Biostatistical prediction of genes essential for growth of Anaplasma phagocytophilum in a human promyelocytic cell line using a random transposon mutant library.

Anaplasma phagocytophilum (Ap), agent of human anaplasmosis, is an intracellular bacterium that causes the second most common tick-borne illness in North America. To address the lack of a genetic system for these pathogens, we used random Himar1 transposon mutagenesis to generate a library of Ap mutants capable of replicating in human promyelocytes (HL-60 cells). Illumina sequencing identified 1195 non-randomly distributed insertions.

Unstressed antepartum cardiotocography in the management of the fetus suspected of growth retardation.

A detailed analysis of the antenatal cardiotocographs (CTGs) in 57 patients with suspected fetal growth retardation is presented. Four traces were normal and 53 were 'non-reactive. 'Non-reactive' traces can be sub-divided into three categories, which, in order of severity are, 'suspect', 'flat' and 'ominous'.

Evaluation of the efficacy of gallium maltolate for chemoprophylaxis against pneumonia caused by Rhodococcus equi infection in foals.

Objective: To determine the chemoprophylactic effect of gallium maltolate on the cumulative incidence of pneumonia caused by Rhodococcus equi infection in foals.

Animals: 483 foals born and raised on 12 equine breeding farms with a history of endemic R equi infections.

Procedures: Group 1 foals were treated with a placebo and group 2 foals were treated with gallium maltolate (approx 30 mg/kg, PO, q 24 h) during the first 2 weeks after birth.

Pharmacokinetics of an orally administered methylcellulose formulation of gallium maltolate in neonatal foals.

Gallium is a trivalent semi-metal with anti-microbial effects because of its incorporation into crucial iron-dependent reproductive enzyme systems. Gallium maltolate (GaM) provides significant gallium bioavailability to people and mice following oral administration and to neonatal foals following intragastric administration. To study the prophylactic and therapeutic effects of GaM against Rhodococcus equi pneumonia in foals, we developed a methylcellulose formulation of GaM (GaM-MCF) for oral administration to neonatal foals.

Farm characteristics and management practices associated with development of Rhodococcus equi pneumonia in foals.

Objective: To identify farm characteristics and management practices associated with development of Rhodococcus equi pneumonia in foals.

Design: Prospective case-control study.

Animals: 5230 foals on 138 breeding farms with 9136 horses.