bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection to reduce gastric cancer incidence: Uncertain benefits of a community based programme in Australia
Authors: FORBES GEOFFREY M , THRELFALL TIMOTHY J
Published: March 2008

Helicobacter pylori is a cause of gastric adenocarcinoma, but the role of H. pylori eradication in reducing cancer risk is unknown. We sought to estimate the benefits of a screening and treatment programme for H. pylori infection, aimed at reducing the incidence of gastric cancer in Australia. The impact of this programme on cancer incidence was evaluated in sensitivity analyses utilizing Western Australian Cancer Registry data and published data on the epidemiology of H. pylori and gastric cancer. The impact of variation in parameters used in the sensitivity analyses was substantial, ranging from a 38% reduction in lifetime risk of gastric cancer in a best‐case to 3% in a worst‐case scenario. In an intermediate‐case scenario there is a 23% reduction in lifetime risk, but in real terms this reflects a fall in cumulative incidence from 0.7 to 0.5% for males or 0.3 to 0.2% for females. The projected cumulative lifetime incidence of gastric cancer in H. pylori‐infected males is 2.2% and 0.9% for females; this contrasts with 0.4 and 0.2%, respectively, for those never infected. According to an intermediate‐case scenario, to prevent one gastric cancer, screening with or without subsequent treatment would be required in 617 men or 1639 women. Furthermore, this programme may be less effective in reducing cancer incidence than would be achieved naturally over the next 15 years, providing the current annual decline in gastric cancer incidence continues. In conclusion, the benefits of a community based programme of H. pylori eradication in terms of cancer risk reduction remain unclear, related largely to uncertainties in the parameters used to calculate these benefits. In Australia, any benefits obtained are likely to be, at best, modest.
Multiple truncated transcripts of TSG101 in gastrointestinal cancers
Authors: LIN SHYR‐YI , CHEN YI‐JEN , CHANG JAN‐GOWTH
Published: March 2008

The candidate tumour suppressor gene TSG101, located on chromosome 11p15, has been associated with frequent intragenic deletion in uncultured primary human breast cancers. Using paired tumour and normal tissues from surgical specimens, we performed nested reverse transcriptase‐poly‐merase chain reaction and direct sequencing to analyse TSG101 exons 1–6 from 32 gastric, 30 col‐orectal and 16 oesophageal cancers. Truncated transcripts, were found in both tumour and normal tissues from the stomach (15.6 and 12.5%), colon (13.3 and 3.3%) and oesophagus (25 and 25%). Multiple truncated transcripts in individual specimens were also observed. Two types of splicing patterns, one with three to six bases homology at the deletion junction (25.9%), the other with donor site 5’ GT and acceptor site 3’ AG (55.6%), were the most common patterns. We conclude that in gastrointestinal cancers, truncated transcripts of TSG101 gene occur not uncommonly and do so with a specific splicing pattern.
CASE REPORT: Antibiotic‐associated haemorrhagic colitis
Authors: MILLER ASHLEY M , BASSETT MARK L , DAHLSTROM JANE E , DOE WILLIAM F
Published: March 2008

Antibiotic‐associated haemorrhagic colitis is an uncommon cause of bloody diarrhoea in patients taking penicillin or penicillin‐related antibiotics. Symptoms of abdominal pain and bloody diarrhoea occur within 1 week of antibiotic use and resolve without specific therapy within days of discontinuing the offending antibiotic. There is an apparent increased incidence of the disease in patients of Oriental ethnicity. The pathogenesis is unknown. We present two cases of haemorrhagic colitis in patients taking penicillin‐related antibiotics who presented within 4 months of each other. One of the patients was being treated for Helicobacter pylori infection. The published literature is reviewed with particular emphasis on the histology and pathogenesis of the condition.
AN AETIOLOGICAL STUDY OF NEONATAL JAUNDICE IN A CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL*
Authors: DANKS D. M. , CAMPBELL P. E. , CONNELLY J. F.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

Seventy‐six newborn infants with significant jaundice, caused by other than foetomaternal blood group incompatibility, have been studied by simple but systematic methods. Bacterial infection emerged as the most common cause. Blood culture and microscopy of urine proved to be the most rewarding routine tests and these are advocated in all newborn babies in whom jaundice gives rise to concern. ‘Neonatal hepatitis’ and biliary atresia were the main causes of jaundice which persisted for more than one month, and investigation of their aetiology is briefly reported.
OBSERVATIONS UPON ACID BASE REGULATION IN STAPHYLOCOCCAL LUNG DISEASE IN INFANCY
Authors: STEVENS L. H. , WILLIAMS H. E. , FREEMAN MAVIS
Published: March 2008

The acid‐base disturbances in 9 babies with a staphylococcal pulmonary infection are described.

The disturbances are particularly related to mechanical complications such as obstruction of the airway, empyema, and tension pneumothorax, which occurred during the course of the illness.

The need for early recognition and prompt and adequate treatment of these complications is stressed.
URINARY AND SERUM AMINO‐ACID STUDIES IN PREMATURE AND FULL TERM NEONATES
Authors: THOMPSON ELIZABETH , LINDOP ROSEMARY , JONES G. TASMAN , HOWIE R. N. , TROUGHTON W. D.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

Urinary and serum amino‐acid patterns were studied in 56 premature and full‐term babies by a new technique of combined electrophoresis and chromatography. A changing pattern of urinary amino‐acid excretion with increasing maturity was found, particularly with the basic amino acid lysine and with cystine. We have confirmed previous reports of high excretion of proline and hydroxyproline in infants. High levels of tyrosine in the blood and urine in 4 of the 37 premature babies were possibly due to a combination of high protein intake and late maturation of the enzyme tyrosinase in these infants.

The excretion of glutamine was surprisingly low. Possible explanations for this are discussed.

Homocitrulline was found in blood and urine of all infants fed with sterilized milk, including breast milk. This is thought to be related to the heating of the milk.

Apart from tyrosine and homocitrulline, the pattern of serum amino acids did not differ significantly from that seen in normal adults.

Infants malnourished in utero showed amino‐acid patterns which resembled those of babies of similar birthweight rather than similar maturity.
PAEDIATRICS IN A COUNTRY AREA*
Authors: ROSSITER E. J. R.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

One may divide the practice of Paediatrics into 3 categories — Primary, Secondary, and Specialist. The primary paediatrician receives the majority of his patients directly, without referral from another doctor, whereas the secondary paediatrician receives the majority or all of his patients as referrals for a consultant opinion. The specialist paediatrician working in a sub‐speciality such as paediatric cardiology or diabetes, will receive many of his patients from other paediatricians. It has been the custom in countries following the British system to rely almost entirely on the secondary and specialist paediatricians, although there are notable exceptions. In the United States, the reverse has been the case, and primary paediatricians are an accepted part of medical practice.
THYMIC HYPOPLASIA AND IMMUNOGLOBULIN SYNTHESIS
Authors: SCHUMACHER M. J. , DREHER G. H. , SIMONS M. J.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

The case records of 2 infants in whom thymic hypoplasia was diagnosed at autopsy are described. Gamma globulin levels were normal in both children, one of whom had in addition normal numbers of circulating lymphocytes. Lymphocytes from both infants failed to respond to phytohaemagglutinin and investigation of the one with lymphopenia revealed a deficiency of antibody despite normal levels of immunoglobulin. Measles pneumonitis, confirmed by virus isolation, was the cause of death in one of the children. These cases are presented in support of the hypothesis that immunoglobulin production and cellular immune competence are functionally separable in the human subject.
SELECTIVITY OF PROTEINURIA IN NEPHROTIC CHILDREN*
Authors: GOLLER I. , WILLIAMS A.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

The type of the glomerular lesion in children with the nephrotic syndrome can be predicted with a high degree of accuracy by estimating the index of selectivity of proteinura. This is performed on casual specimens of urine and serum, and provides the clinician with useful information concerning the type of lesion and the probable response to steroids.
A METHOD OF IN VIVO INVESTIGATION OF AMINO ACID METABOLISM*
Authors: TOMPKINS J. R. , HOBDAY J. D.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

A method of measuring in vivo the degradation of amino acids is described, involving the measurement of 14CO2 liberated from the ingested amino acid. The application of this technique to a child with tyrosinosis, and two control subjects, demonstrated the delay in catabolism of this amino acid.
APPRAISAL OF THE STATE OF NUTRITION OF LOW BIRTH WEIGHT BABIES
Authors: STEVENS L. H.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

A technique is described for assessment of the nutritional response of low birth weight babies to pooled human milk, based upon measurement of external body dimensions and serial daily metabolic balance studies.
THE SEX RATIO IN PHENYLKETONURIA AND PERSISTENT HYPERPHENYLALANINAEMIA
Authors: YU J. S. , O'HALLORAN M. T. , TURNER B.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

The sex ratio in 76 children with an elevated serum phenylalanine level was studied in relation to their mode of ascertainment. The ratio of the sexes in the whole group was equal, but males outnumbered females 9:4 in classical cases of PKU discovered by means of the Guthrie test. This suggests that a proportion of females with classical PKU is being missed by the Guthrie test when this is performed in the first week of life. Males very markedly outnumber females in the group designated as having persistent hyperphenylalaninaemia.

The value of a second follow‐up screening test is emphasised.
HYPOCALCAEMIA IN INFANCY: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY
Authors: KNUCKEY T. , O'HALLORAN M. T. , YU J. S.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

The clinical features of 36 infants who presented with hypocalcaemia in the first 2 years of life are reviewed and their subsequent progress studied. Males outnumbered females 28:8.

While a low serum calcium level is physiological and common in preterm infants, symptomatic hypocalcaemia is seen much more frequently in bigger babies. Hypocalcaemia in the neonatal period is nearly always a transient phenomenon.

Vitamin D deficiency rickets was surprisingly common, occurring in 9 of the 36 infants. Most of these children were from migrant families and this emphasises the particular needs of these people in our community health programmes.

Even when convulsions occurred, the hypocalcaemia had remarkably little adverse effect on future intellectual development. The children with rickets, however, often showed other evidence of socio‐environmental deprivation, including poor intellectual performance.
MYCOBACTERIAL LYMPHADENITIS
Authors: LLEWELYN D. M. , DORMAN D.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

It is probable, though not as yet definitely proven by culture, that the great proportion of cases of mycobacterial lymphadenitis are now due to organisms other than M. tuberculosis. The double Mantoux test will differentiate the two infections. Isolation of these patients with those suffering from tuberculosis is probably unwise as infection with atypical myco‐bacteria confers little resistance to tuberculosis. Chemotherapy is not required and is of little value. Surgical excision of affected lymph nodes is the treatment of choice.
COMPLETE HEART BLOCK COMPLICATING RHEUMATIC CARDITIS
Authors: THOMAS D. B.
Published: March 2008

SYNOPSIS

A case of complete heart block, complicating rheumatic carditis in a 12 year old hoy is reported.
Recommendation from Australian Radiation Laboratory
Authors:   RADIOLOGICAL EXAMINATION OF WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE CAPACITY, Klempfner G.
Published: March 2008

The National Health and Medical Research Council, at its 97th Session (June 1984) modified one of its earlier recommendations relating to the radiological examination of young women. This was made on the recommendation of its Radiation Health Committee and the Council have requested publication of the new recommendation so that all people who prescribe radiological examination should be aware of the Council's recommendation.

With the mean age of menarche in Australian girls now being before their 13th birthday, a substantial proportion of a paediatric population will be affected by these recommendations.
Recent Advances in Anthelmintic Medication: With Special References to Carbon Tetrachloride and Arecolin Hydrobromide.
Authors: ROSS I. CLUNIES
Published: March 2008

Abstract of paper read before the Veterinary Section of the Australasian Association for the Advancement of Science, Adelaide, August, 1924.
ENTEROTOXAEMIA IN GOATS.
Authors: Oxer D. T.
Published: March 2008

Enterotoxaemia of goats is widespread in some Australian States. A brief description of the disease is given together with recognised methods of treatment. Additional treatment has been suggested. The results of some experimental vaccinations are given. These confirm the necessity for periodical vaccination in order to raise and maintain herd immunity. The problem of sensitisation to sera and vaccines is briefly discussed.
MAJOR CAUSES OF CONDEMNATION OF MEAT
Authors: Fewster G. E.
Published: March 2008

A series of tables have been prepared to illustrate the pattern of carcase condemnations for cattle, sheep, lamb and pigs in various parts of Australia.

All the meat that is condemned is not revealed in the normal inspection statistics. The important reasons for condemnations which do not appear or may appear only in part in such returns, are discussed.

The need for full‐time veterinary supervision of meat inspection throughout the Commonwealth is stressed.
ECCHYMOSIS IN BEEF CATTLE
Authors: Whittem J. H. , Letts G. A. , Rideout F. C. , Frith M. R.
Published: March 2008

Results of an investigation into the occurrence of ecchymosis in beef cattle at the Wyndham meatworks in July 1958 are presented.
ECCHYMOSIS IN THE BEEF CARCASE
Authors: Charles D. D.
Published: March 2008

The incidence of ecchymosis in beef carcases in Queensland is discussed together with its importance in the meat industry. Observations indicate that the condition appears in a percentage of animals–particularly ox, when stress factors are applied prior to slaughter, at the time of stunning and until the carcase is bled.

These stress factors are discussed and the manner in which they may be obviated is suggested.
OBSERVATIONS ON THE HAEMATOLOGY OF THOROUGHBRED AND STANDARDBRED HORSES IN TRAINING AND RACING
Authors: Steel J. D. , Whitlock L. E.
Published: March 2008

1. Haematological studies on 100 Thoroughbred and 174 Standardbred horses are reported.

2. Significant differences in the blood values of the two breeds are described.

3. Criteria for the interpretation of blood counts in racehorses are suggested.

4. Possible factors in the etiology of equine polycythaemia and anaemia are discussed.

5. It is noted that good racehorses tend to have better blood pictures than moderate performers.
THE INVESTIGATION OF INFERTILITY SYNDROMES IN BEEF HERDS
Authors: Osborne H. G.
Published: March 2008

The probable extent of infertility in Australian beef herds is discussed and the view expressed that, with a high percentage of properties, an increase in calf branding percentages could be obtained by proper methods of investigation and control.

The general environment of beef cattle in the central portion of eastern Australia is outlined in so far as it affects the study of infertility syndromes.

The methods used for the examination in infertility syndromes in herd of from 500 to 1,000 breeders are described with particular reference to pregnancy diagnosis and herd sampling.
BREEDING PATTERNS IN COMMERCIAL BEEF HERDS
Authors: Young J. S.
Published: March 2008

A total of 16,111 cows in 18 beef herds in New South Wales were examined for pregnancy between June 1963 and February 1967. The mean pregnancy level was 86%. The pregnancy level for the lactating cows was 87% and for the non‐lactating cows (excluding heifers) 85%. The pregnancy level for heifers was 84%.

The herd pregnancy level ranged from 80% to 98%. Four herds had a significantly higher pregnancy level in the lactating cows, while three herds had a significantly higher pregnancy level in the non‐lactating cows.

Positive Br. abortus agglutination titres were recorded from three herds, none of which had been vaccinated with Strain 19. Br. abortus titres were negative in the remaining 15 herds. One of these herds had practised regular weaner vaccination with Strain 19 at 6–10 months of age. In one of the positive herds a typical abortion storm occurred with 33% of the pregnant cows failing to bring a calf to branding. A follow‐up blood test of 65 of the WD cows at calf branding showed 74% with titres 1 in 40 or higher.

The mean discrepancy between females pregnant at pregnancy diagnosis and calves branded from these females was 17% for heifers and 3.5% from the older cows. Dystocia was established as the main cause of calf loss in the heifer group.
THE DURATION OF OESTRUS AND THE TIME OF OVULATION IN CATTLE OF THREE BREED TYPES WITH AND WITHOUT SYNCHRONISATION OF OESTRUS WITH A PROGESTOGEN
Authors: DONALDSON Lloyd E. , Little D. A. , HANSEL William
Published: March 2008

The duration of oestrus and the interval from onset of oestrus to ovulation has been studied in heifers of Brahman x Shorthorn, Hereford, Shorthorn and mixed dairy breeds following treatment with synthetic progesterone (CAP) and during a subsequent cycle. The animals were under observation for 24 hr a day.

No significant differences were observed between breeds in either the length of oestrus or the interval to ovulation; nor could a difference be shown within breeds due to treatment with CAP.

The mean duration of oestrus was 13.9 ± 0.5 (SE) hr, and the mean interval from onset of oestrus to ovulation was 26.9 ± 0.6 (SE) hr.
THE USE OF A FORMOLISED ANTIGEN AS A SCREENING TEST FOR LEPTOSPIRAL ANTIBODIES IN HORSES
Authors: Lepherd E. E.
Published: March 2008

Six hundred and thirty‐two equine serums were examined for the presence of leptospiral antibodies. A positive reaction to one or more antigenic pools of a formolised leptospiral antigen (used in the rapid macroscopic slide agglutination test) was recorded in 41% of cases.

One hundred samples were tested with 5 formolised antigen pools and 19 live antigens (by the microscopic agglutination test). Of 20 samples in which the live antigen test suggested leptospiral infection with serotypes known to occur in the region, 17 (85%) were confirmed with the formolised antigens.

When the results of both tests were compared, there was agreement in 42 samples (30 positive and 12 negative). Forty‐one samples produced equivocal results and 17 gave doubtful reactions to the formolised antigens, 15 of which were negative to the live antigens.

Dilution of the serums 1:1 with normal saline or heat inactivation had no effect in increasing the specificity between the formolised and live antigens. Agreement between operators in the use of the formolised antigen was poor. It is concluded that the formolised antigen has too wide a divergence to be of use for screening horse serums.
SOURCES OF VARIATION IN REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE IN SELECTED HERDS OF BEEF CATTLE IN NORTH‐EASTERN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Lamond D. R.
Published: March 2008

This paper contains observations of several sources of variation in reproductive performance on 13 herds of beef cattle in north‐eastern Australia. Nearly 15,000 cows were examined, man, on more than one occasion. Variation between herds in pregnancy rate in June or September 1964, was 44 to 75 per cent. Lactating heifers had lower pregnancy rates than lactating cows, which in turn had lower rates than non‐lactating animals. Within classes, cows in poor body condition had lower fertility than those in forward‐store or fat condition. Losses of calves between pregnancy tests and branding ranged from 6 to 40 per cent in a sample of herds. In herds where year‐to‐year data were avail‐able, the majority of cattle had one calf every two years, or two calves every three years. In one herd, cows that calved before February reared more calves than those that calved later.

The main conclusion was that improved nutrition of lactating heifers and cows would be expected to increase pregnancy rates substantially.
FURTHER OBSERVATIONS ON THE INCIDENCE OF BRUCELLOSIS IN DAIRY CATTLE IN VICTORIA
Authors: Turner A. J.
Published: March 2008

Random blood sampling of 8,448 dairy cattle in two Shires of Victoria revealed that 194 (4.5%) serums, from south‐eastern Victoria and 147 (3.6%) serums from northern Victoria were positive to the International tube agglutination test for Br. Abortus. Of these reactions at least 82 (1.9%) and 56 (1.4%) of the serums indicated that these animals were or had been infected with Br. Abortus.

The results show that 65% and 73% of the herds in the two areas did not contain Br. Abortus infected cattle. Two factors influenced the incidence of infected animals in herds. First the incidence of infected animals decreased with increasing length of time during which herd re‐placement calves had been vaccinated with Br. Abortus strain 19. Second, the introduction of mature previously calved cows increased the incidence of infected animals.

Some discussion is given to the usefulness of the revaccination of animals and the control of brucellosis in Victoria with is possible effect on cattle meat export markets.
STUDIES ON DYSTOCIA AND BIRTH WEIGHT IN ANGUS HEIFERS CALVING AT TWO YEARS OF AGE
Authors: Young J. S.
Published: March 2008

A trial is described in which groups of Angus heifers mated as yearlings were maintained on two widely differing nutritional levels during the last third of gestation in order to study effects on birth weight of calves and dystocia.

The different nutritional levels produced a 5 lb difference in birth weight of calves (P < 0.01).

As the calving season advanced the mean calf birth weight increased by 1.4 lb every ten days (P < 0.01).

Heifers that suffered dystocia had calves 7 lb heavier and pelves 15.6 sq cm smaller than heifers calving normally (P < 0.01).

Following observations on the birth process it was concluded that uncomplicated birth is complicated within two hours following the appearance of the amniotic sac.
HYDATIDOSIS AND CYSTICERCOSIS
Authors: Gemmell M. A.
Published: March 2008

The distribution of 12,310 cysts of Taenia ovis in 212 experimentally infected lambs and of 46 cysts in 24 naturally infected 5‐year‐old sheep, has been analysed. It was determined that irrespective of the number of cysticerci in an infected group of animals, about two‐thirds were present in the carcase meat, and the remainder were distributed between the heart, diaphragm and head including the tongue. In lightly infected animals, cysticerci were not necessarily present in any of these sites. In individual animals, the number of cysticerci present in any one or in all three of these sites, did not provide accurate information on the extent of the infection in the carcase meat.
ANTHELMINTIC RESISTANCE IN TRICHOSTRONGYLUS COLUBRIFORMIS
Authors: Hotson L. K. , Campbell N.J. , Smeal M. G.
Published: March 2008

Resistance to thiabendazole has been found in two strains of Trichostrongylus colubriformis from sheep. These strains occurred in flocks on research properties where the anthelmintic had been used at frequent intervals for experimental purposes for several years. The LD50 values for the resistant strains were approximately 70 mg/kg and 125 mg/kg respectively, compared with an expected value from published reports of less than 10 mg/kg for susceptible strains.

Apparent cross‐resistance to the related benzimidazole compound parbendazole was observed at the normal therapeutic dose rate of 20 mg/kg in sheep. Both anthelmintics depressed egg‐production in resistant female worms at normal therapeutic dose‐rates.

Both dl‐tetramisole and pyrantel tartrate were effective against one of the benzimidazole‐resistant strains of T. colubriformis, but the efficiency of the latter anthelmintic was less than that normally expected against benzimidazole‐susceptible strains.
SOME ASPECTS OF THE EPIZOOTIOLOGY OF BOVINE EPHEMERAL FEVER IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Snowdon W. A.
Published: March 2008

Serum samples collected from cattle in Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland and New South Wales in 1966 had neutralising antibodies to ephemeral fever virus, although the last major epizootic of ephemeral fever was in 1955‐56. The incidence of antibodies ranged from 1.5% in Western Australia to 29.0% in Queens‐ land, and 57.6% of serums assayed were of low titre (2 to 5). Antibodies were not found in serums collected from cattle in Victoria, South Australia, southern Western Australia or Norfolk Island. After the 1967‐68 epizootic the pro‐porton of cattle with antibody ranged from 3.1% to 47.6% in herds with antibody in Victoria to 81.8% to 91.7% in herds in Queensland, and 58.2% of serums assayed had antibody titres greater than 45. Cattle with low levels of antibody in 1966 had high levels after the 1967‐68 epizootic, although it is not known what pro‐portion showed clinical signs of ephemeral fever during the epizootic.

Serum samples collected in 1966, and which contained low levels of antibody, were fractionated by gel filtration and the neutralising activity was confined to the 7S globulin fraction. In one cow experimentally infected with ephemeral fever virus, the neutralising activity at 15 days after inoculation was confined to the 19S globulin fraction, in both the 19S and 7S fractions at 22 days but was almost totally confined to the 7S fraction by day 36.

The significance of the results is discussed, and it is suggested that ephemeral fever virus remains enzootic in areas of Australia between major epizootics, but the infecting virus may be of low pathogenicity and immunogenicity for cattle, resulting mainly in subclinical infections.
AN ACANTHOCEPHALAN PARASITE, MEDIORHYNCHUS GALLINARUM, OF THE DOMESTIC FOWL IN PAPUA AND NEW GUINEA
Authors: Talbot N. T.
Published: March 2008

An acanthocephalan parasite, Mediorhynchus gallinarum, is a relatively common parasite of village fowls in Papua and New Guinea. The highest incidence (25%) were recorded from the West Irian border areas during a recent survey of approximately 120 birds. The life cycle is unknown and the parasite is not considered to be of major economic significance even in heavy infections.
A STUDY OF THE ACCESSORY SEX GLANDS OF BULLS EN ABATTOIRS IN NORTHERN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Bagshaw P. A. , Ladds P. W.
Published: March 2008

The accessory sex glands of 521 slaughtered bulls were examined for lesions; normal anatomical observations were also made.

The average weights and measurements (length and width) of the seminal vesicles and bulbourethral glands of 110 bulls were 34.1 g and 9.1 × 2.5 cm, and 4.6 g and 2.9 × 1.9 cm, respectively. Weights of both glands were correlated to age, but bulbourethral gland weight was more closely correlated to bodyweight than age. The average length and diameter of the ampulla was 11.1 and 1.0 cm, respectively.

Seminal vesiculitis and ampullitis were found in 9.0% and 3.8% of bulls respectively. The incidence of both conditions was highest in old bulls. Mesonephric duct anomalies (observed in 1.7% of bulls) and other congenital and inflammatory lesions of the accessory sex glands were also recorded.

Macroscopically normal accessory sex glands of 86 bulls were studied histologically and a high percentage of all glands showed inflammatory changes.

Attempts to isolate viral agents, Mycoplasma, and Chlamydia from accessory sex glands were unsuccessful. Corynebacterium pyogenes was isolated from two cases of seminal vesiculitis. IBR‐IPV virus, Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis and Tritrichomonas foetus were frequently isolated from the prepuce of bulls, many of which also had positive serological titres to Leptospira pomona and Leptospira hardjo.

No one factor capable of causing bull infertility was consistently identified, and the incidence figures for observed conditions of the accessory sex glands were generally comparable to those found in bull populations elsewhere.
CORYNEBACTERIUM PSEUDOTUBERCULOSIS INFECTION OF SHEEP: ROLE OF SKIN LESIONS AND DIPPING FLUIDS
Authors: Nairn M. E. , Robertson J. P.
Published: March 2008

Caseous lymphadenitis (CLA) infection was established experimentally in a total of 30, 2‐tooth merino wethers. In the first experiment a broth culture of the causative organism, Corynebacterum pseudotuberculosis was placed directly on to a freshly shorn area on the right shoulder of 21 sheep after pretreatment with a defatting agent, water or 4 different commercial sheep dips. Within 6–13 days focal skin lesions appeared on 7 sheep and these were followed by abscessation of the right prescapular lymph node. Lung lesions of CLA developed in 6 sheep; 5 of which had skin lesions.

In the second experiment C. Pseudotuberculosis broth culture was applied over the right shoulder region of 14 sheep, 24 hours post shearing. The 7 animals had only 1 application of the culture and the remaining 7 had 4 applications on consecutive days. A total of 9 of the 14 sheep developed skin lesions and subsequent CLA in the right prescapular lymph nod but there was no significant difference between the 2 methods of application.

As part of the second experiment a broth culture of C. pseudotuberculosis was added to a commercial arsenical sheep dip and 2 hours later sprayed on to the right side of sheep shorn 24 hours or 2 weeks previously. Within 6–13 days all 14 sheep treated in this way developed skin lesions from which C. pseudotuberculiosis was recovered in dense pure growth. Healing time of skin lesions in all affected sheep ranged from 17–72 days post inoculation.

A serological test to detect the presence of C. pseudotuberculosis antitoxin was used at regular intervals on all experimental sheep. The earliest positive reaction in an affected sheep was recorded 4 weeks post inoculation. In 23 known affected sheep tested at 35 weeks post inoculation, 10 were positive to the Zaki test. No false positive reactors were recorded.

The localisation of focal lung lesions in the interstitial tissue suggests that pulmonary abscessation caused by C. pseudotuberculosis develops via the haematogenous route.
A NEW TYPE OF RE‐ENTRANT CANNULA DESIGNED FOR USE IN THE SMALL INTESTINE OF THE PIG
Authors: Ivan M.
Published: March 2008

A new type of intestinal re‐entrant cannula for the small intestine of pigs is described. It consisted of an intestinal tube joined to a stem bearing a flange and two perspex plugs (“maintenance plug” and “collection plug”). The cannula was inserted in the intestine through the incision on the antimesenteric side of the intestine and no transection of the intestine was required. No outside connection was present and the cannula extended only 1 to 2cm beyond the body. Cannulae were inserted in the duodenum and ileum of 5 pigs and these functioned satisfactorily for up to 3 months.
PLASMA CONSTITUENTS OF “DOWNER” SHEEP SLAUGHTERED AT AN ABATTOIR
Authors: Shorthose, W. R. , Shaw, F. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Haematocrit values and plasma glucose, calcium and magnesium concentrations were determined in blood samples collected at slaughter from 105 sheep that were prostrate, comatose, and unable to stand (downer sheep) on arrival at a Queensland meat‐works. These values were compared to published normal concentration ranges of these plasma constituents and to values from blood samples taken from 107 apparently normal animals at slaughter. Eleven per cent of the “downer” sheep were considered hypocalcaemic, 13% showed varying degrees of hypoglycaemia and 22% were considered hyperglycaemic.
A DUAL VACCINE FOR THE IMMUNISATION OF CATTLE AGAINST VIBRIOSIS
Authors: Clark B. L. , Dufty J. H. , Monsbourgh J. , Parsonson I. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Single subcutaneous injections of a mineral oil adjuvant vaccine containing 20 mg dry weight of Campylobacter fetus subsp fetus biotype venerealis cells and 20 mg dry weight of C. fetus subsp fetus biotype intermedius cells per 5 mil dose protected 2‐and 3‐year‐old heifers and 3‐ and 4‐year‐old cows against genital infection with either organism.
INTRA‐OCULAR PRESSURE DURING RETROBULBAR INJECTION
Authors: Lampard D. G. , Morgan D. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY It was found that the use of retrobulbar injections can cause quite large transient rises in intra‐ocular pressure which can be significantly reduced by using local anaesthetic in the injected saline, and by injecting in small steps, typically 0.2 to 0.3 mls/kg body weight at 1 minute intervals for a total of not more than ten steps. After a moderate retrobulbar injection, the intra‐ocular pressure was found to return to near normal in a few minutes, but with some decrease in anterior chamber volume.
THE EFFECTS OF CT1341, THIOPENTONE AND INDUCTION‐DELIVERY TIME ON THE BLOOD GAS AND ACID‐BASE STATUS OF LAMBS DELIVERED BY CAESAREAN OPERATION AND ON THE ONSET OF RESPIRATION
Authors: Copland M. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Caesarean sections were performed on 18 Romney ewes on day 144 of pregnancy. Anaesthesia was induced in 9 ewes with CT1341 and in 9 ewes with thiopentone and maintained in both groups with halothane administered with oxygen.

Surgery was performed with the ewes in lateral recumbency, with respiration unassisted.

Blood samples were collected from the intact umbilical artery at the time of delivery and analysed for PO2, PCO2, pH (base deficit was derived).

The intervals between ewe induction and lamb delivery (ID), delivery and the onset of breathing (TSR), and delivery and the lamb standing were recorded.

Lambs in the CT1341 group both breathed and stood sooner than lambs in the thiopentone group. Significant linear relationships were only found in the CT 1341 group between TSR interval and PCO2 and pH. No significant correlations were found between the ID interval and any of the biochemical characteristics.

The results of this study suggest that lateral recumbency does not interfere with uteroplacental circulation, that CT 1341 (2.2mg/kg) is associated with less neonatal depression than thiopentone (10 mg/kg) and that severe neonatal hypercarbia may delay the onset of respiration in lambs with minimal drug depression.
THE NEW SOUTH WALES MASTITIS CONTROL PROGRAM
Authors: Hoare R. J. T. , Williams L. G. , Richards R. J. , Boutcher L. G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A mastitis control program based on teat dipping and dry cow therapy was evaluated in 35 herds over a 3 year period. The incidence of subclinical mastitis as detected by the Rapid Mastitis Test (RMT) fell from 34% to 12% quarters positive, a reduction of 65%. Clinical mastitis was reduced from 37 clinical cases per 100 cows in the first 3 month period to 12 clinical cases per 100 cows in the last 3 month period, a reduction of 68%. Variations in response to the program in the reduction of subclinical and clinical mastitis are discussed and the results compared with similar trials conducted overseas.

The Modified Whiteside Test was used on bulk milk samples from the control herds and these results were significantly correlated with the prevalence of subclinical mastitis assessed by RMT individual quarters.
PAROXYSMAL ATRIAL FIBRILLATION IN A RACEHORSE
Authors: Rose R. J. , Davis P. E.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A 4‐year‐old thoroughbred stallion with a history of loss of racing form was studied over a period of approximately 7 months. At the initial examination he showed positive T waves in 1 chest lead and wandering of the pacemaker. This was followed by an episode of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation which disappeared spontaneously and was replaced by significant T wave changes in all the chest leads. During a period when these changes persisted, there was progressive lengthening of the P wave and the P‐R interval. Because the last ECG showed evidence of intra‐atrial block, first degree A‐V block and T wave changes, the owner was advised that a fluctuating myocarditis was affecting the horse's performance and it was retired to stud. This appears to be the first report of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in Australia, and it demonstrates the value of regular follow‐up examinations in horses with initial electrocardiographs showing only minor departures from normal. The case also suggests that when sharp reversals of racing form occur, the possibility of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation being the cause should be kept in mind.
EQUINE HERPESVIRUSES: Experimental Infecton of a Foetus with Type 2
Authors: GLEESON L. J. , STUDDERT M. J.
Published: March 2008

Intrauterine infection of pregnant mare with equine herpesvirus type 2 (EHV 2) did not result in foetal abortion, stillbirth or recognisable disease. Collection of uterine fluid by allantocentesis or amniocentesis 107 days after inoculation confirmed that intrauterine infection was established. EHV 2 was isolated from both allantoic and amniotic fluid separately collected at the time of elective Caesarean section 156 days after inoculation and virus neutralising antibody to EHV 2 was present in the foal's presuckle serum at birth. A very mild clinical disease, characterised by a scant, mucous oculo‐nasal discharge was observed between 4 and 11 days after birth. EHV 2 was isolated from 22 nasal swabs taken between birth and 65 days of age, on which day the foal was infected with equine adenovirus. EHV 2 was not isolated from 6 nasal swabs collected from 66 to 71 days of age.
THE PREVALENCE OF TAPEWORMS IN DOGS DURING THE HYDATID LIMITATION PROGRAM IN TASMANIA
Authors: GREGORY G. G.
Published: March 2008

The Hydatid Limitation Program in Tasmania began in 1965 with the annual purging of dogs to identify areas of high prevalence of Echino‐coccus granulosus combined with a strong educational program aimed at preventing access to offal by dogs.

From 1969 to 1975 Taenia spp detected in dog purges were submitted for identification and changes in annual prevalences analysed for each species.

Despite a significant reduction in the prevalence of E. granulosus since the beginning of the program, the control measures involved have apparently not predisposed to any significant change in the prevalence of T. ovis and T. hydatigena during the period of this survey.

A decrease in the prevalences of T. pisiformis and T. serialis coincided with a reduction in the numbers of rabbits.

No significant change in the prevalence of Dipylidium caninum was detected.
DISEASE AND INJURY IN THE SOUTHERN ELEPHANT SEAL
Authors: TIERNEY T. J.
Published: March 2008

Disease and injury was recorded in 170 tagged southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina) on the Antarctic continent. Trauma due to interspecific predation was the most common disorder. No small seals were observed with lesions attributable to this in the Antarctic population. This finding differs from data recorded in a sub‐Antarctic (Macquarie Island) population where seals of all class sizes exhibit lesions due to interspecific trauma. No external parasites were observed in the Antarctic population.
ELECTRICAL SAFETY FOR THE VETERINARY SURGEON
Authors: Carter P. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: In human medicine, protection of the patient has demanded stringent safety precautions that have not been applied in the veterinary field. There is a hazard to the operator from the increasing use of electrical equipment in veterinary medicine, often in an environment where conducting floors and other items can carry fault currents through a human or animal body. The source of these currents may be equipment that has developed faults due to disconnected earth leads and breakdown of insulation so that the case or leads from the equipment become live. Currents exceeding 10 mA passing through the body may cause death from ventricular fibrillation. Protection from accident may be provided by circuit breakers that sense fault currents and disconnect the power, and by taking precautions to correctly maintain electrical fittings.
GRANULOMATOUS LESIONS IN PIGS ASSOCIATED WITH THE USE OF AN OIL‐BASED ERYSIPELAS VACCINE
Authors: Summers P. M. , Webster W. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Severe granulomatous lesions in cervical muscles and lymph nodes, associated with the use of an oil‐based erysipelas vaccine, caused considerable economic loss at slaughter in 1400 pigs from the one herd. The condition was reproduced experimentally using the same vaccine, and in a less severe form with another commercially available oil‐based erysipelas vaccine.
ANTIBODIES TO AKABANE VIRUS IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Cybinski D. H. , George T. D. St. , Paull N. I.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Neutralising antibody to Akabane virus was shown to develop in cattle in northern Australia throughout the year and also on the east coast of New South Wales in the summer during 1975/1976. Other species found to have antibody to Akabane virus were buffaloes, horses, camels and sheep, but no antibody was found in domestic chickens, ducks, wallabies or man. The biting midge Culicoides brevitarsis has been detected in all the major areas where antibody was demonstrated in this study.
BREED DIFFERENCES IN ABNORMALITIES OF THE REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS OF YOUNG BEEF BULLS
Authors: Chenoweth P. J. , Osborne H. G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A total of 702 examinations were conducted on young (16 to 31 months) beef bulls of 3 breeds and 3 breed crosses (Brahman cross — 100; Africander cross — 93; Shorthorn cross — 109; Brahman — 81; Africander — 89, and Hereford — 230).

A high occurrence of both increased size (overall 11.7%) and consistency (overall 40.2%) of seminal vesicles was observed. The Hereford breed had most enlarged (19.1%, P.01) and firm (20.9%, P.01) seminal vesicles. The significance of these findings is discussed.

Testicular hypoplasia was diagnosed in 2.7% of examinations. The Brahman breed had most testicular hypoplasia (8.6%, P.01). The implications of this finding are discussed and the need is stressed for a wider investigation of gonad development in the Brahman breed in Australia.

Other findings included: small seminal vesicles in 1.6% of examinations (Brahman breed highest with 8.6%, P.001), enlarged ampullae, 1.9%, ‘soft’ testicles, 3.4% and small testicles, 7.5%. Abnormal carriage of the testicles was detected in 0.3% of examinations.

Ulceration of the prepuce was observed in 6.8% of examinations. The highest occurrences were in the SH (13.8%, P.01) and Africander (13.5%, P.05) breed groups. Varying degrees of preputial eversion or prolapse were seen in 0.7% of examinations with the Bx breed group having highest representation (3.0%, P.05).
AN IN‐VITRO TECHNIQUE FOR STUDYING FLEECE‐ROT AND FLY STRIKE IN SHEEP
Authors: Merritt G.C. , Watts J.E.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Fleece‐rot was experimentally induced in‐vitro by wetting and incubating Merino wool samples embedded in serum‐agar. Gravid Lucilia cuprina were readily attracted to these wool culture plates to oviposit. Where serum was freely available to newly‐hatched larvae, fly strike and larval development ensued. Using this technique, fleece‐rot and oviposition were found to be markedly influenced by the availability of protein and by bacterial activity, particularly that of Pseudomonas spp. The results indicated that odours emanating from wool culture plates containing the latter species played an important role in oviposition. Furthermore, these events varied according to the type of fleece selected, and could be prevented by the addition of a bactericide.
ANGIOSTRONGYLUS CANTONENSIS INFECTION OF THE BRAIN OF A CAPTIVE BENNETT'S WALLABY (MACROPUS RUFOGRISEUS)
Authors: McKenzie R. A. , Green P. E. , Wood A. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Eleven immature adult Angiostrongylus cantonensis were recovered from beneath the meninges of a captive Bennett's wallaby (Macropus rufogriseus) which died after displaying posterior paresis followed by paralysis and intermittent opisthotonic spasms of increasing frequency for 7 days. Congestion and focal malacia with haemorrhage were seen in the brainstem and cerebellum. Sections of worms with scanty inflammatory response were seen beneath the congested haemorrhagic leptomeninges of cerebrum and in a cerebellar folium.

Infection was thought to have originated from feed or water contaminated with larvae released from a molluscan intermediate host.
THE ISOLATION OF LENTOGENIC STRAINS OF NEWCASTLE DISEASE VIRUS IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Kim S. J. , Spradbrow P. B. , MacKenzie Margaret
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Twelve isolations of Newcastle disease virus were made from 77 clinical samples from chickens with conjunctivitis, respiratory disease, proventriculitis and bursal atrophy. Nine of the Isolations were made from chickens with conjunctivitis. The viruses were identified as Newcastle disease virus by inhibition of their haemagglutinins with specific antiserum to Newcastle disease virus. The viruses failed to kill chicken embryos after inoculation into the allantoic cavity and they were judged to be lentogenic strains. There was no evidence that the Newcastle disease viruses were responsible for any of the clinical conditions from which they were isolated.

The presence of other agents in 10 of the samples was indicated by reduced production of haemagglutinin in allantoic fluids of infected embryos, by deaths of infected embryos, by the production of cytopathic changes in avian cell cultures and by electron microscopy. Three isolations of infectious bronchitis virus, 2 of avian adenovirus and one of avian reovirus were made. Other samples were suspected of containing infectious bronchitis virus and mycoplasmas, but these were not isolated.

The Newcastle disease viruses failed to produce plaques in chicken embryo fibroblast cell cultures and they were separated from the contaminating agents by haemagglutination and elution followed by passage at terminal dilution in chick embryos.

No Newcastle disease virus was isolated from 60 caecal tonsils and 60 lung samples from 9‐week‐old broiler chickens. Eight lung samples yielded mycoplasmas that caused haemadsorption in chicken cell cultures. The mycoplasmas were probably Mycoplasma gallisepticum.
THE EFFECT OF AGE ON RESISTANCE OF CATTLE TO BABESIA BOVIS
Authors: Trueman K. F. , Blight G. W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Susceptible Hereford cattle of different ages were inoculated with 2 times 108Babesia bovis organisms. Experiment 1 consisted of cows aged 6 to 7 years, steers aged 17 to 18 months and calves aged 5 to 6 months, while experiment 2 consisted of cows aged 6.5 to 7.5 years, steers aged 23 to 24 months and yearlings aged 11 to 12 months. Daily measurements of temperature, parasitsemia and packed cell volume were made in order to determine susceptibility of the different ages.

Twenty‐four of the 36 animals in experiment 1, which included all 12 cows, required treatment. One cow died as a result of an enlarged ruptured spleen, and 2 steers and 1 calf died with classical babesiosis symptoms. No treatment was given to experiment 11 animals, and 5 of the 12 cows died, but the steers and yearlings underwent relatively mild reactions. Statistical analysis confirmed the high susceptibility to B. bovis of the aged cows in both experiments, and the innate resistance of 5 to 6 month old calves in experiment 1. The reaction of the 18‐month‐old steers in experiment 1 was significantly greater than that of the calves, but significantly less severe than that of the aged cows. Two‐year‐old steers and yearlings in experiment 2 underwent similar mild reactions, suggesting that innate immunity may persist for longer periods when compared to aged cows. Age groups showing reduced susceptibility were found to reach peak parasitaemia, temperature and anaemia before the more susceptible age groups.

Heterologous challenge of the remaining experiment 1 and experiment 2 animals at 6 and 8 months respectively after primary inoculation, revealed all animals of all ages had a solid resistance to B. bovis.