bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of environmental temperature on experimental infection of redfin perch (Perca fluviatilis) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) with epizootic haematopoietic necrosis virus, an Australian iridovirus
Authors: WHITTINGTON RJ , REDDACLIFF GL
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Experimental transmission of epizootic haematopoietic necrosis virus (EHNV) to adult redfin perch Perca fluviatilis and juvenile rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss was undertaken at different water temperatures using intraperitoneal (IP) and bath inoculation. Redfin perch were highly susceptible to EHNV by both routes of infection. Bath inoculation with as few as 0.08 TCID50. mL‐1 was lethal. The incubation period in redfin perch was about 11 days at a water temperature of 19–21°C but was longer at colder temperatures and disease did not occur at temperatures below 12°C. The longest incubation period recorded in redfin perch was 28 days. Rainbow trout were not susceptible to infection by bath inoculation but the disease was reproduced after IP inoculation with 105.6 TCID50 at water temperatures ranging from 8–21°C. The incubation period was 3–10 days at 19–21°C, but was up to 32 days at 8–10°C. Persistent infection with EHNV was detected by virus isolation in a clinically unaffected rainbow trout after 63 days. The implications of these findings in the understanding of the epidemiology of EHNV infection are discussed.
The therapeutic efficacy and prophylactic activity of doramectin against Dictyocaulus viviparus in cattle
Authors: BARTON NJ , MITCHELL PJ , HOOKE FG , REYNOLDS J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Three groups of 8, 4‐month‐old male Jersey or Jersey‐cross calves were infected with 2400 Dictyocaulus viviparus L3 larvae and either left untreated or injected subcutaneously with 200 μg/kg doramectin 5 or 25 days after infection (DAI). Lungworms were found in all untreated cattle (geometric mean = 49) at necropsy 39 or 40 DAI. None was found in any of the treated cattle.

In a second experiment, groups of 6, 8‐month‐old calves were untreated or injected with 200 μg/kg doramectin 28, 21 or 14 days before each calf was challenged with 2700 D viviparus larvae. Lungworms were recovered at necropsy 32 to 34 DAI. The geometric mean worm burden in the untreated cattle was 550. This was reduced by 100%, 99.5% and 94.1% in calves treated with doramectin 14, 21 or 28 days, respectively, before infection.

It was concluded that doramectin is a highly effective anthelmintic against D viviparus adult or L4 infections of cattle, and that reinfection of treated cattle will be significantly reduced for at least 28 days after treatment.
Salmonella Enteritidis: the egg and I
Authors: COX JM
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY:The world‐wide clinical incidence of Salmonella Enteritidis has increased markedly. The increase is associated with the enhanced ability of the bacterium to systemically colonise layer chickens. Subsequent contamination and consumption of intact shell eggs from colonised layer hens, either directly or in foods containing raw or lightly cooked eggs, causes human disease. Despite investigation, no change in the biology of the bacterium has been correlated with increased colonisation in chickens. To date, no method of control at the production level has proven effective; consumer education is the best means of minimising the public health risk.
Observations on the indirect transmission of virulent ovine footrot in sheep yards and its spread in sheep on unimproved pasture
Authors: WHITTINGTON RJ
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Virulent ovine footrot was transmitted accidentally to a group of 23 adult Merino sheep (flock B) after holding for 1 hour in sheep yards, which earlier the same day had contained another flock (flock A) with < 1% prevalence of sheep with footrot lesions. Sheep in flock B were rendered susceptible to virulent footrot by grazing 600 mm high unimproved pasture dominated by paspalum (Paspalum dilatatum) and kangaroo grass (Themeda australis) during warm, humid and wet weather. In addition to moisture, interdigital abrasions caused by the pasture might have predisposed the interdigital skin to infection with Dichelobacter nodosus.
The minor role of pigs in outbreaks of foot‐and‐mouth disease of northern Thailand
Authors: CHAMNANPOOD P , CLELAND PC , BALDOCK FC , GLEESONt LJ
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A study was undertaken in northern Thailand to examine the involvement of pigs in outbreaks of foot‐and‐mouth disease (FMD). Data were collected by surveying selected villages, by serological monitoring of pigs and by investigating outbreaks. Fifty‐three of 58 villages (91%) surveyed reported that pigs did not develop FMD during the most recent outbreak. The source of 49/60 (82%) outbreaks was attributed to either recent purchases of infected cattle and buffalo or commingling of cattle and buffalo with stock from an infected neighbouring village. One of 60 villages (1.7%) reported that the source was introduced infected pigs. There was no association between the various hypothesised risk factors relating to the management of pigs and the frequency of FMD outbreaks in the survey. The percentage of seropositive pigs during 3 rounds of serological monitoring conducted at 6‐monthly intervals in selected villages was 3.5%, 2.6% and 0%, respectively. No clinically affected pigs were observed in 11 outbreak investigations. It was concluded that pigs did not commonly become infected when there were outbreaks of FMD in village cattle and buffalo in northern Thailand. This was probably due to the pig feeding and housing practices employed by villagers that protected pigs from exposure to virus from infected cattle or buffalo, or their products.
Johne's disease in alpacas (Lama pacos) in Australia
Authors: RIDGE SE , HARKIN JT , BADMAN RT , MELLOR AM , LARSEN JWA
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Johne's disease was diagnosed in 10 alpacas (Lama pacos) in Australia between February 1993 and May 1994. Eight of the animals were between 12 and 24 months of age, one was a 6‐year‐old female, and one was a 4‐year‐old male. Five, including the 6‐year‐old and the 4‐year‐old alpacas, showed weight loss and diarrhoea before death or slaughter. The other cases showed no clinical signs of Johne's disease but 4 gave a positive result on faecal culture and one gave a positive result on testing with the caprine ACID assay and had acid‐fast organisms in its faeces. At necropsy, all cases had grossly enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes. Johne's disease was diagnosed after histological examination of the lymph nodes with conventional culture and polymerase chain reaction testing of tissue samples. This report outlines the clinical, epidemiological, and pathological findings in these cases.
Last occurrence and survival during winter of the arbovirus vector Culicoides brevitarsis at the southern limits of its distribution
Authors: BISHOP AL , BARCHIA IM , HARRIS AM
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Linear regression analysis was used to describe the decline in numbers of Culicoides brevitarsis Kieffer into winter with monthly maximum, average and minimum temperatures at the southern limits to its distribution in New South Wales. From this, low temperature thresholds were derived when C brevitarsis would be absent from the field. The low minimum threshold ± 2 SE (95% Confidence Interval) of 8.1 ± 0.3°C was used with historical temperature data to estimate the last month that the species should occur (March to June) and the mean number of months (2 to 6.5) below the threshold at 17 selected sites. Probability for survival during winter at these sites was estimated from years when the number of consecutive months below the threshold was ≤ 2 months. This varied from zero to 51% depending on the location of the site. Last occurrence was 0.7 months later on average and absolute probabilities for survival ranged from zero to 100% when the temperatures were increased by an arbitrary 2°C.
Production losses in Merino ewes and financial penalties caused by trichostrongylid infections during winter and spring
Authors: LARSEN JWA , VIZARD AL , ANDERSON N.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The productivity of Merino ewes treated with ivermectin and a controlled‐release capsule containing albendazole was compared with untreated ewes grazing the same pastures on each of 3 farms. Treated breeding ewes had significantly increased greasy fleece weights (GFW, 6.5% and 7.1%) compared with untreated breeding ewes, on 2 of 3 farms but treatment caused no significant increase in the GFW of non‐breeding ewes. Other benefits of treatment on all farms were a significant increase in body weight gain (from 1.7 to 3.7 kg) and a significant decrease in the weight of dag removed at crutching (from 42 to 622 g). These benefits occurred despite the presence on each farm of worms resistant to benzimidazoles. One disadvantage of treatment was an increase in mean fibre diameter of wool from treated ewes of from 0.12 to 0.41 μm. This increase reduces the value of the wool. Partial budgets indicated a net loss of from 8 to 62 cents per ewe for treatment. However, potential benefits such as increased growth rate and wool production from lambs of treated ewes were not included in the analysis.

On one farm ewes were classified as ‘susceptible’ to severe dag if they had a dag score ≥ 4 at the time of capsule treatment. Ewes classified as ‘susceptible’ were about 7 times more likely to develop severe dag than were other ewes. There was no significant difference between the GFW of untreated ‘susceptible’ ewes and untreated ewes not classified as ‘susceptible’. Additionally, the response of GFW to treatment was no different to the response seen in ewes that were not classified as ‘susceptible’. The direct cost of diarrhoea and dag formation in Merino ewes was estimated to be 18, 30, 53, 86, 98 and 145 cents per head for ewes with a dag score of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively. This cost did not include potential benefits from reduced risk of breech strike, or intangible benefits associated with the improved welfare of sheep.
Comparison of methods to assess dog owners' therapeutic compliance
Authors: BARTER LS , MADDISON JE , WATSON ADJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To compare different methods for assessing the compliance of veterinary clients administering medication to their dogs.

Procedure Thirty‐one owners whose dogs were prescribed amoxycillin‐clavulanate, twice and thrice daily, for a duration of five to seven days were recruited from three Sydney veterinary hospitals. Compliance was assessed by electronic monitoring devices, return medication counts, client self‐reports and veterinarians' estimation of likely compliance.

Results Electronic monitoring showed owners administered on average 84% (range 7 to 104%) of prescribed medication to their dogs. Both return medication counts and client self‐reports tended to overestimate therapeutic compliance when compared with electronic monitoring. When questioned, the majority of owners (71%) claimed perfect compliance with the prescribed regimen. No correlation was found between veterinarians' estimates of owner compliance and that assessed electronically.

Conclusion Electronic monitoring provided valuable information on dose timing and variation, but proved costly and difficult to employ in veterinary practice. Simplicity and low cost of return medication counts makes this method attractive for use in veterinary compliance studies. Client self‐reports reliably detected some noncompliers and permitted identification of individual problems or errors. For practical purposes a combination of return medication counts and client self‐reports may have merit in future veterinary compliance studies.
Marek's disease vaccination of chickens
Authors: OUTTERIDGE P
Published: March 2008

Interpretive summaries of interesting articles on veterinary pharmacology are provided by the Pharmacology Chapter of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientsts
Black soil blindness: A new mycotoxicosis of cattle grazing Corallocytostroma‐infected Mitchell grass (Astrebla spp)
Authors: JUBB TF , MAIN DC , MITCHELL AA , SHIVAS RG , DE WITTE KW
Published: March 2008

A new, fatal mycotoxicosis of cattle has been recognised in north‐western Australia. A feeding trial confirmed the toxicity of a previously unknown species of Corallocytostroma that grows on Mitchell grass (Astrebla spp). The disease has been colloquially named ‘black soil blindness’ because its most prominent features are its confinement to pastures on black soil, and blindness and death of affected animals. Over 500 cattle have died and considerable subclinical disease is present. Above average wet season rainfall and extended growing seasons may explain the emergence of the fungus. The disease is important because cattle production in large areas of Australia utilise Mitchell grass pastures.
Use of enzyme‐linked immunoassays for antibody to types C and D botulinum toxins for investigations of botulism in cattle
Authors: GREGORY AR , ELLIS TM , JUBB TF , NICKELS RJ , COUSINS DV
Published: March 2008

The development of specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) for antibody to types C and D Clostridium botulinum toxins for investigation of botulism in cattle is described. Partially purified type C and D toxins were used as antigens to develop these ELISAs. Specificity of the ELISAs was evaluated on sera from 333 adult beef and dairy cattle from areas with no history or evidence of botulism in animals or water birds. The test was also evaluated on sera from 41 herds that included herds vaccinated against botulism, confirmed botulism cases and herds from areas where the disease is considered endemic. The ELISAs detected the presence of antibody to botulinum toxins in samples from vaccinated cattle and both convalescent and clinically normal animals from unvaccinated herds with outbreaks of botulism. Antibody was also found in unvaccinated animals from herds in which there had been no diagnosed botulism cases in areas where botulism was considered endemic. Sera from some unvaccinated cattle with high ELISA reactivity was shown to be protective for mice in botulinum toxin neutralisation tests. The use of these tests in investigations of botulism in cattle is discussed.
Equine neonatal septicaemia: 24 cases
Authors: RAISIS AL , HODGSON JL , HODGSON DR
Published: March 2008

Equine neonatal septicaemia was confirmed in 24 foals hospitalised at the Rural Veterinary Centre between 1989 and 1992 with suspected septicaemia. Septicaemia was confirmed by culture of bacteria from blood of live foals and tissues obtained at necropsy of foals that died or were euthanased. Pathogenic bacteria isolated were predominantly Enterobacteriaceae (including Escherichia coli and Salmonella serovars) and Actinobacillus equuli. Clinical manifestations of septicaemia included signs of depression, dehydration, abnormalities in body temperature and manifestations of localised infection including diarrhoea, pneumonia, and septic arthritis. Most common haemato‐logical abnormalities were neutropenia and increase of circulating band neutrophils. Survival rate of foals with confirmed septicaemia was 70.8%. Survival was found to be less likely in the presence of pneumonia, severe signs of depression, marked haematological changes or septic arthritis at the time of admission. Seven foals were confirmed to have septic arthritis without concurrent septicaemia. Of these, 4 had multiple joint involvement. Bacteria isolated from infected joints were predominantly Salmonella serovars. Four foals with septic arthritis failed to survive, due to multiple joint infection, which was unresponsive to treatment. The clinical and haematological abnormalities present in foals with confirmed septicaemia and septic arthritis were consistent with those observed in other studies. The bacterial isolates from foals with confirmed septicaemia were similar to those isolated in other studies. In contrast, the bacteria isolated from foals with septic arthritis without concurrent septicaemia were different from other studies.
The effects of lactation on the fertility of dairy cows
Authors: MACMILLAN KL , LEAN IJ , WESTWOOD CT
Published: March 2008

Lactation has been negatively associated with fertility because pregnancy rates in maiden heifers exceed those obtained after first or subsequent calvings. The extent of this difference is less in pasture‐fed dairy cows (<10%) than in American Holsteins (>20%) fed grain and conserved forages. The latter cows have pregnancy rates to first insemination and oestrus detection rates of only 40 to 45%. This suggests that the subsequent fertility of inherently fertile Holstein heifers may be severely compromised by high levels of milk production. International comparisons show that pasture‐fed dairy cows may experience extended periods of anovulatory anoestrum but have normal fertility (60% pregnancy rate to first insemination) once cycling. The high‐producing American Holstein may ovulate within 4 weeks postpartum but is more likely to continue ovulating without being detected in oestrus.

Both situations are associated with negative energy balances (NEB) during early lactation. The severity and duration of this NEB may vary with body condition at calving, age or parity, ration formulation, production level and environmental factors. Relative daily milk yield is not an absolute indicator of NEB, because some lower producing cows within a herd have lower feed intakes and more severe energy deficits. NEB is not simple to measure; nonetheless, it is correlated with genetic improvement for milk yield.

A positive energy balance, greater weight gain and higher body condition score have all been shown to be positively correlated with plasma progesterone concentrations in early lactation. No studies have investigated the possibility that the rapid increase in metabolic rate at this time may also alter steroid concentrations with consequent effects on oestrous behaviour and fertility.

Studies to more precisely define the effects of increasing milk yields in early lactation, especially in Holsteins, may need to be completed in Australia and New Zealand. Oestrus detection rates and pregnancy rates for American Holsteins of less than 50% are accepted widely in the USA. Such low detection rates confound studies on fertility. The objective should be to increase these 2 rates to at least 80% and 60% respectively. This may involve the use of controlled breeding, especially if oestrous behaviour is less overt in high‐producing Holstein cows.
Outcomes of thoracic surgery in dogs and cats
Authors: BELLENGER CR , HUNT GB , GOLDSMID SE , PEARSON MRB
Published: March 2008

Summary:Records of 146 dogs and 41 cats that underwent thoracic surgery at The University of Sydney Veterinary Teaching Hospital were reviewed for age, sex, breed, disease, operation date, periods of pre‐ and post‐operative hospitalisation, use of surgical drains and outcome. Animals were assigned to 16 disease categories, the most common being patent ductus arteriosus, traumatic diaphragmatic hernia and oesophageal foreign body in dogs and traumatic diaphragmatic hernia in cats. Differences were observed between disease categories in all the criteria examined. There were almost equal numbers of male (72) and female (74) dogs, the median (range) age was 2.0 (0.2 to 14.0) years, the median pre‐operative stay was 1 (0 to 14) days, the median post‐operative stay was 4 (0 to 28) days and the overall survival to discharge rate was 78%.

There were 24 male and 15 female cats (sex not recorded in 2 cats). The median (range) age was 3 (0.1 to 12) years, pre‐operative stay 1 (0 to 6) days, post‐operative stay 5 (0 to 15) days and the overall survival to discharge rate was 85%. Causes of post‐operative deaths among animals in the most common categories are recorded and discussed.
Development of a method for the identification, using the polymerase chain reaction, of Aspergillus fumigatus isolated from ostriches
Authors: KATZ ME , LOVE SC J. , GILL HS , CHEETHAM BF
Published: March 2008

Objective To develop a method for identifying DNA of Aspergillus fumigatus from ostriches, using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A fumigatus is the principal causative agent of avian aspergillosis.

Design A biochemical trial.

Sample population Twelve Aspergillus fumigatus isolates and three other Aspergillus species.

Procedure PCR primers that were based on the sequence of the alkaline protease gene from human isolates of A fumigatus were used.

Results We successfully tested the method on ostrich isolates from five states and showed that the test is specific for A fumigatus.

Conclusions In most cases the DNA sequence of A fumigatus isolates from ostriches is similar to that of human isolates. DNA sequences vary significantly among A fumigatus isolates, including those from affected ostriches in the same flock. The genetic variation may be used to trace aspergillus infections in ostrich flocks and determine if the disease is transmitted by contact with infected birds.
Owner compliance with short term antimicrobial medication in dogs
Authors: BARTER LS , WATSON ADJ , MADDISON JE
Published: March 2008

Summary: The degree to which dog owners complied with instructions to administer a 5 to 10 day course of antimicrobial medication to their pets was assessed using microprocessor based monitoring devices. Twenty two clients gave an average of 84% of prescribed doses of amoxycillin‐clavulanate. No difference was found between twice and thrice daily dosing regimens in the overall percentage of prescribed doses given. However, timing of doses was far from ideal in many cases and only 34% of doses were given within the designated optimum time period. Adherence to desired dosing intervals tended to be better with twice daily than with thrice daily dosing, although the difference was statistically insignificant.
Suspected drug eruption in seven dogs during administration of flucytosine
Authors: MALIK R. , MEDEIROS C. , WIGNEY DI , LOVE DN
Published: March 2008

Summary: 7 of 8 dogs receiving combination drug therapy consisting of flucytosine together with amphotericin B and/or a triazole for cryptococcosis or aspergillosis developed cutaneous or mucocutaneous eruptions during the course of treatment. Lesions resolved in all cases following discontinuation of flucytosine despite continued administration of other antifungals, suggesting the eruption was referable primarily to the flucytosine component of therapy. Lesions developed 13 to 41 days (median 20 days) after commencing flucytosine (105 to 188 mg/kg/day divided and given every 8 h; median dose rate 150 mg/kg/day). The cumulative dose of flucytosine given prior to the first signs of the drug eruption ranged from 1.7 to 6.8 g/kg (median 2.3 g/kg). The eruptions consisted of depigmentation, followed by ulceration, exudation and crust formation. The scrotum was affected in all 4 male dogs, the nasal plane in 6 of 7 cases, while the lips, vulva, external ear canal and integument were involved in a smaller number of cases. There was considerable variation in the severity of lesions, with changes being most marked when flucytosine was continued for several days after lesions first appeared. Some dogs experienced malaise and inappetence in association with the suspected drug eruption. Healing took a variable period, typically in excess of 2 weeks after discontinuing flucytosine, with up to 2 months being required for total resolution of the lesions. All lesions resolved eventually without scarring or permanent loss of pigment.
Residues from long‐acting antimicrobial preparations in injection sites in cattle
Authors: MAWHINNEY H , OAKENFULL SM , NICHOLLS TJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To investigate tissue residues of two longacting oxytetracycline (OTC) preparations in cattle.

Design A randomised drug residue trial.

Animals

Two hundred and forty beef cattle in 24 groups of ten.

Procedure Two blind‐coded 200 mg/mL OTC preparations were used in five treatment regimens of various combinations of injection sites (from one to five) and administrations (one or two). Five cattle from each group were slaughtered at 21, 30 and 60 days after injection and the injection site, urine, kidney and diaphragm muscle analysed for residues.

Results The OTC concentration exceeded the maximum residue limit in kidney in animals slaughtered 21 days after treatment, which is the prescribed withholding period. Concentration at the injection site was much greater than the maximum residue limit 30 days post‐treatment, but not 45 days post‐treatment. The residue was smaller when OTC had been injected in multiple sites. There was no difference between the two OTC preparations.

Conclusion A review of the maximum injection volume, site of injection and the withholding period is needed for long‐acting OTC formulations.
A screening test for subclinical liver disease in horses affected by pyrrolizidine alkaloid toxicosis
Authors: CURRAN JM , SUTHERLAND RJ , PEET RL
Published: March 2008

Objective:To evaluate various biochemical tests as indicators of subclinical liver disease in horses exposed to pyrrolizidine alkaloid toxicosis.

Design:A clinical pathology field study.

Animals:Twenty‐two clinically normal horses from four properties in the Kimberley region of Western Australia.

Procedure:Serum samples from each horse were assayed for gamma glutamyltransferase, alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase activities, and for serum bile acid concentration, albumin and total protein. Serum protein electrophoresis was performed and their amino acid profiles determined. Bromosulphophihalein halfclearance times were measured. Horses were then subjected to a single liver biopsy. Results were analysed by, variance of group means, the Fisher‐Irwin exact test, and by sensitivity and specificity calculation.

Results:Horses were classified into 2 groups, of 10 unaffected and 12 subclinically affected, on the basis of liver histology. Significant differences between the unaffected and subclinical groups were observed for gamma glutamyltransferase and alkaline phosphatase activities (P < 0.01). Gamma glutamyltransferase had sufficient sensitivity (75%) and specificity (90%) to function as a primary screening test for subclinical liver disease in horses exposed to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Alkaline phosphatase was useful, but with lower sensitivity (58%).

Conclusion:Serum gamma glutamyltransferase activity is a useful screening test for detecting subclinical liver disease in horses exposed to pyrrolizidine alkaloids under field conditions in northern Australia.
Treatment of rupture of suspensory ligament and superficial flexor tendon in a bull
Authors: NELSON DR , KNELLER SK , MARTIN DD
Published: March 2008

Rupture of the suspensory ligament at the insertions on the proximal sesamoid bones, and of the superficial flexor tendon of the left fore limb, occurred in an adult Angus bull as a result of fighting. There was severe hyperextension of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint with the dewclaws almost touching the ground. Radiographs revealed severe hyper‐extension of the MCP joint with the sesamoid bones aligned directly distal to the metacarpus. Initially, a full length fiberglass cast was applied with the limb partially flexed within the cast and the heels elevated. The cast was replaced twice. The cast was removed after 136 days and the bull was bearing full weight on the limb. Prolonged immobilisation of the limb produced new bone in the area (a normal response in cattle) to cause ankylosis of the traumatized MCP joint and partial ankylosis of the carpus. The bull was being used for pasture breeding one year after the injury.
Tendonitis of the branches of insertion of the superficial digital flexor tendon in horses
Authors: GIBSON K T , BURBIDGE H M , ANDERSON B H
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe clinical findings, ultrasonographic features and outcome of injury to the branches of insertion of the superficial digital flexor (SDF) tendon in horses.

Design Retrospective study of 14 cases.

Procedure Fourteen Thoroughbred horses with tendonitis affecting the branches of insertion of the SDF tendon were examined for lameness, location and amount of swelling, and the presence of other musculoskeletal abnormalities. The flexor tendons were assessed by ultrasonographic examination, and recommendations were made for management of the cases. Outcome was assessed by re‐examination of some horses, direct communication with the owner or trainer, and examination of race records.

Results The lateral SDF branch was affected in 10 horses; the medial branch in three, and both branches in one horse. Two horses had concurrent injuries to the SDF tendon in the metacarpal region of the contralateral limb. Ultrasonographic findings included swelling of the affected SDF branch, peritendinous fluid accumulation, disruption of normal fibre alignment on sagittal scan, and variable loss of echogenicity. As healing occurred, there was return of normal echogenicity, but normal fibre alignment did not return completely and apparent adhesions formed between the affected SDF branch and adjacent structures. Seven of 10 horses which returned to their previous use were able to compete without further tendon injury. Recurrence of injury occurred in one case, and another two horses developed tendonitis in the metacarpal region. One horse was retired from racing but was able to compete at dressage without recurrence of injury. Two horses were retired for breeding without returning to training, and one horse was sold and lost to follow up but did not race.

Conclusion The prognosis is fair for return to previous use following injury to the branches of insertion of the SDF tendon in athletic horses.
Epidemiological studies of pig diseases: 1. Use of French protocols for risk factor assessment to predict the health status of Australian herds
Authors: BUDDLE JR , MERCY AR , SKIRROW SZ , MADEC F. , NICHOLLS RR
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine in Australian pig herds the accuracy of French protocols for risk factor assessment.

Procedure Data on health indicators and risk factors were collected for three syndromes, ‘pre‐weaning diarrhoea’, ‘post‐weaning diarrhoea’ and ‘respiratory problems’, using the French protocols. The protocols were used on 118 occasions in 32 Western Australian pig herds during 3 years (1988 to 1991).

Results There was a wide variation in pre‐weaning performance, for example growth rate was 107 to 273 g/day (< 200 g/day in 33% of herds). Respiratory lesions at weaning were associated with poor pre‐weaning performance. Post‐weaning (21 days after weaning) growth rate was 114 to 408 g/day (< 250 g/day in 54% of herds). In the grower herds, 91% of herds had pneumonia, and growth rate was 439 to 625 g/day (< 550 g/day in 54% of herds). Pleurisy as well as pneumonia was associated with reduced growth rate. The risk factor most closely associated with respiratory health status was air volume per pig.

Conclusion Risk factors were most accurate at predicting the health status in post‐weaning problems. A weaning weight of at least 7.9 kg and weaning age of 30 days optimised weaner performance. Stocking densities and shed designs providing at least 3 m3 air volume and 0.6 m2 floor space per pig throughout the growing phase should be considered for an improved respiratory health status. Australian pig sheds often do not provide a satisfactory environment for optimum health. The technique of risk factor assessment as an aid to the maintenance of health in pig herds is applicable in Australia, but further research is necessary to determine the most important Australian risk factors.
Mechanical comparison of materials used for extra‐capsular stabilisation of the stifle joint in dogs
Authors: LEWIS DD , MILTHORPE BK , BELLENGER CR
Published: March 2008

Objective The mechanical properties of three materials (No. 2 polypropylene, No. 5 polybutilate‐coated multifilament polyester and 18, 27 and 36 kg test monofilament nylon leader material) commonly used for extra‐capsular stabilisation of the stifle in dogs with cranial cruciate ligament insufficiency were determined. The ability of No. 5 polybutilate‐coated multifilament polyester and 36 kg test monofilament nylon leader material, when placed as extra‐capsular sutures, to mitigate cranial drawer was evaluated in hindlimbs of cadavers.

Design An in vitro mechanical study.

Animals Seven pairs of hindlimbs harvested from adult greyhound dogs recently euthanased for other reasons.

Procedure Samples of each material, including samples of 27 kg test leader material that had been sterilised by one of three methods (ethylene oxide, one or five cycles in an autoclave), were loaded to determine tensile and stress relaxation properties. The effect of cyclic loading on a No. 5 polybutilate‐coated multifilament polyester and 36 kg test leader material was also determined. Using the harvested hindlimbs, cranial drawer was measured before and after transection of the cranial cruciate ligament and on the first and twelfth cycle following extra‐capsular stabilisation with either No. 5 polybu‐tilate‐coated multifilament suture or 36 kg test leader material.

Results Leader material was found to have the most suitable mechanical characteristics for use as extracapsular stabilisation of the cranial cruciate ligament deficient stifle. Of the sterilisation methods, ethylene oxide was found to have the least detrimental effects on the handling and material characteristics of the leader material. Stifles stabilised with 36 kg test leader material had significantly less drawer than those stabilised with No. 5 polybutilate‐coated multifilament polyester suture.

Clinical implications Monofilament nylon leader material would appear to have suitable mechanical properties for extra‐capsular stabilisation of the cranial cruciate ligament deficient stifle. If possible the material should be sterilised using ethylene oxide.
Serum and skin IgA concentrations in normal and atopic dogs
Authors: MUELLER RS , CANNON A , REUBL GH , IHRKE PJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To compare serum and skin surface IgA concentrations from atopic and normal dogs.

Procedure IgA concentrations in sera and skin washings of 20 clinically normal dogs that had no history of pruritus or skin disease were compared to those obtained in 20 dogs with a diagnosis of atopy determined by history, clinical examination and positive intradermal skin test.

Results There was no significant difference in the mean serum IgA concentration in normal dogs (252 ± 187 mg/L) versus atopic animals (314 ± 327). When skin washings from all sites in both groups were compared, atopic dogs had significantly greater concentrations of IgA in their skin washings than normal dogs as evaluated by an enzyme‐linked immunoassay (P < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference between the individual sites of the skin washings of atopic and normal dogs.

Conclusion IgA concentrations of skin washings in atopic dogs were greater than in normal dogs. Further investigations need to determine if the greater concentrations were caused by nonspecific inflammation or by secretion of allergen‐specific IgA onto the skin surface.
Transient glucose malabsorption in two horses fact or artefact?
Authors: CHURCH S. , MIDDLETON DJ
Published: March 2008

Two horses, presented for investigation of chronic weight loss despite normal to increased feed intake, had flat oral glucose absorption curves, suggesting malabsorption. The cause of the apparent malabsorption was not evident grossly or on light microscopic examination of the intestinal tract. Both horses survived long term and at follow‐up examination had regained weight and their capacity to absorb glucose. These cases illustrate that flat glucose absorption curves may occur in horses with no obvious intestinal lesions, that they may revert to normal and that the results of these tests should be interpreted with caution.
Thiamine deficiency in a cat associated with the preservation of 'pet meat with sulphur dioxide
Authors: STEEL RJS
Published: March 2008

A cat with allergic dermatitis was fed a diet of fresh meat and a multi‐vitamin supplement for 38 days to exclude food allergy as a cause of its dermatopathy. The cat died as a result of acute thiamine deficiency, which was caused by inac‐tivation of thiamine by the preservative, sulphur dioxide. The continuing undeclared usage of sulphites in the Australian pet food industry is discussed.
An outbreak of malignant catarrhal fever in young rusa deer (Cervus timorensis)
Authors: TOMKINS NW , JONSSON NN , YOUNG MP , GORDON AN , McCOLL KA
Published: March 2008

On the basis of clinical signs and histological findings eight 9‐month‐old male rusa deer (Cervus timorensis) were diagnosed with sheep associated‐malignant catarrhal fever. Following a variable course involving rectal temperatures around 40.5°C, depression, inappetence, diarrhoea, corneal opacity and hypopyon all animals died or were euthanased over a 5‐week period. Severe multifocal vasculitis, mainly periglomerular and in the arcuate vessels were consistent histological findings which in the past have been adequate to confirm clinical diagnosis of sheep associated‐malignant catarrhal fever. A nested poly‐merase chain reaction test has been used to detect a sheep associated‐malignant catarrhal fever PRC product, 238 base‐pairs in size, in DNA extracted from lymphocyte preparations. The result supported the diagnosis of sheep associated‐malignant catarrhal fever in these deer.
Sickness, mortality and the buller steer syndrome in a western Canadian feedlot
Authors: TAYLOR LF , BOOKER CW , JIM GK , GUICHON PT
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine if an association existed between sickness, mortality and bullers in a western Canadian feedlot.

Design A retrospective epidemiological study.

Animals 78,445 male cattle that entered a 24,000‐head feedlot in western Canada from 1991 to 1993.

Procedure Animal health records for bullers were collected and analysed to see if they were at greater risk of sickness and mortality than other steers, and to see if pens with a high prevalence of bullers also had a high prevalence of sickness and mortality.

Results The prevalence of bullers increased with increasing age of cattle on arrival at the feedlot (R = 0.36; P < 0.001). Sickness and mortality decreased with increasing age of cattle on arrival. However, sickness and mortality in bullers relative to other steers actually increased with increasing age on arrival suggesting an interaction existed between sickness and bullers. Bullers were significantly (P < 0.05) more likely to get sick and to die than other steers. In all cases, there was a strong temporal association between sickness and bullers, with sickness and bullers mostly occurring within the first 30 days of the feeding period. On average, pens of cattle with a high prevalence of bullers did not have a correspondingly high prevalence of sickness or mortality.

Conclusion This study suggests that sickness is an effect modifier of dominance behaviour and therefore bullers in feedlot steers. Bullers should always be checked for signs of sickness and treated accordingly. Further research is needed to investigate the effects of sickness on dominance behaviour in pens of feedlot cattle.
Observations of fibropapillomatosis in green turtles (Chelonia mydas) in Indonesia
Authors: ADNYANA W. , LADDS PW , BLAIR D.
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the prevalence and manifestations of fibropapillomatosis in green turtles in Indonesia, to identify any relationship between fibropapillomatosis and concurrent parasitic infection, to ascertain the effect of fibropapil‐lomatosis on health, and to examine whether environment might have an effect on the prevalence of fibropapillomatosis.

Procedure 4407 green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and 401 hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) were examined. The occurrence of fibropapillomatosis was correlated with sex, maturity, curved carapace length, body weight/curved carapace length ratio, the number and distribution of tumours on the skin, parasite burdens, some haematological variables and the region of capture.

Results Fibropapillomatosis was seen only in green turtles, and the overall prevalence in these was 21.5%. This prevalence increased with the curved carapace length up to 85 cm. The average number of tumours per affected turtle was 5 SD 4.1 (range, 1 to 29), and was negatively correlated with the body weight/curved carapace length ratio (rs = ‐0.8; P = 0.001). The red blood cell count in turtles with fibropapilloma was lower than in non‐fibropapilloma turtles captured and examined at the same time (P = 0.001). The prevalence of fibropapilloma in turtles captured near densely populated, industrial regions (26.3%) was greater than in turtles from sparsely populated areas (17.7%).

Conclusion Fibropapillomatosis in green sea turtles in Indonesia is of moderate occurrence; young mature turtles (curved carapace length = 85 cm) are most frequently affected. Fibropapilloma adversely affects health of turtles. Fluke infestation seems not to be a causal factor, but viral infection, perhaps with concurrent stress of environmental origin, seems likely.
Postmortem lesions in the intercarpal ligaments of the equine midcarpal joint
Authors: WHITTON RC , ROSE RJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the frequency of damage to the medial palmar intercarpal ligament (MPICL), and the range of sizes of the dorsomedial intercarpal ligament (DMICL) of the midcarpal joint in horses with no history of carpal joint disease.

Materials and methods

Cadaver limbs were collected from 72 horses with no history of carpal joint disease. One hundred and forty‐two midcarpal joints were dissected and the MPICL and DMICL were examined. Measurements were made with a digital micrometer.

Results MPICL tearing was present in 88 of 96 joints from horses 2 years and older. Tears were predominantly of the dorsolateral bundle and complete rupture of the dorsolateral and dorsomedial bundles was not observed. Tearing was not present in foals less than 4 months of age and the severity of tearing increased significantly with age (P < 0.0001). Severity of tearing was significantly greater in racing Standardbreds than racing Thoroughbreds (P < 0.01), but there was no significant difference between racing and non‐racing horses. The lateromedial thickness of the DMICL ranged from 0.4 mm to 2.6 mm in horses 2 years and older. Lateromedial thickness increased significantly with age, and was significantly greater in racing Standardbreds than racing Thoroughbreds (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between racing and nonracing horses.

Conclusions Damage confined to the dorsolateral bundle of the MPICL is a common finding in horses over 1 year of age and is probably of little clinical significance. Complete rupture of both dorsolateral and dorsomedial bundles is uncommon in horses with no history of midcarpal joint disease. Variation in size of the DMICL is observed in horses of all ages, but is most marked in 2‐year‐old horses.
Atresia of the external acoustic meatus in a dog
Authors: SIMPSON D.
Published: March 2008

Summary: A 3 year old, female great Dane with atresia of the right external ear canal had recurrent episodes of ear pain. Radiography revealed absence of air in the right external acoustic meatus, thickened bone of the right tympanic bulla and increased radiodensity of the chamber of the bulla. Total ear canal ablation and lateral bulla osteotomy were performed. The superficial portion of the external ear canal was absent and the deeper segment of the vertical ear canal began as a blunt ended cartilage tube. A patent lumen in the existent portion of the external ear canal and the tympanic bulla contained wax, hair and exfoliated squames. The tympanic membrane was not intact. No bacteria were cultured from the contents of the external and middle ear. The dog responded well to surgery and was free of pain 11 months later. Failure to surgically correct atresia of the ear canal in young dogs may allow the accumulation of cellular and sebaceous debris with subsequent involvement of the middle ear in an inflammatory response.
Epidemiological investigation of the buller steer syndrome (riding behaviour) in a western Canadian feedlot
Authors: TAYLOR LF , BOOKER CW , JIM GK , GUICHON PT
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe the buller steer syndrome in a Western Canadian feedlot.

Design A retrospective epidemiological study.

Animals 78,445 male cattle that entered a 24,000‐head feedlot in western Canada from 1991 to 1993.

Procedure All cattle were given a hormonal growth promotant containing 20 mg oestradiol benzoate and 200 mg progesterone within 24 h of arrival at the feedlot. A ‘buller’ was a steer that was observed at daily pen checking to be ridden persistently by pen mates or had evidence of having been persistently ridden by pen mates. At the completion of the feeding period, animal health records for bullers were collected and analysed.

Results The prevalence of bullers in the total population was 2139/78,445 (2.7%, range per pen 0 to 11.2%). The prevalence of bullers increased with increasing weight and age. The relapse risk after first treatment (three days in the feedlot hospital plus treatment for concurrent disease) was 30% on average (27 to 35%). Individual records from 9734 yearling steers that entered the feedlot in 1991 and 1992 showed that bullers were significantly (P < 0.05) heavier at processing than non‐bullers. Bullers occurred as a point source epidemic with the cause occurring soon after cattle arrived at the feedlot and were mingled into pen groups. This gave a ‘days on feed’ distribution. The peak incidence of bullers occurred much sooner after arrival and dropped off much quicker in older cattle. The daily incidence of bullers was temporal, but was not related to season of the year, weather conditions or any other feedlot management practice. It was related to the seasonal arrival of cattle at the feedlot, their age at entry to the feedlot and the post arrival occurrence of bullers. Reimplantation with hormonal growth promotants and castration of intact bulls did not produce an epidemic of bullers.

Conclusion The findings of this study support the theory that bullers are the result of agonistic interactions, which occur concurrent with the establishment and maintenance of a social hierarchy within pens of feedlot cattle.
Bookshelf
Authors: Peel Margaret M. , Faragher Trevor
Published: March 2008

Disinfectants: actions and applications
, Scientific and Technical Review, vol 14 (1), Office International des Epizooties, Paris, 1995, 248 pages, ISBN 92 9044 367 7 B96179

Disinfectants: actions and applications
, Scientific and Technical Review, vol 14 (2), Office International des Epizooties, Paris, 1995, 248 pages, ISBN 92 9044 3677

Risk Assessment for Veterinary Biologicals
, OIE Scientific and Technical Review 14 (4), December 1995. Office International des Epizooties, Paris, 400 pages. Price: US$50.00, ISBN 92 9044 398 7