DEGENERATIVE CHANGES IN THE VERTEBRAL COLUMN OF THE DOG

A group of 160 Beagles were studied radiographically to determine the pattern of degenerative changes within the vertebral column, especially involving the intervertebral discs. The normal radiographic appearance of both disc and surrounding vertebrae is described. Disc space narrowing and calcification of discal tissues provide radiographic patterns that assist in diagnosis and prognosis. Because of the older age of the dogs, severe degeneration of the endplates with marked instability between vertebral segments was seen.     

Arsenbefund in amerikanischen Äpfeln

Ohne Zusammenfassung     

Die Breitadrigkeit des Salats — ein Komplex aus zwei Viren

Since many years lettuce big-vein disease (LBVD) occurring in lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and endivia (Cichorium endivia) is a well known disease. It is widely spread all over the world and can cause important economical losses. For more than 20 years the lettuce big-vein virus (LBVV) was thought to be the causal agent. New results indicate that another virus, named “Mirafiori lettuce big-vein ophiovirus” (MLBVV), is responsible for the typical symptoms. Mostly both viruses are detected together in diseased plants. But also the presence of only one virus can be observed as shown in a sample which was sent to the Bavarian State Research Center for Agriculture (LfL), Freising, in the spring of 2005. In further investigations at the German Federal Authority and Federal Research Centre (BBA), Braunschweig, only the MLBVV was found. Like any other virus disease LBVD cannot be controlled directly. Therefore prevention is of utmost importance. If LBVD is already present integrated disease management strategies combining cultural and phytosanitary measures as well as growing tolerant lettuce cultivars are the only way to minimize economical damage.