A complex structural variant at the KIT locus in cattle with the Pinzgauer spotting pattern.

A specific white spotting phenotype, termed finching or line-backed spotting, is known for all Pinzgauer cattle and occurs occasionally in Tux-Zillertaler cattle, two Austrian breeds. The so-called Pinzgauer spotting is inherited as an autosomal incompletely dominant trait. A genome-wide association study using 27 white spotted and 16 solid-coloured Tux-Zillertaler cattle, based on 777k SNP data, revealed a strong signal on chromosome 6 at the KIT locus. Haplotype analyses defined a critical interval of 122 kb downstream of the KIT coding region. Whole-genome sequencing of a Pinzgauer cattle and comparison to 338 control genomes revealed a complex structural variant consisting of a 9.4-kb deletion and an inversely inserted duplication of 1.5 kb fused to a 310-kb duplicated segment from chromosome 4. A diagnostic PCR was developed for straightforward genotyping of carriers for this structural variant (KITPINZ ) and confirmed that the variant allele was present in all Pinzgauer and most of the white spotted Tux-Zillertaler cattle. In addition, we detected the variant in all Slovenian Cika, British Gloucester and Spanish Berrenda en negro cattle with similar spotting patterns. Interestingly, the KITPINZ variant occurs in some white spotted animals of the Swiss breeds Evolèner and Eringer. The introgression of the KITPINZ variant confirms admixture and the reported historical relationship of these short-headed breeds with Austrian Tux-Zillertaler and suggests a mutation event, occurring before breed formation.

[Diagnosis and therapy of retained fetal membranes, puerperal metritis and clinical endometritis in cattle: Results of the Online-survey among Swiss practitioners. I Retained fetal membranes]. / Diagnose und Therapie von Nachgeburtsverhalten, puerperaler Metritis und klinischer Endometritis beim Rind: Ergebnisse einer Online-Umfrage bei Schweizer Tierärzten. I Nachgeburtsverhalten.

The aim of this study was to obtain the diagnostic and therapeutic approach among Swiss practitioners in cows with retained fetal membranes (RFM) (part 1). All members of the Association for ruminant health were contacted per email via the newsletter. The survey was completed by 128 veterinarians, partially responded by 140 veterinarians. The manual removal of the fetal membranes is practiced by 129 of the responding veterinarians. Cows with/without fever are treated usually with intrauterine antibiotics. Cows with RFM with/without fever are most commonly treated parenterally with tetracycline or penicillin. The use of cephalosporins and quinolones in cows with fever is more common than in cows without fever. With the present results of the survey veterinarians should critically question the supposed benefits of the manual removal of the placenta and the use of antibiotics in cows with RFM.

[Diagnosis and therapy of retained fetal membranes, puerperal metritis and clinical endometritis in cattle: Results of the Online-survey among Swiss practitioners. II. Puerperal metritis and clinical endometritis]. / Diagnose und Therapie von Nachgeburtsverhalten, puerperaler Metritis und klinischer Endometritis beim Rind: Ergebnisse einer Online-Umfrage bei Schweizer Tierärzten. II. Puerperale Metritis und klinische Endometritis.

The aim of the study was to obtain the diagnostic and therapeutic approach among Swiss practitioners in cows with puerperal metritis and clinical endometritis (part 2). All members of the Association for ruminant health were contacted per email via the newsletter. The survey was completed by 128 veterinarians, partially responded by 140 veterinarians. The following main symptoms of puerperal metritis were stated by the practitioners: purulent vaginal discharge, fever and reduced appetite. A vaginal and rectal examination was performed to diagnose the disease. Usually, an intrauterine treatment with tetracycline or cefapirin was done. Parenteral administration of tetracycline or penicillin was often combined with PGF(2α), NSAIDS or cortisone. Clinical endometritis was also diagnosed by vaginal and rectal examination and the main symptom indicated was purulent vaginal discharge. The therapy consisted of the administration of PGF(2α), uterine infusions predominantly with cefapirin, and rarely with parenteral administration of antibiotics. Further diagnostic tools were not used and normally cows were not rechecked. The success of the therapy of puerperal metritis and clinical endometritis was judged to be satisfactory to excellent.

[Findings in uteri and ovaries from Eringer cows slaughtered due to fertility problems]. / Befunde von Uterus und Ovarien geschlacbteter Eringerkühe mit Fruchtbarkeitsproblemen.

Eringer cows are often slaughtered due to fertility problems which result from inflammatory and degenerative changes of the uterus or hormonal imbalances. Twenty-one genital tracts from Eringer cows suffering from fertility problems were collected in the abattoir. The purpose of the study was the macroscopic evaluation of the ovaries and the uterus followed by a histological and microbiological analysis of the uterus. Data from inseminations and calvings were provided by the Eringer breeding association and through the internet portal www.agate.ch. Median age of the cows was 6.9 years, number of calves per cow was 2.5 and median period between last calving and slaughter was 1.5 years. In 13 from 21 of the urogenital tracts examined, macroscopic abnormalities of the ovaries and/or histologic or microbiologic findings in the uterus could explain fertility-associated slaughter.

Immunization against gonadotropin-releasing hormone in dairy cattle: antibody titers, ovarian function, hormonal levels, and reversibility.

Suppression of cyclic activity in cattle is often desired in alpine farming and for feedlot cattle not intended for breeding. A cattle-specific anti-GnRH vaccination (Bopriva, Zoetis Australia Ltd., West Ryde, Australia) is approved for use in heifers and bulls in New Zealand, Australia, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Turkey, and Peru. Eleven healthy, cyclic Swiss Fleckvieh cows were included in the study and vaccinated twice with Bopriva 4wk apart. Injection site, rectal body temperature, and heart and respiratory rates were recorded before and 3d following each vaccination. Blood samples were taken weekly for progesterone and estrogen analysis and to determine GnRH antibody titer. Ovaries were examined weekly, using ultrasound to count the number of follicles and identify the presence of a corpus luteum. Thirty weeks after the first vaccination, the cows were subjected to a controlled internal drug-releasing device-based Select-Synch treatment. The GnRH antibody titers increased after the second vaccination and peaked 2wk later. Estrogen levels were not influenced by vaccination, and progesterone level decreased in 7 of 11 cows up to 3wk after the second vaccination and remained low for 10 to 15wk following the second vaccination. The number of class I follicles (diameter ≤5mm) was not influenced by vaccination, whereas the number of class II follicles (diameter 6-9mm) decreased between 7 and 16wk after the first vaccination. Class III follicles (diameter >9mm) were totally absent during this period in most cows. The median period until recurrence of class III follicles was 78d from the day of the second vaccination (95% confidence interval: 60-92d). After vaccination, all cows showed swelling and pain at the injection site, and these reactions subsided within 2wk. Body temperature and heart and respiratory rates increased after the first and second vaccinations and returned to normal values within 2d of each vaccination. The cows in our study were not observed to display estrus behavior until 30wk after the first vaccination. Therefore, a Select-Synch protocol was initiated at that time. Ten cows became pregnant after the first insemination (the remaining cow was reinseminated once until confirmed pregnancy). Bopriva induced a reliable and reversible suppression of reproductive cyclicity for more than 2mo. The best practical predictor for the length of the anestrus period was the absence of class III follicles.

[Five case reports on granulosa cell tumors in cattle with practical information on diagnosis and possible progression]. / Fünf Fallberichte zum Granulosazelltumor beim Rind mit praktischen Hinweisen zur Diagnostik und zum möglichen Verlauf.

INTRODUCTION: Five cases of ovarian tumors (granulosa cell tumors) in cattle are presented from the patient load of the Vetsuisse University of Zurich and Bern. The aim of this work was to demonstrate the variable development of the illness and to indicate diagnostic and therapeutic possibilities to the practicing veterinarians. Case 1 shows bilateral appearance and the development of malignancy and metastases. The main symptoms in case 2 were the development of the mammary gland in a juvenile animal and the behavior modification due to a hormonal imbalance. The cases 3, 4 and 5 underwent surgery, case 4 restarted reproductive activity resulting in five subsequent pregnancies. The initial presumption is a result of a gynecological including ultrasonographic examination and can be verified by the analysis of Müllerian Inhibiting Hormone in serum. The decision to perform surgery should be done rapidly, as normal fertility can be achieved if the tumor is located unilaterally. Tumor growth and potential malignancy can provoke fatal health issues and also make it impossible to use meat of these animals for consumption.

INTRODUCTION: Cinq cas de tumeurs ovariennes (tumeurs des cellules de la granulosa) chez les bovins sont présentés à partir de la patientèle de l'Université Vetsuisse de Zurich et de Berne. Le but de ce travail était de montrer l'évolution variable de la maladie et d'indiquer les possibilités diagnostiques et thérapeutiques aux vétérinaires praticiens. Le cas 1 montre la possibilité d'une apparition bilatérale avec développement d'une tumeur maligne et de métastases. Les principaux symptômes du cas 2 étaient le développement de la glande mammaire chez un animal juvénile et la modification du comportement due à un déséquilibre hormonal. Les cas 3, 4 et 5 ont subi une intervention chirurgicale, le cas 4 a repris une activité de reproduction avec cinq gestations ultérieures. La présomption initiale résulte d'un examen gynécologique et peut être vérifiée par l'analyse de l'hormone anti-müllérienne dans le sérum. La décision d'opérer doit être prise rapidement, car une intervention chirurgicale pour enlever l'ovaire atteint peut, dans l'idéal, permettre une reprise de l'activité de reproduction. La croissance de la tumeur et la malignité potentielle peuvent provoquer des problèmes de santé fatals et rendre la viande de ces animaux impropre à la consommation.

[Examinations of cattle births with a special focus on Coxiella burnetii]. / Geburten an der Wiederkäuerklinik mit Fokus auf die Ausscheidung von Coxiella burnetii.

INTRODUCTION: Cattle births can carry the risk of transmissible and zoonotic diseases. The focus of the present study was the excretion of Coxiella (C.) burnetii during cattle births. Small ruminants are considered as the main reservoir of C. burnetii. Cattle are often subclinical carriers and their role as potential reservoir has not been fully elucidated until now, although the excretion of Coxiella has been demonstrated during cattle birth. The study recorded all births, caesarean sections and one abortion in 40 cattle at the ruminant clinic of the Vetsuisse Faculty in Bern in the study period from March 2019 to March 2020. A placenta -, milk - and fecal sample was examined for antigen diagnostics using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In addition, a serum sample was analyzed to detect C. burnetii-specific antibodies. Antigen and/or antibodies (placenta, n=8/9; milk, n=2/9; faeces, n=1/9; serology n= 3/9) were detected in 22,5 % of the cows (n=9/40) without the presence of specific clinical symptoms. It is essential to sensitize contact persons to this zoonosis, since Coxiella can trigger Q-fever in humans.

INTRODUCTION: Les naissances chez les bovins peuvent comporter un risque de maladies transmissibles et zoonotiques. La présente étude se concentre sur l'excrétion de Coxiella (C.) burnetii lors des mises-bas de bovins. Les petits ruminants sont considérés comme le principal réservoir de C. burnetii, mais les bovins sont souvent des porteurs subcliniques et leur rôle de réservoir potentiel n'a pas été complètement élucidé jusqu'à présent, bien que l'excrétion de Coxiella ait été démontrée lors de la mise-bas. L'étude a recensé toutes les naissances, les césariennes et un avortement chez 40 bovins à la Clinique des ruminants de la Faculté Vetsuisse de Berne durant la période allant de mars 2019 à mars 2020. Un échantillon de placenta, de lait et de matières fécales a été examiné pour le diagnostic des antigènes par réaction en chaîne par polymérase (PCR). En outre, un échantillon de sérum a été analysé pour détecter les anticorps spécifiques de C. burnetii. L'antigène et/ou les anticorps (placenta, n=8/9 ; lait, n=2/9 ; fèces, n=1/9 ; sérologie n=3/9) ont été détectés chez 22,5 % des vaches (n=9/40) sans présence de symptômes cliniques spécifiques. Il est essentiel de sensibiliser les personnes de contact à cette zoonose, car Coxiella peut déclencher la fièvre Q chez l'homme.

[Unclear fertility-related losses in cattle - a pilot study to evaluate the occurrence of bovine endometrosis]. / Unklare fruchtbarkeitsbedingte Abgänge beim Rind ­ eine Pilotstudie zur Evaluation des Vorkommens boviner Endometrose.

INTRODUCTION: With every surgical procedure there is a risk of postoperative infection (surgical site infection = SSI). This risk of infection can be influenced by various factors, including perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis. In terms of antibiotic stewardship, antibiotics should only be used if there is a proven benefit for the patient. However, this advantage has not yet been conclusively proven, especially for clean and clean-contaminated surgeries. The aim of our study was to document various relevant influencing factors on the infection rate after clean and clean-contaminated surgeries in dogs and cats. In particular, it was documented to what extent a reduced use of antibiotics affects the infection rate in the context of all influencing factors. Over a period of eleven months, 807 clean and clean-contaminated surgeries in dogs and cats were prospectively analyzed with possible influencing factors (gender, ASA classification, underlying endocrinological diseases, duration of anesthesia, duration of surgery, type of surgery, perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (POA), duration of hospitalization) affecting the infection rate. After surgery all cases were followed up either 30 or 90 days, if implants were used. The effect of the various factors was evaluated using multivariable logistic regression analysis. SSI was detected in 25/664 clean and 10/143 clean-contaminated surgeries. Longer hospitalization, without antimicrobial prophylaxis, and male animals had a significantly higher risk of SSI. In clean surgeries, SSI occurred in 2,3 % of all cases with POA and 5,3 % without POA. The SSI in clean-contaminated was 3,6 % with POA and 9 % without. This difference resulted mainly from the results of osteosynthesis, gastrointestinal and skin surgeries. However, other types of surgeries, such as castrations, neurological interventions, abdominal and thoracic surgeries, and surgeries in the head and neck region, showed comparable infection rates with and without POA.

INTRODUCTION: Toute intervention chirurgicale comporte un risque d'infection postopératoire (infection du site opératoire = ISO). Ce risque d'infection peut être influencé par différents facteurs, dont l'antibioprophylaxie périopératoire. En termes de gestion responsable des antibiotiques, les antibiotiques ne devraient être utilisés que s'il existe un avantage prouvé pour le patient. Cependant, cet avantage n'a pas encore été prouvé de manière concluante, en particulier pour les chirurgies propres et propres-contaminées. L'objectif de notre étude était de documenter divers facteurs d'influence pertinents sur le taux d'infection après des chirurgies propres et propres-contaminées chez les chiens et les chats. Nous avons en particulier cherché à savoir dans quelle mesure une utilisation réduite des antibiotiques affecte le taux d'infection en tenant compte de tous les facteurs d'influence. Sur une période de onze mois, 807 chirurgies propres et contaminées chez des chiens et des chats ont été analysées prospectivement avec les facteurs d'influence possibles (sexe, classification ASA, maladies endocrinologiques sous-jacentes, durée de l'anesthésie, durée de la chirurgie, type de chirurgie, prophylaxie antibiotique périopératoire (POA), durée de l'hospitalisation) affectant le taux d'infection. Après la chirurgie, tous les cas ont été suivis durant soit 30 soit90 jours si des implants avaient été utilisés. L'effet des différents facteurs a été évalué par une analyse de régression logistique multivariable. Des ISO ont été détectées dans 25/664 chirurgies propres et 10/143 chirurgies contaminées propres. Une hospitalisation plus longue sans prophylaxie antimicrobienne ainsi que les animaux mâles présentaient un risque significativement plus élevé d'ISO. Dans les chirurgies propres, les ISO sont survenues dans 2,3 % des cas avec POA et 5,3 % sans POA. Dans les opérations propres-contaminées, les ISO étaient de 3,6 % avec POA et de 9 % sans POA. Cette différence était principalement due aux résultats des ostéosynthèses, des chirurgies gastro-intestinales et cutanées. En revanbche, d'autres types de chirurgies, comme les castrations, les interventions neurologiques, les chirurgies abdominales et thoraciques et les chirurgies de la tête et du cou ont montré des taux d'infection comparables avec et sans POA.

[Phytotherapeutic treatments of gynecological diseases and fertility disorders in cattle - a veterinary historical analysis]. / Phytotherapeutische Behandlungen gynäkologischer Erkrankungen und Fruchtbarkeitsstörungen von Rindern ­ eine veterinärhistorische Analyse.

INTRODUCTION: Fertility problems are the main reasons for culling dairy cows. Diseases of the female genital tract are also often the cause of antibiotic or hormonal treatments in bovine practices. The use of medicinal plants could expand the available therapeutics. The aim of the work was to analyze historical literature before the introduction of antibiotics in veterinary reproductive medicine. Five books in German language, published in Germany and Switzerland between 1878 and 1921, and one handwritten therapy booklet by the rural veterinarian Carl Ammann-Honegger (1879-1960) were systematically examined regarding the descriptions (AW) on gynecological diseases. The herbal and additional ingredients of the recipe, the target animal species, the type of administration and the indication were recorded in detail for each AW. The six literature sources contained a total of 103 AW (79 administered orally, 13 locally, and 11 both orally and locally). Almost two thirds of the AW (61) were based on a mixture of different plants (two to seven plants), and one third of the AW (31) on a single plant. A total of 55 plants were recorded. The most frequently mentioned medical plants were plants of the genus Juniperus (J. communis L. (19 AW), J. sabina L. (13 AW)) and Linum usitatissimum L. (18 AW), Matricaria chamomilla L. (13 AW) and Gentiana lutea L. (12 AW). The treatment of the Retentio secundinarum was the most frequently mentioned indication (44 AW), followed by parturition preparation (17 AW) and endometritis treatment (15 AW). The most frequently recorded plants can be divided based on their ingredients and their effect into (a) energy- and protein-rich forage plants, (b) generally appetizing, digestive- and metabolism-enhancing plants, (c) medical plants with a specific gynecological organotrophic effect and (d) according to current knowledge, predominantly toxic plants. Besides the antimicrobial active immunity to defence against bacterial infections, a stable barrier funcion of the endometrium contributes to uterine health. The plants classified under (a) - (c) have at least the potential for a positive effect on the immune system and the endometrial barrier function and thus contribute indirectly to the uterine health.

INTRODUCTION: Les problèmes de fertilité sont les principales raisons de la mise à la réforme des vaches laitières. Les maladies de l'appareil génital femelle sont également souvent à l'origine de traitements antibiotiques ou hormonaux dans les pratiques bovines. L'utilisation de plantes médicinales pourrait élargir les thérapeutiques disponibles. L'objectif de ce travail était d'analyser la littérature historique avant l'introduction des antibiotiques en médecine de la reproduction vétérinaire. Cinq livres en langue allemande, publiés en Allemagne et en Suisse entre 1878 et 1921, et un livret thérapeutique écrit à la main par le vétérinaire rural Carl Ammann-Honegger (1879­1960) ont été systématiquement examinés en ce qui concerne les descriptions d'utilisation (AW) sur les maladies gynécologiques. Les herbes et les ingrédients supplémentaires de la recette, l'espèce animale cible, le type d'administration et l'indication ont été enregistrés en détail pour chaque AW. Les six sources de littérature contenaient un total de 103 AW (79 administrées par voie orale, 13 par voie locale et 11 par voie orale et locale). Près de deux tiers des AW (61) étaient basés sur un mélange de différentes plantes (deux à sept plantes), et un tiers des AW (31) sur une seule plante. Au total, 55 plantes ont été enregistrées. Les plantes médicinales les plus fréquemment mentionnées étaient les plantes du genre Juniperus (J. communis L. (19 AW), J. sabina L. (13 AW)) et Linum usitatissimum L. (18 AW), Matricaria chamomilla L. (13 AW) et Gentiana lutea L. (12 AW). Le traitement du Retentio secundinarum a été l>indication la plus fréquemment mentionnée (44 AW), suivie de la préparation à la parturition (17 AW) et du traitement de l>endométrite (15 AW). Les plantes les plus fréquemment enregistrées peuvent être divisées, en fonction de leurs composants et de leurs effets, en (a) plantes fourragères riches en énergie et en protéines, (b) plantes généralement appétissantes, favorisant la digestion et le métabolisme, (c) plantes médicinales ayant un effet organotropique gynécologique spécifique et (d) selon les connaissances actuelles, plantes principalement toxiques. Outre l'effet antimicrobien, une capacité de défense stable de l'endomètre contribue à la santé utérine. Les plantes classées sous (a) - (c) ont au moins le potentiel d'un effet positif sur le système immunitaire et la fonction de défense de l'endomètre et contribuent ainsi indirectement à la santé utérine.

[Reproductive performance in Herens cows from 2003 to 2007]. / Erhebung von Fruchtbarkeitsdaten der Eringerrasse von 2003-2007.

Herens cows have been treated at the Clinic for Ruminants, University of Berne, more frequently for fertility problems than other breeds. The aim of the study was to overview the reproductive performance of the Herens breed by analyzing data sets of the Herens Breeding Book and of the Animal Traffic Database of Switzerland. In addition, a questionnaire was sent to the breeders concerning aspects of management and care to identify a possible influence on the reproductive performance of the animals. Based on 4988 lactations starting in 2003, an average interval of calving to first insemination of 86 days a calving to conception interval of 146 days and an inter calving period of 431 days could be calculated. Conception rate resulted in 39.1%, the fertility index was 1.87 and 6.5% of all cows were culled because of fertility problems. Half of the breeders owned 4 or less cows. The most important reason for keeping Herens cows was cow fighting. Traditional alpine pasturing and cow fight rules resulted in a seasonal calving with 80% of the births taking place between October and December. The calving month and seasonal calving were the most important reasons for a prolonged calving to conception interval.

[Oestrus suppression in a dairy herd by means of anti-GnRH vaccination Improvac®: A prospective field study]. / Brunstunterdrückung mittels Anti-GnRH-Impfung Improvac® in einem Milchviehbestand: Eine prospektive Feldstudie.

INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was to evaluate the duration of estrus suppression after a double administration of the anti-GnRH vaccine Improvac® (Zoetis Schweiz GmbH, 2800 Delémont) in cows. Furthermore, it should be investigated, if a third administration could prolong the effect of the cycle suppression. A total of 21 cows (more than four weeks post partum) were vaccinated twice, at least 35 days apart, with 2 ml Improvac® (0.4 mg of a GnRH-analogon) subcutaneously on one side of the neck. Over a period of 368 days and in the course of 18 farm visits these cows were examined gynecologically and re-vaccinated if they showed signs of estrus behaviour or ovarian activity. After the second vaccination the cycle of the cows was suppressed for an average period of 114 days (59-175 days) and the effect could be prolonged by a booster of the vaccine for another 127 days in three cows. Estrus behaviour was absent for a longer period than ovarian activity was. The vaccine was tolerated well: apart from slight swelling at the injection site, no side effects were observed. Our results demonstrate that two immunizations with Improvac® are an easily applicable method for the suppression of cyclic activity in cows for a mean period of 114 days. The duration of cycle suppression was prolonged by a booster of the vaccination.

INTRODUCTION: Le but de cette étude était d'évaluer la durée de la suppression des chaleurs chez les vaches après une double administration du vaccin anti-GnRH Improvac® (Zoetis Schweiz GmbH, 2800 Delémont). En outre, on a recherché si une troisième administration pourrait prolonger l'effet de la suppression du cycle. Au total, 21 vaches (plus de quatre semaines après vèlage) ont été vaccinées deux fois, à au moins 35 jours d'intervalle, avec 2 ml d'Improvac® (0,4 mg d'analogue de la GnRH) par voie sous-cutanée d'un côté du cou. Sur une période de 368 jours et au cours de 18 visites à la ferme, ces vaches ont été examinées gynécologiquement et revaccinées si elles présentaient des signes de comportement œstral ou d'activité ovarienne. Après la deuxième vaccination, le cycle des vaches a été supprimé pendant une période moyenne de 114 jours (59 - 175 jours) et l'effet a pu être prolongé par un rappel du vaccin pendant 127 jours supplémentaires chez trois vaches. Le comportement d'œstrus était absent pendant une période plus longue que l'inactivité ovarienne. Le vaccin a été bien toléré: à part une légère enflure au site d'injection, aucun effet secondaire n'a été observé. Nos résultats démontrent que deux immunisations avec Improvac® sont une méthode facilement applicable pour la suppression de l'activité cyclique chez les vaches pendant une période moyenne de 114 jours. La durée de la suppression du cycle a été prolongée par un rappel de vaccination.

[Abortions and stillbirths caused by Coxiella burnetii in goats]. / Aborte und Totgeburten bei Ziegen unter besonderer Berücksichtigung von Coxiella burnetii.

INTRODUCTION: Coxiellosis, caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, is a reportable disease in animals and humans in Switzerland. The number of cases in farm animals and humans has risen continuously in recent years. The aim of this work was to investigate abortions and stillbirths in goats with a focus on C. burnetii, to identify excretory routes which pose a zoonotic risk and the excretion time after an acute infection. Besides the submitted fetuses, does were screened with a serological antibody test. In addition, excretion via milk, faeces and vaginal mucus were investigated in dams with fetuses tested positive for C. burnetii at 14-day intervals.C. burnetii were isolated in 8 cases (3× in the placenta, 2× in the abomasum, 3× in the placenta and abomasum) of 13 examined stillbirths/abortions. Ten abomasums of goat kids and 8 placentas were examined using modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining (ZN) according to Stamp simultaneously with a real-time PCR. Four of 18 samples were false negative using modified ZN staining according to Stamp in contrast to real-time PCR. Seven does had serum antibodies against Coxiella. The excretion of C. burnetii persisted for 63 days in the milk, for 96 days in the vaginal mucus and for 96 respectively 114 days in two does monitored extensively. Intermittent excretion could also be observed in the milk during these 63 days. The present study showed that confirmation of disease, respectively transmission cannot be based on a single test. Only combined serological antibody test and real-time PCR examinations of birth material, milk, feces and vaginal mucus can result in a conclusive diagnosis. In addition, the examination using modified ZN staining according to Stamp is less sensitive and specific than the real-time PCR examination.

INTRODUCTION: La coxiellose, causée par la bactérie Coxiella burnetii, est une maladie à déclaration obligatoire en Suisse qui touche les animaux et les humains. Le nombre de cas chez les animaux de rente et les humains n'a cessé d'augmenter ces dernières années. Le but de ce travail était d'étudier les avortements et la mortalité périnatale chez les chèvres avec un focus sur C. burnetii, d'en identifier les voies d'excrétion qui présentent un risque zoonotique et de déterminer le temps d'excrétion après une infection aiguë. Pour ce faire, des examens sérologiques d'anticorps ont été effectués sur les mères en parallèle des examens sur les fœtus envoyés. L'excrétion par le lait, les selles et les sécrétions vaginales ont été examinées à intervalles de 14 jours sur les mères dont les fœtus ont été testés positifs à C. burnetii. Sur les 13 mort-nés et avortements examinés, C. burnetii a été isolés dans 8 échantillons (3× dans le placenta, 2× dans la caillette, 3× dans le placenta et la caillette). Dix caillettes de chevr­eaux et 8 placentas ont été simultanément examinés en utilisant une coloration Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN), modifiée selon Stamp, et un real-time PCR. Sur les 18 échantillons examinés, 4 échantillons ont donné des faux négatifs en utilisant la coloration Ziehl-Neelsen modifiée par rapport à la real-time PCR. La sérologie a dévoilé que 7 femelles présentaient des anticorps contre Coxiella. Pour 2 femelles, suivies durant une période plus longue, l'excrétion de C. burnetii dans le lait a persisté durant 63 jours, dans les sécrétions vaginales durant 96 jours pour les 2 femelles et dans les selles durant 96 et 114 jours respectivement. Une excrétion intermittente par le lait a également pu être observée durant les 63 jours. Cette étude a démontré que la mise en évidence de la maladie respectivement de l'excrétion ne peut pas être assurée sur la base d'un seul test. Seul la combinaison de la sérologie et des examens au moyen de la real-time PCR sur les arrière-faix, le lait, les selles et les sécrétions vaginales peuvent aboutir à un diagnostic concluant. De plus, l'examen au moyen de la coloration ZN modifiée selon Stamp est moins sensible et moins spécifique que la real-time PCR.

[Lifting techniques in bovine recumbency]. / Hebetechniken bei festliegenden Rindern.

INTRODUCTION: In most cases, bovine recumbency (downer cow syndrome) is a complication of periparturient hypocalcemia, but may also be caused by other metabolic disorders, trauma, toxic mastitis or metritis. An important treatment measurement in the recumbent cattle is to bring the cow to its feet, in order to avoid quickly occurring secondary damage. Various lifting systems are on the market, such as a cow lift with a supporting harness or hip clamps. Such lifting systems are easy to use and relatively inexpensive. However, these techniques can cause secondary injuries and ischemic pressure damage. An alternative method is the use of a specially designed flotation tank. The buoyancy of the water gently lifts the cattle avoiding secondary, neuromuscular lesions. The success rate in the therapy of recumbent cattle can be significantly improved by the correct and early use of suitable lifting techniques. In this review, the most common lifting techniques for recumbent cattle are summarized.

INTRODUCTION: La parésie chez les bovins est généralement provoquée par une carence en calcium liée à la mise-bas mais peut également être due à d'autres troubles métaboliques, à un traumatisme, à une mammite toxique ou à une métrite. Le relevage des animaux affectés est une étape importante dans le concept de thérapie pour les bovins souffrant de parésie afin d'éviter de rapides dommages secondaires. Il existe sur le marché plusieurs systèmes qui peuvent être utilisés, tels que des appareils de relevage avec des sangles, des hamacs ou des pinces de hanche. Ces aides au relevage sont rapides à mettre en œuvre, faciles à utiliser et relativement peu coûteuses. Cependant, il faut se rappeler que ces techniques peuvent causer d'autres blessures ainsi que des lésions de pression. Une autre méthode consiste à utiliser un bain d'eau. La poussée de l'eau soulève l'animal en douceur et évite ainsi les lésions neuromusculaires secondaires. Le taux de succès du traitement des patients parésiques peut être significativement amélioré par l'utilisation correcte et précoce de techniques de levage appropriées. Dans cette revue, les techniques de levage les plus courantes pour les bovins parésiques sont résumées et brièvement présentées.

Spontaneous contractility of bovine myometrium in vitro depending on topography and cycle phase.

The bovine myometrium exerts different contractility patterns in dependency of the reproductive state. However, little is known about the contractile behaviour of the uterus in the cow regarding topography. Differences in the in vitro contractile activity of two regions of the bovine uterus were assessed using an organ bath model. Myometrial specimens from the larger horn: near corpus (nc) and near tip (nt) from healthy cows in oestrus (n=11) or dioestrus (n=6) were collected after slaughter. Two strips were prepared from each region corresponding to the circular and the longitudinal muscle layers, respectively. Spontaneous contractility of these strips was recorded in an organ bath. For analysis, the 2.5 h recordings were divided into five periods of 30 min each. The variables area under curve (AUC) and maximal (Amax) and minimal amplitude (Amin) were calculated separately for periods, and the results analysed with a non-parametric model regarding the influence of cycle phase (estrus vs. diestrus), region (nc vs. nt) and muscle layer (circular vs. longitudinal). The region had a influence on AUC (p<0.05) with higher values for nt samples, while Amin was influenced by region (nt>nc) and muscle layer (longitudinal>circular) (p<0.05). By using the same model in subgroups of region, differences among periods for AUC and A(max) caused by increasing values over time, and an interaction of layerxtime for Amin were evident for nt samples (p<0.05). For nc samples, however, interactions of cyclexlayerxtime (AUC) and layerxtime (Amax, Amin) revealed to be significant (p<0.05). The relevance of the results for further research regarding uterine physiology is discussed.

Pollakisuria in a dwarf goat due to pathologic enlargement of the uterus.

Pollakisuria in adult goats can be caused by diseases of the urinary tract and by distension of parts of the genital tract leading to irritation of the bladder. Hydrometra is the most common cause of uterine distension in goats and usually can be resolved by prostaglandin injections. But other pathologies of the uterus can generate a similar syndrome. A dwarf goat was presented at the clinic with a history of chronic pollakisuria and tenesm. An initial ultrasonographic examination of the abdomen led to the suspicion of hydrometra, but treatment with injections of prostaglandin were not successful. Blood samples revealed low progesterone and high oestrogen values. A laparotomy was performed and an enlarged uterus with 1.5 L of mucous content and cystic ovaries were found and partially removed. A single solid leiomyoma was diagnosed histologically in the uterine wall. Two months later the goat's condition had deteriorated and therefore she was euthanized. Necropsy and pathohistological examination revealed the presence of a metastasized adenocarcinoma of the uterus. In this case, the pollakisuria provoqued by distension of the uterus was not caused by hydrometra, but by neoplasia. The syndrome and the pathogenesis of the adenocarcinoma in consideration of the hormonal status of the patient is discussed.

Influence of prostaglandin E2 on parturition in cattle.

A double-blinded, randomised, placebo-controlled field study of the influence of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) on cattle at parturition was carried out. The extent of cervical opening and the intensity of labour were scored before administration of the compound and 10 minutes later; routine birth assistance was then continued by the veterinarian. Successful birth occurred more quickly in the cows treated with PGE2. The extent of cervical opening before the administration of the drug had a significant effect on the time to delivery, but the intensity of labour and a concomitant infusion of calcium did not have significant effects on this period. The less open the cervix before administration of the drug, the more the duration of parturition differed between the two groups, with the placebo group taking longer. A telephone follow-up inquiry found no significant differences between the cows postpartum; there were cases of mastitis and hypocalcaemia in both groups. The incidence of retained fetal membranes and the mortality of the calves were higher in the placebo group, but in neither case was the difference significant.

The myometrial contractility during late pregnancy in dairy cows, in vitro.

This study aimed to investigate the in vitro contractility of the myometrium and its relationship to the blood concentrations of estradiol-17ß (E2ß), progesterone (P4), 15-keto-13,14-dihydro-PGF2α (PGFM) and ionised calcium (Ca2+) prior to tissue harvest in 12 healthy Holstein-Friesian cows in late pregnancy. Three circular (CM) and 3 longitudinal myometrial (LM) strips were dissected during a caesarean section and mounted in an organ bath containing modified Krebs solution (KS). The spontaneous contractility was recorded during five 30-min time periods (T1 to T5), after which the strips were exposed to increasing concentrations of oxytocin (OT; 10-10-10-7M), a natural PGF2α-analogue (PGF; 10-7-10-4M) and KS (Cont) for four 30-min time periods (T6 to T9). The variables area under the curve (AUC), mean (MA) and maximal amplitude (maxA) were calculated for each T. The blood P4, E2ß, Ca2+ and PGFM values averaged 4.0±1.7ng/mL, 482.3±63.7 pg/mL, 0.8±0.3 mmol/L and 125.3±63.7pg/mL. The LM strips had greater AUC, MA, and maxA than CM, and OT caused greater AUC and MA in both muscle layers than PGF or control treatment (OT>PGF>Cont). Estradiol-17ß correlated with AUC and MA of LM at T1 to T5 (r=0.69; P≤0.05). In conclusion, LM and CM strips have different contractile performance but show enhanced activity when stimulated with OT and less activity after PGF stimulation if compared with Cont. Blood concentrations of E2ß may be useful as an indicator of uterine contractile performance in late pregnant cattle.

[Abortion in sheep: epidemic Salmonella abortusovis outbreak 2005 in Switzerland]. / Abort beim Schaf: Salmonella Abortusovis Epidemie 2005 in der Westschweiz.

In spring 2005, the outbreak of contagious abortion caused by Salmonella Abortusovis in 6 sheep flocks in Switzerland led to considerable economic losses. The Swiss small ruminant health service (BGK) evaluated this case. The aim was to identify the source of the epidemic in order to avoid further spread of infection and to evaluate the possibility of using vaccination. Moreover, a strategy for prevention of future outbreaks was developed. This article aims to increase disease awareness of food animal practitioners for Salmonella Abortusovis abortion in sheep.

Effect of prostaglandin E2, DL-cloprostenol, and prostaglandin E2 in combination with D-cloprostenol on uterine motility during diestrus in experimental cows.

Prostaglandin F(2alpha) is used in dairy herd management because of its luteolytic properties and for its direct effect on the myometrium in cows diagnosed with endometritis. Prostaglandin E(2) has a contractile effect on the bovine uterus. In human medicine, prostaglandin E(2) is routinely used to maintain labor and to ripen the cervix. We hypothesized, that a combination of prostaglandin F(2alpha) and prostaglandin E(2) would provoke a long-lasting increase in intrauterine pressure (IUP) and uterine motility as compared to either prostaglandin group. Intrauterine pressure was recorded during the diestrus of eight lactating dairy cows using a transcervically placed intraluminal pressure microtransducer. After recording of physiologic uterine motility for 30min, prostaglandins (DL-cloprostenol, PGE(2), PGE(2) in combination with D-cloprostenol) or placebo were administered, followed by a 2h recording period. Significant differences were found for the area under the curve, the mean amplitude and the intrauterine pressure, whereas the number of pressure waves did not differ significantly among treatments. Peak values for area under the curve and mean amplitude were found during the first 15min for the combination of PGE(2) and D-cloprostenol. During the last 15min of the recording session, area under the curve and mean amplitude were increased only for the combination of PGE(2) and D-cloprostenol as compared to placebo. Although PGF(2alpha) and PGE(2) provoke an increase in intrauterine pressure, only their combination guarantees a significant effect over a 2h recording period.

Effect of different prostaglandins on intrauterine pressure and uterine motility during diestrus in experimental cows.

Prostaglandins are widely used in herd management due to their luteolytic properties. They have also a direct effect on the myometrium. We hypothesized, that dissimilar prostaglandin preparations would differ as to their contractile effect. Intrauterine pressure was recorded during the diestrus of lactating dairy cows using a transcervically placed intraluminal pressure microtransducer. After recording physiologic uterine motility for 30 min, prostaglandins (dinoprost, DL-cloprostenol, D-cloprostenol) or a placebo was administered intramuscularly, followed by a 2-h recording period. Significant differences were found for the area under the curve (P < or = 0.05) and mean amplitude (P < or = 0.05), whereas the number of spikes per 15 min and the baseline pressure during the last 3 min of every recording period did not differ significantly among treatments. Peak values for area under the curve and mean amplitude were found between 15 and 30 min after administration of DL-cloprostenol, while dinoprost yielded the steadiest plateau from this period until the end of the recording session. These results contrast with those of earlier studies comparing prostaglandins after intravenous administration.