bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The clinical differentiation of nervous and muscular locomotor disorders of sheep in Australia
Authors: BOURKE CA
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Many of the nervous and muscular locomotor disorders that affect sheep throughout Australia are commonly referred to as ‘staggers’ syndromes. The range of clinical signs displayed by sheep suffering these disorders is sufficiently diverse to enable each syndrome to be graded into one of 5 progressive clinical groups.

The first group, the limb paresis syndromes, includes the primary myopathies associated with the ingestion of Ixiolaena brevicompta, Malva parviflora, and Trachymene ochracea, as well as selenium and vitamin E disorders, Paroo virus staggers, congenital progressive muscular dystrophy, humpy back, hypocalcaemic muscle weakness, Tribulus terrestris staggers and tetanus.

The second group is characterised by limb paresis with knuckling of the fetlocks, and includes the plant‐associated toxicities of Romulea rosea, Stachys arvensis, Trachyandra divaricata, and Tribulus micrococcus, together with haloxon toxicity, enzootic ataxia (copper deficiency), and the probably genetic disorders of segmental axonopathy, neuroaxonal dystrophy, and degenerative thoracic myelopathy. Other locomotor disorders that fit more loosely into this group are listerial myelitis (post‐dipping staggers), vitamin A deficiency, cervico‐thoracic vertebral subluxation, Stypandra glauca toxicity, Ipomoea spp toxicity, ivermectin toxicity, and botulism.

The third group, the falling syndromes, includes the probably genetic disorders of thalamic cerebellar neuropathy, cerebellar abiotrophy, and globoid cell leucodystrophy, together with Swainsona spp toxicity.

The fourth group, the falling‐with‐tremors syndromes, includes the plant‐associated toxicities of phalaris staggers, perennial rye grass staggers and nervous ergotism (Claviceps paspali).

The fifth group, the convulsive syndromes, includes the polioencephalomalacic entity nardoo fern (Marsilea drummondii) staggers, outbreaks of focal symmetrical encephalomalacia and the tunicaminyluracil toxicities known as annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum) toxicity, annual beard grass (Polypogon monspeliensis) toxicity, blow away grass (Agrostis avenaceae) toxicity, and water damaged wheat (Triticum aestivum) toxicity.

A dichotomous system is presented for the differential diagnosis of these groups of conditions.
Bronchoalveolar lavage in horses: effect of exercise and repeated sampling on cytology
Authors: CLARK CK , LESTER GD , VETRO T. , RICE B.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed at weekly intervals in 10 Thoroughbred horses in race training (group 1) and in 4 rested horses (group 2) for 10 weeks. Lavages were continued on a weekly basis in 4 group 1 horses for an additional 9 weeks (group 3). Cytological analysis of samples included leukocyte counts, erythrocyte counts, differential leukocyte counts, and haemosiderophage score. The mean leukocyte concentration was significantly lower in group 1(92.1 ± 4.6 cells/μL) when compared with group 2 (133.5 ± 8.2 cells/μL), P = 0.037. The differential leukocyte data were not significantly different between groups. There was a large amount of variability in the percent‐age of macrophages and lymphocytes in the differential counts over time with no obvious trends. The proportion of neutrophils demonstrated a tendency to decrease over time for both groups 1 and 2. Erythrocyte counts and haemosiderin scores were significantly higher in the exercising group than the rested horses. Neither exercise nor the technique itself evoked an inflammatory response in the BAL fluid.
Studies on failure of T strain live Babesia bovis vaccine
Authors: BOCK RE , DE VOS AJ , LEW A. , KINGSTON TG , FRASER IR
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Field investigations of the protection afforded by the Australian live Babesia bovis vaccine used in the early 1990s (T strain) revealed inadequate vaccine‐induced protection in certain herds. Vaccination/challenge trials using 207 experimental cattle were conducted to evaluate the protection afforded by T strain B bovis against field isolates from these herds. The trials investigated whether isolates that could ‘break‐through’ T strain immunity were present in the field, the ability or inability of specific cattle to develop protective immunity after vaccination with T strain and the effect of attenuation and maintenance procedures on the immunogenicity of T strain.

The results showed that B bovis parasites present early in the process of attenuation of T strain were more protective than those remaining late in the process. They also showed that cattle from properties experiencing vaccine failures were less protected by T strain vaccination than Bos taurus cattle randomly selected from the general population if vaccinated with highly attenuated T strain. A hypothesis is offered to explain these findings.
Long‐term survival of four dogs with disseminated Aspergillus terreus infection treated with itraconazole
Authors: KELLY SE , SHAW SE , CLARK WT
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Four dogs with disseminated aspergillosis caused by Aspergillus terreus were treated with oral itraconazole for 190 to 1095 days. Infection was eliminated in 1 dog. Two dogs were treated for 1000 and 1095 days but were eventually euthanased 572 and 485 days after treatment was stopped. At necropsy both dogs had widespread aspergillosis. The fourth dog was euthanased for other reasons after 190 days of treatment when it was showing a good clinical response although there was radiographic evidence that the disease was progressing.
Ventricular septal defect repair in a small dog using cross‐circulation
Authors: HUNT GB , PEARSON MRB , BELLENGER CR , MALIK R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A haemodynamically significant ventricular septal defect was diagnosed in a 3‐month‐old male Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. A median sternotomy was performed and the 6.5 kg dog placed on cardiopulmonary bypass using pump‐assisted cross‐circulation. A 10 mm diameter peri‐membranous ventricular septal defect was closed using a continuous suture of 4–0 polypropylene, via a 2.5 cm incision in the right ventricular outflow tract. The duration of cardiopulmonary bypass was 90 minutes. Complications in the immediate postoperative period were mild and easily managed.
Gossypol toxicity in preruminant calves
Authors: ZELSKI RZ , ROTHWELL JT , MOORE RE , KENNEDY DJ
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Twenty‐four of 57 calves fed a diet containing 33% cotton seed meal (CSM) died between 7 and 15 weeks of age. Initial deaths were not accompanied by premonitory signs, but after CSM withdrawal most calves developed rough coats, anorexia, weakness, ascites and subcutaneous oedema. Those that died had large volumes of serous fluid in the body cavities, hard livers of ‘nutmeg’ appearance, and pulmonary congestion. Histopathologically the livers showed periacinar necrosis in acute cases and periacinar fibrosis in chronic cases. Lungs from several calves had oedema, haemosiderosis and fibrosis in some pulmonary vessels. Atrophy of myocardial fibres was present in most cases. The concentration of free gossypol in the diet was 100 to 220 mg/kg. Ante‐mortem and post‐mortem findings supported a diagnosis of gossypol poisoning. The deaths continued for 4 weeks after withdrawal of CSM from the diet.
Heterozygote detection for maple syrup urine disease in cattle
Authors: HEALY PJ , DENNIS JA
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The clinical, pathological and biochemical manifestations of maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) are similar in Poll Hereford and Poll Shorthorn X Poll Hereford calves. No significant differences were observed in branched‐chain amino acid concentrations in plasma, or of branched‐chain keto acid dehydrogenase activity in fibroblasts, between Poll Herefords homozygous normal and heterozygous for the mutation responsible for MSUD. Haemopoietic chimerism resulted in incorrect diagnosis of the MSUD genotype in 30% of non‐identical twins when blood DNA was analysed using allele‐specific amplification. Hair roots are shown to be a suitable source of target DNA for genotyping Poll Hereford cattle for the MSUD mutation. Twelve of 203 (5.8%) aged Poll Hereford bulls, sampled at saleyards during the last 4 months of 1993, were found to be heterozygous for the mutation. In contrast, the mutant sequence was detected in only 1 of 150 (0.7%) 2‐ and 3‐year‐old Poll Hereford bulls offered for sale at 2 stud sales held during 1993, suggesting that the prevalence of the disease may decline over the next few years.
The use of toltrazuril for the prevention of coccidiosis in piglets before weaning
Authors: DRIESEN SJ , FAHY VA , CARLAND PG
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY:To determine the efficacy of toltrazuril as a prophylactic treatment for coccidiosis in piglets caused byIsospora suis (I suis), a single 1.0 mL dose of toltrazuril was administered orally to 1056 piglets between 3 and 6 days of age, in 5 piggeries. Prophylactic treatment of piglets reduced the occurrence of coccidiosis in litters from 71% to 22%. The number of antibacterial treatments given and the number of piglets affected per litter were also significantly reduced, resulting in some improvement in growth rates to weaning. The severity of diarrhoea was significantly reduced, as was the amount of oocyst excretion. The number of days that piglets excreted oocysts in the faeces was reduced from 4.9 days to 2.5 days. The detection ofJ suisin piglets with diarrhoea was reduced from 84% in the untreated piglets to 6% in the piglets given the prophylactic treatment.
Responses in milk production to the control of gastrointestinal nematode and paramphistome parasites in dairy cattle
Authors: SPENCE SA , FRASER GC , CHANG S
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the effect of treating naturally acquired gastrointestinal nematode and paramphistome infections on milk production in dairy cattle.

DesignA field trial.

AnimalsOne thousand two hundred and thirty nine dairy cows.

ProcedureCows were either not treated or treated with 4.5 mg/kg oxfendazole, 16.6 mg/kg oxyclozanide or 4.5 mg/kg oxfendazole and 16.6 mg/kg oxyclozanide in March, May and August.

ResultsA significant increase in milk production, averaging 0.4 L (SE 0.2) per day, was seen when dairy cows infected with gastrointestinal nematodes and paramphistomes were treated with oxfendazole or oxfendazole and oxyclozanide in March, May and August. Cows treated with oxyclozanide alone at these times produced no more milk than untreated cows.

Faecal egg counts confirmed that oxyclozanide treatment reduced paramphistome populations and oxfendazole treatment reduced nematode populations in cows over the 7‐month monitoring period.

ConclusionWhen dairy cows infested with gastrointestinal nematodes and paramphistomes were treated with oxfendazole alone or oxfendazole and oxyclozanide in March, May and August milk production increased.
Echocardiographic evaluation of the effects of medetomidine and xylazine in dogs
Authors: RAND JS , REYNOLDS WT , PRIEST J.
Published: March 2008

The echocardiographic effects of medetomidine and xylazine were evaluated in 6 healthy dogs. Values for echocardiographic variables were significantly different from pre‐treatment values after administration of both drugs. The effects of medetomidine were similar to that of xylazine. Because of their cardiac depressant effects, both drugs should be used with care in sick dogs.
Adverse drug reactions: Report of the Australian Veterinary Association Adverse Drug Reaction Subcommittee, 1994
Authors: MADDISON JE
Published: March 2008

Seventy‐seven reports of suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were received by the Adverse Drug Reaction Subcommittee (ADRSc) of the Australian Veterinary Association from April 1993 to December 1994 inclusive.

The number of reports received/number of animals involved per species were: dogs (32/44), cats (18/31), horses (17/48), and cattle (10/21). Of these, 49 (64%) were classified as definite ADRs and 9 (12%) as probable ADRs. In 11 (14%) reports an ADR could not be substantiated or there was insufficient information available to make a decision. Eight reports were not classified because the manufacturer and the ADRSc disagreed as to the appropriate classification.

Sixteen reports involved apparent hypersensitivity reactions, which resulted in death on 6 occasions. Six reports were associated with ‘off label’ use and 1 report with use of an expired product. Of the definite, probable and unclassified reports of suspect ADRs, the most frequent types of drugs involved were antimicrobial drugs (13 reports), anthelmintics (13), insecticides (11), vaccines (10), nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory preparations (5), chondroprotective agents (4), anaesthetic/sedative agents (4) and vitamin preparations (2). Single reports concerning definite, probable or unclassified ADRs to a vasodilator, a corticosteroid, a local anaesthetic and a disinfectant were received.
Inflammatory mediators in equine synovial fluid
Authors: GIBSON K T , HODGE H. , WHITTEM T.
Published: March 2008

Enzyme immunoassay for prostaglandin E2(PGE2), and radioimmunoassays for prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α, 6‐keto‐PGF1α, and leukotriene B4(LTB4) were performed on synovial fluid from normal middle carpal joints of 10 horses, and from 30 middle carpal or antebrachiocarpal joints of horses affected by degenerative joint disease and chip fractures to compare the concentrations of inflammatory mediators. Significantly greater concentrations of PGE2were detected in fluid from affected than from control joints, but there were no significant differences in the mean concentrations of PGF2α, 6‐keto‐PGF1α, and LTB4.
Characterisation of haemolytic RTX toxins produced by Australian isolates of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: TARIGAN S. , SLOCOMBE RF , BROWNING GF , BLACKALL PJ
Published: March 2008

The haemolytic RTX toxins of 27 isolates of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, representing all serovars that have been isolated in Australia, were characterised. The quantity of protein secreted by these isolates into the media was not significantly different between serovars, but haemolytic activity was detected only in the unconcentrated supernatants from cultures of serovar 1 and 5 isolates. Haemolytic activity in supernatants of serovar 2, 3 and 7 isolates was detected only after the supernatants were concentrated. On Southern hybridisation blots, genomic DNA of serovar 1 and 5 isolates contained regions that were similar to the cloned structural genes for Apxl (apxIA) and for ApxII (apxIIA). In contrast, genomic DNA of serovar 2,3 and 7 isolates only contained regions similar to, if not identical with, the cloned apxIIA gene. The haemolytic activity of the culture supernatant depends on the type or composition of media and adaptability of the bacteria to in‐vitro cultivation. Low passage cultures of A pleuropneumoniae, which were characterised by waxy colonies, produced significantly weaker haemolytic activity than A pleuropneumoniae after several passages in vitro.
The incidence and consequences of failure of passive transfer of immunity on a Thoroughbred breeding farm
Authors: RAIDAL SHARANNE L
Published: March 2008

Circulating IgG concentration was determined between 12 and 24 hours after birth for 323 foals born on a Thoroughbred breeding farm over 3 consecutive years. The incidence of failure of passive transfer (FPT) of maternal immunoglobulins (foal circulating IgG concentration < 8 g/L) was found to be 9.6%. Foals born late in the season (October to December) were found to be at increased risk for the development of FPT. The degree of assistance required at parturition and the presence of a periparturient problem in the mare or foal also significantly influenced the subsequent incidence of FPT. Passive immune status significantly influenced the likelihood of foals developing septic illness (joint ill, septicaemia, pneumonia) in the first month of life, but had no significant effect on the development of diarrhoea orRhodococcus equipneumonia. The results of the current study support the value of routine monitoring of passive immune status and the early speculative treatment of foals considered to be at risk for the development of FPT.
Vaccines for bluetongue
Authors: MURRAY PK , EATON BT
Published: March 2008

Isolation of 8 serotypes of bluetongue virus (BTV) in Australia has led to widespread debate on how to prepare for an outbreak of bluetongue disease and the type of vaccine best suited to control bluetongue in Australia. This article describes the vaccine options under consideration by research workers and animal health administrators. The most widely discussed options are live attenuated virus, killed virus and virus‐like particles (VLP) generated by recombinant baculoviruses.

Attenuated virus vaccines are cheap and easy to produce and are administered in a single dose. They replicate in sheep without causing significant clinical effects and provide protection against challenge with virulent virus of the same serotype. The possibility that insects could acquire vaccine virus by feeding on vaccinated animals and transmit it to sheep or cattle cannot be eliminated. This poses a risk because attenuated viruses are teratogenic if ewes are infected in the first half of pregnancy. In addition, vaccine virus replication in insects and ruminants may lead to a reversion to virulence.

Killed virus vaccines have been shown to be efficacious in small laboratory trials and cannot be transmitted to other animals in the field, but are significantly more expensive to produce than attenuated viruses and require at least 2 doses with adjuvant to elicit an immune response. More work is needed to properly assess their effectiveness and determine their cost of production.

Recombinant VLP contain the 4 major structural proteins of BTV but no nucleic acid. VLP are relatively easy to isolate, but it is unlikely that the purification methods currently used in laboratories will be adapted for use commercially. Despite the enthusiasm of recent years, little commercial progress appears to have been made. Although scientific research in Australia and overseas has provided a number of options for development of bluetongue vaccines, the decisions on which to use in an outbreak are complex and will require, not only consideration of factors discussed here, but also agreement from industry and government.
A longitudinal study of lymphocyte subsets in a cohort of cats naturally‐infected with feline immunodeficiency virus
Authors: WALKER C. , CANFFIELD PJ , LOVE DN , McNEIL DR
Published: March 2008

Despite the potential of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) as an animal model for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) studies, the long term effects of naturally‐occurring infection have not been determined. HIV infection causes an ongoing deterioration in immune function which directly correlates with disease, in particular acquired immunodefciency syndrome (AIDS). However, it is not known whether FIV‐induced immunosuppression is progressive or related to the clinical condition. This study examined changes in lymphocyte subset numbers of serial samples, taken from cohorts of FIV‐positive and FIV‐negative cats over an 18‐month period. FIV‐positive cats were clinically staged as asymptomatic carriers (AC) or cats with AIDS‐related complex (ARC), and FIV‐negative cats matched and staged on the basis of similar diseases. During the course of the study, 4 FIV‐positive cats developed AIDS, classed as the terminal stage of infection. There were no significant differences in the mean absolute numbers of any lymphocyte subset between the onset (to) and the completion (t18) of the study. Similarly there were no significant changes in subset numbers during the 18 months preceding the development of AIDS. While the study period was brief and the sample sizes small, it is postulated that FIV infection in Australia may not necessarily cause progressive immunodeficiency and that FIV‐induced immunosuppression (as measured by subset analysis) may not be well correlated with the clinical status of the infected cat.
A longitudinal study of veterinary students and recent graduates 2. Views of the veterinary profession
Authors: HEATH TJ , LYNCH‐BLOSSE M. , LANYON A.
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo examine the development of attitudes and opinions relating to the veterinary profession.

DesignLongitudinal study.

PopulationStudents, 154 in all, who began studying veterinary science at The University of Queensland in 1985 and 1986.

ProcedureQuestionnaires were completed in the first and fifth year of the course and in the second year after graduation. The data were analysed using the SAS System for Windows.

ResultsFew changes in opinion over time were found on the role of the profession, or on the status and prestige of veterinarians. Changes did occur in views on the characteristics of a successful veterinarian, with increases in the perceived importance of interpersonal skills, and of the capacity to work hard, and decreases in the perceived importance of honesty and integrity, dedication and the prevention of cruelty. Attitudes hardened over time in relation to costs of treatment, non‐payment of fees and availability out of hours. Individuals changed their opinion on whether to counsel or report an incompetent colleague, but the changes in one direction were approximately equal to those in the opposite direction.

ConclusionsThe attitudes and opinions of veterinary graduates result from experiences before and during their veterinary course. In general the perceived importance of interpersonal skills increases during the course, and the level of altruism decreases.
A longitudinal study of veterinary students and recent graduates: 3. Perceptions of veterinary education
Authors: HEATH TJ , LANYON A. , LYNCH‐BLOSSE M.
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo examine the attitudes and opinions on veterinary education at the beginning and end of the veterinary course, and after graduation.

DesignLongitudinal study.

PopulationStudents – 154 in all – who began studying veterinary science at The University of Queensland in 1985 and 1986.

ProcedureQuestionnaires were completed in the first and fifth year of the course and in the second year after graduation. The data were analysed using the SAS System for Windows.

ResultsWhen they entered the course, the students were looking forward more to learning about animals than about basic sciences. At fifth year and after graduation most believed that more emphasis should have been placed on all facets of their education except the basic sciences. It may be difficult to increase this emphasis without placing undue pressure on the students, although more than half of the fifth year students and graduates agreed that there is much in the curriculum that is not needed by a practising veterinarian. Only one‐third or less agreed that veterinarians are well equipped to practise veterinary science immediately they graduate. There was no relationship between the level of agreement with this statement, and the academic grades obtained.

ConclusionsA majority of veterinary graduates do not believe that they are well equipped to practice immediately they graduate. They believe that more emphasis should have been placed on most facets of their education, but, conversely, that there is much in the curriculum that is not needed by a practising veterinarian.
A longitudinal study of veterinary students and recent graduates 4. Gender issues
Authors: HEATH TJ , LANYON A.
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo study differences in experiences, attitudes and opinions between female and male veterinary students and recent graduates.

DesignLongitudinal study.

PopulationStudents – 77 males and 77 females – who began studying veterinary science at The University of Queensland in 1985 and 1986.

ProcedureQuestionnaires were completed in the first and fifth year of the course, and in the second year after graduation. The data were analysed using the SAS System for Windows.

ResultsFemales decided to study veterinary science at a younger age than males and were more influenced by ‘a love of animals’, the image of veterinarians as portrayed on television, an interest in living things and in the scientific study of disease. Males were more influenced than females in aspects of the workplace: bosses and money. There were no gender differences in their background in relation to farms, or to animals, or in their career plans. However females when in first year expected a lower initial income than males; an expectation that was realised in the first year after graduation. As first year students and also as veterinarians, females had stronger views than males on animal welfare issues, and also felt that the veterinary profession had a lower status relative to other professions.

ConclusionsSignificant differences in attitudes and experiences exist between males and females entering the veterinary profession. The situation of females in relation to income and status is consistent with that in other professions, where females have been disadvantaged compared with males.
Spatial analysis of seroconversion of sentinel cattle to bluetongue viruses in Queensland
Authors: WARD MP , CARPENTER TE , JOHNSON SJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo assess quantitatively the spatial distribution of seroconversion of Queensland cattle to bluetongue viruses.

DesignA sentinel herd study. Sample population Sixty‐nine sentinel herds at 30 locations.

ProcedureSpatial clustering of seroconversion to blue‐tongue viruses was investigated during the period from 1990 to 1994.

ResultsSeroconversion to only two bluetongue virus serotypes, 1 and 21, was observed. The 14 herds, in which seroconversion to bluetongue virus serotype 1 was detected, were located only along the eastern coastal and subcoastal region of Queensland, and were significantly (P < 0.05) clustered. Locations at which seroconversion to serotype 21 was detected, were not significantly clustered. The results generally agree with field observations, except for the failure to detect seroconversion to bluetongue viruses in north‐western Queensland.

ConclusionBluetongue infection of cattle in north‐western Queensland may be temporally sporadic. The dominance of serotype 1 in the Queensland cattle population may be the result of differential transmission by potential vector species. Long‐term surveillance programs are important for defining disease status of animal populations.
The effects of allopurinol on the ultrastructure of ischaemic and reperfused large intestine of sheep
Authors: AHMADINEJAD M , REX MAE , SUTTON RH , POLLITT CC , CRIBB B
Published: March 2008

Objective To test the possible inhibitory effect of allopurinol on reperfusion injury, caused by oxygen‐derived free radicals, of sheep large intestine.

Design An ultrastructural study on caecal tissues from control and treated groups.

Animals

Fifty sheep in four ischaemic and reperfused (treatment) groups and one control group. Three of the treatment groups were subdivided for half to be injected with allopurinol and the other half with its solvent, potassium hydroxide (KOH).

Procedure Ischaemia of the caecum was induced in the four treatment groups for 60 minutes by clamping the apex. Allopurinol and its KOH solvent were injected intravenously in three treatment groups prior to ischaemia. Samples were collected before and 1 hour after induction of ischaemia and 1 min, 1 h and 8 h after reperfusion. Tissues were processed and examined with an electron microscope.

Results Untreated and solvent injected sheep showed minor ultrastructural changes following ischaemia. With reperfusion, there was severe mitochondrial, goblet cell and basement membrane damage. Tissues from allopurinoltreated sheep were preserved and appeared similar to tissues from the control group.

Conclusion:

Pre‐treatment with allopurinol prevented damage to tissues whereas untreated or allopurinol solventtreated showed severe damage following reperfusion. It is believed that allopurinol, an analogue of hypoxanthine and xanthine, prevents reperfusion injury by competitively binding with xanthine oxidase. This reduces or inhibits the xanthine oxidase mediated conversion of hypoxanthine to xanthine thereby preventing the formation of oxygen‐derived free radicals.
Use of anti‐inflammatory and analgesic drugs in dogs and cats
Authors: WATSON ADJ , NICHOLSON A. , CHURCH DB , PEARSON MRB
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY:Responses (486) were collated from a survey of 5054 Australian veterinarians on their use of anti‐inflammatory and analgesic drugs in dogs and cats. Almost all respondents used glucocorticoids (usually prednisolone) to treat allergic, pruritic dermatoses in dogs, while two‐thirds also gave fatty acid supplements and one‐half used antihistamines. Almost 60% of respondents initially injected a glucocorticoid (frequently a long‐acting preparation) when treating inflammatory skin diseases in dogs. More than 90% of respondents used glucocorticoids to treat immunemediated haemolytic anaemia or thrombocytopenia, and about one‐third also gave cytotoxic drugs. Administration of prednisolone on alternate days was generally favoured for long‐term enteral steroid therapy. Phenylbutazone was the most preferred treatment for painful or inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders of dogs, but aspirin and pentosan polysulphate were also used widely. Regarding the use of analgesics drugs generally, both narcotic analgesics and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were used more widely in dogs than in cats, but alpha‐2 agonists were used similarly in both species. The most commonly used narcotic analgesics were pethidine and buprenorphine in both species, while the NSAIDs used most often were flunixin and dipyrone in dogs and ketoprofen in cats. More than 80% of respondents generally used analgesic drugs with potentially painful surgical procedures, with doses given usually before anaesthetic recovery. Analgesic use rates varied with the condition, ranging from 94% for patients with acute severe trauma, through 60% for cruciate ligament repair and 29% for perineal herniorrhaphy, to about 5% for ovariohysterectomy and dog castration. The three clinical signs most frequently nominated as indicators of pain in dogs and cats were (in descending order) vocalisation, response to handling or palpating the affected area, and mental depression. Other items mentioned frequently were behavioural changes and immobility (in both species), inappetence/anorexia in cats, and altered respiration in dogs.
Salmonella Dublin infection in Queensland dairy cattle
Authors: TRUEMAN KF , THOMAS RJ , MACKENZIE AR , EAVES LE , DUFFY PF
Published: March 2008

Objective:To investigate the presence of Salmonella Dublin in Queensland cattle.

Design:An epidemiological study using diagnostic laboratory information and farm records.

Procedure:Outbreaks of gastroenteritis or pneumonia in calves, and abortions and enteritis in cows were routinely investigated for the presence of salmonellae. Where S Dublin was isolated, attempts were made to gather further epidemiological information.

Results:Prior to 1983 only two outbreaks of S Dublin have been recorded in Queensland dairy cattle. In 1983 S Dublin abortions were diagnosed in dairy heifers introduced from southern Australia to south‐east Queensland. Sampling indicated that at least 10% of the 500 introduced heifers were faecal excretors of S Dublin. On 3 of the 7 farms from which S Dublin was recorded, infection spread to other cattle that were in contact. From February 1985 to February 1996, 29 outbreaks of S Dublin in cattle occurred on 29 farms (28 in south east Queensland and 1 in north Queensland). Calves were primarily affected. Continuing outbreaks were confirmed on only 4 of these 29 farms. On 15 farms S Dublin infections were associated with the purchase of infected calves or cows, while another farm adjoined 2 previously infected farms. No source of S Dublin was evident for the other 13 farms, where histories were often inadequate.

Conclusion:There has been a marked increase in S Dublin outbreaks in Queensland dairy cattle since 1983. Introduction of S Dublin carrier and aborting dairy heifers from southern Australia, where S Dublin is not uncommon, was associated with the initial outbreaks.
Liver biopsy techniques for adult horses and neonatal foals to assess copper status
Authors: PEARCE SG , FIRTH EC , GRACE ND , FENNESSY PF
Published: March 2008

Objective To evaluate standing, percutaneous, ultrasound‐guided, transthoracic liver biopsy in mares, and transabdominal, laparoscopically‐guided, liver biopsy under general anaesthesia in foals, as techniques for obtaining tissue for assessment of copper status. The techniques were evaluated with respect to ease of use and effect on the animal.

Procedure Twenty of 24 Thoroughbred mares and 21 of their foals were biopsied. The animals were part of a larger study of the effect of copper supplementation on copper status and the prevalence of developmental orthopaedic disease. Livers were also collected from unrelated horses and sampled to investigate the variability in the distribution of copper in liver tissue.

Result The biopsy technique caused no lasting effect on the mares, but there was an increased risk of viscus penetration associated with taking multiple biopsy cores. The use of ultrasonography to scan the target area for the liver identified four cases that were not appropriate candidates for liver biopsy, because of large intestine being located in the biopsy area. In the foals there were no serious postoperative adverse effects, nor was there any evidence of problems caused by the procedure when the abdomen was examined post‐mortem at 5 months of age. In livers collected to investigate the variability of copper concentration, copper appeared to be relatively evenly distributed through the liver.

Conclusion Standing, percutaneous, ultrasound‐guided, transthoracic liver biopsy in mares, and transabdominal, laparoscopically‐guided, liver biopsy under general anaesthesia in foals are convenient procedures for obtaining liver tissue for assessing copper status in horses. The use of ultrasound to identify liver tissue is recommended, especially in older mares.
Foetal anasarca in Awassi sheep
Authors: HAILAT N. , LAFI SQ , AL‐DARRAJI A. , EL‐MAGHRABY HM , AL‐ANI F. , FATHALLA M.
Published: March 2008

Two anasarcous foetuses of Awassi sheep are described. The foetuses were removed from the dams by caesarean section because of dystocia due to failure of cervical dilation. Uterine incision was made in situ because uteri were so distended they could not be brought out from the site of incision. Large quantities of uterine fluids and abnormal thick placentas were found. One foetus weighed about 7 kg and the other 13 kg. The foetal heads were deformed: the upper jaw was prognathic and the left ear of the small foetus was cystic. Necropsy revealed subcutaneous musculature was soft and flabby and abdominal and thoracic cavities contained serosanguinous fluid. Histopathological examination revealed that only the larger foetus had focal aggregates of basophilic nucleated red blood cells and scattered megakaryocytes in the liver. We conclude that anasarca can occur in Awassi sheep, with and without associated extramedullary haematopoiesis.
Dilated cardiomyopathy in an American Cocker Spaniel with taurine deficiency
Authors: GAVAGHAN BJ , KITTLESON MD
Published: March 2008

An American Cocker Spaniel with low plasma taurine concentration (< 2 nmol/mL) was presented with dyspnoea associated with pulmonary oedema and a left ventricular shortening fraction of 9%. Emergency therapy with furosemide, dobutamine, nitroglycerine and oxygen supplementation led to a good response. Chronic therapy was started with enalapril, furosemide, digoxin and taurine. Improvement in all echocardiographic indices were noted over a 22 week follow‐up, most notably an increase in left ventricular shorteningfraction to 20%, a decrease of E‐point septal separation from 14 mm to 7 mm and marked left ventricular remodelling. This degree of improvement in myocardial function may represent a direct link between dilated cardiomyopathy in the American Cocker Spaniel andplasma taurine deficiency. Alternatively, this response may reflect a breed‐related cardiomyopathy with a natural history and therapeutic response not commonly seen in the morecommon large breed cardiomyopathy presentations.
Pain‐related cerebral potentials in response to acute painful electrical stimulation in sheep
Authors: MORRIS JP , ONG RM , O'DWYER JK , BARNETT JL , HEMSWORTH PH , CLARKE IJ , JONGMAN EC
Published: March 2008

Objective To examine associations between late event‐related cerebral potential amplitudes and behavioural responses to noxious electrical stimulation as an indicator of acute pain in sheep.

Design Analysis of variance for the effects of stimulus intensity on the behaviour and event‐related cerebral potential variables.

Procedure Ninety‐six brief constant current electrical pulse trains were presented to the front left leg of eight sheep at four intensities (2.5 to 10 mA) in a randomised order. An event‐related cerebral potential and a graded flinch response were recorded for each stimulus and the 24 event‐related cerebral potentials at each intensity were averaged to produce a mean waveform. Various components of this waveform were analysed and changes in these measures and the sheep's flinch response, as stimulus intensity increased, were determined.

Results Both the flinch response and some event‐related cerebral potential components, that is, peak amplitudes 114 {N1}, 187 {P1}, 318 {P2} and 230 {Pm} ms after stimulus onset, were significantly affected as stimulus intensity increased.

Conclusion These corresponding behavioural and event‐related cerebral potential changes indicate the usefulness of using changes in the event‐related cerebral potential to measure acute pain in sheep.
Personal and family backgrounds of first‐year veterinary science students at The University of Queensland
Authors: HEATH TJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To provide information on changes in the social and educational backgrounds of veterinary students over a 10 year period in an effort to determine the extent to which they are representative of the community.

Methods Questionnaires were completed by first‐year veterinary students at The University of Queensland in 1985 and 1986 (152 students), and 1995 and 1996 (154), and the data were analysed using the SAS System for Windows.

Results The gender ratio of first‐year veterinary students was 50:50 (male:female) in 1985 and 1986 but 10 years later it had changed to 38:62. In 1985 and 1986 77% had come directly from school, with 43% of the total coming from government schools, 17% from Catholic schools and 34% from other private (Independent) schools. A decade later the percentage coming directly from school had decreased to 40%, that from Independent schools increased to 45% and that from cities increased from 53% to 64%. The educational backgrounds of parents varied widely though a high percentage had university degrees; mothers had received less formal education than fathers, and the educational attainments of both parents were higher at the beginning than at the end of the study. More than half (57% initially; 67% 10 years later) the fathers were in professional or managerial occupations, and a similar number (50% initially; 48% 10 years later) of mothers were teachers, nurses or clerks. The number of males from country areas decreased from 26 to 16 over this period.

Conclusion These veterinary students differed from the community generally in that progressively more were female, more were from Independent schools, their parents had more formal education and more of their parents were in professional, managerial or clerical occupations.
Cochlosoma infections in finches
Authors: FILIPPICH LJ , O'DONOGHUE PJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo survey finches in pet shops for Cochlosoma infection and evaluate the efficacy of antiprotozoal therapy with metronidazole or ronidazole.

DesignA survey of pet shop finches and drug efficacy trials.

ProcedureFinches in pet shops were randomly selected and their faeces examined microscopically for motile Cochlosoma sp trophozoites. Drug trials were carried out on 60 adult finches with naturally occurring infections. Body weight was measured and the faeces of each bird was examined for trophozoites at the beginning and 7 days after the end of treatment. In some birds, additional daily faecal examinations were done until three consecutive negative results were obtained. Metronidazole was administered at various dose rates by crop gavage or in drinking water to eight groups of five to ten finches each. Ronidazole was given in water for 7 days to ten finches. In addition, six finches whose faeces tested positive were necropsied and their tissues collected for histological examination.

ResultsMotile flagellates in the faeces were identified as C anatis‐like protozoa. Red‐headed parrot‐finches, Bengalese and Lady Gould finches were found to be most commonly infected. Cochlosoma sp was also found in the blue‐faced parrot‐finch, zebra finch, painted finch, nutmeg mannikin and double‐barred finch. Metronidazole and ronidazole were found to be effective against Cochlosoma sp. Histological findings on infected adult finches were normal, except for the presence of numerous flagellates between the colorectal villi and cloacal mucosal folds.

Conclusions
Cochlosoma anatis‐like organisms can infect several species of finches and in adult finches are confined to the colorectum and cloaca. Infection in adult finches was mostly subclinical and could be treated effectively with metronidazole or ronidazole.
A national serological survey to verify Australia's freedom from porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome
Authors: GARNER MG , GLEESON LJ , HOLYOAKE PK , CANNON RM , DOUGHTY WJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo provide serological data to support Australia's claim of freedom from porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome.

DesignA national serological survey was designed to provide 99% confidence of detecting at least one infected pig herd in Australia, assuming that at least 5% of herds would have been exposed to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus and that at least 25% of the ‘finisher’ pigs in these herds would have antibodies to the virus.

ProcedureA two‐stage testing regime was used. All samples were tested with a commercially available enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. If assay reactions were found, all samples from the herd were to be tested using the indirect immunofluorescence antibody assay.

ResultsOf the 875 samples from 163 herds from all States in Australia, there was some evidence of reactivity in only four samples from four herds on the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Further testing using the indirect immunofluorescence antibody assay according to the study protocol demonstrated that the reactions were not due to the presence of specific porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus antibodies in the sera.

ConclusionThe results of this study support the view that Australian pigs are free of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus.
Peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets in fleece rot‐resistant and ‐susceptible sheep
Authors: McCOLL KA , GOGOLEWSKI RP , CHIN JC
Published: March 2008

Objective To compare haematological values and lymphocyte phenotypes in the peripheral blood of fleece rot‐resistant and ‐susceptible sheep.

Procedure Experiments were conducted on 2‐ and 3‐year‐old Merino rams, flock 1 (17 rams) and flock 2 (32 rams), respectively. Within each flock, individual rams were classified as fleece rot‐resistant or ‐susceptible, based on established criteria. Total and differential white cell counts, and indirect fluorescent antibody tests specific for B cells and T cells were performed on all sheep. The concentration of various subsets of circulating lymphocytes was then determined in each sheep.

Results There were no significant differences between fleece rot‐resistant and ‐susceptible sheep from either flock in the mean total or differential white cell counts. However, fleece rot‐resistant rams in flock 1 did have a significantly higher concentration of circulating SBU‐T1+ cells than fleece rot‐susceptible rams from the same flock. No such difference was noted in the rams from flock 2. While all rams in flock 1 were free of clinical fleece rot, 24 rams in flock 2 (comprising all 17 fleece rot‐susceptible and 7 of 15 fleece rot‐resistant animals) had clinical signs of the disease. Fleece rot‐free rams in this flock (irrespective of their classification as fleece rot‐resistant or ‐susceptible) had significantly higher concentrations of circulating SBU‐T1+ cells compared with fleece rot‐affected animals. They also had significantly higher concentrations of circulating B cells, and total lymphocytes.

Conclusions An examination of peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets in fleece rot‐resistant and ‐susceptible sheep revealed a possible association between resistance to fleece rot and the concentration of circulating SBU‐T1+ cells.
Pharmacokinetics of cephalexin in cats after oral administration of the antibiotic in tablet and paste preparations
Authors: THORNTON JR , MARTIN PJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the bioequivalence of a paste formulation of cephalexin with that of the tablet form.

Design A two‐way cross‐over study.

Animals Ten adult cats of mixed breed.

Procedure The cats, randomly allocated to two groups, received either the paste preparation or the tablet orally at 12‐hour intervals for 48 h before a 12‐hour blood collection period. Two weeks later the treatments were reversed and the blood sampling repeated. The serum concentrations of the antibiotic were determined. The pharmacokinetic factors were analysed using a computer.

Results There were no significant differences between the peak concentration of cephalexin, or the other pharmacokinetic factors obtained from the tablet and paste formulations. The serum profiles of cephalexin following four 12‐hourly doses of each formulation were similar with the peak serum values occurring at approximately 2 h after administration.

Conclusion The paste formulation and the tablet form are bioequivalent.
Gastric squamous cell carcinoma in three horses
Authors: McKENZIE EC , MILLS JN , BOLTON JR
Published: March 2008

Gastric squamous cell carcinoma was diagnosed in three horses. Clinical signs observed in all cases were weight loss, anorexia and lethargy. Respiratory signs were prominent in one case. All three horses had depressed albumin and elevated globulin and fibrinogen concentrations. Two horses were mildly anaemic. Inflammatory exudates were present in peritoneal cavities in all cases, and cytological evaluation provided a positive diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma in two cases. Pleural fluid samples taken from two cases were also classified as inflammatory exudates, but no neoplastic cells were detected on initial examination. In all cases the neoplasms had arisen from the oesophageal region of the stomach, and had metastised throughout the abdomen. Two cases had metastatic lesions within the pleural cavity.