bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AN ABATTOIR SURVEY OF TUBERCULOSIS IN FERAL BUFFALOES
Authors: Hein W. R. , Tomasovic A. A.
Published: March 2008

Tuberculosis lesions were found in 193 (1.7%) of 11,322 buffaloes examined during routine post‐mortem inspection at 2 export abattoirs. The prevalence of tuberculosis in buffaloes supplied from 17 separate farms ranged from 0.3% to 8.22%, with the highest levels occurring on the coastal plains. Lesions were confined to one major body region in 50 of 72 randomly chosen cases of tuberculosis and to 2 or more regions in 22 cases. Thoracic lesions occurred in 65 of the 72 cases, abdominal lesions in 19, head lesions in 18 and carcase lesions in 9. In the thoracic cavity, lesions occurred most frequently in mediastinal and bronchial lymph nodes. In the head region the retropharyngeal lymph node was most frequently involved, in the abdominal cavity, the liver, and in the carcase, the deep inguinal lymph node. Tuberculosis lesions in buffaloes had a lardaceous consistency and were paler in colour and less calcified than those normally exhibited by cattle. Mycobacteria were isolated from 30 of 31 lesion samples submitted for bacteriological examination. Of the isolates, 25 were identified as Mycobacterium bovis, 3 as M. avium‐intracellulare‐scrofulaceum complex, one as M. fortuitum and one as M. flavescens. The M. bovis isolates from buffaloes showed minor cultural differences to those normally characteristic of bovine isolates.
THE EFFECT OF EQUINE COITAL EXANTHEMA ON THE FERTILITY OF MARES COVERED BY STALLIONS EXHIBITING THE CLINICAL DISEASE
Authors: Pascoe R. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The effect on the fertility of mares during two outbreaks of equine coital exanthema have been described. Conception was not prevented, nor was pregnancy terminated in mares showing active lesions of coital exanthema. Normal pregnancy rates occurred in mares served during active infection of the stallions. Origin of the disease was not determined.
GRANULOMATOUS MENINGOENCEPHALOMYELITIS IN A DOG
Authors: Glastonbury J. R. W. , Frauenfelder A. R.
Published: March 2008

Clinical and pathological findings in a 2.5‐year‐old speyed female dog with granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis are described. The clinical course was progressive with the major neurological signs being referable to the posterior brain stem and cerebellum. Histological examination of the brain revealed a multifocal granulomatous meningoencephalitis predominantly associated with the blood vessels of the white matter.
FACTORS PREDISPOSING TO PARTURIENT PARESIS
Authors: Harris D. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: In a study of 64 dairy herds in south‐western Victoria it was found that pasture and animal management practices were associated with the incidence of parturient paresis. The incidence was higher when pastures were treated with higher rates of superphosphate and potash and when longer pasture was available to cows during the preparturient period. When pasture available was in limited supply, the incidence was inversely related to the amount of hay fed to cows. The incidence was also influenced by age, breed and body condition of cows.
JAUNDICE IN A SIAMESE CAT WITH IN UTERO FELINE CALICIVIRUS INFECTION
Authors: ELLIS T.M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A one‐year‐old pregnant female Siamese cat in a febrile toxaemic state was presented aborting. The cat was intensely jaundiced. Virological examination revealed a high virus titre of feline calicivirus in both foetuses and foetal fluids. The cat had a high serum neutralising antibody titre to feline calicivirus.
OBSERVATIONS ON DISEASES OF FREE‐LIVING AND CAPTIVE KOALAS (PHASCOLARCTOS CINEREUS)
Authors: McKenzie R. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY During 1975–1978, pathological examination of 15 free‐living and 11 captive koalas from Queensland revealed the following conditions: Bordetella bronchiseptica‐associated pneumonia (6 cases), Pseudomonas aeruginosa‐associated pneumonia (1), idiopathic chronic interstitial pneumonia (1), severe alveolar emphysema (3), ulcerative stomatitis (1), intestinal blockage (3), urinogenital lesions (3), Ixodes holocyclus paralysis (1), chlamydial keratoconjunctivitis (2), neoplasia (3), trauma/shock (2).
STUDIES OF FERAL DONKEYS IN THE VICTORIA RIVER‐KIMBERLEYS AREA
Authors: McCool C. J. , Pollitt C. C. , Fallon G. R. , Turner A. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY One hundred and ninety‐seven feral donkeys were shot and examined for reproductive status, age and sex distribution. Limited observations on behaviour and habitat were made. Breeding was markedly seasonal and the reproductive rate was high. Evidence of territoriality and harem groups was observed. Some aspects of possible strategies to control donkeys are discussed.
A SURVEY OF PET OWNER VIEWS OF VETERINARIANS IN BRISBANE ENVIRONS—A BEHAVIOURAL APPROACH*
Authors: Chamala S. , Crouch B. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Three hundred and thirty‐seven pet owners were interviewed by final‐year veterinary students from the University of Queensland, using a questionnaire prepared by the authors. The survey area included Brisbane city and suburbs and was conducted in 1977.

The majority of respondents (52.5%) reported that the pets were owned by the family, while 24.6% claimed that pets were owned by individual adults only. Dogs and cats were the most popular pets. Of the respondents sampled, 51% changed their veterinarian while 46% reported that they had not changed their veterinarian. Satisfaction with the service, nearness of the service and personal liking were the major reasons for continuing to use the same veterinary surgeon. Nearly 40% of respondents used the veterinary service on the basis of recommendation of friends, relatives and other people who owned similar types of pets.

According to the respondents, major qualities for a good veterinarian are: competence and knowledge (86.9%), compassion for animals (61.7%), professional approach (which includes good listening and explanation, the instillation of confidence, integrity and appearance) (57.4%), regard for owners and their feelings (46.3%), good surgery conditions (14.2%) and reasonable fees (12.8%). While professional competence was reported as one of the important qualities of a good veterinary service, the majority (51%) of them disagreed with the statement that professional competence is the only thing that matters in the care of pets and many other social and interpersonal factors influenced their attitude towards the veterinary service.

The application of behavioural sciences to the veterinary profession is discussed.
ISOLATION OFCAMPYLOBACTER JEJUNIFROM POULTRY CARCASES
Authors: Smeltzer T. I.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Campylobacter jejuni was isolated from 94% of chicken carcase rinses collected in a Queensland poultry abattoir. Direct plating resulted in the isolation of the organism from 84% of the rinses. A further 10% were found to contain C. jejuni by a procedure of selective enrichment and membrane filtration. Counts of C. jejuni on the carcases ranged from 0 to 1.1 times 105 organisms per carcase.
TREATMENT OF HYGROMATA IN HORSES
Authors: van Veenendaal J. C. , Speirs V. C. , Harrison I.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A surgical technique of open drainage, using penrose drains and pressure bandages, was used for the treatment of hygromata in four horses. In 3 cases with hygroma of the carpus, one with a secondary infection, there was complete resolution of the condition whereas in the one case with hygroma of the elbow resolution was more protracted because of difficulties in bandaging. The cosmetic and functional results after the operation were most satisfactory.
THE EFFECT OF PEN DESIGN AND THE TRANQUILISING DRUG, AZAPERONE, ON THE GROWTH AND BEHAVIOUR OF WEANED PIGS
Authors: Blackshaw J. K.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Two experiments were carried out in a 55‐sow, specific pathogen free commercial unit, to assess the effects of the tranquilising drug, azaperone, on pigs mixed at weaning. The drug is claimed to inhibit aggression in pigs mixed at weaning, and also to increase the average weight gain in groups of growing pigs. The first experiment used a single test and control group, and the second experiment was a 2 times 2 factorial design, the variables being the presence or absence of the drug, and the presence or absence of a box used to modify the weaner pen environment. In both experiments there were no significant differences in rates of agonistic interactions between treated and untreated groups, although the drug delayed the first agonistic encounters for about 8 hours. Nor was there any difference in the relative growth rate between treated and untreated groups in either experiment.
THE GENETICS AND EARLY PREDICTION OF HIP DYSPLASIA
Authors: GODDARD M. E. , MASON T. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Four breeds of dog and crosses amongst these breeds were compared with regard to their hip dysplasia status. Both radiographic hip dysplasia at 15 months and joint laxity at 8 weeks were recorded. The prediction of radiographic hip dysplasia by joint laxity was significantly improved when breed differences were included in the prediction equation. The uses of joint laxity measurements and the genetic control of hip dysplasia are discussed.
MALIGNANT CATARRHAL FEVER IN FARMED RUSA DEER (CERVUS TIMORENSIS): 2. Animal Transmission and Virological Studies
Authors: Westbury H. A. , Denholm L. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A disease with clinical signs and histological lesions similar to malignant catarrhal fever in cattle was transmitted from Rusa deer (Cervus timorensis) to rabbits. This was accomplished on 3 separate occasions, and the disease was serially passaged in rabbits up to 11 times.

The clinical signs in affected rabbits were pyrexia, depression, anorexia, mucopurulent conjuctivitis, nasal discharge and diarrhoea. These signs were seen in 27 of 38 inoculated rabbits with the mean incubation period being 12 days (range 8 to 20 days). Histologically, affected rabbits exhibited mononuclear perivascular cuffing and vasculitis in the brain, heart, liver and kidney. Lymph nodes and spleen showed destruction and loss of mature lymphocytes and lymphoid follicles and an increased number of large lymphoblastoid cells. These clinical signs and lesions were not detected in control rabbits.

The disease was not transmitted to cattle, sheep, guinea pigs or mice, nor was an agent isolated in cattle, deer or rabbit tissue cultures, or in chicken embryos.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF A FLUIDIC CONTROLLED VENTILATOR FOR THE HORSE
Authors: Brownlow M. A. , Campbell D. I. , Hutchins D. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The system consists of a modified Campbell ventilator driving a large ‘bellows in a bottle’ which connects with a large animal circle system incorporating a carbon dioxide absorber. Tidal volumes up to 14 litres can be achieved while fresh gas flow into the circle can be kept as low as 6 litres per minute.
IMMUNOLOGICAL STUDIES ON EQUINE PHYCOMYCOSIS
Authors: Miller R. I. , Campbell R. S. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY One in vivo and 2 in vitro tests were developed to study immunological aspects of phycomycosis in clinically infected, recovered and normal in‐contact horses. Serum from all infected horses gave positive readings in an agar‐gel double diffusion test; serum from normal and recovered horses did not react. A complement fixation test detected antibody against Hyphomyces destruens in 82% clinical cases at an average titre of 20. Serum from recovered and in‐contact horses reacted sporadically at positive titre. An intradermal hypersensitivity test (Heaf test) was used to detect evidence of cellular immunity to H. destruens. Positive tests were observed in 64% of clinically infected horses, 100% of recovered animals and 31% of normal in‐contact horses. Negative tests in the clinically infected group were thought to be due to either anergy in chronic cases or no stimulation in very acute cases. It was concluded that many horses showed evidence of past contact with H. destruens and had acquired resistance to infection.
THE TOXICITY OF JUTE (CORCHORUS OLITORIUS) SEED TO PIGS
Authors: Johnson S. J. , Toleman M. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Finely ground Corchorus olitorius seed was administered as a daily drench to 1 pig at 100mg/kg body weight and as a single drench to 2 pigs at 500 mg/kg body weight. The latter 2 died within 48 hours, and the former was killed on the 7th day as it approached a moribund state. Clinical signs observed were anorexia, vomiting and dysentery. Autopsy revealed severe haemorrhagic enteritis. The seed was also fed to pigs at levels of 0.05%, 0.1% and 0.5% by weight of the ration for 4 weeks. Levels of 0.05% or greater caused reductions in voluntary feed intake and weight gain.
CRYPTOSPORIDIAL INFECTION OF PIGLETS
Authors: LINKS I. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Cryptosporidia were detected in the brush border of villous epithelium in the small intestine of 4 piglets 2 to 9 weeks old. Although the 4 piglets had been suffering from diarrhoea no specific role could be attributed to the cryptosporidia. Other than damage to the brush border there were no significant histological abnormalities in the small intestine associated with the presence of cryptosporidia.
Evaluation of the cold complement fixation test for diagnosis of ovine brucellosis
Authors: BURGESS G. W. , NORRIS M. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A cold complement fixation test for ovine brucellosis in which fixation of complement occurs for 16 h at 4°C was compared with the conventional warm complement fixation test in which fixation takes place for 40 minutes at 37°C. The cold complement fixation test detected experimentally infected animals up to one week sooner than the warm complement fixation test and the titres were approximately one twofold dilution higher. Similar results were obtained when the 2 tests were compared using 11,922 serum samples collected from 700 ram flocks over a 2‐year period. False positive reactions were observed in less than 0.1% of cases.
Protection of pregnant swine by vaccination against leptospira infection
Authors: WHYTE P. B. D. , DOBSON K. J. , RATCLIFF R. M. , CARGILL C.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The protection conferred on pregnant gilts by 2 commercially available Leptospira interrogans serovars pomona and tarassovi bacterins was evaluated. Gilts vaccinated either 3, 6 or 12 months prior to natural challenge with L. interrogans serovar pomona had significantly lower abortion rates (2% vs 69%) and foetal mortality rates (14% vs 57%) than unvaccinated controls. One vaccine was significantly superior to the other and contained approximately twice the number of L. interrogans serovar pomona organisms per vaccine dose. Neither vaccine protected against renal colonisation but vaccination reduced urinary excretion of leptospires. Both vaccines reduced agglutinating antibody response to infection, as measured by the microscopic agglutination (MA) test. This may prevent the detection of a carrier animal by serology. Foetal pigs did not develop specific MA titres. Cultural methods were not reliable in making a diagnosis of foetal infection. Histopathology of foetal liver and kidneys helped in making a diagnosis of foetal infection.
Field cases of aflatoxicosis in pigs
Authors: KETTERER P. J. , BLANEY B. J. , MOORE C. J. , McINNES I. S. , COOK P. W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Five cases of aflatoxicosis in pigs in southern Queensland are described. One peracute case where aflatoxin concentrations of up to 5000μg aflatoxin B1/kg were demonstrated in stomach contents was presumed to be caused by consumption of mouldy bread. High levels of toxins were also present in the livers. Two cases of acute toxicity were caused by feeding mouldy peanut screenings containing 22000μg aflatoxin B1/kg. One case of subacute and one of chronic toxicity were caused by sorghum grain based rations with lower aflatoxin levels (4640 and 255 μg/kg). Peracute toxicity caused collapse and deaths within several hours, acute toxicity caused deaths within 12 h and with subacute toxicity deaths occured after 3 weeks on a toxic ration. Anorexia and ill thrift affecting only growing animals were seen with chronic toxicity. Extensive centrilobular liver necrosis and haemorrhage occured with peracute toxicity and in cases of acute poisoning there was hepatic centrilobular cellular infiltration, hepatocyte swelling and bile stasis. With subacute toxicity hepatocyte vacuolation together with bile stasis and bile ductule hyperplasia were seen.
An evaluation of the anamnestic test for brucellosis in cattle of the northern pastoral area
Authors: CORNER L. A. , ALTON G. G. , McNICHOL L. N. , STREETEN T. , TRUEMAN K. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY An investigation of the anamnestic test for brucellosis using Brucella abortus 45/20 vaccine was carried out in 3 groups of weaner cattle on 2 farms in western Queensland. Each group originally consisted of about 500 cattle. They were bled before and at 6 or 10 weeks after vaccination and again in the following year. The serums were tested by the complement fixation (CFT), Rose Bengal (RBT) and indirect haemolysis tests (IHLT). Most of the cattle reacting to one or more of the tests were killed and selected tissues were subjected to bacteriological examination for B. abortus. B. abortus was isolated from 19 of 30 (63%) pre‐vaccinal reactors, 23 (24%) of 96 cattle reacting at 6 or 10 weeks after vaccination (the anamnestic test) and 1 (2%) of 50 cattle reacting one year after vaccination. The reactor found to be infected the year after vaccination had high serological titres in each of the 3 serological tests: RBT of 3, CFT of 128 and IHLT of 256. A subsequent test showed the group to be brucellosis‐free. The CFT was the most efficient test. In the pre‐vaccination tests 17 of 19 infected animals were positive in the CFT compared with 11 positive in the IHLT and 17 in the RBT. In post vaccination tests 22 of 23 infected animals were positive in the CFT compared with 18 in the IHLT and 19 in the RBT. At the pre‐vaccinal and anamnestic tests (6 or 10 weeks after vaccination) 19 of 57 (33%) cattle with CF titre of 4 or 8 yielded B. abortus on culture compared with none of 26 cattle with similar titres in the year after vaccination. The interpretation of CF titres in cattle following 45/20 vaccination needs to be re‐examined.
A retrospective clinical study of osteochondrosis dissecans in 21 horses
Authors: LINDSELL C. E. , HILBERT B. J. , McGILL C. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Osteochondrosis dissecans was diagnosed clinically and radiographically in 31 joints of 21 horses. The horses ranged in age from 8 months to 5 years at the time of presentation. The usual age of onset of clinical signs was 18 to 24 months. Presenting complaints included joint effusion and lameness of either gradual or sudden onset. In Thoroughbred horses, the stifle joint was the most common site of lesions and in Standardbred horses lesions occurred more commonly in the hock. In 16 of the 21 horses, the contralateral joint was radiographed and 9 of these horses had bilateral lesions. Thoroughbred horses were affected most commonly, followed by Standardbred horses. The prevalence was higher in males than females, the male: female ratio being 2.5:1.
Characterisation, experimental infection and serological response to caprine retrovirus
Authors: ELLIS T. , ROBINSON W. , WILCOX G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A virus (151) isolated from synovial membrane explant cultures from a goat with arthritis‐synovitis was characterised with respect to cytopathic effect in synovial membrane cell cultures, virus morphology, buoyant density and presence of RNA dependent DNA polymerase. Virus 151 was shown to be a retrovirus with similar properties to caprine arthritis‐encephalitis virus in the United States of America. Inoculation of the virus into uninfected goats caused the development of arthritis‐synovitis lesions and the virus was recovered from affected joints and lung 361 days post‐inoculation. The development of antibody to virus 151 was detected using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Other goats with arthritis‐synovitis, progressive pneumonia or viral leukoencephalomyelitis all had antibody that reacted in this ELISA. Viruses similar to virus 151 were recovered from a number of cases. Goats inoculated with one of the viruses produced serum antibody that cross‐reacted in ELISA using maedi‐visna virus and virus 151 as antigens.
Tick (Ixodes holocyclus) paralysis in the dog – quantitative studies on immunity following artificial infestation with the tick
Authors: STONE B. F. , NEISH A. L. , WRIGHT I. G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Beagles have been immunised against the paralysing effects of the Australian paralysis tick Ixodes holycyclus by allowing female ticks to feed on these dogs. Complete immunity to the toxic effects of lethal numbers of feeding ticks has persisted in these beagles for at least 53 weeks and in similarly‐immunised foxhounds for at least 102 weeks, during which periods the beagles and foxhounds were kept free of ticks.

Serum antitoxin titres increased to a maximum value (hyperimmunity) of 46 antitoxin units/mL with a minimum number of 11 ticks feeding simultaneously. Titres declined to a low level after 12 to 14 weeks of freedom from tick infestation but increased again on reinfestation with ticks. Large numbers of ticks (up to 60) appeared to be required after several stimulation/relaxation cycles to obtain hyperimmune levels of antitoxin in serum.

The serum antitoxin titre appeared to be a good indicator of effective immunity to tick paralysis during the initial development of hyperimmunity but was less indicative thereafter, as dogs whose serum antitoxin titres had reached an apparent maximum remained immune to tick paralysis after titres had decreased to low levels. There was no evidence of cutaneous hypersensitivity or any other tick rejection mechanism that could account for this effect.
Inherited copper toxicosis in Bedlington terriers
Authors: ROBERTSON H. M. , STUDDERT V. P. , REUTER R. E.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Chronic hepatitis and increased hepatic copper concentrations, from 1,600 to 6,361 fig/g dry tissue were found in 4 related, Australian‐bred Bedlington terriers. Two dogs were asymptomatic and 2 were clinically ill with signs referable to liver dysfunction. Two dogs were treated with d‐penicillamine. After one year there was no improvement in the histopathological liver changes in either dog or significant lowering of hepatic copper level in one dog.
Evaluation of surface components of Brucella ovis as antigens for the detection of precipitin antibody in serums from artificially exposed rams
Authors: CHIN J. C. , PLANT J. W. , CLAXTON P. D.
Published: March 2008

Surface components of Brucella ovis obtained by gentle physical shearing were tested as a potentially useful source of reagent for selective serological diagnosis. These antigens were used in a radial immunodiffusion (RID) test against serum from rams which had been inoculated with infective semen containing B. ovis by one of 4 routes namely mating rams with ewes previously inoculated intravaginally with infective semen, or by direct inoculation in the prepuce, rectum or nasal passage. Loosely attached surface antigens in the RID test formed precipitin bands with serums collected from rams 2 and 10 weeks after inoculation. In contrast, a detergent extracted membrane antigen B developed precipitin bands only with serum collected 10 weeks after inoculation from rams confirmed bacteriologically to be infected with B. ovis in the genital tract. The route by which the rams were artificially exposed did not affect the outcome of the RID test using the membrane B antigen. However, all experimentally exposed rams had demonstrable CF titres when a heat extracted antigen was used.
Immune response of chickens to various routes of administration of Australian infectious bronchitis vaccine
Authors: RATANASETHAKUL C. , CUMMING R. B.
Published: March 2008

Groups of 100 two‐week‐old cockerels were vaccinated with the A3 strain of IB vaccine by conjunctival, intranasal, in‐contact, drinking water, or aerosol routes, or were left as unvaccinated controls. Three weeks after vaccination, each group of chickens was challenged with the Appin strain of IBV.

Vaccination by the conjunctiva!, intranasal and in‐contact routes induced a good resistance to challenge, concurring with an obvious stimulation of the Harderian gland, while the drinking water route led to a low resistance to challenge, with minor changes in the gland. The results of no immune response and no resistance to challenge in the birds vaccinated by aerosol route was due to unsuccessful vaccination in the group. Application of the vaccine by the conjunctival route would appear to be a most effective route for the application of Australian IB vaccines, while the in‐contact method appears worthy of further study.
Serological and bacteriological survey of three horse studs for contagious equine metritis
Authors: DOLAN M. , CARGILL C. , MARTIN F. , DAVENPORT P. , FRANKS D. , LIGHTFOOT J.
Published: March 2008

A bacteriological and serological survey for evidence of contagious equine metritis (CEM) was made during the 1980 breeding season on 3 horse studs in South Australia with a history of previous infection. Swabs from the clitoral sinus and the cervix were cultured for Haemophilus equigenitalis and serum was screened for antibody using the complement fixation test (CFT) and the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The specificity of both tests was greater than 0.99 but the ELISA was more sensitive in detecting antibody in infected mares. On the evidence presented it was concluded that H. equigenitalis is no longer present in the horse studs investigated.
Transmission and virological studies of a malignant catarrhal fever syndrome in the Indonesian swamp buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: HOFFMANN D. , SOBIRONINGSIH S. , CLARKE B. C. , YOUNG P. J. , SENDOW I.
Published: March 2008

A malignant catarrhal fever‐like syndrome in Indonesian swamp buffalo was experimentally transmitted to one of 2 Bos indicus and 3 of 3 Bos javanicus cattle by intravenous inoculation of 250 ml of citrated, whole blood from affected buffaloes. The 4 cattle developed clinical signs of disease on average 32.5 days after receiving the inoculation of blood. The 4 cattle died after a variable period of illness. None of a further 3 B. javanicus cattle inoculated intravenously with a spleen homogenate prepared from another affected buffalo developed the disease. The experimental disease was clinically and pathologically similar to the natural disease in buffaloes although differences were noted. Attempts to adapt the agent to mice, guinea pigs and rabbits failed. A cytopathic agent (Japanese encephalitis virus) was isolated from the spleen of one buffalo with clinical signs but was not considered significant. Sixty‐three B. indicus, 7 B. javanicus (and 6 of their crosses), 3 B. taurus and 4 Bubalus bubalis (Murrah buffalo) were kept in the same quarters where 50 of 177 swamp buffaloes died between September 1979 and May 1982. Four of the 7 B. javanicus cattle developed the clinical signs of disease and died. All the other cattle in contact remained healthy.
The epidemiology of squamous cell carcinoma of the perineal region of sheep: Abattoir and flock studies
Authors: SWAN R. A. , CHAPMAN H. M. , HAWKINS C. D. , HOWELL J. McC. , SPALDING V. T.
Published: March 2008

The roles of age, tail length and the Mules operation in the epidemiology of squamous cell carcinoma in ewes were studied. The prevalence of the disease in adult sheep slaughtered at 2 abattoirs was 0.08%. No cases occurred in lambs. Of all adult sheep condemnations before slaughter, 38.5% were due to squamous cell carcinoma. Of these sheep, 73.3% had a single lesion of the vulva (62.9%), tail (6.6%), or anus (3.8%), while 26.7% had lesions at more than one site. The number of lesions was significantly greater (p < 0.01) in sheep with a radical Mules operation than in those with a modified Mules operation or not mulesed. Tails were significantly shorter (p < 0.01) in affected than unaffected sheep. Small keratinised outgrowths on the skin of the tail and perineum were considered on histological grounds to be precursors of squamous cell carcinomas.

On one affected farm 4% of ewes were culled in one year for gross lesions of squamous cell carcinomas. A further 3.5% of sheep with gross lesions and 25.3% with precursor lesions remained in the flock, undetected by the farmer. Gross lesions were not observed in ewes under 3 years of age, whereas precursors occurred in all age groups, including one‐year‐old ewes. The prevalence of lesions increased with age, from 0.43% in 5‐year‐old ewes to 5.14% in 6‐year‐old and 41% in 7‐year‐old ewes. Discriminant analysis indicated that age of ewe, tail length and the width of the healed Mules operation were important determinants of squamous cell carcinoma.

In all the sheep studied the style of mulesing was consistently radical, with a mean healed width of 12.3 ± 2.6 cm. Tails were amputated much shorter than the traditionally recommended length of level with the tip of the vulva. The presence of gross and precursor lesions was associated with shorter tails and a radical Mules operation. It is suggested that the prevalence of the disease may be reduced by the adoption of a less severe mulesing technique and leaving tails longer.
Electroejaculation in the domestic cat
Authors: JOHNSTONE I.
Published: March 2008

A method of electroejaculation for tomcats is described. Normal sperm counts in 4 cats ranged from 6 to 13 times 10Vejaculate. There was a great deal of variation between collections from the same cat indicating the necessity for at least 5 collections when assessing the fertility of a tomcat. Sperm counts were higher in the latter half of the year, at the time of increased sexual activity for cats in the Brisbane area. The volume of semen collected by electroejaculation increased in direct proportion to the length of electrical stimulation, hence, volume is not a reliable criterion for the appraisal of semen. However, results have indicated that semen volume tends to increase from July to December, thus indicating increased accessory gland activity during the breeding season. As this procedure does not cause any apparent discomfort or harmful effects there seems no reason to assume that it could not be used routinely on stud cats.
Familial nephropathy in Cocker Spaniels
Authors: ROBINSON W. F. , HUXTABLE C. R. , GOODING J. P.
Published: March 2008

A clinical diagnosis of chronic renal failure associated with nephron atrophy and fibrosis was made in 4 blue roan Cocker Spaniels. The lesion was considered to be the result of a primary glomerulopathy. All dogs were closely related. The findings were similar to those previously described for renal cortical hypoplasia. On the basis of the morphological findings and genetic characteristics, the use of the more appropriate term, familial nephropathy is encouraged.
Pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia in Thoroughbred racehorses in training
Authors: AUER D. E. , WILSON R. G. , GROENENDYK S.
Published: March 2008

The prevalence of pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia in Thoroughbred racehorses in training was investigated using a fibre optic endoscope. Of the 70 horses examined, all but 8 showed evidence of pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia and the severity of the pharyngeal changes decreased with age. Two‐year old horses had greater pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia (p <0.05) when compared to all other age groups. More horses (p <0.05) with Grade 3 or Grade 4 pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia experienced recent mild respiratory disease than did horses with Grade 2 or less pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia. None of the horses examined had a history of diminished racing performance although 30% had either Grade 3 or Grade 4 pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia.
The immunophysiological basis for vaccinating ruminants against mastitis
Authors: COLDITZ I. G. , WATSON D. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The roles of humoral and cellular defence mechanisms in protection of the mammary gland against bacterial infection are reviewed. Effective protection depends on opsonisation of pathogens and subsequent phagocytosis by neutrophils. A concomitant requirement for protection is the rapid infiltration of neutrophils into the infected gland. Immunological studies have shown the need to prime animals against antigens expressed by bacteria when they grow in viva. Vaccination procedures which promote these mammary defence mechanisms are discussed.
An investigation, in vitro, of the actions of three Western Australian snakes on the blood coagulation of the dog, cat, horse and wallaby
Authors: CRAWFORD A. M. , MILLS J. N.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Venoms of the tiger snake and brown snake were procoagulant, in vitro, when tested with cat, dog, horse and wallaby plasma. In the absence of calcium and phospholipid the coagulant activity of tiger snake venom was minimal. In contrast, brown snake venom alone had marked procoagulant activity. This activity, however, was enhanced by the presence of calcium and phospholipid. Death adder venom exerted an anticoagulant effect. Apparent species' differences in susceptibility to the coagulant venoms were noted. However, the probable explanation of these differences was attributed to variation in the control values of the special studies rather than to a difference in the postulated actions of the venoms on prothrombin. A possible role for clotting studies in suspected snake bite in veterinary practice is suggested.
1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 increases plasma magnesium and calcium in sheep fed liquid diets low in calcium and magnesium
Authors: SCHNEIDER K. M. , PARKINSON G. B. , HOUSTON J. C. , LEAVER D. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Sheep given a liquid diet low in calcium and magnesium by infusion directly into the abomasum developed concurrent hypocalcaemia and hypomagnesaemia, with plasma concentrations of calcium and magnesium decreasing to 2.0 and 0.4 mmol/l respectively. Treatment of these hypomagnesaemic sheep with 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2, D3) increased the plasma calcium, magnesium and phosphorus concentrations with plasma calcium increasing to 2.5 mmol/l and plasma magnesium to 0.6 mmol/l. Plasma magnesium increased despite a small but significant increase in the daily excretion of magnesium in the urine, and the amount of magnesium derived from either bone and/or intestine must have been greater than the amount lost in the urine. Since in other experiments we have demonstrated that plasma calcium remains within the normal range when a liquid diet adequate in magnesium but low in calcium is infused, these results imply that either synthesis of and/or end organ response to 1,25(OH2) D3 is impaired in magnesium deficient sheep.
The resistance to anti‐microbial agents of bacteria isolated from pathological conditions of birds in Victoria, 1978 to 1983
Authors: REECE R. L. , COLOE P. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The resistance to anti‐microbial agents of bacteria isolated from pathological conditions of birds in Victoria, 1978 to 1983, was determined for isolates of Escherichia coll, Salmonella species, Staphylococcus aureus, Pasteurella multocida, P. anatipestifer, Yersinia pseudotuberculosis and Haemophilus paragallinarum. The isolates of E. coll had a high prevalence of resistance to tetracycline and sulphonamides, and a lower prevalence of resistance to furazolidone and sulphamethoxazole‐trimethoprim. The isolates of Salmonella spp commonly had resistance to tetracycline, sulphonamides, furazolidone and sulphamethoxazole‐trimethoprim. Almost half the isolates of S. aureus showed resistance thoxazole‐trimethoprim to lincomysin and many showed resistance to penicillin. Resistance to tetracycline was found in isolates of P. mulfocida, P. anafepesfiferand Y. pseudofuberculosis. Some isolates of If. paragallinarum showed resistance to sulphonamides, streptomycin and sufphamethoxazole‐trimethoprim.
The role of Fusobacterium necrophorum and Bacteroides melaninogenicus in the aetiology of interdigital necrobacillosis in cattle
Authors: CLARK B. L. , STEWART D. J. , EMERY D. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: When cultures of known pathogenic strains of Fusobacterium necrophorum, isolated either from cattle or sheep were injected through the interdigital skin of cattle typical lesions of interdigital necrobacillosis were produced. The inclusion of Bacteroides melaninogenicus in the inoculum did not appear to contribute to the development of lesions.
The significance of leptospiral titres associated with bovine abortion
Authors: ELDER J. K. , PEPPER P. M. , HILL M. W. M. , WARD W. H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: To investigate relationships between serological titres to 2 serovars, pomona (L. pomona) and hardjo (L. hardjo), of Leptospira interrogans and abortions, log linear and logit models were fitted to herd and individual cow data from cattle serologically negative for brucellosis.

Serological titres to both serovars were significantly related to abortions in individual cows, with L. pomona having a stronger relationship than L. hardjo. L. hardjo was not significant when herd data were analysed. Differences between dairy and beef cattle in the serological titres found to both L. pomona and L. hardjo were detected when data sets of all cattle or cattle with no history of abortion were analysed. The beef/dairy differences may be due to different management practices and/or to different geographical distributions of both serovars and populations of beef and dairy cattle.

If there are no cattle in a herd with a reciprocal titre of 3000 or greater for L. pomona, it is unlikely that L. pomona is associated with the abortion problem. There was no specific L. hardjo titre which separated high and low probabilities that the serum came from a cow or herd with an abortion history. Aust. vet. J. 62: 258–262
Use of orally administered oxidised copper wire particles for copper therapy in cattle
Authors: DELAND M. P. B. , LEWIS D. , CUNNINGHAM P. R. , DEWEY D. W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Oxidised copper wire particles (OCWP) were given per os to cattle as an alternative to subcutaneous copper glycinate injections. OCWP were recovered from the stomachs of cattle slaughtered 3 months after treatment. OCWP (50g) treatment resulted in sustained higher plasma copper concentrations than subcutaneous injections of copper glycinate. OCWP given at high doses (300g) raised liver copper concentrations to 16 mmol/kg without clinical effects. It is concluded that OCWP could be a practical alternative to current injection methods of copper therapy.
A study of nutritional myopathy in weaner sheep
Authors: ALLEN J. G. , STEELE P. , MASTERS H. G. , D'ANTUONO M. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The effectiveness of various treatments upon, and pathological and biochemical changes in, ovine weaner nutritional myopathy were observed. Clinical myopathy was already apparent in the sheep at the start of the study, and they were fed decreasing amounts of a ration containing low levels of selenium and α‐tocopherol, and periodically deprived of water. In spite of this management there was a spontaneous remission of the clinical myopathy in the sheep, but a subclinical myopathy was identified in some of the sheep at the end of the trial. The conclusions were that the myopathy was not caused by a low dietary intake of selenium and/or α‐tocopherol alone, that α‐tocopherol was involved in the aetiology, that α‐tocopherol was completely effective and selenium possibly partially effective in treating it, and that the condition may be a Type II muscle fibre disease. Data on plasma creatine phosphokinase and erythrocyte glutathione peroxidase activities, and terminal liver selenium and α‐tocopherol concentrations are presented, and their roles in the diagnosis of ovine weaner nutritional myopathy discussed.
Oslerus (Filaroides) osleri in a dog
Authors: BARR S C , LAVELLE R B , HARRIGAN K E , ARUNDEL J H
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A young female Queensland Blue Heeler with signs of severe respiratory distress was diagnosed as having Oslerus osleri. Radiographic, bronchoscopic, parasitologic and pathologic findings are described and treatment is briefly reviewed. A possible route of larval migration from the pulmonary capillaries to the predilection site is proposed.
Some epidemiological features and effects on reproductive performance of endemic porcine parvovirus infection
Authors: TOO H. L. , LOVE R. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The time of development of demonstrable antibody to porcine parvovirus (PPV) was determined for 661 gilts entering the breeding herd in a 2800 sow intensive piggery;13.2% of these gilts did not have detectable antibody to PPV when first introduced into the breeding herd at 25 to 26 weeks of age. Exposure to PPV was found to vary in different sheds and even in different areas within a shed. Gilts that developed antibody to PPV during the first third of pregnancy were not adversely affected. Those that developed antibody during the middle third of pregnancy had fewer piglets born alive, more stillborn piglets and more mummified foetuses.
Disseminated aspergillosis in dogs
Authors: DAY M J , PENHALE W J , KABAY M J , ROBINSON W F , HUXTABLE C R R , EGER C E , SHAW S E , MILLS J N , WYBURN R S
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Clinical and pathological findings are reported from a series of 12 cases of disseminated aspergillosis (A. terreus) in 11 German Shepherd dogs and one Dalmatian referred to Murdoch University Veterinary Hospital (MUVH) over the period 1980 to 1984.

A preliminary study of humoral and cell mediated immune components and complement levels revealed no consistent abnormality in 9 dogs tested apart from raised IgG levels. Serum IgA levels were depressed in 30% of cases. Serial data from one extensively monitored case is presented. The unusual epidemiological and pathogenetic features of the disease are discussed.
An association between encephalomyocarditis virus infection and reproductive failure in pigs
Authors: LINKS I J , WHITTINGTON R J , KENNEDY D J , GREWAL A. , SHARROCK A J
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY An outbreak of reproductive failure, characterised by mummified foetuses and stillbirths, was investigated in an intensive piggery. Six foetuses that died towards the end of gestation had multifocal myocardial necrosis and encephalomyocarditis virus was recovered from 4 of these foetuses but not from 6 mummified foetuses. There was also a significant increase in failure of conception or early embryonic deaths in sows mated at the same time as sows which produced affected litters.
The nephrotoxicity of Isotropis forrestii in sheep
Authors: COOPER T B , HUXTABLE C R , VOGEL P.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Sheep were drenched with a single toxic dose of dried and milled Isotropis forrestii in water. Intoxication resulted in early onset of glycosuria, enzymuria and proteinuria. Terminal gross lesions included pale kidneys and perirenal oedema. Histologically and ultrastructurally the renal lesions were typical of primary nephrotoxicosis, with extensive proximal tubular epithelial necrosis. The tubular damage was sufficient to cause acute primary renal failure, characterised by oliguria, azotemia and failure of urinary concentrating mechanisms.
The effect of zeranol and testosterone on Merino wethers exposed to highly oestrogenic subterranean clover pasture
Authors: GARDNER J J , ADAMS N R
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Groups of Merino wethers treated with 2 doses of zeranol (6 mg and 12 mg), or testosterone cyclopentyl propionate (150 mg) and untreated controls were grazed at 2 sites, one an oestrogenic subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) pasture and the other a low oestrogen medic (Medicago truncatula) pasture. The influence of oestrogenic subterranean clover on these treatments was assessed by measuring changes in teat length, bulbourethral gland weight and pathology, bodyweight, carcase weight, dressing percentage and greasy and clean fleece weights.

Teat lengths were increased by all treatments except 6 mg of zeranol where increases were not significant, and although increased by exposure to oestrogenic pasture this effect was not additive.

Bulbourethral gland weights were increased by both of the zeranol treatments and by oestrogenic pasture, and these effects appeared to be additive. Differences observed histologically indicated that testosterone protected whereas zeranol exacerbated the influence of oestrogen.

The bodyweights of all treated groups were heavier than the controls, but carcase weights were not significantly different. However an effect was seen in the group given the 6 mg dose of zeranol on the low oestrogen site, where the dressing percentage was significantly lower than in the control and testosterone treated groups.

Differences in greasy and clean fleece weights were not significant except that the washing yield of the testosterone‐treated group was significantly lower at the low oestrogen site.
The effect of colostrum‐derived antibody on neo‐natal transmission of caprine arthritis‐encephalitis virus infection
Authors: ELLIS T M , CARMAN H. , ROBINSON W F , WILCOX G E
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Two groups of 6 newborn goat kids were artificially fed colostrum containing antibody to caprine arthritis‐encephalitis (CAE) virus, obtained from clinically affected does. Kids in group A were fed the colostrum from birth until 7 days of age, while kids in group B were fed colostrum from 1 to 3 days after birth for 7 days. Kids were fed cow's milk at all other times. Serum antibody resulting from the consumption of colostrum, detected by agar gel immunodiffusion (AGID) tests, lasted for up to 8 weeks in group A, but none was detected in group B. Four kids from each group became infected with CAE virus as demonstrated by the emergence of active immunity and by virus isolation procedures. It appeared that uptake of colostral antibody by group A did not prevent viral transmission, Interfere with development of active immunity, or modify the outcome of the CAE virus infection.
Examination of rams culled during an ovine brucellosis accredited free flock scheme
Authors: ROTHWELL J T , SEARSON J E , LINKS I J , GLASTONBURY J R W
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY During the early stages of an Ovine Brucellosis Accredited Free Flock Scheme in New South Wales 62 rams were examined to determine the status of their flocks of origin with regard to infection with Brucella ovls. Forty rams were selected because they were either single reactors to low titre or one of a small number of reactors in a B.ovis complement fixation test of the whole ram flock. Twenty two rams were selected because they had palpable abnormalities within the scrotum but were negative serologlcally. After serological, pathological, bacteriological and histological examinations they were classified in the ensuing categories: 7 positive, 7 inconclusive, 26 false positive and 22 with other lesions. The usefulness of this classification, particularly within the accreditation scheme is discussed.