bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes after extrahepatic portosystemic shunt ligation in 49 dogs
Authors: HUNT GB , HUGHES J.
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo evaluate outcomes after attenuation of extrahepatic portosystemic shunts in dogs using surgical silk. Design Retrospective study.

ProcedureCase records were reviewed for degree of surgical attenuation, experience of the primary surgeon, perioperative mortality and problems related to persistent portosystemic shunting or shunt ligation. Presence of portosystemic shunting after surgery was evaluated by ammonia tolerance testing, measurement of postprandial serum bile acid, plasma urea and cholesterol concentrations and liver enzyme activity. The influence of age, postocclusion portal pressure, primary surgeon, degree of attenuation and postoperative biochemical findings on the occurrence of postoperative problems was assessed.

ResultsThe mortality rate was 2.1%. Shunt attenuation was complete in 34% and partial in 66% of dogs. Portal hypertension necessitating ligature removal was encountered in only one dog. Five dogs experienced neurological abnormalities (seizures or ataxia), possibly as a manifestation of 'postligation seizure syndrome. Postoperative liver function was normal in 78% of dogs, including 70% with partial shunt attenuation. Experience of the surgeon was related positively to outcome after partial attenuation (P = 0.002). Postoperative biochemical evidence of abnormal liver function was the most sensitive predictor of recurrence of clinical signs referable to persistent portosystemic shunting.

ConclusionsIn the hands of an experienced surgeon, surgical attenuation of single extrahepatic shunts was safe and effective, even in animals with partial attenuation. Most dogs with biochemical evidence of persistent shunting suffer relapse of clinical signs within 18 months of surgery. Postligation neurological syndromes of variable intensity may be more common than previously thought.
Treatment of progressive ethmoidal haematoma using intralesional injections of formalin in three horses
Authors: MARRIOTT MR , DART AJ , HODGSON DR
Published: March 2008

Three Thoroughbred horses with unilateral progressive ethmoid haematomas were treated using intralesional injections of 10% formalin (4% formaldehyde solution). Injections were performed in the standing sedated horse through the nasal passages under endoscopic guidance and, when the ethmoid haematoma involved the paranasal sinuses, through holes trephined into the affected sinus. Regression of the lesions occurred in all cases after repeated injections. This technique appears to be a safe and effective treatment for progressive ethmoid haematomas in the horse.
Detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis in formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded intestinal tissue by IS900 polymerase chain reaction
Authors: WHITTINGTON RJ , REDDACLIFF L. , MARSH I. , SAUNDERS V.
Published: March 2008

ObjectivesTo evaluate and compare methods for DNA extraction from formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissues and methods for detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis by IS900 PCR for confirmation of Johne's disease in ruminants.

Design Alaboratory study.

ProcedureThree methods of DNA extraction of differing complexity and two PCR protocols using different pairs of IS900 primers were compared. Sensitivity and specificity were assessed using samples from ruminants with and without histological evidence of Johne's disease.

ResultsThe simplest method of DNA extraction, which involved two cycles of boiling and freezing followed by centrifugation, gave more consistent results than two methods that required solvent extraction of paraffin, proteinase digestion and DNA purification. The sensitivity of detection of Mavium subsp paratuberculosis in paraffin blocks stored for 1 to 6 years from 34 cases of Johne's disease in sheep, cattle and goats was 88% for a 229 bp IS900 PCR assay and 71% for a 413 bp assay, using the detection of acid‐fast bacilli by Ziehl Neelsen staining of histological sections from the same blocks as the gold standard test. PCR results correlated with the abundance of acid‐fast organisms in the tissues. No false positive reactions were detected.

ConclusionPCR for identification of M avium subsp paratuberculosis in formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded intestinal tissues from ruminants is a rapid and useful method. A simple method of sample preparation is effective. Amplification of short fragments of IS900 is more effective than amplification of longer fragments.
Evaluation of diagnostic tests for Johne's disease in young cattle
Authors: McDONALD WL , RIDGE SE , HOPE AF , CONDRON RJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To investigate the development of immune responses in calves experimentally and naturally infected with Mycobacterium paratuberculosis and to evaluate the potential for diagnostic tests to detect infected calves.

Design Sequential testing of four treatment groups of calves over a 2 year period.

Procedure Twenty‐nine calves were allocated to four groups. Group D calves were orally dosed with M paratuberculosis, group N calves naturally exposed to M paratuberculosis, group V calves vaccinated for M paratuberculosis, and group C were control calves (not infected or vaccinated). Blood and faecal specimens were collected from each calf at monthly intervals to 18 months of age and then every 2 months until they were slaughtered between the ages of 21 and 29 months. Specimens were tested using absorbed EIA, IFN‐g EIA and faecal culture. The infection status of the calves was confirmed by extensive histopathological examination and tissue culture.

Results
M paratuberculosis infection was confirmed in 10 calves, comprising six of eight orally dosed calves, three of five naturally exposed calves and one of nine vaccinated calves. The six artificially infected calves and one naturally infected calf were detected shedding M paratuberculosisi n their faeces. Results with positive absorbed EIA were obtained from one artificially infected calf, one naturally infected calf and three vaccinated calves. All calves including controls had positive results on at least one occasion using the IFN‐g EIA. In addition, seven calves had positive bovine tuberculosis results using the IFN‐g EIA, even though bovine tuberculosis has been eradicated from Australia.

Conclusion Detection of M paratuberculosis infection in young cattle continues to be difficult using current tests.
ConcurrentAelurostrongylus abstrususinfection and salmonellosis in a kitten
Authors: BARRS VR , SWINNEY GR , MARTIN P , NICOLL RG
Published: March 2008

A 14‐week‐old kitten had a history of vomiting, diarrhoea and pyrexia, all of which resolved without treatment. Three weeks later the kitten developed a violent non‐productive dry cough. Thoracic radiographs revealed pneumothorax and nodular alveolar disease.Aelurostrongylus abstrususlarvae and intracellular Gram‐negative bacilli were seen in bronchial wash fluid and pleural exudate, and Salmonella Typhimurium was cultured from both fluids but not from faeces. Therapy included unilateral closed‐tube thoracostomy, enrofloxacin and fenbendazole. Historical signs were compatible with gastrointestinal salmonellosis and secondary broncho‐pneumonia. Seeding of the lungs with salmonellae may have occurred as a result of migration ofA abstrususfrom a gastro‐intestinal tract residually infected or colonised by S Typhimurium. Alternatively, the development of lungworm infection in the cat may have activated quiescent S Typhimurium pulmonary granulomata from bacteraemia secondary to gastro‐intestinal salmonellosis. Two years after diagnosis the cat was reportedly in good health.
Efficacy of doxorubicin as an induction agent for cats with lymphosarcoma
Authors: PEASTON AE , MADDISON JE
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the efficacy of doxorubicin when used alone in inducing remission in cats with lymphosarcoma.

DesignProspective multi‐institutional study of naturally occurring disease.

MethodsCases were accrued from veterinary institutions in Australia and New Zealand after obtaining consent from informed owners. Cats were treated with doxorubicin every 3 weeks for three treatments. If there was no response to the first dose of doxorubicin or if the cat relapsed during the doxorubicin regimen, the cat was withdrawn from the trial and either euthanased or treated with other agents. Age, breed, gender and anatomic site of the lymphosarcoma (multicentric, alimentary, mediastinal, extranodal) were recorded for each cat. Clinical remission was assessed before each treatment by physical examination, radiography, ultrasonography and computed tomography where appropriate. Complete remission was defined as the disappearance of all clinical signs and clinically detectable tumour.

ResultsTwenty‐one cases were accrued over a 2‐year‐period but only 19 were available for data analysis. Young Siamese cats were over‐represented and all cats with mediastinal tumours were young Siamese. There was a significant difference between the mean ages of cats with mediastinal or multicentric lymphosarcoma (mean±SD: 3.5±3.0 and 4.3±2.6 years, respectively) and cats with alimentary or extranodal LSA (11.4±0.9 and 11.0±0.9 years, respectively). Of 19 cats treated with doxorubicin alone, 6 (32%) had complete remission, 6 (32%) had partial remission and 7 (36%) did not respond.

ConclusionsThe results suggest that doxorubicin cannot be recommended as a single agent for treatment of feline lymphosarcoma because of the rather poor remission rate achieved.
Effect of breed of cattle on transmission rate and innate resistance to infection with Babesia bovis and B bigemina transmitted by Boophilus microplus
Authors: BOCK RE , KINGSTON TG , de VOS AJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the effect of breed of cattle on the transmission rates of and innate resistance to Babesia bovis and B bigemina parasites transmitted by Boophilus microplus ticks.

Design Groups of 56 purebred B indicus and 52 B indicus cross B taurus (50%, F1 generation) steers were placed in a paddock seeded with and also naturally infested with B microplus which were the progeny of females ticks fed on B taurus cattle specifically infected with a virulent isolate of B bovis. The cattle were placed in the infested paddock 50 days after seeding had started.

Procedure Cattle were inspected from horseback daily for 50 days. Clinically ill cattle were brought to yards and assessed by monitoring fever, depression of packed‐cell volume, parasitaemia and severity of clinical signs. Any animals that met preset criteria were treated for babesiosis. Blood samples were collected from all cattle on day 28, 35 and 42 after exposure and antibodies to Babesia spp and packed cell volume measured.

Results All steers, except for one crossbred, seroconverted to B bovis and B bigemina by day 35 and 75% of the crossbred steers showed a maximum depression in packed cell volume of more than 15% due to infection with Babesia spp compared with only 36% of the B indicus group. Ten of the 52 crossbreds and 1 of the 56 B indicus steers showed sever e clinical signs. Two of the crossbreds required treatment of which one died 2 weeks after initial treatment.

Conclusions Pure‐bred B indicus cattle have a high degree of resistance to babesiosis, but crossbred cattle are sufficiently susceptible to warrant the use of preventive measures such as vaccination. Transmission rates of B bovis and B bigemina to B indicus and crossbred cattle previously unexposed to B microplus were the same.
Primary hypoparathyroidism in two horses
Authors: HUDSON NPH , CHURCH DB , TREVENA J , NIELSEN IL , MAJOR D , HODGSON DR
Published: March 2008

Two Thoroughbred horses were presented with various clinical signs which included sweating, agitation, muscle twitching and synchronous diaphragmatic flutter. These signs were associated with profound hypocalcaemia. A diagnosis of primary hypoparathyroidism was made on the basis of low serum ionised calcium concentration, hyperphosphataemia and markedly reduced serum immunoreactive parathyroid hormone concentrations in the presence of normal renal function. Treatment with a combination of intravenous calcium and subsequently oral calcium, magnesium and a vitamin D analogue (dihydrotachysterol) for up to 65 days resulted in complete remission of clinical signs. Horse 1 was euthanased 12 months after the initial recognition of signs. Results of necropsy were unremarkable apart from an absence of detectable parathyroid tissue. Horse 2 returned to athletic activities while receiving only maintenance doses of oral calcium carbonate.
Effect of breed of cattle on innate resistance to infection with Anaplasma marginale transmitted by Boophilus microplus
Authors: BOCK RE , KINGSTON TG , DE VOS AJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the innate resistance of and transmission in naive Bos taurus cross Bos indicus and purebred Bos indicus cattle when placed in a paddock with cattle infected with Anaplasma marginale and carrying Boophilus microplus ticks.

Design A group of 49 purebred B indicus, and 48 B indicus cross B taurus (50%, F1 generation) 24‐month‐old steers were kept in the same paddock with cattle artificially infected with a virulent isolate of A marginale and Boophilus microplus. The cattle were seronegative for A marginale at the start of the trial but had previously been exposed to Babesia bovis and B bigemina.

Procedure Cattle were inspected twice weekly for 118 days. Whole blood, blood smears and serum samples were collected from the cattle on day 37 after exposure and then at regular intervals to day 83 after exposure to measure packed‐cell volumes, parasitaemias and antibody titres to A marginale. Any animals that met preset criteria were treated for anaplasmosis. On day 83 all cattle were treated with an acaricide and cattle infected with A marginale were removed from the rest of the group.

Results
A marginale was detected in blood smears from 14 crossbred and 9 B indicus steers between days 56 and 72 after exposure. Five and two of the infected crossbred and B indicus steers required treatment, respectively. One of the Bos indicus cattle died as a result of the A marginale infection despite treatment. Antibodies to A marginale were detected in the 23 infected cattle. The mean packed‐cell volume depression was 40 and 37 % in the affected crossbred and Bos indicus groups, respectively. There was no significant difference detected in susceptibility between these two groups.

Conclusions Innate resistance of purebred B indicus and crossbred cattle was not significantly different. The results confirm that purebred B indicus and crossbred cattle are sufficiently susceptible to warrant the use of vaccination against Anaplasma infections.
The distribution and identification of dangerously venomous Australian terrestrial snakes
Authors: SHEA GM
Published: March 2008

The identification of dangerous Australian snakes is important in instituting therapy for envenomation. Despite the availability of a number of identification guides with varying degrees of generality, identification can be problematic for several reasons. These include a diversity of common names, many of which are inappropriate or regionally applied to different species, identification keys that focus on variable features, intraspecific variation and interspecific convergence in colouration, and recent changes in scientific nomenclature of species and genera. Geographic distribution of the dangerously venomous species can be a useful aid to identification, by limiting the range of options in a region. However, delineation of the limits of distribution relies on fine scale mapping beyond the resolution of most identification guides. This article provides a summary of the geographic limits of the dangerously venomous Australian snakes, with particular emphasis on major population centres, and clarifies some problems in identification, particularly among brown‐coloured snakes.
Azoospermia in two Labrador Retrievers
Authors: METCALFE SS , GUNN IM , CHAMPNESS KA
Published: March 2008

Azoospermia is described in two sibling Labrador Retriever dogs. Clinical investigations following failure to sire pups after normal matings revealed testicular hypoplasia and degeneration. Sperm were absent on repeated ejaculate examination in both dogs. Histopathological examination of testicular needle aspirate biopsy and whole testicle of the first dog displayed an absence of spermatids and spermatocytes. Seminiferous tubules containing Sertoli cells with or without primary spermatogonia were present in the second dog. Peritubular lymphocyte accumulation was also present in both dogs. The dogs had been conceived using frozen‐thawed semen.
Costs of studying veterinary science: a national survey of fourth year veterinary students
Authors: HEATH TJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo estimate the costs to the student of veterinary education.

Method

A questionnaire was completed by 180 fourth‐year veterinary students from the four veterinary schools in Australia. Frequencies and median costs were estimated using the SAS System for Windows 95.

Results

The median direct living costs were about $5000 per academic year, but were higher in Sydney and for those with additional expenses including children, pets and cars. Other costs associated with the course including text books, equipment and travel to practical work were of the order of $1000, and income foregone while doing practical work placed additional burdens on some. More than half the students from Sydney and Murdoch needed to work to provide basic necessities. Most of this work involved interaction with animals or people. The percentage of Queensland and Melbourne students needing to work was lower, 47 and 24 respectively, and fewer of those worked directly with animals or people. The students expected to repay a median of $14,000 after they graduate, with 70% of this being due to the Australian government as part of the Higher Education Contribution Scheme.

Conclusions

Although parents contributed an average of between one‐third and one half of the costs of obtaining a veterinary degree, the extent of parental contributions was very uneven and almost one half of all students needed to work to provide basic necessities. The average total debt on graduation was about half the annual starting salary, but those starting the course from 1997 are subject to much higher charges, and their average debt is likely to exceed one year's salary.
Vaccinating chickens against avian influenza with fowlpox recombinants expressing the H7 haemagglutinin
Authors: BOYLE DB , SELLECK P. , HEINE HG
Published: March 2008

Objective To evaluate the vaccine efficacy of a fowlpox virus recombinant expressing the H7 haemagglutinin of avian influenza virus in poultry.

Procedure Specific‐pathogen‐free poultry were vaccinated with fowlpox recombinants expressing H7 or H1 haemagglutinins of influenza virus. Chickens were vaccinated at 2 or 7 days of age and challenged with virulent Australian avian influenza virus at 10 and 21 days later, respectively. Morbidity and mortality, body weight change and the development of immune responses to influenza haemagglutinin and nucleo‐protein were recorded.

Results Vaccination of poultry with fowlpox H7 avian influenza virus recombinants induced protective immune responses. All chickens vaccinated at 7 days of age and challenged 21 days later were protected from death. Few clinical signs of infection developed. In contrast, unvaccinated or chickens vaccinated with a non‐recombinant fowlpox or a fowlpox expressing the H1 haemagglutinin of human influenza were highly susceptible to avian influenza. All those chickens died within 72 h of challenge. In younger chickens, vaccinated at 2 days of age and challenged 10 days later the protection was lower with 80% of chickens protected from death. Chickens surviving vaccination and challenge had high antibody responses to haemagglutinin and primary antibody responses to nucleoprotein suggesting that although vaccination protected substantially against disease it failed to completely prevent replication of the challenge avian influenza virus.

Conclusion Vaccination of chickens with fowlpox virus expressing the avian influenza H7 haemagglutinin provided good protection against experimental challenge with virulent avian influenza of H7 type. Although eradication will remain the method of first choice for control of avian influenza, in the circumstances of a continuing and widespread outbreak the availability of vaccines based upon fowlpox recombinants provides an additional method for disease control.
Trichinellosis in Papua New Guinea
Authors: OWEN IL , SIMS LD , WIGGLESWORTH MC , PUANA I.
Published: March 2008

Objectives To describe the discovery in a domestic pig of the first case of trichinellosis in Papua New Guinea, caused by a new taxon within the genus Trichinella (T papuae). Also, to establish if the disease occurred in the local wild pig population and in domestic pigs elsewhere in the country, and to test if the worm was infective to some other animals.

Procedure Fresh and fixed tissue samples were examined by the digestion method and histologically, respectively, for the non‐encapsulated larvae of T papuae. Feeding trials were conducted, using infected tissues and infective larvae, on animals under laboratory conditions.

Results About 8.8% of a wild pig population in Western Province, adjacent to Irian Jaya, Indonesia, was found to be infected. Infection was not found in other local and feral animals or in domestic pigs from other parts of the country. Infection was experimentally established in cats, pigs and laboratory bred mice and rats.

Conclusion Trichinellosis is confined to one remote locality in PNG. Domestic pigs in the initial case became infected, probably, by eating infected wild pig meat.
Effects of an oral vasopressin receptor antagonist (OPC‐31260) in a dog with syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone
Authors: FLEEMAN LM , IRWIN PJ , PHILLIPS PA , WEST J.
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveThe syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone is a rare disorder in dogs characterised by hypo‐osmolality and persistent arginine vasopressin production in the absence of hypovolaemia and/or hypotension. The study describes the efficacy and safety of the nonpeptide selective arginine vasopressin V2receptor antagonist OPC‐31260 in a dog with the naturally occurring syndrome.

DesignThe detailed case history of a dog with spontaneous syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone that received long‐term therapy with oral OPC‐31260 is presented. Effects of the first dose of OPC‐31260 and of a dose administered after a continuous dosing period of 12 days are reported.

ProcedurePacked cell volume, plasma sodium, total protein, arginine vasopressin, renin activity, atrial natriuretic peptide, urine specific gravity, urine output, heart rate and body weight were monitored for 2 h before, and for 4 h after, the first dose of OPC‐31260. The same parameters plus plasma osmolality and urine osmolality were monitored when an identical dose was administered after 12 days of therapy.

ResultsOral administration of OPC‐31260 at 3 mg/kg body weight resulted in marked aquaresis with increased urine output and decline in urine specific gravity within 1 h. Corresponding increases in concentrations of plasma sodium, plasma osmolality and plasma renin activity were recorded over a 4 h period. Arginine vasopressin concentration remained inappropriately elevated throughout the study.

Resultswere similar when the trial procedure was repeated after a stabilisation period of 12 days. Long‐term therapy with OPC‐31260 at a dose of 3 mg/kg body weight orally every 12 h resulted in good control of clinical signs with no deleterious effects detected during a 3‐year follow‐up period. Despite sustained clinical benefits observed in this case, plasma sodium did not normalise with continued administration of the drug.

ConclusionsTreatment of a dog with naturally occurring syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone with OPC‐31260 at 3 mg/kg body weight orally every 12 h resulted in marked aquaresis and significant palliation of clinical signs with no discernible side‐effects detected over a 3‐year period. Thus, OPC‐31260 appears to offer a feasible medical alternative to water restriction for treatment of dogs with syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone. Higher doses of OPC‐31260 may be required to achieve and maintain normal plasma sodium in dogs with this syndrome.
Sensitivity and specificity of two serological tests for the detection of ovine paratuberculosis
Authors: HOPE AF , KLUVER PF , JONES SL , CONDRON RJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the sensitivity and specificity of an absorbed ELISA and an AGID test for the detection of clinical and subclinical paratuberculosis in sheep.

DesignBy testing a panel of sera from 1257 Australian Merino and crossbred sheep greater than 1 year of age, of which 1137 sheep were not infected withMycobacterium aviumsubspparatuberculosisand 120 sheep had paratuberculosis.

ProcedureSera were collected from 457 sheep in Victoria and 800 sheep in Western Australia. Presence ofM a paratu‐berculosisinfection in Victorian sheep was determined by histological examination of intestinal tissues, whereas sheep from Western Australia were presumed to be free of Johne's disease. The ability of an absorbed ELISA to discriminate between infected and uninfected sheep was described by test sensitivity and specificity, the distribution of ELISA OD, and the area under a receiver operating characteristic curve.

ResultsThe absorbed ELISA had a specificity of 98.2 to 99.5% (CI) and a sensitivity of 35 to 54% (CI). In sheep from infected flocks in Victoria, the AGID test had a specificity of 99 to 100% (CI) and a sensitivity of 38 to 56% (CI). The sensitivity of serological tests was higher in sheep with a body condition representative of the lower quintile of their flock of origin.

ConclusionThe AGID test and absorbed ELISA are useful tests for the detection of ovine paratuberculosis. Although the tests had a similar accuracy, they detected different subpopulations of infected sheep with only moderate overlap. The AGID test had a higher specificity than the absorbed ELISA.
Evaluation of a novel antimicrobial polymer for the control of porcine postweaning colibacillosis
Authors: HAMPSON DJ , BUDDLE JR , MELROSE GJH
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine whether CHEMYDERTM polymer has potential for use in the control of porcine postweaning colibacillosis (PWC).

Procedure Two experiments were conducted in which 50 young pigs, either receiving CHEMYDERTM polymer in their food or not, were challenged orally with cultures of beta‐haemolytic Escherichia coli immediately after weaning. Their response in terms of development of diarrhoea, and the extent of colonisation of the intestinal tract by the bacteria was monitored. In a third experiment CHEMYDERTM polymer was added to the water supply of a group of 15 pigs on a piggery where PWC was an ongoing clinical problem. The response of these pigs was compared with that of pigs vaccinated against PWC or left unmedicated.

Results In both experimental infection trials the pigs receiving CHEMYDERTM polymer showed significantly reduced intestinal colonisation with the challenge strain of E coli, and, in trial 2, significantly less diarrhoea after weaning compared to pigs not receiving CHEMYDERTM polymer. In the field trial the pigs receiving CHEMYDERTM polymer had significantly less diarrhoea and required significantly less antibiotic treatment than the other two groups of pigs.

Conclusion CHEMYDERTM polymer has potential for use in the control of PWC.
Occurrence of different strains of Dichelobacter nodosus in new clinical lesions in sheep exposed to footrot associated with multi‐strain infections
Authors: JELINEK PD , DEPIAZZI LJ , GALVIN DA , SPICER IT , PALMER MA , PITMAN DR
Published: March 2008

Objective To investigate the occurrence of S1, U1 and T strains of Dichelobacter nodosus in new clinical lesions in sheep exposed to footrot associated with multi‐strain infections.

Design Seventy‐seven donor sheep were grazed with 84 recipients for 33 weeks. The donor sheep were Merinos with a history of clinically virulent footrot associated with protease type S1, U1 and T strains of D nodosus that hybridised with gene sequences pJIR314B, pJIR318 and/or pB645–335. The recipient sheep were Merinos with no history of footrot.

Procedure Each fortnight, all feet were examined, their lesion scores were recorded and samples of lesion material were taken for laboratory tests.

Results Eighty‐nine percent (299 of 336) of feet of recipient sheep developed new clinical lesions. S1, U1 and T strains of D nodosus were recovered from 58%, 22% and 18%, respectively, of these lesions at a ratio that remained constant during two apparent peaks in footrot transmission. Gene sequences homologous to pJIR314B and pB645–335 were detected in 56% (93 of 166) and 29% (48 of 166), respectively, of S1 strains of D nodosus at a ratio that was not constant during the experiment.

Conclusions S1 was the dominant protease type of D nodosus in new clinical lesions. The occurrence of S1 strains did not increase relative to U1 and T strains of D nodosus during the experiment. S1, U1 and T strains of D nodosus remained in equilibrium despite changes in environment, genetic types in the population of S1 strains, and host resistance to footrot.
Criteria used by employers to select new graduate employees
Authors: Heath TJ , Mills JN
Published: March 2008

Objective To find out what criteria and methods are used by Australian employers to select new graduates to work in their practices.

Design Questionnaires were completed by 258 employers and the responses were analysed using the SAS system.

ResultsDuring selection, employers placed most reliance on formal interviews or visits to the practice. These occasions were used to assess the applicant's personal qualities including their ability to interact effectively with clients and colleagues. Employers used resumes mainly in selection of applicants to interview and many discounted nominated referees as being insufficiently critical. Academic knowledge was regarded as less important than personal qualities and very few employers reported using gender as a basis for selection.

Conclusions Senior veterinary students need to be aware of the importance placed by employers on interpersonal skills and personal qualities and should make every effort to engage in practical work, paid work and other activities that will help develop these attributes. They should be conscious that practitioners with whom they work may be contacted by potential employers and they should learn to present themselves realistically in a resume.
DisseminatedMycobacterium aviuminfection in a dog with chronic diarrhoea
Authors: HORN B , FORSHAW D , COUSINS D , IRWIN PJ
Published: March 2008

A 3‐year‐old Maltese‐cross dog presented with a 4‐month history of chronic diarrhoea and inappetence. Poorly regenerative anaemia, leukocytosis and hypoproteinaemia were evident on several occasions. Biopsies of stomach, duodenum and colon revealed marked infiltration of mucosae by macrophages containing many acid‐fast bacilli. Similar organisms were numerous in a faecal smear. Melaena, haematochezia and severe abdominal pain developed and were unresponsive to therapy. Following euthanasia and necropsy, histiocytic cells containing acid‐fast bacilli were found throughout the gastrointestinal tract, mesenteric and peripheral lymph nodes, spleen, liver, kidney and lungs. The organism was identified asMycobacterium aviumby bacterial culture and polymerase chain reaction testing.
Distraction osteogenesis to treat premature distal radial growth plate closure in a dog
Authors: PRESTON CA
Published: March 2008

A 4‐month‐old Labrador was presented for forelimb lameness and elbow pain. Radiography revealed asymmetric premature closure of the distal radial physis resulting in humeroradial and humero‐ulnar subluxation. A four‐ring circular external fixator applied to the antebrachium was used to perform distraction osteogenesis. After a 4 day latency period, varying rates of linear distraction were used to lengthen the radius by 50% of its original length, which is significantly longer than has been previously reported. By 69days after performing the radial osteotomy, the distraction callus had achieved clinical union and the fixator was removed. One year postoperatively, mild lameness was present after exercise and minimal elbow osteo‐arthritis was evident radiographically. Complications observed included pin tract drainage, transient carpal contracture and radio‐ulnar synostosis.
Aero‐allergens in canine atopic dermatitis in southeastern Australia based on 1000 intradermal skin tests
Authors: MUELLER RS , BETTENAY SV , TIDEMAN L
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the most relevant aero‐allergens involved in canine atopi dermatitis in southeastern Australia and provide information about these aero‐allergens to the general practitioner.

ProcedureDogs presented to the Animal Skin & Allergy Clinic with history and clinical signs of atopic dermatitis were injected intradermally with 38 different allergens and negative and positive control. Intradermal skin tests in 1000 dogs were retrospectively evaluated.

ResultsOne third of all patients reacted to the house dust miteDermatophagoides farinae.Allergens reacting in more than 15% of the patients were wheat (Triticum aestivum), sweet vernal (Anthoxanthum odoratum), English couch (Agropyron repens), yellow dock (Rumex crispus), Mexican tea (Chenopodium ambrosioides), plantain (Plantago lanceolata), melaleuca (Melaleuca quinquenervia) and peppercorn (Schimusspp).

ConclusionHouse dust mites are the most common allergens in canine atopic dermatitis in southeastern Australia andD farinaeis involved most frequently. However, a number of grass, weed and tree pollens also are involved regularly.
Acute cortisol responses and wound healing in lambs after ring castration plus docking with or without application of a castration clamp to the scrotum
Authors: SUTHERLAND MA , STAFFORD KJ , MELLOR DJ , GREGORY NG , BRUCE RA , WARD RN
Published: March 2008

Objective To test whether the cortisol response to ring castration plus docking is reduced by additional application of a castration clamp across the full width of the scrotum distal to the ring.

Design A physiological study with controls

Procedure Lambs, 3 to 6 weeks of age, were castrated using a ring or ring plus castration clamp applied for 6 or 10 s and docked using a ring. Blood samples were taken before and regularly for about 4 h after treatment and analysed for plasma cortisol concentrations. The healing of the scrotal wounds was monitored for 6 weeks after castration.

Results The plasma cortisol concentrations were lower only at 60 min after treatment in lambs castrated with a clamp placed on the scrotum for 10 s after ring castration and docking than in lambs castrated and docked by ring alone. Scrotal wounds healed more quickly after ring plus clamp than after ringonly castration.

Conclusions The castration clamp had at most a marginal effect on the cortisol response to ring castration and docking of 3‐ to 6‐week‐old lambs, but it did seem to improve the rate of healing.
Platinum pharmacokinetics in sulphur‐crested cockatoos (Cacatua galerita) following single‐dose cisplatin infusion
Authors: FILIPPICH LJ , BUCHER AM , CHARLES BG
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the pharmacokinetics of platinum (Pt) in cockatoos.

DesignA pharmacokinetic study of Pt, following a single IV infusion of cisplatin, was done in six healthy sulphur‐crested cockatoos (Cacatua galerita).

ProcedureBirds were hydrated for 1 h before and 2 h after a 1‐h cisplatin infusion (1 mg/kg, IV). Serial blood samples were collected for 96 h after initiation of the infusion and urine was collected for 2 h during the hydration period after cisplatin administration. Tissue samples from 10 organs were obtained at necropsy, 96 h after cisplatin infusion. Total Pt and filterable Pt in plasma, urinary Pt and tissue Pt concentrations were assayed by inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. A noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was performed on the plasma and urine data.

ResultsFor total Pt and filterable Pt, the respective mean systemic clearances were 0.373 and 0.699 L/kg hourly, the steady state volumes of distribution were 4.19 and 0.356 L/kg, and the mean residence times were 111 and 0.512 h. Total plasma Pt displayed a bi‐exponential decay profile with average half‐lives of 0.398 and 79.0 h, while filterable Pt had a monoexponential decay with mean half‐life of 0.413 h. The renal clearance during the 2‐h postinfusion period was 0.167 L/kg hourly. The kidneys had the highest Pt accumulation (4.54 u.g/g DM).

Conclusions and Clinical RelevanceCisplatin infusion in cockatoos was well tolerated and Pt plasma concentrations were similar to those measured during treatment of solid tumours in human patients. Despite anatomical, physiological and biochemical differences among animal species, the pharmacokinetic disposition of Pt in the cockatoo shares some features with the kinetics reported previously in rodents, dogs and human beings.
Congenital portosystemic shunts in Toy and Miniature Poodles
Authors: HUNT GB , TISDALL PLC , WEBB A , MACPHERSON GC , BRAIN P , MALIK R
Published: March 2008

Three male Poodles (two Toy, one Miniature) were presented to their veterinarians for evaluation of urolithiasis and varying degrees of hepatic encephalopathy. All three dogs were diagnosed as having intrahepatic shunts and referred for surgical correction. In each case, shunts arose from the right branch of the portal vein and were amenable to perivascular dissection caudal to where the vessel entered the hepatic parenchyma and to placement of perivascular cellophane bands to achieve shunt attenuation. During the same period, a female Miniature Poodle also presented for treatment of a congenital portosystemic shunt discovered during evaluation for generalised motor seizures. This animal had an extrahepatic portoazy‐gous shunt that was completely ligated. Congenital portosystemic shunts have not previously been identified in Toy and Miniature Poodles at the University Veterinary Centre, Sydney and the anatomical types of shunt seen in this breed have not previously been reported in a consecutive series of cases. The three male dogs are noteworthy for a number of reasons: all had intrahepatic shunts, despite being small breed dogs; all three presented in a similar fashion, and all had shunts of an anatomical type amenable to placement of cellophane bands. One male dog died within 12 hours of surgery, the remaining three dogs survived and their liver function was normal at follow‐up between 2 and 3 months after surgery. Use of cellophane bands for successful attenuation of intra‐hepatic shunts has not been previously reported.
Disseminated haemangiosarcoma in an Eastern barred bandicoot (Perameles gunnii)
Authors: BODLEY KB , BOOTH RJ , SAMUEL J , WILKIE JS
Published: March 2008

A captive adult male Eastern barred bandicoot (Perameles gunnii) presented with three palpable subcutaneous masses in November 1998. A diagnosis of haemangiosarcoma was made based on histological examination of one excised mass. Euthanasia of the animal was performed 11 days postsurgery and a proliferative lesion in the paralumbar musculature and similar, smaller proliferative lesions surrounding the right popliteal lymph node and in the ventricular wall of the heart were found. Metastatic lesions were found in the liver and lung. The histological features of the neoplastic tissues supported the diagnosis of a poorly differentiated, disseminated haemangiosarcoma. This is the first reported case of haemangiosarcoma in the Eastern barred bandicoot.
Pregnancy in a cow with uterus didelphys
Authors: FATHALLA M
Published: March 2008

Uterus didelphys is a congenital defect of monotocous species. This short contribution describes the condition in a cow that had a pregnancy in the right horn and a corpus luteum on the ipsilateral ovary. This finding demonstrates that pregnancy can occur in a cow with uterus didelphys, although the fate of the pregnancy was obviously not known. The case was identified during routine collection of reproductive tracts in a New Zealand abattoir. It is believed to be the first report of uterus didelphys in a bovine abattoir specimen.
Use of the polymerase chain reaction assay for the detection of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis in blood and liver biopsies from experimentally infected sheep
Authors: GWOZDZ JM , THOMPSON KG , MURRAY A , WEST DM , MANKTELOW BW
Published: March 2008

Objective To evaluate a polymerase chain reaction‐based assay for the detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis in blood and liver biopsies from subclinically infected sheep.

Study design A direct PCR assay for the detection of M a paratuberculosis was applied to liver biopsy specimens and to samples of blood that were sequentially collected over 53 weeks from 14 sheep infected experimentally with the organism.

Results Of 117 blood samples from the 14 experimentally infected sheep, two tested positive in the PCR assay. Both positive results were obtained in two subclinically infected sheep that had paratuberculosis later confirmed by histological examination at necropsy. However, the assay failed to detect the target DNA in samples of blood from five other sheep with histologically confirmed paratuberculosis. Similarly, the PCR assay on liver biopsy specimens collected 32 weeks after administration of M a paratuberculosis gave only two positive results, both of which were obtained in sheep with histological evidence of paratuberculosis.

Conclusions The PCR assay on blood and liver biopsies does not provide a useful method for the diagnosis of M a paratuberculosis infection in subclinically infected sheep.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Madill DN
Published: March 2008

Avian Medicine. Edited by Tully TN, Lawton MPC and Dorrestein GM
Treatment of canine leproid granuloma syndrome: preliminary findings in seven dogs
Authors: MALIK R , MARTIN P , WIGNEY D , SWAN D , SATTLER PS , CIBILIC D , ALLEN J , MITCHELL DH , CHEN SCA , HUGHES MS , LOVE DN
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine effective treatment strategies for patients with refractory canine leproid granuloma syndrome.

Design Multi‐institutional retrospective/prospective case series using client‐owned dogs.

Procedure Seven dogs (four Boxers, one Dobermann, one Bullmastiff and one Bullmastiff cross‐bred; ages 3 to 11 years) with leproid granulomas were treated successfully using a variety of treatment regimens. These cases were recruited because: lesions were either widely distributed over the dog; progressive, despite routine therapy, or were associated with particularly disfiguring lesions. The treatment regimen evolved during the course of the clinical study.

Results Combination therapy using rifampicin (5 to 15 mg/kg PO, every 24 h) and clarithromycin (8 to 24 mg/kg PO daily; dose divided every 8 or every 12 h) was used most frequently and proved to be effective and free from side effects. Total daily doses of clarithromycin in excess of 14 mg/kg were considered optimal and long treatment courses, in the order of 1 to 3 months, were used. Combination therapy using rifampicin (25 mg/kg; that is, higher than the recommended dose) and clofazimine was effective in one case, but resulted in hepatotoxicity. A topical formulation of clofazimine in petroleum jelly was used as an adjunct to oral rifampicin and doxycycline in another patient treated successfully.

Conclusion Based on our evolving clinical experience, a combination of rifampicin (10 to 15 mg/kg PO, every 24 h) and clarithromycin (15 to 25 mg/kg PO total daily dose; given divided every 8 to 12 h) is currently recommended for treating severe or refractory cases of canine leproid granuloma syndrome. Treatment should be continued (typically for 4 to 8 weeks) until lesions are substantially reduced in size and ideally until lesions have resolved completely. A topical formulation, containing clofazimine in petroleum jelly may be used as an adjunct to systemic drug therapy. Further work is required to determine the most cost effective treatment regimen for this condition.
Cardiovascular and haemodynamic effects of intramuscular doses of xylazine in conscious sheep
Authors: GRANT C , UPTON RN
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine if a commonly used analgesic dose of xylazine has detrimental cardiovascular or haemodynamic effects in sheep.

Design A physiological study following intramuscular administration of xylazine.

Procedure Xylazine (50 μg/kg) was injected intramuscularly into six healthy Merino ewes. For 60 min heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure and cardiac output were recorded; arterial blood samples for the measurement of blood gas tensions were also collected.

Results There were no significant changes in heart rate, mean arterial blood pressure, cardiac output or arterial carbon dioxide tension. A slight degree of arterial hypoxaemia was noted with a 10% reduction in arterial oxygen tension values at 30 min.

Conclusion The minimal changes to cardiovascular and respiratory values in this study verify the safety of previously suggested analgesic dosing regimens for sheep. Previously reported hypoxaemic effects in sheep as a result of intravenous xylazine administration appear to be reduced as a result of intramuscular administration.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Turner AJ
Published: March 2008

International Animal Health Code for Mammals, Birds and Bees. 9th edn. OIE
Outbreak of foetal infection with bovine pestivirus in a central Queensland beef herd
Authors: TAYLOR LF , RODWELL BJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe a significant outbreak of foetal infection and subsequent losses due to bovine pestivirus on a 5200 ha beef breeding and fattening property in central Queensland.

Description of the herd The affected herd consisted of 656 cows, including 269 recently purchased cows, and 221 heifers that were joined in December/January 1995/96. There were approximately 2500 cattle on the property.

Investigation Following the purchase of 269 cows in October 1995, which were mingled with the existing cow herd, losses were experienced due to foetal infection with bovine pestivirus. These losses were recorded between 1996 and 1999 as: reduced pregnancy rates, losses between pregnancy testing (midpregnancy) and branding (calves averaged 3 months‐of‐age), losses due to pneumonia and ill‐thrift between branding and approximately 12 months‐of‐age, and losses due to ill‐thrift and the chronic wasting form of mucosal disease thereafter. All surviving calves were tested for bovine pestivirus in 1997 at an average of 10 months. Fifty‐three calves were identified as persistently infected with bovine pestivirus. A further 110 calf losses could reasonably be attributed to bovine pestivirus infection.

Persistently infected cattle were always unthrifty compared to their virus negative counterparts. Only one persistently infected calf was identified, on the basis of severe ill thrift, in the 1997 birth cohort and none in 1998.

Conclusions This outbreak of foetal infection with bovine pestivirus resulted in significant production losses. These losses were recorded over the three years subsequent to the outbreak. Significant numbers of persistently infected calves were not evident among calves born in the two years after this outbreak.