Kidney histologic alterations in α-Galactosidase-deficient mice.

Fabry disease is a rare X-linked disorder caused by mutations in the α-galactosidase gene (GLA), the resultant deficiency of lysosomal α-galactosidase enzyme activity leading to systemic accumulation of globotriaosylceramide and other glycosphingolipids. GLA knockout mice ("Fabry mice") were generated as an animal model for Fabry disease but, as they do not manifest progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD), their relevance as a model for human Fabry nephropathy is uncertain. We evaluated the histological alterations in the kidneys of Fabry mice at different ages, as contrasted to those observed in wild-type mice.

Kidney biopsy findings in heterozygous Fabry disease females with early nephropathy.

Fabry disease is an X-linked glycosphingolipidosis caused by deficiency of alpha-galactosidase. Progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in males. Although 40% of heterozygous females may develop renal involvement, pathologic data on Fabry nephropathy in heterozygotes are scarce.

Factors which affect blood variables of slaughtered cattle.

Blood was obtained at an abattoir from 4 groups of cattle. The first group was slaughtered in a conventional way, the second and third were subjected to shechita slaughter with or without the application of the captive bolt immediately after the cutting of the throat, and the fourth group of cattle was subjected to a period of recumbency prior to conventional slaughter. Blood samples were analysed for concentrations of catecholamines, cortisol, glucose, lactate and total lipids.

Effect of a 72 hour fast on physiological stress indicators in feedlot cattle.

Feedlot oxen (n = 15) were herded and subjected to venepuncture on a daily basis for 2 weeks. Plasma glucose, lactate, free fatty acids, total lipids, total protein, cortisol, catecholamines, osmolarity and haematocrit were compared between Days 1 and 14. Plasma glucose concentration and haematocrit decreased significantly while total plasma lipid and free fatty acid concentrations increased significantly over the 14 d.

The response of animals to suxamethonium (succinyldicholine) and succinylmonocholine.

The time which elapses before cessation of breathing, and blood pressure and blood gas changes after the intramuscular administration of suxamethonium, or a mixture of suxamethonium and hexamethonium, is compared in immobilised African elephants (Loxodonta africana) and buffaloes (Syncerus caffer). In addition, the respiratory responses of elephants and other animals to intravenous administration of suxamethonium and succinylmonocholine are reported on, as are the effects of darting animals with succinylmonocholine. The results show that respiration is affected in a similar fashion in all species investigated.