Determination of the protease activity in a Cuban strain of Babesia bovis]

The attenuation of a Babesia bovis strain depends on its protease content. The present work evaluates this parameter on a virulent strain, before and after attenuation by quick passages on splenectomized calves. The protease activity at different pH values was determined in protein fractions from the blood of calves. The enzymatic test showed marked differences between the protease content of both substrains.     

Temporary Bile Diversion in Cats with Experimental Extrahepatic Bile Duct Obstruction

The use of a cholecystostomy catheter for temporary bile diversion was investigated in four cats with experimentally induced extrahepatic bile duct obstruction. Eighteen days after ligation of the common bile duct, a 6.5 F accordion catheter was placed in the gallbladder with a 22 g Hawkins needle-guide system through a paracostal incision. Biochemical parameters and fasting serum bile acids were monitored for 16 days. There were significant decreases in mean total bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, and fasting serum bile acids within 72 hours of bile diversion, and in mean alanine aminotransferase within 96 hours. Attitude and appetite improved, and the catheter was tolerated well. Positive bile cultures developed in three cats. Histologic changes in the gallbladder included mucosal ulcerations, a mixed inflammatory cellular infiltration, and fibrosis of the submucosa.