bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHRONIC COPPER POISONING IN DAIRY COWS
Authors: Stogdale Lea
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Chronic copper poisoning in a dairy herd fed supplementary copper is recorded. Most cows received 11 g of copper sulphate per day but high milk producers received 22,0 g and within 6 months, 3 of them became ill and died. The signs shown by the 3 cows were anorexia, decreased milk production, frequent recumbency and jaundice. Within 4 days of showing signs, the cows died. The autopsy findings were dehydration, anaemia, jaundice, liver damage and intestinal haemorrhage. Liver copper values varied from 1,250 to 2,410 ppm DM.
A HEALTH PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL DAIRY HERDS
Authors: Morris R. S. , Blood D. C. , Williamson N. B. , Cannon C. M. , Cannon R. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A study of mastitis prevalence in 10 herds which participated in a herd health program is reported for varying periods, up to a maximum of 10 years. The program was based on teat dipping with idophor or sodium hypochlorite teat dip, regular maintenance of the milking machine, and selective dry period treatment of quarters which were classified as infected on the basis of California Mastitis Test score and bacteriological examination of milk samples taken before drying off.

The procedures reduced mastitis prealence (measured in cows being dried off), incidence of clinical mastitis, and disposal of cows due to mastitis. Results obtained were similar to those found in short‐term studies of control programs based on teat dipping and dry period therapy. The only significant difficulty which arose in maintaining the control program over 10 years was loss of enthusiam by farmers for teat dipping. This was usually induced by teat irritation problems apparently caused by teat dipping. The use of a monitoring procedure for mastitis prevalence was important in persuading farmers to return to the use of teat dip.
A HEALTH PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL DAIRY HERDS
Authors: Williamson N. B. , Cannon R. M. , Blood D. C. , Morris R. S.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Disease incidence data was collected from 9 dairy herds which participated in a herd health program. A total of 11,534 cow years was analysed. In common with other Australian data, the important clinical diseases were mastitis and infertility. There was an average level of 43.4 disease incidents per year per 100 animals at risk. An average of 18.6% of the herd left each year. This comprised 1.5% through death and 17.1% through sale. Disease accounted for the disposal of 9.8% of animals, and management reasons for 8.8%. These findings are similar to those of other studies in Australia and in other countries, but the results in this study were based on a longer period and on closer surveillance.
THE SEROLOGICAL RESPONSE OF CHICKENS TO AUSTRALIAN LENTOGENIC STRAINS OF NEWCASTLE DISEASE VIRUS
Authors: Kim S. J. , Spradbrow P. B. , Chung Y. S.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Australian lentogenic Newcastle disease viruses were evaluated as uninactivated vaccines in Australian chickens, the response being evaluated by the production of haemagglutination‐inhibition (HI) antibodies. Two viruses, V4 and PM9, induced high levels of antibody and were readily transmissible between chickens by contact exposure. Three other viruses were poorly immunogenic and poorly transmissible.

Chickens vaccinated intramuscularly with the V4 strain produced higher HI antibody titres than chickens vaccinated by the orotracheal, intranasal and intraocular routes. HI antibody titres in chickens vaccinated with the V4 strain reached peak levels 3 to 5 weeks after vaccination and waned considerably during the next 2 to 4 weeks. However, low levels of HI antibody persisted for at least 36 weeks after vaccination.

Intramuscular vaccination with the V4 strain of one‐day‐old chicks lacking maternal antibody to Newcastle disease virus resulted in 42–70% mortality and the survivors developed very high titres of HI antibody. Similar chickens inoculated orotracheally showed signs of depression and developed high titres of HI antibody, but there were no mortalities. Chickens 1‐, 2‐, 3‐ and 4‐weeks‐old and lacking maternally derived HI antibody to Newcastle disease virus suffered no adverse reaction to intramuscular or orotracheal vaccination. The antibody response of the 1‐week‐old chickens was considerably poorer than that of the older chickens.

Following orotracheal vaccination with the V4 strain, chickens with low levels of maternally derived antibody responded with low levels of HI antibody. On the other hand, in the progeny of hens hyperimmunised with the V4 strain the production of active antibody following orotracheal vaccination was delayed until the level of passive antibody had declined considerably. There was no response to intramuscular vaccination in congenitally hyperimmune chickens.

The minimum HI antibody inducing dose of V4 vaccine, when measured 3 weeks after vaccination of 6‐weeks‐old chickens, was 105.6 50% egg infectious doses.
BRUCELLA CULTURES TYPED BY THE WHO BRUCELLOSIS CENTRE AT THE COMMONWEALTH SERUM LABORATORIES, MELBOURNE
Authors: Ekers B.M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Results of the typing of Brucella cultures received at the WHO Brucellosis Centre.*** CSL, Melbourne, from 1968–1976 are presented. The distribution of the biotypes of cultures recovered throughout Australia is shown on a host and State basis and atypical cultures are discussed.

Cultures identified from Australia were Br. abortus, biotypes 1, 2 and 4 and Strain 19; Br. suis, biotype 1 and Br. ovis. Br. melitensis biotypes 1, 2 and 3 were recorded only as exotic human infections from the Mediterranean area and from laboratory infections. Br. abortus. biotype 1 was the most common bovine and human isolate and was found in horses, a goat and a sheep. There was a low incidence of Br. abortus, biotype 2 in cattle and it was found in 1 horse. Br. abortus, biotype 3 was not found in Australia but was submitted from Tanzania. Br. abortus, biotype 4 was rare in cattle and was found once in a horse. Br. abortus, Strain 19 was found occasionally in cattle and once from a test guinea pig. Br. suis, biotype 1 was found in both man and pigs in Queensland and New South Wales whereas biotype 3 was isolated only in New Guinea from pigs and cattle. Br. ovis was submitted from 3 States. Br. canis has not been found in Australia.
THE POTENTIAL OF SOME SYNTHETIC PYRETHROIDS FOR CONTROL OF THE CATTLE TICK (BOOPHILUS MICROPLUS)
Authors: Nolan J. , Roulston W. J. , Schnitzerling H. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY As part of a continuing programme to aid in the development of new acaricides, the potentials of three synthetic pyrethroids, permethrin, cypermethrin and decamethrin, were assessed against a range of resistant strains of the cattle tick (Boophilus microplus).

The compounds were shown to be acaricidal, with decamethrin the most effective, giving efficient control of susceptible and organo‐phosphorus resistant strains of the cattle tick at concentrations as low as one fifth of those previously used for any commercial acaricide. However higher concentrations were required for satisfactory control of the DDT‐resistant strain.

Permethrin‐selection of a field strain containing a low percentage of DDT‐resistant ticks led to rapid development of resistance to a level equivalent to that of the DDT‐resistant strain. Further selection increased resistance to permethrin to a higher level than that shown in the DDT‐resistant strain. This increased resistance to permethrin appears to be restricted mainly to this compound and is not associated with a marked increase in resistance to cypermethrin, decamethrin or DDT. The potential of organo‐phosphorus compounds to potentiate the pyrethroids when the two classes of compounds are used as mixtures against the pyrethroidresistant and susceptible strains was confirmed.
DEPRESSED INCIDENCE OF OESTRUS IN EWES WITH CLOVER DISEASE AT THE BEGINNING OF THE BREEDING SEASON
Authors: Adams N.R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The incidence of oestrus was depressed in ewes with permanent clover infertility running on non‐oestrogenic pasture, particularly in the first part of the breeding season. The depression was due to the failure of some ewes to display oestrus, and to a more erratic pattern of oestrous activity in the other ewes. The incidence of oestrus was restored to normal by treatment with progesterone. In contrast, the incidence of oestrus was reduced in affected ewes grazing on oestrogenic pasture.
EQUINE HERPESVIRUSES: ON THE DIFFERENTIATION OF RESPIRATORY FROM FOETAL STRAINS OF TYPE 1
Authors: Studdert M.J. , Blackney M.H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Confirmation of the occurrence of equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV1) abortion in both epizootic and sporadic form epizootic in Australia for the first time in 1977 against a background in which a reasonably diligent search for such viruses during the preceeding 11 years failed to associate EHV1 with abortion, provided a special opportunity to compare the properties of the newly isolated foetal (F) strains with a collection of endemic respiratory (R) strains that had been recovered at fairly regular intervals since 1967. Using plaque size and host cell range all of 7 R strains tested were clearly distinguishable from 7 of 11 F isolates. The remaining 4 F strains had plaque diameters of R strains but 3 of the 4 viruses conformed in their host cell range with F strains. Only one F isolate (from Tasmania) had both plaque morphology and host cell range of R strain viruses.

The mean diameter of plaques produced by R strains in equine foetal kidney (EFK) cells after 4 days under a methyl cellulose overlay was 1.52 mm (range 1.30–1.84 mm) while the mean diameter of small plaques produced by F strains was 0.82 mm (range 0.68–0.91 mm).

In addition to EFK cells all R and F strains grew in an equine dermal (EDerm) cell line and all but two of 19 isolates grew in a pig kidney (PK) cell line. None of the low passage R strains grew in bovine embryo tracheal (EBTr) or feline embryo (FEmb) cells whereas all but one of 11 F isolates grew in EBTr cells. 8/11F isolates also grew in FEmb cell line.

Growth of viruses at 33° and 40.5°cf. a usual growth temperature of 37° was of no detectable value in differentiating R and F strains of EHV1.

In a limited geographic and time frame the criteria of plaque size in EFK cells and growth in EBTr cells unambiguously distinguished between R and F isolates and represent simple markers worthy of additional study.
THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF EQUINE STRONGYLOSIS IN SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND 1. The Bionomics of the Free‐Living Stages in Faeces and on Pasture
Authors: English A. W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Development of the free‐living stages of strongylid nematodes of the horse to the infective stage occurred in faeces in all months of the year in southern Queensland, at a rate which depended on the season. Most rapid development to the infective stage occurred in the warmer months, with the hatching of strongyle eggs being completed in 2 days in summer. During the winter, egg hatching continued for over 2 weeks.

Larval moults proceeded at a faster rate in summer—all larvae were infective in 7 days during the hottest months, but it was as long as 5 weeks before all were infective in winter. However, even though development was rapid in summer, survival rates varied from 1 to 10%, in contrast to the spring and autumn, when over 80% reached the infective stage. One percent of larvae in faeces survived for up to 20 weeks in autumn and winter, but for only 4 weeks in summer. These results highlight the inadequacy of short‐term pasture spelling for all but the hottest months. Infective larvae were found on herbage in all months of the year, but greatest numbers were recovered in spring and early summer, and in autumn and early winter. The relationship of pasture infestation to migration of larvae from Paecal reservoirs in response to rain was clearly shown. Most infective larvae were found within 30 cm of faecal masses, and in fact 89% of all larvae isolated from herbage in this study were found within 15 cm of faeces. Migration of larvae from faeces to herbage occurred with falls of rain as small as 25 mm.

Horse faecal masses dried out completely in 6–8 days in summer and in 14–16 days in winter. Strongyle larvae developed to the infective stage in faeces in the absence of rain, although many remained in the pre‐infective stage and completed their development when rain fell.

This study shows that massive contamination of pastures with the eggs of strongylid nematodes must be prevented in spring and autumn if susceptible young horses are not to be at serious risk.
THE EPIDEMIOLOGY OF EQUINE STRONGYLOSIS IN SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND 2. The Survival and Migration of Infective Larvae on Herbage
Authors: English A. W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The seasonal changes in longevity on herbage of the infective larvae of strongylid nematodes of the horse were studied. During the summer months, 1% of the larvae survived on herbage for 2–3 weeks, with 0.2% still viable for a further 2–3 weeks. Equivalent survival periods in winter were 7–11 weeks and over 11 weeks respectively. During spring and autumn, larvae survived for periods varying from 3–8 weeks.

On Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) growing vigorously in the summer of 1976, the majority of larvae remained in the lowest layers of the pasture, within 10 cm of the soil surface. Very few reached the highest fraction of grass sampled, above 40 cm from the soil. More larvae were recovered higher on the pasture in a period when less torrential rain had occurred.

It was concluded that the parasitological benefits to be gained from short‐term mixed grazing with horses and cattle may be minimal, in view of the tendency of cattle to eat only the upper layers of the pasture initially, with a consequent increase in the number of infective larvae per unit weight of herbage remaining.
DIAGNOSIS OF TRITRICHOMONAS FOETUS INFECTION IN BULLS USING TWO SAMPLING METHODS AND A TRANSPORT MEDIUM*
Authors: Tedesco L. F. , Errico F. , Baglivi L. P. Del
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Preputial exudates were collected from 3 bulls infected with Tritrichomonas foetus by scraping the mucosa with a specially designed instrument and by aspiration. For diagnostic purposes the scraping method was superior in direct microscopic examination but both methods were equally good when the samples were cultured within 2 hours of collection. The organism remained viable in a transport medium for 24, 48 and 72 hours showing a lineal decrease in viability with time which was more than 3 times greater in samples aspirated than in samples scraped.
EFFECT OF ENVIRONMENTAL TEMPERATURE ON SUSCEPTIBILITY OF YOUNG CHICKENS TO SALMONELLA TYPHIMURIUM
Authors: Soerjadi A. S. , Druitt J. H. , Lloyd A. B. , Cumming R. B.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Day‐old chickens kept in a cold environment (18± to 22±C) were more susceptible to a low and moderate challenge of Salmonella typhimurium than chickens similarly challenged and kept in a warm environment (32± to 36±C). Cold stress at 10±C for 24 h when applied to 12‐day‐old chickens effectively increased the number of birds shedding organisms. However a similar cold stress on 20‐day‐old chickens resulted in a less dramatic increase in the number of birds shedding organisms. Of the 60 birds previously challenged with S. typhimurium and then subjected to cold stress, 16 birds recommenced shedding and 7 birds with no previous history of shedding began to shed organisms.
EFFICACY OF ALBENDAZOLE AGAINST FASCIOLA HEPATICA IN SHEEP
Authors: Johns D.R. , Dickeson S.J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY In a series of 4 trials dose rates of 3.8, 4.75 and 7.5 mg/kg of albendazole were given to sheep either as a single or repeat dose such as may be given under field conditions. Efficacy against 6‐to 7‐week‐old Fasciola hepatica ranged from 16.0% to 43.6%. Efficacy against mature 12‐to 17‐week‐old fluke ranged from 74.4% to 94.5%.
BRUISING IN CATTLE FASTED PRIOR TO TRANSPORT FOR SLAUGHTER
Authors: Dodt R. M. , Anderson B. , Horder J. C.
Published: March 2008

Three trials, each with 100 bullocks previously grazing improved pasture, compared bruising in cattle fasted for 0, 24 and 48 hours prior to transport for slaughter. Overall the weight of bruised trim from unfasted bullocks (0.48 kg) was significantly less (P<0.01) than from bullocks fasted for 24 h (0.99 kg) or 48 h (1.03 kg). Length of fast overall had no significant effect. This pattern was not consistent within trials.
Y CHROMOSOME MORPHOLOGY OF CATTLE
Authors: Potter W. L. , Upton P. C.
Published: March 2008

Metaphase chromosomes from cultured lymphocytes were prepared from 246 bulls including Bos indicus, Bos taurus, Bos (Bibos) banteng, Sanga and interspecific and intra‐specific breed crosses. Morphology and karyotype position of the Y chromosome for each bull were noted. Karyotype position of the Y chromosome varied between bulls from 25th to 29th pair and the Y chromosomes of Bos indicus and breeds derived from Bos indicus bulls were acrocentric while those of Bos taurus, Sanga and breeds derived from these bulls were metacentric/submetacentric. Two forms of Y chromosome were noted In the Droughtmaster breed. C‐banding patterns of the acrocentric Y chromosome were characteristic and enabled easy identification.
DORSAL DISPLACEMENT OF THE LEFT VENTRAL AND DORSAL COLON IN TWO HORSES
Authors: Speirs V. C. , Hilberr B. J. , Blood D. C.
Published: March 2008

This paper describes the clinical signs and surgical treatment of 2 cases of dorsal displacement of the left ventral and dorsal colon. The condition, in which the colon becomes enclosed in the space bounded by the base of the spleen, the dorsal aspect of the suspensory ligament of the spleen (phrenicosplenic ligament), the left kidney and the adjacent body wall, is characterised by moderate to severe pain, minimal signs of shock, no response to medical therapy and a tendency for a ventral midline abdominal paracentesis to enter the spleen. Both horses recovered after surgical replacement of the colon, one case requiring a second laparotomy because of a recurrence of the displacement.
C‐ AND G‐ BANDING PATTERNS AND CHROMOSOMAL MORPHOLOGY OF SOME BREEDS OF AUSTRALIAN CATTLE
Authors: Potter W.L. , Upton P.C. , Cooper J. , Blackshaw A.W.
Published: March 2008

A cytogenetical study using metaphase chromosomes from cultured lymphocytes, was made of 2 Banteng (Bibos banteng) steers and 218 bulls representing 13 purebreeds (Bos taurus type, Bos indicus type and Sanga) and 7 cross‐breeds. Studies were made of photographic karyotypes of Giemsa stained and C‐banded chromosomes of bulls of each breed and of G‐banded chromosomes from 3 breeds of Bos indicus and one cross‐breed (Australian Friesian Sahiwal) cattle. The relative lengths of chromosomes of Bos taurus and Bos indicus bulls were compared and significant difference in relative lengths of the X chromosomes were noted between these two species. There was a differences in morphology of the Y chromosomes; Sanga, Banteng and Bos taurus type breeds had a small submetacentric Y chromosome, except for the Jersey which had a metacentric Y chromosome. All Bos indicus type bulls had an acrocentric Y chromosome but the Droughtmaster breed had two forms of the Y chromosome (submetacentric and acrocentric). The C‐banding patterns of the autosomes and X chromosomes were similar for all breeds while those of the Y chromosomes of Bos indicus type cattle allowed their accurate identification. G‐banding patterns of Bos indicus resembled those of Bos taurus and enabled pairing of homologous chromosomes. Centromeres of the autosomes were unstained but those of the sex chromosomes were darkly stained.
A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY OF OSTEOMYELITIS IN DOGS AND CATS
Authors: Griffiths G. L. , Bellenger C. R.
Published: March 2008

Thirty‐nine cases of osteomyelitis in dogs and cats were recorded at the Sydney University Veterinary Hospital and Clinic over a three and a half year period. In 36 cases osteomyelitis was established prior to admission. Three cases of osteomyelitis became established from a total of 502 orthopaedic surgery cases seen at the hospital in this period. In the dog the most common source of infection was open reduction of closed fractures, while in the cat, the most common source of infection was an extension from soft tissue infection. More males than females were affected.

Ten cases of osteomyelitis were treated successfully, twelve cases required amputation, while euthanasia was performed on thirteen other cases. The problems and principles of treatment of active osteomyelitis as reflected in the treatment of this series of cases have been described.
LEPTOSPIRA INTERROGANS SEROVAR HARDJO INFECTION OF CATTLE
Authors: Gordon L. M.
Published: March 2008

A survey of normal cattle in the Southern Victorian statistical divisions revealed that microscopic agglutination titres to L. hardjo occur at high frequency and are distributed throughout the cattle population. These titres are difficult to interpret as they may represent recent or old exposure, with or without disease.

L. hardjo infection of dairy cattle was studied in 4 herds using the microscopic agglutination and complement‐fixation tests. Statistical comparisons of individual titres obtained indicated that the sensitivity of the complement‐fixation test was satisfactory for diagnostic purposes, but the test was unable to differentiate between current or past infections.
INTERNAL FIXATION OF FRACTURES OF THE THIRD PHALANX IN THREE HORSES
Authors: Rose R. J. , Taylor B. J. , Bellenger C. R.
Published: March 2008

The technique of internal fixation of intra‐articular fractures of the third phalanx using lag screw interfragmentary compression is described. Three cases are discussed and the successful treatment of infection and osteomyelitis described in one of them. Despite this potential complication Internal fixation offers a better prognosis and also a more rapid return to work than non‐operative treatments.
THE CORRECTION OF UTERINE TORSION IN A MARE BY CAESAREAN SECTION
Authors: Maxwell J. A. L.
Published: March 2008

A 9‐year‐old mare exhibiting signs of colic late in pregnancy was presented. Uterine torsion was diagnosed and corrected by caesarean section. A live foal was delivered and the mare survived the surgical interference.
THE ROLE OF EQUIPMENT THAT HAS DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE CARCASE IN THE SPREAD OF SALMONELLA IN A BEEF ABATTOIR
Authors: Smeltzer T. I. , Peel B. , Collins G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Counts of Salmonella were performed by the most probable number technique on 16 articles of abattoir equipment having direct contact with the carcase. Forty samples were collected from each article over 21 months. The contamination rate of these articles with salmonellae varied from nil % for a saw used to quarter the sides to 47.5% for stainless steel tables and hooks. Mesh gloves were also highly contaminated, salmonellae being isolated from 32.5% of gloves on the slaughter floor and 40% of those in the boning room. Salmonella counts ranged from 1.0 to 3,663 organisms per article. Mesh gloves, cutting boards and stainless steel tables were found to have counts that were at times of greater than 1,000 salmonellae per article.
HAEMATOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF A MULTIPLE CASE LEUCOSIS HERD
Authors: Dimmock Corinne K. , Waugh P.D. , Rogers R.J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Adult cattle in a Queensland dairy herd with a history of deaths from lymphosarcoma were sampled regularly over a 4 year period for the identification of animals with persistent lymphocytosis (PL). Twenty‐one of 94 animals that were sampled at least 6 times had PL. At the initial sampling 27% of the animals had lymphocytosis. Culling of haematologically positive animals in the first 18 months of the investigation reduced this to 5.3%, but cessation of the culling programme resulted in a gradual increase in the percentage of animals with lymphocytosis.

Four deaths from lymphosarcoma occurred in adult animals, but only in the first 18 months of the investigation. Two of these animals had lymphocytosis and two lymphoblastic leukaemia. The Calf of one of the latter cows developed lymphoblastic leukaemia and lymphosarcoma by the time it was 6 months of age. Although histological evidence of lymphosarcoma was lacking in a number of clinically normal animals with lymphocytosis, haematological investigation identified a group of animals within the herd that may develop lymphosarcoma.
THE EFFECT OF PRIOR INFECTION WITH FASCIOLA HEPATICA ON THE RESISTANCE OF SHEEP TO THE SAME PARASITE
Authors: Meek A.H. , Morris R.S.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The development of flukes that resulted from a challenge dose of 175 F. hepatica metacercariae was compared in 4 groups of sheep that were maintained under grazing conditions on fluke‐free pasture. One group had been previously uninfected and all subgroups of each of the other 3 groups had been exposed to one of a range of previous doses of metacercariae. The preliminary infections of 2 of the 3 groups had been terminated respectively after 7 and 14 weeks. The third previously infected group had received its preliminary infection as 2 doses of metacercariae, 7 weeks apart. The latter infection had been terminated after 14 weeks.

No appreciable differences in the mean numbers, length, prepatent period or fecundity of flukes, established as a result of the challenge dose of metacercariae, were detected between the control group and the 3 previously infected groups. It was concluded that under the conditions of the present experiment no evidence was detected that would suggest that previous infection with F. hepatica conferred any significant resistance to a future challenge.
CHEMOTHERAPY OF ACUTE BOVINE ANAPLASMOSIS
Authors: Wilson A. J. , Parker R. , Parker M. , Hall W. T. K. , Trueman K. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The efficacy of a standard tetracycline, imidocarb and a new experimental longacting tetracycline (T‐200) in the treatment of anaplasmosis was examined in 5 groups of 9 non‐splenectomised, adult, 4‐year‐old, speyed cattle. The efficacy of T‐200 was further examined using 9 splenectomised calves. One treatment of imidocarb (3.5 mg/kg) or T‐200 (20 mg/kg) or 2 treatments (10 mg/kg) of a standard tetracycline were very effective in controlling the infection in the intact cattle. One inoculation of T‐200 (20 mg/kg) controlled infection in 5 splenectomised calves, whereas all 4 untreated control calves died. T‐200 did not sterilise either intact or splenectomised cattle.
DERMATOPHILOSIS OF SHEEP ASSOCIATION WITH DIPPING AND EFFECTS ON PRODUCTION
Authors: Wilkinson F. C.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: In a trial to ascertain the effect of dipping on dermatophilosis and production in Merino sheep it was found that sheep which had been dipped had more lesions and produced less wool than undipped sheep.

Sheep dipped in water or water plus diazinon had more mortalities associated with dermatophilosis than sheep dipped in arsenic or not dipped. The arsenic appeared to aid healing. There were more mortalities in the sheep dipped in water or water plus diazinon one day after shearing than those dipped 10 days after shearing.
IMMUNOPROPHYLAXIS WITH BCG OF EXPERIMENTAL ECHINOCOCCUS MULTILOCULARIS INFECTIONS
Authors: Reuben J. M. , Tanner C. E.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Infection by the metacestodes of Echinococcus multilocularis is an example of the biological paradox of a proliferating parasite in an immunologically‐competent host. There is evidence that infection with these organisms is regulated. A study of this regulation has shown that hydatid cysts can be effectively treated with complement and that the cellular defence mechanisms of the host can be non‐specifically activated with BCG; treatment with BCG presents an effective prophylactic measure against infection with E. multilocularis. The mechanisms by which parasite infections are regulated can furnish clues to possible prophylactic and therapeutic strategies.
EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF THE PLANNING AND EVALUATION OF HYDATID DISEASE CONTROL*
Authors: Schwabe C. W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Reasons are given for more adequate epidemiological studies than are customary preparatory to and following the institution of disease control programs. Using as examples the experiences of different countries with hydatid disease, attention is given to the value of the analysis of these types of data for identifying determinants of initially high or low prevalences of disease, for rationally planning pilot control trials and for identifying reasons for differences in rates of control progress and needed changes in control strategies.
MODERN SURGICAL TREATMENT OF HUMAN HYDATIDOSIS
Authors: Aarons B. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Modern treatment of hydatid disease of man depends on confirmation of active disease by use of modern serological tests, accurate identification of anatomical sites followed by complete removal of the parasite without spillage, and sterilisation of the remaining cavity. To avoid spillage use of a hydatid cone is recommended.
INFECTION STUDIES ON A RETICULOENDOTHELIOSIS VIRUS CONTAMINANT OF A COMMERCIAL MAREK'S DISEASE VACCINE
Authors: Bagust T. J. , Grimes T. M. , Dennett D. P.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Reticuloendotheliosis virus (REV) was isolated in cell cultures from commercial Marek's disease (herpesvirus of turkeys) vaccine and re‐isolated from the organs of vaccinated chickens. Runting and feathering abnormalities were produced when 1‐day‐old specific pathogen free chickens were Inoculated with REV. Histopathological lesions in infected chickens were hypoplasia of the thymus, bursa and spleen, and inflammation of the proventriculus, kidneys and liver. Serological responses to REV were detected by the indirect immunofluorescence test in chickens directly inoculated with the contaminated vaccine, and spread of REV infection to in‐contact chickens was demonstrated by histopathological and serological investigations.
A SURGICAL TECHNIQUE FOR THE COLLECTION OF CERVICAL MUCUS IN THE EWE
Authors: Selaive A. B. , Kennedy J. P.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A technique for collecting cervical mucus in ewes is described. By a surgical procedure, the cervix was fixed to the ventral abdominal wall to enable mucus to be collected continuously into a container attached to the ewe. Mucus was collected successfully by this method for up to 14 months.
THE ECONOMIC EFFICIENCY OF A VETERINARY PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND MANAGEMENT PROGRAM IN VICTORIAN DAIRY HERDS
Authors: Williamson N. B.
Published: March 2008

SUMMERY: This paper reports the major results of a 4‐year controlled study of the impact of a dairy herd health and management program on dairy farms. The aim of the project was to conduct a practical preventive medicine program which could be operated by practising field veterinarians to assess the economic value of the program. The analysis of performance involved 59 program farms which received the program and 47 surveillance farms which did not receive the program. Each group commenced with 80 farms.

A comparison of indices reflecting the efficiency of production showed relative gains for program herds when compared to surveillance herds and these differences were significant for the indices of butterfat per hectare (P=.001) and butter fat per man (P=.005) but not for butterfat per cow (P=.455). The indices of financial efficiency showed significant improvements in program farms when compared with surveillance farms in the standardised change in gross margin per hectare (P=.001), per man (P=.003) and per cow (P=.007). On a mean whole‐farm basis, the program gave an improvement in gross margin of 23.58, 65.56 and 90.30 per hectare in the second to fourth years respectively of the project when compared with performance in the first year.

Mean intercalving intervals were significantly shorter in program than surveillance herds throughout the project (P=.013). The proportion of cows calving within 8 weeks of the start of the calving season increased from 68.5% to 74% in program herds and from 72% to 73% in surveillance herds, but there was no significant difference (P=.101) between groups in this change. The standardised change in bulk milk cell count was greater in program herds than surveillance herds, but the quarter infection prevalence of surveillance herds. which was only measured in the final year of the project, was significantly lower than the prevalence measured at the same time in program herds.

It was concluded from this study that the dairy health and management program tested in this study represents a highly profitable investment for dairy farmers.
SMALL INTESTINAL CARCINOMA IN SHEEP
Authors: Ross A. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY This communication reports a high prevalence of small intestinal carcinoma. Seventeen cases were detected during a survey of 6,248 sheep (0.272%) from 3 export abattoirs in southern New South Wales.

The neoplasm appeared on the serosal surface of the jejeunum and ileum as a ring of dense white fibrous tissue which caused stenosis and cranial dilation of the intestine. The mucosa and muscularis were thickened and folded but otherwise grossly normal except for 3 cases where small polyps were present. Metastatic lesions occurred regularly in mesenteric lymph nodes and sclerotic deposits were often present on the surface of abdominal viscera. In one case metastatic nodules were found throughout the liver and lungs. Histologically, the glandular architecture of the mucosa and submucosa was disturbed and thickened with fibrous tissue. The muscularis was intact; however an intense desmoplastic reaction under the serosa contained scattered islands of PAS‐positive epithelial cells; distinct acini were uncommon and mitotic figures rare.
EFFECTS OF ARTIFICIALLY INDUCED INFESTATIONS OF THE CATTLE LOUSE, LINOGNATHUS VITULI
Authors: Callinan A. P. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Groups of White Shorthorn calves, stanchioned to prevent self‐grooming and given high or low levels of nutrition, were exposed to artificial infestations of the cattle louse, Linognathus vituli. Undernutrition caused a significant (P = 0.03) increase in lice numbers. Lice did not significantly affect percentages of packed cells, lymphocytes, polymorphs and eosinophils or the number of red and white cells. Calves were always able to control lice infestations without self‐grooming.
ISOLATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF BACTEROIDES NODOSUS FROM FOOT LESIONS OF CATTLE IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Richards R. B. , Depiazzi L. J. , Edwards J. R. , Wilkinson F. C.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Thirty one isolates of Bacteroides nodosus were obtained from foot lesions observed on cattle at 3 abattoirs. All isolates were similar to the B. nodosus of ovine benign footrot (BFR) in their response to the degrading proteinase test. At one abattoir, where the interdigital lesions were examined in detail, 9 of 10 isolates were obtained from hyperkeratotic lesions with deep fissures. Traceback to 8 of the farms of origin which carried both sheep and cattle, revealed BFR in sheep on 4 farms. The significance of B. nodosus in interdigital lesions in cattle, and its possible pathogenicity, are discussed.
LOW ALPHA‐TOCOPHEROL LEVELS IN LIVERS OF WEANER SHEEP WITH NUTRITIONAL MYOPATHY
Authors: Steele P. , Peet R. L. , Skirrow S. , Hopkinson W. , Masters H. G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Outbreaks of ovine weaner nutritional myopathy occurring in the southwest of Western Australia outside the recognised selenium‐responsive areas have been investigated. One hundred and five sheep died in 3 outbreaks following 5 months grazing cereal stubble paddocks. Liver selenium and glutathione peroxidase activities, measured as an index of biological availability of dietary selenium, indicated that the selenium status of the animals was probably adequate. A comparison of liver selenium and α‐tocopherol concentrations and glutathione peroxidase activity was made with both selenium supplemented sheep and sheep affected with selenium‐responsive nutritional myopathy. In all cases investigated in this study liver α‐tocopherol levels in affected animals were low and this may be important in the aetiology of this myopathy.
SEROLOGICAL TITRES OF DAIRY COWS OVER A 63‐WEEK PERIOD FOLLOWING NATURAL INFECTION WITH LEPTOSPIRA INTERROGANS SEROVAR HARDJO
Authors: Durfee P. T. , Allen J. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Leptospirosis due to Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo, occurred in a dairy herd of 104 cows and produced signs of mastitis, characterised by a sudden decrease in milk production and uniformly flaccid udders, in 11 cows. The microscopic agglutination (MA) test was used to determine antibody titres to serovar hardjo in all cows in the herd at 6, 33 and 63 weeks after the initial outbreak. The prevalence of MA antibodies to hardjo at week 6 was highest in cows in the youngest age groups and lowest in cows in the oldest age group. Over the 63‐week period MA antibody titres to hardjo declined in 54 out of 62 seropositive cows, remained unchanged in 6 cows, and increased slightly in 2 cows. Fourteen of 59 cows (23.7%) with MA titres greater than 100 at week 6 had titres greater than 100 by week 63. Included in this group of 14 were 5 of 7 cows that had been affected with atypical mastitis. The distribution of serological titres to hardjo showed bimodal configurations at weeks 6 and 33 with the second peaks occurring at titres greater than 100, while the configuration was linear at week 63. MA titres to hardjo were also determined for 22 heifers 1, 16 and 36 weeks after they were added to the herd. No clinical signs of leptospirosis were observed in the heifers; however, the distribution of MA titres showed bimodal configurations at weeks 16 and 33 with second peaks occurring at titres greater than 100. Leptospiras were isolated from the urine of 2 seropositive heifers 16 weeks after their introduction to the herd, and cross‐agglutinin absorption tests performed on one of the isolates indicated that it was identical to serovar hardjo.
INDUCTION OF ICHTHYOSPORIDIOSIS IN BROWN TROUT (SALMO TRUTTA) BY FEEDING OF RAW MULLET
Authors: Slocombe R. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY An outbreak of ichthyosporidiosis was associated with the feeding of raw seafish in a Tasmanian commercial trout fishery. Feeding trials indicated that mullet caught in the vicinity of the fishery were an important source of infection. Freezing of the feed did not effectively control the disease.
PORTAL VEIN ANOMALY AND HEPATIC ENCEPHALOPATHY IN THREE DOGS
Authors: Campbell T. M. , Lording P. M. , Wrigley R. H. , Lavelle R. B.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Portal vein anomaly and associated hepatic encephalopathy was diagnosed in three dogs; a 2‐year‐old Old English Sheep Dog, a 14‐week‐old Old English Sheep Dog and a 20‐week‐old Corgi. The common clinical changes were anorexia, vomiting, depression, weakness and ataxia. The major laboratory findings were an elevated serum alanine amino transferase activity, hypoproteinaemia, hypoalbuminaemia, prolonged retention of sulphobromophthalein, fasting and postprandial hypeoammonaemia and ammonium biurate crystalluria. Angiographic studies demonstrated the presence of a patent ductus venosus in each case. The 2 Old English Sheep Dogs were destroyed at the owners' request and the necropsy findings in each case verified the presence of a portacaval shunt and hepatic encephalopathy. The Corgi is still alive, with conservative medical management, 28 months after the onset of signs. The dog is stunted and has mild, intermittent neurological disturbances. Clinical biochemistry indicates severe hepatic insufficiency and suggests a poor long term prognosis.
BOTULISM IN BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: Harrigan K. E.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The occurrence of intoxication due to type C botulinum toxin in broiler fowl is described. The disease occurred during warm weather and appeared to be due to ingestion of carcases which had been stored for only 2 to 3 days within the poultry shed. Botulism resulted in a mortality of less than 1% of the flock but caused concern in deciding whether to submit the flock for slaughter for human consumption. The diagnosis and public health aspects of the disease are discussed.
THE INDIRECT HAEMOLYSIS TEST (IHLT) FOR BOVINE BRUCELLOSIS—COMPARISONS WITH THE COMPLEMENT FIXATION TEST (CFT) IN VACCINATED AND EXPERIMENTALLY INFECTED CATTLE
Authors: Plackett P. , Alton G. G. , Carter P. D. , Corner L. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Cattle were vaccinated with Brucella abortus strain 19 subcutaneously in doses ranging from the normal (2.0 ml) dose of standard vaccine down to 1/400 of the normal dose, and via the conjunctival sac with 1/2 or 1/20 of the normal dose. Under all vaccination regimes serum antibody titres in the complement fixation test (CFT) rose more rapidly, reached higher levels, declined more slowly and involved a greater proportion of animals, than titres in the indirect haemolysis test (IHLT). The interval between the first positive serological test and parturition was determined for 54 pregnant cows infected with a virulent field strain (VRI 3) of B. abortus. On average the CFT titre rose to 1/4 43 days, and 1/8 33 days, before parturition, while the IHLT reached a 2/8 reaction 31 days before parturition.
OVULATION RATE AT FIRST MATING AND REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF GILTS
Authors: Paterson A. M. , Barker I. , Lindsay D. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Laparoscopy was used to estimate ovulation rate at first mating in 460 Large White/Landrace gilts. For 385 gilts which farrowed litter size was recorded and the relationships between age and mating, maternal litter size, ovulation rate and reproductive performance were examined.

The mean ovulation rate of the gilts which farrowed was 10.9 ± 0.14 corpora lutea and the mean first litter size was 8.0 ± 0.12 piglets born with 7.5 ≥.± 0.13 born alive. Ovulation rate was related to first litter size (r = 0.29, P < 0.001) but embryo loss was the major factor determining litter size, accounting for about 58% of the variation. None of the variable examined at the time of mating was sufficiently correlated with litter size to be useful as selection criteria for improving reproductive performance.
INSECTICIDE RESISTANCE IN FIELD STRAINS OF LUCILIA CUPRINA
Authors: O'Flynn M. , Green P. E.
Published: March 2008

A survey was conducted in 1977–78 to determine the level of insecticide resistance in field strains of Lucilia cuprina from a wide area of Queensland. Discriminating dose data showed that all 19 strains tested were resistant to diazinon, dichlofenthion, fenthion‐ethyl and chlorfenvinphos, but resistance factors in all strains were low, the highest being 18.9 for diazinon. Six strains showed no resistance to butacarb.

A strain collected in 1967 and selected with diazinon for 117 generations, attained resistance factors for organophosphorus compounds far higher than those of the present field strains.
LEPTOSPIRA SEROGROUP HEBDOMADIS INFECTION AS AN AUSTRALIAN ZOONOSIS
Authors: Milner A. R. , Wilks C. R. , Morgan I. R. , Rosen N. E.
Published: March 2008

Two cases of leptospirosis due to infection with a member of the Hebdomadis serogroup are described in farm workers on a Victorian dairy farm. The source of infection appeared to be the milking herd which had elevated serum antibody titres against a member of the Hebdomadis serogroup. Agglutinin‐absorption testing of one patient's serum indicated that the infecting serovar was hardjo.

A survey of 1,144 cattle entering abattoirs throughout the State indicated that 44.3% of these animals showed serological evidence of past or present infection with leptospira of the Hebdomadis serogroup and the potential risk for people with occupational contact with cattle is emphasised. The importance of considering leptospirosis in the differential diagnosis of all patients with influenza‐like symptoms or pyrexia of unknown origin and having occupational contact with animals, especially cattle, is discussed.
SEASONAL CHANGES IN THE STRUCTURE OF NEMATODE POPULATIONS OF CATTLE IN NEW SOUTH WALES IN RELATION TO INHIBITED LARVAL DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Smeal M. G. , Fraser G. C. , Robinson G. G.
Published: March 2008

Pasture plots in 3 climatic regions were contaminated with worm eggs of Ostertagia ostertagi, Trichostrongylus axel, Haemonchus spp and Cooperia spp in the autumn, winter and spring. Successive pairs of parasite‐free calves were grazed on the plots for 7 to 10 days at 4‐week intervals and then killed for worm counts 14 days after their removal from pasture.

On the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales, irrespective of the season of pasture contamination, the degree of inhibition of O. ostertagi was low in winter and highest in spring. T. axei showed similar trends while Cooperia spp showed negligible inhibition.

On the North Coast of New South Wales, inhibited larvae accounted for a very small proportion of the O. ostertagi burdens, while in comparison T. axei showed a much greater degree of inhibition. Larval inhibition of Haemonchus spp occurred in autumn and early winter after which it did not occur. There was negligible inhibition in Cooperia spp.

On the Central Coast of New South Wales, there was little inhibition of O. ostertagi and none in T. axel. For Haemonchus spp, inhibited larvae were found mainly in autumn and winter. The numbers of inhibited Cooperia larvae were also highest in autumn and winter and were associated with large worm burdens.

The marked difference between the tablelands and coastal regions in the seasonal trends of inhibition of O. ostertagi was considered to be due to a difference in strains between the geographical regions. The possible effect of climatic factors on the inhibition‐proneness of infective larvae on pasture is discussed for Ostertagia and other nematodes. The roles of host resistance and density‐dependence are also discussed.
COMBINED ACTIVE‐PASSIVE IMMUNISATION OF HORSES AGAINST TETANUS
Authors: Liefman C. E.
Published: March 2008

The protection afforded by active, passive and combined active‐passive methods of immunisation against tetanus was examined in previously unimmunised horses. Three groups of horses were injected; one with tetanus toxoid alone, one with tetanus antitoxin alone and one in which the tetanus toxoid and tetanus antitoxin were injected simultaneously. The protection afforded was determined by monitoring the levels of antitoxin achieved in the horses by each of these methods.

The results obtained demonstrated the effectiveness of the combined active‐passive method in affording rapid and prolonged protection and enabled the examination of some of the factors involved in active and in passive immunisation when used alone. The advantages obtained by the use of the combined active‐passive method in protecting unimmunised horses suddenly placed at risk to infection are outlined.
ESTABLISHING A PROGNOSIS FOR FIRE DAMAGED SHEEP
Authors: McAuliffe P. R. , Hucker D. A. , Marshall A. N.
Published: March 2008

Twenty, mixed age merino sheep suffering moderate bushfire burns were placed under observation to monitor the effects of the damage and to determine what indicators would provide a prognosis for burnt sheep. Eight sheep died within 29 days of the fire from the effects of their burns, while one which was killed when unable to stand 45 days after the fire had a heavy internal parasite burden. The best indicators that an animal would not survive were immobility and recumbency associated with burns to the hooves and legs below the carpal and tarsal joints which caused swelling and a dry leathery appearance of the skin. Neither burns to the legs not associated with swelling, nor burns to the hooves, head and woolless areas were themselves critical; such affected sheep generally recovered without complication. It was considered that burnt sheep should be assessed daily for the first 10 days. Control of internal parasites and blowflies may be required for recovering groups of sheep. It was found that sheep which survived their burns did not become unthrifty.