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French H, Segabinazzi L, Middlebrooks B, Peterson E, Schulman M, Roth R, Crampton M, Conan A, Marchi S, Gilbert T, Knobel D, Bertschinger H. Efficacy and Safety of Native and Recombinant Zona Pellucida Immunocontraceptive Vaccines Formulated with Non-Freund's Adjuvants in Donkeys. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:1999. [PMID: 36560409 PMCID: PMC9788400 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10121999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to test zona pellucida (ZP) vaccines’ immunocontraceptive efficacy and safety when formulated with non-Freund’s adjuvant (6% Pet Gel A and 500 Μg Poly(I:C)). Twenty-four jennies were randomly assigned to three treatment groups: reZP (n = 7) received three doses of recombinant ZP vaccine; pZP (n = 9) received two doses of native porcine ZP; and Control group (n = 8) received two injections of placebo. Jennies were monitored weekly via transrectal ultrasonography and blood sampling for serum progesterone profiles and anti-pZP antibody titres. In addition, adverse effects were inspected after vaccination. Thirty-five days after the last treatment, jacks were introduced to each group and rotated every 28 days. Vaccination with both pZP and reZP was associated with ovarian shutdown in 44% (4/9) and 71% (4/7) of jennies, 118 ± 33 and 91 ± 20 days after vaccination, respectively (p > 0.05). Vaccination delayed the chances of a jenny becoming pregnant (p = 0.0005; Control, 78 ± 31 days; pZP, 218 ± 69 days; reZP, 244 ± 104 days). Anti-pZP antibody titres were elevated in all vaccinated jennies compared to Control jennies (p < 0.05). In addition, only mild local injection site reactions were observed in the jennies after treatment. In conclusion, ZP vaccines formulated with non-Freund’s adjuvant effectively controlled reproduction in jennies with only minor localised side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilari French
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre 00334, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Lorenzo Segabinazzi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre 00334, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Brittany Middlebrooks
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre 00334, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Erik Peterson
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre 00334, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Martin Schulman
- Veterinary Population Management Laboratory, Section of Reproduction, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Robyn Roth
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria 0184, South Africa
| | - Michael Crampton
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria 0184, South Africa
| | - Anne Conan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre 00334, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Silvia Marchi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre 00334, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Trevor Gilbert
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre 00334, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Darryn Knobel
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre 00334, Saint Kitts and Nevis
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
| | - Henk Bertschinger
- Veterinary Population Management Laboratory, Section of Reproduction, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
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Meuffels J, Bertschinger H, Tindall B, Pohlin F, Luther-Binoir I, Trivedi S, Boshoff CR, Lueders I. Arterial Blood Gases and Cardiorespiratory Parameters in Etorphine-Medetomidine-Midazolam Immobilized Free-Ranging and Game-Farmed Southern White Rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum simum) Undergoing Electro-Ejaculation. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:862100. [PMID: 35573418 PMCID: PMC9094040 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.862100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
With the rapid loss of individuals in the wild, semen cryopreservation has gained importance to safeguard the genetic diversity of white rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum). For semen collection via electro-ejaculation, immobilization of free-ranging individuals requires the potent opioid etorphine, which is routinely combined with azaperone, but causes hypoxemia, hypercarbia, acidemia, muscle rigidity, tachycardia, and systemic hypertension. In this study, the suitability of two alternative immobilization protocols including etorphine, medetomidine, and midazolam at different doses (high vs. low etorphine) was evaluated in adult white rhinoceros bulls in two different management systems (free-ranging vs. game-farmed) and undergoing electro-ejaculation. Fourteen free-ranging (Group 1) and 28 game-farmed rhinoceroses (Group 2) were immobilized with ≈2.5 μg/kg etorphine (high dose), ≈2.5 μg/kg medetomidine, ≈25 μg/kg midazolam and 1,500–1,700 IU hyaluronidase and received ≈2.5 μg/kg of butorphanol intravenously at first handling. Twenty game-farmed animals (Group 3) received ≈1 μg/kg etorphine (low dose), ≈5 μg/kg medetomidine, ≈25 μg/kg midazolam and 1,700 IU hyaluronidase. Respiratory rate, heart rate and peripheral hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SpO2) were measured at 5-min intervals; non-invasive oscillometric blood pressures and arterial blood gases at first handling and before reversal of the immobilization; serum clinical chemistry analytes and hematocrit at first handling. Generalized mixed models (fixed factors: group, time, recumbency; random factor: individual rhinoceros) were applied to compare longitudinal changes between free-ranging and game-farmed rhinoceroses immobilized with the higher etorphine dose (Groups 1 and 2), and between the two protocols tested in the game-farmed rhinoceroses (Groups 2 and 3). All animals were successfully immobilized, presented with normal lactate concentrations (<5 mmol/L), experienced no muscle tremors and recovered uneventfully. Hypoxemia and hypertension persisted throughout the immobilization in all groups. Acidemia and hypercarbia were absent in Group 1, but present in the game-farmed animals. The lower etorphine dose in Group 3 resulted in significantly longer induction times, however, tachycardia was not observed. SpO2 was higher for sternal vs. lateral recumbency. Semen-rich fractions were recovered following electro-stimulation in 46 out of the 62 animals. Our findings suggest that etorphine-medetomidine-midazolam provides effective immobilization with fewer side effects compared to previous reports in white rhinoceroses and is suitable for successful electro-ejaculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Meuffels
- Cryovault, Hemmersbach Rhino Force NCP, Hoedspruit, South Africa
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- *Correspondence: Janine Meuffels
| | - Henk Bertschinger
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Friederike Pohlin
- Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ilse Luther-Binoir
- Cryovault, Hemmersbach Rhino Force NCP, Hoedspruit, South Africa
- GEOsperm, Wildlife Reproduction and Biotechnology Services, Brits, South Africa
| | - Shweta Trivedi
- Department of Animal Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, United States
| | | | - Imke Lueders
- Cryovault, Hemmersbach Rhino Force NCP, Hoedspruit, South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa
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Meuffels J, Lueders I, Bertschinger H, Luther-Binoir I, Pohlin F, Gerber L, Tindall B. Cardiopulmonary Parameters and Arterial Blood Gases During Etorphine-Medetomidine-Midazolam Immobilization in Free-Ranging Black Rhinoceroses ( Diceros bicornis) Undergoing Electro-Ejaculation-A Preliminary Study. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:740614. [PMID: 34926635 PMCID: PMC8674947 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.740614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Conservation management interventions for the critically endangered black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) require immobilization, which offer opportunities for semen collection and cryopreservation to establish genetic reservoirs. In free-ranging rhinoceroses, a combination of the potent opioid etorphine and the tranquilizer azaperone is routinely used for chemical immobilization but is associated with muscle rigidity and severe cardiopulmonary changes. Additionally, azaperone inhibits semen emission. Seven free-ranging, male, sexually mature black rhinoceroses were immobilized with an alternative protocol consisting of 4.5 mg etorphine, 5 mg medetomidine, 50 mg midazolam and 2,500 IU hyaluronidase delivered remotely by darting from a helicopter. During the immobilization, electro-ejaculation was performed with a portable electro-ejaculator, and a species-specific rectal probe. Animals were observed for muscle tremors. Longitudinal changes in respiratory rate, heart rate and peripheral oxyhemoglobin saturation, measured at 5 min intervals, were assessed using a general mixed model. Non-invasive oscillometric blood pressure and arterial blood gas variables were measured at first handling and before reversal and compared using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. All animals were successfully immobilized, showed no muscle tremors, presented with normal heart rates and lactate concentration (<5 mmol/L), recovered uneventfully, but experienced acidemia, hypoxemia and hypercapnia. Induction time and total time in recumbency were 4.2 ± 0.41 and 38.4 ± 6.9 min, respectively. Electro-stimulation commenced after 11.7 ± 3.98 min and completed after 24.3 ± 6.65 min. Semen-rich fractions were successfully collected from six animals. Our observations indicate that etorphine-medetomidine-midazolam provides a promising immobilization protocol for free-ranging black rhinoceroses, that allows for successful electro-ejaculation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Meuffels
- Cryovault, Hemmersbach Rhino Force NCP, Tokai, South Africa.,Department of Production Animal Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Imke Lueders
- Cryovault, Hemmersbach Rhino Force NCP, Tokai, South Africa.,GEOlifes, Animal Fertility and Reproductive Research, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Henk Bertschinger
- Department of Production Animal Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ilse Luther-Binoir
- GEOSperm, Wildlife Reproduction and Biotechnology Services, Brits, South Africa
| | - Friederike Pohlin
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, Department of Interdisciplinary Life Sciences, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Leandri Gerber
- Scientific Services Unit, Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency, East London, South Africa
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du Plessis K, Ganswindt SB, Bertschinger H, Crossey B, Henley MD, Ramahlo M, Ganswindt A. Social and Seasonal Factors Contribute to Shifts in Male African Elephant ( Loxodonta africana) Foraging and Activity Patterns in Kruger National Park, South Africa. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11113070. [PMID: 34827802 PMCID: PMC8614333 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
African savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana) are well-known as ecosystem engineers with the ability to modify vegetation structure. The present study aimed to examine how male elephant foraging behaviour is affected across (a) season (wet versus dry); (b) time of day (before or after noon); (c) presence or absence of other elephants; and (d) reproductive state (musth versus no musth). Six radio-collared adult elephant bulls were observed twice per week from June 2007-June 2008 in Kruger National Park (KNP), South Africa. Using generalized linear mixed effect modeling, results indicate that elephant bulls graze more during the wet season and browse more during the dry season. To potentially offset the costs associated with thermoregulation during the heat of the day, KNP elephants spent more time foraging during the morning, and more time resting during the afternoon. Male elephants also foraged significantly less when they were associated with females compared to when they were alone or with other males. This is likely due to male-female associations formed mainly for reproductive purposes, thus impeding on male foraging behaviours. In contrast, the condition of musth, defined by the presence of related physical signs, had no significant effect on foraging behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara du Plessis
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (S.B.G.); (B.C.); (M.R.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Stefanie Birgit Ganswindt
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (S.B.G.); (B.C.); (M.R.); (A.G.)
| | - Henk Bertschinger
- Veterinary Population Management Laboratory, Section of Reproduction, Department of Production Animal Studies, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa;
| | - Bruce Crossey
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (S.B.G.); (B.C.); (M.R.); (A.G.)
| | - Michelle Deborah Henley
- Applied Behavioural Ecology and Ecosystem Research Unit, School of Environmental Sciences, University of South Africa, Private Bag X5, Florida 1710, South Africa;
- Elephants Alive, P.O. Box 960, Hoedspruit 1380, South Africa
| | - Mmatsawela Ramahlo
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (S.B.G.); (B.C.); (M.R.); (A.G.)
| | - André Ganswindt
- Mammal Research Institute, Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa; (S.B.G.); (B.C.); (M.R.); (A.G.)
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Fàbregas MC, Fosgate GT, Ganswindt A, Bertschinger H, Meyer LCR. Unforeseen consequences of conservation management practices: case study on herding rhino as an anti‐poaching measure. Anim Conserv 2020. [DOI: 10.1111/acv.12646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- María C. Fàbregas
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences Faculty of Veterinary Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies Faculty of Veterinary Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
| | - Geoffrey T. Fosgate
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies Faculty of Veterinary Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
- Department of Production Animal Studies Faculty of Veterinary Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
| | - André Ganswindt
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies Faculty of Veterinary Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
| | - Henk Bertschinger
- Department of Production Animal Studies Faculty of Veterinary Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
| | - Leith C. R. Meyer
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences Faculty of Veterinary Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies Faculty of Veterinary Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
- Mammal Research Institute Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences University of Pretoria Pretoria South Africa
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French H, Peterson E, Schulman M, Roth R, Crampton M, Conan A, Marchi S, Knobel D, Bertschinger H. Efficacy and safety of native and recombinant zona pellucida immunocontraceptive vaccines in donkeys. Theriogenology 2020; 153:27-33. [PMID: 32417608 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.04.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Feral and semi-feral donkeys are recognised as a problem in some world regions. The main problem associated with uncontrolled donkey populations is habitat degradation and competition for feed resources, especially in arid climes. Controlling population numbers would reduce the impact of donkeys and other species. While removal by various means is effective, it has been shown to stimulate reproductive rate. Probably the most effective and humane solution is reducing reproduction using minimally invasive methods including immunocontraception. This study tested the immunocontraceptive efficacy and safety of zona pellucida (ZP) vaccines, both recombinant (reZP; three treatments) and native porcine (pZP; two treatments) vaccines formulated with Freund's modified complete (primary) and Freund's incomplete (boosters) adjuvants in donkey jennies. Control jennies received adjuvants only (two treatments). Twenty-five non-pregnant jennies were randomly assigned to reZP (n = 9), pZP (n = 8) or control (n = 8) groups. Weekly monitoring of the reproductive tract and ovaries via transrectal palpation and ultrasound and inspection of injection sites was conducted and anti-pZP antibody titers were measured. Five weeks after last treatment, one donkey jack was introduced to each group and rotated every 21 days. By 232 days after last treatment the number pregnant and median days to pregnancy was 2/9 and 214 (reZP group), 1/8 and 196 (pZP group) and 8/8 and 77 (control group). Median time to ovarian shut-down was 77 (9/9) and 56 (7/8) days for reZP and pZP groups, respectively. This was observed in association with a distinct reduction in mean uterine diameter. The antibody response was equally good for both ZP-treated groups. Incorporation of Freund's adjuvants initially produced a high incidence of side effects from local swelling and intermittent lameness followed weeks later by sterile abscesses (reZP, 9/9; pZP, 7/8; control, 3/8). Both ZP vaccines effectively controlled reproduction in jennies, albeit with a high incidence of adjuvant-associated side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilari French
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 334, Basseterre, St Kitts, West Indies.
| | - Erik Peterson
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 334, Basseterre, St Kitts, West Indies.
| | - Martin Schulman
- Veterinary Population Management Laboratory, Section of Reproduction, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Robyn Roth
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Michael Crampton
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Anne Conan
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 334, Basseterre, St Kitts, West Indies.
| | - Silvia Marchi
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 334, Basseterre, St Kitts, West Indies.
| | - Darryn Knobel
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, PO Box 334, Basseterre, St Kitts, West Indies; Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Henk Bertschinger
- Veterinary Population Management Laboratory, Section of Reproduction, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
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Fàbregas MC, Garcés‐Narro C, Bertschinger H, Koehler G. Carcass utilization by tigers: implications for calculating prey requirements. J Zool (1987) 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- M. C. Fàbregas
- Department of Production Animal Studies Faculty of Veterinary Science University of Pretoria Onderstepoort South Africa
| | - C. Garcés‐Narro
- Department of Production and Animal Health General Veterinary Health and the Science and Technology of Food Products Faculty of Veterinary Science University CEU Cardenal Herrera Valencia Spain
| | - H. Bertschinger
- Department of Production Animal Studies Faculty of Veterinary Science University of Pretoria Onderstepoort South Africa
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Ludwig C, Wachter B, Silinski-Mehr S, Ganswindt A, Bertschinger H, Hofer H, Dehnhard M. Characterisation and validation of an enzyme-immunoassay for the non-invasive assessment of faecal glucocorticoid metabolites in cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2013; 180:15-23. [PMID: 23108105 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2012.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2012] [Revised: 10/10/2012] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The non-invasive measurement of adrenocortical function in cheetahs is an important tool to assess stress in captive and free-ranging individuals, because stress has been suggested to be one of the causes of poor reproductive performance of captive cheetahs. We tested four enzyme immunoassays (EIA) in two captive cheetahs in Germany using adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) challenges and identified the corticosterone-3-CMO EIA to be most sensitive to the increase in faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) concentrations after the ACTH challenge. This EIA performed also well in five captive cheetahs in South Africa. The fGCM concentrations across all seven cheetahs increased within 24h by 681% compared to the baseline levels prior to ACTH. Storage of faecal samples at 0-4°C did not strongly affect fGCM concentrations within 24h, simplifying sample collection when immediate storage at -20°C is not feasible. The two cheetahs in Germany also received an injection of [(3)H]cortisol to characterise fGCMs in faecal extracts using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) immunograms. HPLC fractions were measured for their radioactivity and immunoreactive fGCM concentrations with the corticosterone-3-CMO EIA, respectively. The results revealed a polar peak of radiolabelled cortisol metabolites co-eluting with the major peak of immunoreactive fGCMs. Thus, our EIA measured substantial amounts of fGCMs corresponding to the radioactive peaks. The peaks were of higher polarity than native cortisol and corticosterone, suggesting that the metabolites were conjugated, which was confirmed by solvolysis of the HPLC fractions. Our results show that the corticosterone-3-CMO EIA is a reliable tool to assess fGCMs in cheetahs.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ludwig
- Westfälischer Zoologischer Garten Münster GmbH, Münster, Germany
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Ganswindt A, Muilwijk C, Engelkes M, Muenscher S, Bertschinger H, Paris M, Palme R, Cameron EZ, Bennett NC, Dalerum F. Validation of Noninvasive Monitoring of Adrenocortical Endocrine Activity in Ground-Feeding Aardwolves (Proteles cristata): Exemplifying the Influence of Consumption of Inorganic Material for Fecal Steroid Analysis. Physiol Biochem Zool 2012; 85:194-9. [DOI: 10.1086/664591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Ganswindt A, Münscher S, Henley M, Palme R, Thompson P, Bertschinger H. Concentrations of faecal glucocorticoid metabolites in physically injured free-ranging African elephants Loxodonta africana. Wildlife Biology 2010. [DOI: 10.2981/09-081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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Ganswindt A, Muenscher S, Henley M, Henley S, Heistermann M, Palme R, Thompson P, Bertschinger H. Endocrine correlates of musth and the impact of ecological and social factors in free-ranging African elephants (Loxodonta africana). Horm Behav 2010; 57:506-14. [PMID: 20188104 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2010.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2009] [Revised: 02/12/2010] [Accepted: 02/17/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Sexual activity in mature male African elephants is predominantly associated with the occurrence of musth, a state or condition which refers to a set of physical, physiological and behavioral characteristics, including an elevation in androgen levels. Although musth appears to be energetically costly, the degree to which it is associated with changes in adrenal endocrine function (e.g., glucocorticoid output) is still unclear. To investigate the possible effect of musth on adrenocortical function, and the impact of socioecological changes on androgen and glucocorticoid levels, six adult African elephant bulls were followed for 13months in the Kruger National Park, South Africa, and observations and fecal sample collection for endocrine monitoring was carried out about twice weekly. Our data showed that the occurrence of musth was associated with reduced glucocorticoid output, suggesting that musth does not represent a physiological stress mediated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. This confirms previous findings in captive-housed animals, providing evidence for a suppressive effect of the musth condition on adrenocortical activity. Furthermore, a seasonal effect on androgen and glucocorticoid levels was found, which appears to vary depending on the reproductive status of the animal. The results also indicate a relationship between the presence or absence of social partners and changes in testicular and adrenal endocrine activity. Finally, the data confirm previous findings in captive-housed elephants, that an elevation in androgen concentrations usually occurs before the onset of physical musth signs, and therefore support the idea that the change in androgen levels represents the initial stimulus for the musth condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Ganswindt
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa.
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Nel PJ, Bertschinger H, Williams J, Thompson PN. Descriptive study of an outbreak of equine sarcoid in a population of Cape mountain zebra (Equus zebra zebra) in the Gariep Nature Reserve. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2006; 77:184-90. [PMID: 17458342 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v77i4.375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
An outbreak of equine sarcoid occurred in a population of Cape mountain zebra (Equus zebra zebra) at the Gariep Nature Reserve located in the southern Free State Province of South Africa in 1996. The course of the outbreak during 1996 to 2003 is described. During this period the average population size was 69 animals. Initially (1996) all affected animals were removed from the population. New cases continued to manifest and the incidence varied between 4.6% and 17.6 %. Prevalence reached 24.7% in 2002. No sexual predilection was noticed in the 39 recorded cases. Of the affected individuals, 64 % had a single lesion and no animal had more than 4 lesions. In males, the majority of lesions occurred in the inguinal area (55.17 %), whereas in females they mostly occurred on the head and neck (41.38 %). Lesions can increase 260 % in size annually and may impede movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- P J Nel
- Free State Department of Tourism, Environmental and Economic Affairs, Bloemfontein, South Africa.
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Koeppel KN, Bertschinger H, van Vuuren M, Picard J, Steiner J, Williams D, Cardwell J. The use of a probiotic in captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). J S Afr Vet Assoc 2006; 77:127-30. [PMID: 17137052 DOI: 10.4102/jsava.v77i3.359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Juvenile captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) often present with diarrhoea that is commonly associated with bacterial infections. A species-specific probiotic containing Lactobacillus Group 2 and Enterococcus faecium was prepared from healthy adult cheetahs. Juvenile cheetahs (n = 27) between 8 and 13 months of age were included in the probiotic trial. The animals were observed prior to and after feeding of the probiotic which was made available for 28 days. Feeding of the probiotic resulted in a significantly increased body weight in the treatment group (P = 0.026), while there was no increase in the control group. A relative improvement in the faecal quality in the probiotic group during the treatment period compared with the pre-treatment (P = 0.0363) and post-treatment (P = 0.004) period was observed. This was accompanied by an absence of blood and mucus in the faeces during the treatment period in the probiotic group.
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Affiliation(s)
- K N Koeppel
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, 0110 South Africa.
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14
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Gee GF, Bertschinger H, Donoghue AM, Blanco J, Soley J. Reproduction in Nondomestic Birds: Physiology, Semen Collection, Artificial Insemination and Cryopreservation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004. [DOI: 10.3184/147020604783637435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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15
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Kennedy M, Kania S, Stylianides E, Bertschinger H, Keet D, van Vuuren M. Detection of feline coronavirus infection in southern African nondomestic felids. J Wildl Dis 2004; 39:529-35. [PMID: 14567213 DOI: 10.7589/0090-3558-39.3.529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Feline coronavirus (FCoV) infects members of the Felidae family with results ranging from seroconversion with no disease to fatal feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). Infection of non-domestic felids with FCoV is of concern, particularly in endangered populations such as cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). In this investigation, we tested 342 animals in the Republic of South Africa and Namibia, including 140 animals from wild populations, for evidence of FCoV infection by serology and/or reverse transcription/nested polymerase chain reaction (RT/nPCR) on feces from 1999 through 2001. Past or current infection was evaluated. Of these, 195 animals had evidence of infection and included 41 animals from wild populations. Serology (indirect immunofluorescence) did not always correlate with viral RNA detection, as seronegative animals were occasionally virus-positive, while many seropositive animals were not shedding virus. Serology indicated the infecting virus was most closely related to type I FCoV. Antibody levels in the majority of animals were low, even in those actively infected. Ten of 48 animals tested at more than one time point by RT/nPCR were shedding virus at multiple time points possibly indicating persistent infection. Infection in free-ranging animals was also notable, as over a quarter of the free-ranging animals tested had evidence of current or previous FCoV infection. Testing by serology and RT/nPCR is recommended for screening for FCoV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Kennedy
- Department of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee 37996, USA.
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16
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Fayrer-Hosken RA, Brooks P, Kirkpatrick J, Bertschinger H, Raath JP, Soley JM. Potential of the porcine zona pellucida (PZP) being an immunocontraceptive agent for elephants. Theriogenology 1997. [DOI: 10.1016/s0093-691x(97)82524-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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17
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Stanley SM, Wilhelmi BS, Rodgers JP, Bertschinger H. Immunoaffinity chromatography combined with gas chromatography-negative ion chemical ionisation mass spectrometry for the confirmation of flumethasone abuse in the equine. J Chromatogr 1993; 614:77-86. [PMID: 8496289 DOI: 10.1016/0378-4347(93)80225-s] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Immunoaffinity chromatography using a synthesised immunosorbent was used to extract tritiated dexamethasone (with dexamethasone carrier) from equine urine at a recovery of 81.7 +/- 8.4% (mean +/- S.D.). A method utilising this procedure coupled to cool on-column injection gas chromatography-negative ion chemical ionisation mass spectrometry is also described for the confirmation of low levels of flumethasone in equine urine samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Stanley
- Laboratory of the Jockey Club of Southern Africa, Johannesburg
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18
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Imberechts H, De Greve H, Schlicker C, Bouchet H, Pohl P, Charlier G, Bertschinger H, Wild P, Vandekerckhove J, Van Damme J. Characterization of F107 fimbriae of Escherichia coli 107/86, which causes edema disease in pigs, and nucleotide sequence of the F107 major fimbrial subunit gene, fedA. Infect Immun 1992; 60:1963-71. [PMID: 1348723 PMCID: PMC257102 DOI: 10.1128/iai.60.5.1963-1971.1992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
F107 fimbriae were isolated and purified from edema disease strain 107/86 of Escherichia coli. Plasmid pIH120 was constructed, which contains the gene cluster that codes for adhesive F107 fimbriae. The major fimbrial subunit gene, fedA, was sequenced. An open reading frame that codes for a protein with 170 amino acids, including a 21-amino-acid signal peptide, was found. The protein without the signal sequence has a calculated molecular mass of 15,099 Da. Construction of a nonsense mutation in the open reading frame of fedA abolished both fimbrial expression and the capacity to adhere to isolated porcine intestinal villi. In a screening of 28 reference edema disease strains and isolates from clinically ill piglets, fedA was detected in 24 cases (85.7%). In 20 (83.3%) of these 24 strains, fedA was found in association with Shiga-like toxin II variant genes, coding for the toxin that is characteristic for edema disease strains of E. coli. The fimbrial subunit gene was not detected in enterotoxigenic E. coli strains. Because of the capacity of E. coli HB101(pIH120) transformants to adhere to isolated porcine intestinal villi, the high prevalence of fedA in edema disease strains, and the high correlation with the Shiga-like toxin II variant toxin-encoding genes, we suggest that F107 fimbriae are an important virulence factor in edema disease strains of E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Imberechts
- Laboratory of Bacteriology, National Institute for Veterinary Research, Brussels, Belgium
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19
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Van Amstel SR, Reyers F, Guthrie AJ, Oberem PT, Bertschinger H. The clinical pathology of heartwater. I. Haematology and blood chemistry. Onderstepoort J Vet Res 1988; 55:37-45. [PMID: 3353099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Clinical pathological studies were undertaken in 5 calves with experimentally-induced heartwater. The most important findings include a progressive anaemia which may be associated with bone marrow depression and fluctuations in the total and differential white cell count, of which an eosinopenia and a lymphocytosis were the most marked. A severe drop in serum protein, especially in the albumin levels, was observed in all 5 cases. This disease is probably associated with an increased capillary permeability, as the protein content of the pericardial fluid in 1 case that died, approximated that of the serum. The osmolality of the effused fluid was also higher than that of the blood. No significant changes in the serum electrolyte levels occurred, except for total calcium levels which tended to decrease to below normal during the acute stage of the disease. Marked increases in total bilirubin were recorded. This, however, was not associated with liver pathology or haemolysis and may possibly be ascribed to a fasting hyperbilirubinaemia. Darkening of plasma colour was associated with peak rises in total bilirubin. Increases in both blood urea and creatinine levels indicate interference with renal glomerular filtration during the acute stage of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Van Amstel
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag, Onderstepoort
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20
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Van Amstel SR, Guthrie AJ, Reyers F, Bertschinger H, Oberem PT, Killeen VM, Matthee O. The clinical pathology and pathophysiology of heartwater: a review. Onderstepoort J Vet Res 1987; 54:287-90. [PMID: 3329320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper reviews the available literature on the clinical pathology and pathophysiology of heartwater and makes comparisons with unpublished results obtained from a recent study in experimentally-induced heartwater in calves. The pathophysiological changes seem to center on an increased capillary permeability the result of which is reflected most noticeably in cardiac and lung function. There is a marked drop in cardiac output in severe cases and some workers have recorded a severe drop in diastolic blood pressure in the advanced stage of the disease. Changes in lung function are variable, depending on the stage of the disease, and may change from a respiratory alkalosis in the early febrile stage to a respiratory acidosis in more advanced cases. The basic cause for the increased capillary permeability is not known. The main clinical pathological changes measured include a progressive anaemia, fluctuations in total and differential white cell count, of which an eosinopenia and a lymphocytosis are the most marked, increases in total bilirubin which coincide with darkening of plasma colour, and a drop in total serum proteins mostly shown in the albumin levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Van Amstel
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort
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21
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Bertschinger H, Geyer H. [Blood specimen collection and intravenous injection in the swine]. SCHWEIZ ARCH TIERH 1975; 117:701-11. [PMID: 1209250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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22
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Bertschinger H. [Synchronization of the cycle in swine]. SCHWEIZ ARCH TIERH 1967; 109:588-93. [PMID: 5626733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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