeding of G. breve toxic material to White Pekin ducklings produced illness and death with signs comparable to some of those seen in the scaup.