bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conception rates in cows after various synchronisation techniques using progesterone releasing intravaginal devices
Authors: FOLMAN Y. , McPHEE S. R. , CUMMING I. A. , DAVIS I. F. , CHAMLEY W. A.
Published: March 2008

The effects of different treatments for oestrus synchronisation on the incidence of oestrus and fertility levels in dairy cows were studied in 2 experiments.

In Experiment 1, 200 lactating cows were allotted to 5 groups and the treatments imposed were either; 1: Untreated controls, 2: An injection of 0.5 mg of cloprostenol followed 13 days later by a progesterone releasing intravaginal device (PRID) inserted for 12 days, 3: A PRID, with a capsule containing 10 mg of oestradiol benzoate (ODB) attached, inserted for 12 days, 4: A PRID inserted for 12 days with 0.5 mg of cloprostenol administered 24 h before PRID removal or, 5: As for 4 but 14 days after fixed‐time insemination a second PRID was inserted for 12 days. Treated cows were inseminated 56 h after PRID removal and at an observed oestrus during the subsequent 30 days. The control group was inseminated at an observed oestrus during this 30‐day period. For treatments 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively, the percentage of cows showing oestrus by 60 h after PRID removal was 70, 40, 67 and 43 and conception rates to the fixed time insemination were 34, 33, 49 and 29%. Calving rates of cows inseminated at an observed oestrus during a 30‐day period were 70, 75, 70, 83 and 82% for treatments 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively.

In Experiment 2, 60 lactating cows were divided into 2 groups and the treatments imposed were either 1: An injection of 0.5 mg of cloprostenol followed 13 days later by a PRID inserted for 12 days or 2: As for 1 but 14 days after fixed‐time insemination a second PRID was inserted for 12 days. Treated cows were inseminated 56 h after PRID removal and at an observed oestrus over a period from the first insemination to 6 days after removal of the second PRID. For treatments 1 and 2, respectively, 73 and 71% of cows showed oestrus by 60 h after removal of the first PRID and 40% and 46% conceived to the fixed time insemination. The conception rates to inseminations over the treatment period were 73 and 70% for treatments 1 and 2, respectively.

None of the treatments resulted in conception rates which were lower than those of control cows provided that treated cows were reinseminated at observed oestrus. Treatment 4 provided the most practicable technique for oestrus synchronisation.
A study of the epidemiology of infectious bursal disease in poultry in Queensland, 1976–1979
Authors: MacKENZIE M. A. , SPRADBROW P. B.
Published: March 2008

The epidemiology of infectious bursal disease (IBD) was studied by serology and sometimes by visual examination of the bursa of Fabricius in poultry flocks in Queensland during 1976–1979.

Ten flocks, each of approximately 30,000 meat breeding chickens, were surveyed. All chickens had maternally‐derived antibody against IBD virus (IBDV) at hatching and active antibody was not detected while the chickens were brooded on rearing farms. When distributed to breeding farms, 7 of the flocks developed antibody when 11 to 25 weeks of age. The remaining 3 flocks were vaccinated by infection of 10% of the birds and within 4 weeks more than 80% of the chickens had developed precipitating antibody to IBDV.

Blood samples of 20 to 30 broiler chickens were collected at slaughter (7 to 9 weeks of age) from each of 312 broiler flocks raised on 37 contract farms. While the samples from 21 flocks were without detectable antibody to IBDV, all serum samples for 263 flocks contained antibody. The ratio of bursal weight to bodyweight was significantly lower in birds from 144 flocks having antibody to IBDV than in birds from 10 flocks that were without detectable antibody. In sequential studies, IBDV antibody became demonstrable in 27 of 30 flocks when the chickens were one to 6 weeks of age and was accompanied by bursal atrophy.

Serological investigation of 4 flocks of layer breeding chickens on a multi‐age farm at approximately monthly intervals resulted in antibody to IBDV being detected at every examination.

Serological tests and bursal examinations were carried out weekly in 2 flocks each of 4000 layer chickens between one and 20 weeks of age. Serum antibody developed in one flock at 4 weeks of age and in the other at 17 weeks of age. In both flocks, bursal atrophy occurred concurrently with the development of antibody.
Quantitation by ELISA of pili and sheep antibodies to the pili of Bacteroides nodosus
Authors: FAHEY K. J. , McWATERS P. G. , STEWART D. J. , PETERSON J. E. , CLARK B. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY ELISA systems have been developed to quantitate the isotypic antibody response of sheep naturally infected with B. nodosus isolate 198 or injected with pili from isolate 198 in oil emulsion vaccines. The predominant humoral antibody detected following vaccination was IgG, with substantially lower amounts of IgG2 and IgM. The antibody response was relatively specific for the pilus antigen from isolate 198. Although weak cross reactivities were detected with antiserums to some other isolates, ELISA IgG antibody titres in excess of 200 offer a tentative identification of the isolates of B. nodosus involved in natural outbreaks of footrot. A related ELISA was also developed to quantitate the amount of pili in cell suspensions and crude preparations of pili used in vaccines.
Effect of anthelmintic treatment immediately after calving on milk production
Authors: MATHEWS G. L. , GRAY R. M. , McGOWAN A. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The effects of anthelmintic treatment on the milk production of cows subjected to contrasting nutritional conditions before and after calving were determined.

Half of the cows in each of 2 management treatments were treated with 3.75 grams of fenbendazole on the second day after calving and twice more at weekly intervals. Treated and control cows were grazed together for the entire lactation.

Treated cows produced 8% more (P<0.05) milk over the 20 weeks lactation than the untreated cows. One third of the total lactation response to anthelmintic treatment occurred during weeks 5 to 10 of lactation.

The observed responses occurred despite equal larval challenge to treated and control cows and therefore the responses obtained are discussed in the context of a reduction in the worm burden.
Clinical findings in dogs and cats with lead poisoning
Authors: PRESCOTT C. W.
Published: March 2008

Over an 11‐year period, 68 cases of lead poisoning were diagnosed in dogs and three in cats, accounting for 58.6% and 21.4% of the accidental poisonings in dogs and cats, respectively, presented at the Small Animal Clinic, University of Queensland. Of the dogs, 94% showed alimentary tract involvement and 67.6% central nervous system signs. Blood lead concentrations above 0.3 ppm were considered to indicate toxicity when associated with alimentary tract or central nervous system abnormalities. The percutaneous absorption of lead in dogs is proposed as a factor for intoxication.
Aspects of the diagnosis, pathogenesis and epidemiology of canine parvovirus
Authors: STUDDERT M. J. , ODA C. , RIEGL C. A. , ROSTON R. P.
Published: March 2008

Between 18 July 1980 and 2 January 1981, 188 samples (145 faeces and 43 intestinal contents) were submitted from dogs with suspected canine parvovirus (CPV) enteritis. CPV was demonstrated in 56 (30%) of these samples; the weekly rate of positive CPV identification was remarkably constant at ∼30% even though clinical and often post‐mortem findings strongly supported a diagnosis of CPV enteritis. The simplest, most sensitive and most rapid method for detection of virus was haemagglutination (HA) which was twice as sensitive as isolation of virus and 8 times as sensitive as electron microscopy (EM). Forty nine of 56 (88%) samples positive for CPV were from dogs < 1 year old and 44 (79%) CPV‐positive samples were from pups < 6 months old; only one sample from a pup < 2 months old (pup was 7 weeks old) was positive. An additional 68 samples (53 faeces and 15 intestinal contents) were submitted from Beagle dogs that were part of a colony of ∼1200 dogs. Epidemiological data pinpoints the entry of CPV into the colony in November 1978 at which time most dogs including pups < 6 months of age developed antibody to CPV without developing clinical disease. From these data an overview of some aspects of the pathogenesis and epidemiology of CPV is constructed.
Ovine lupinosis resulting from the ingestion of lupin seed naturally infected with Phomopsis leptostromiformis
Authors: ALLEN J. G. , MOIR R. J. , MACKINTOSH J. B.
Published: March 2008

In each of 2 trials lupin seed naturally infected with P. leptostromiformis was fed to 4 sheep for extended periods as a sole ration. The levels of infection of the batches of seed used were 7% and 21% respectively. Three sheep in each trial developed lupinosis, which was complicated by nutritional imbalances and deficiencies, and other disorders.
Stress and summer infertility in pigs
Authors: HENNESSY D. P. , WILLIAMSON P. E.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A serious year‐round fertility problem on a commercial piggery was investigated. The problem was characterised by a high proportion of non‐pregnant sows and gilts which showed a delayed return or failure to return to oestrus after a normal mating to a fertile boar. Several factors were identified that we considered to be placing undue stress on the breeding stock from wearning through mating and early pregnancy. When steps were taken to reduce the influence of these stressors there was a marked improvement in the herd farrowing rate. Across all months this improvement was largely due to a reduction in the number of sows showing delayed return or failure to return to oestrus after mating. There were no concomitant changes in other indices of performance. In conclusion this study has shown that stressful factors other than summer heat stress can cause a syndrome of delayed or failure to return to oestrus, this syndrome is commonly and perhaps wrongly called summer or seasonal infertility. When given the appropriate combination and/or intensity of stressful stimuli, it can be manifest at any time of the year.
Assessment of a complement fixation test to detect Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection in pigs
Authors: LLOYD L. C. , BADMAN R. T. , ETHERIDGE J. R. , McKECHNIE K. , IYER H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Serums from pigs slaughtered at abattoirs were tested for evidence of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae infection using a complement fixation (CF) test which avoids the procomplementary effect of pig serum. To establish a diagnosis of enzootic pneumonia, the lungs from all sampled pigs were examined for pathological and histological changes consistent with the disease and cultures were made for mycoplasmas and bacteria. The study was carried out at Parkville and Bendigo 160 km apart at different times and all serums were tested at both laboratories. The results agreed closely.

Thirty‐six of 97 pigs at Parkville and 46 of 99 at Bendigo had enzootic pneumonia. About 80% were positive in the CF test. Sixteen per cent of porkers and 36% of baconers gave false negative reactors, that is, a negative test though lesions were present. About 18% to 36% gave false positive reactions but the level in the porkers in the Bendigo group was significantly higher (p<0.02). Possible explanations include, for the false negatives, loss of reactivity caused by circulating antigen and for the false positives, cross reacting antibody produced by another infection or failure to appreciate that lesions of EP were present in lungs because either they were not identified as such or they were not detected. The validity of any serological test for this disease cannot be established while there is a possibility that the present methods used for diagnosis, gross and microscopic examination and recovery of M. hyopneumoniae, fail to detect some infected animals. Other criteria may have to be adopted.
Experimental medication of equine ringworm due to Trichophyton equinum var. autotrophkum
Authors: PASCOE R. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Twelve medicaments were tested for their efficacy in the treatment of Trichophyton equinum var. autotrophicum; povidone iodine, thiabendazole ointment, captan ointment and Burroughs Wellcome Ringworm Ointment gave satisfactory results but their usefulness may be limited for treatment of large numbers of horses. Aqueous washes containing 0.5% hexetidine or 0.3% chloramine‐T did not prevent fungi being isolated from lesions for up to 7 days after treatment. Similarly neither etisazole nor thiabendazole suspension prevented fungi from being isolated from lesions for up to 15 days after treatment. Commonly used aqueous solution of 2.5% lime sulphur and 2% captan were least successful, as fungi could still be isolated from lesions for up to 30 days after treatment. The need to treat large numbers of horses may dictate the use of such solutions rather than ointments because of ease of application and cost factors.

Treatments consisting of 10% nystatin ointment, 10% iodine fortis, 10% Medol and a proprietary ointment, Queensland Itch Dressing, were not satisfactory.

Clinical appraisal and a scratch test must be used together to evaluate progress of treatment. Mass medication of large numbers of horses should be primarily aimed at reduction of spread of infection; normal hair growth should not be used as an indication of the removal of infective agents in the hair as regrowth was altered very little by medication. Hence assessments of cure on the basis of regrowth of hair alone are of dubious value.
A congenital vascular naevus in a foal
Authors: JABARA A. G. , HAZARD G. H. , O'SHEA J. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY This paper describes a case of a congenital vascular malformation in the skin of a colt. The lesion arose at the coronary border of the right hind leg. The microscopic structure of a biopsy suggested that the lesion, consisting of multiple foci of closely‐packed convoluted small vessels in the dermis, represented a marked exaggeration of glomi which normally occur in considerable numbers in this region of the skin.

On the basis of the clinical, macroscopic and histological findings, this lesion was considered to be an hamartoma, rather than a true tumour, and was therefore termed a congenital vascular naevus. The foal is remaining under observation to determine the eventual outcome of the lesion.
Comparison of the immunogenicity of Newcastle disease virus strains V4, B1 and La Sota in chickens
Authors: WESTBURY H. A.
Published: March 2008

The immunogenicity of the Australian Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strain V4 was compared with that of the International reference preparation of Hitchner B1 and a commercial La Sota strain.

Immunity was assessed serologically using the log mean HI titres 21 days after immunisation, the percentage of birds in each group which developed titres greater than 2s and their resistance to graded challenge doses of the virulent Herts 33/56 strain of NDV.

These tests showed that the V4 strain was significantly less immunogenic (P < 0.01) than the B1 or La Sota strains when administered intraocularly (eye drop) or by aerosol methods. When given in the drinking water V4 induced a better immunity (P < 0.01) than the B1 strain in one of 2 experiments.
Hyaluronic acid concentration in synovial fluid from normal and arthritic joints of horses
Authors: HILBERT B. J. , ROWLEY G. , ANTONAS K. N.
Published: March 2008

A method previously described was used to determine the hyaluronic acid concentration in synovia from normal and arthritic horse joints. The concentration of hyaluronic acid in the synovia from arthritic joints was found to be significantly lower than the concentration in fluid from normal joints.
Zearalenone intoxication of pigs
Authors: BLANEY B. J. , BLOOMFIELD R. C. , MOORE C. J.
Published: March 2008

Mycotoxicosis due to ingestion of zearalenone was detected on 2 pig farms on the Atherton Tableland in northern Queensland. In one herd of 200 pigs, this resulted from feeding maize which had been stored with a high moisture content. In the other herd of 1400 pigs, it resulted from feeding sorghum grain which was rain affected before harvest. Concentrations of zearalenone in the feeds ranged up to 8 mg/kg. Most prepubertal gilts in the herds displayed enlarged teats and signs of oestrus such as having red, swollen vulvas. In several cases both rectal and vaginal prolapses occurred. On one of the farms, 25 pigs died as a direct result of prolapses. Autopsy of a 3‐month‐old gilt revealed apparently enlarged ovaries and uterine horns. Sows and boars seemed to be unaffected. Four gilts failed to conceive following mating during the period of zearalenone ingestion, but apart from this and the deaths from prolapses, production of the herds appeared to be unaffected. Aust. vet. J. 61: 24–27
Abortion in sows after injection of a suspension of pencillin and streptomycin
Authors: LYNCH P.J.
Published: March 2008

Abortion in sows after injection of a suspension of penicillin and streptomycin
Haematological and serological data from dogs raised worm‐free and monospecifically infected with helminths
Authors: JENKINS D. J. , RICKARD M. D.
Published: March 2008

Pups free from helminth infection were obtained by treating the bitch prior to parturition, and the bitch and her pups after whelping, with oxfendazole and praziquantel. They were then housed in an area free from contamination with helminth eggs. Freedom from infection was confirmed by necropsy examinations and by serological tests using the Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Groups of pups were infected with Toxocara canis, Echinococcus granulosus, Taenia ovis, T. pisiformis and T. hydatigena and bled at 5‐day intervals. Haematological examinations and measurement of serum proteins were performed on blood samples obtained throughout 30 days of infection. Levels of serum proteins were not significantly altered in any infection. Pups infected with T. canis showed a marked increase in numbers of circulating eosinophils during the phase of larval migration through the liver and lungs; they also showed marked antibody responses to T. canis larval ES antigen. Haematological values were not significantly altered in any other pups.
Prostaglandin therapeutics in the bitch and queen
Authors: HENDERSON R. T.
Published: March 2008

A median lethal dose of 5.13mg/kg has been derived for use of PGF in the bitch and this is thought to be similar for use of PGF in the queen. Side effects of defecation and/or vomition may be observed in the bitch and queen using routine therapeutic doses.
Differences between strains of Bacteroides nodosus in their effects on the severity of foot‐rot, bodyweight and wool growth in Merino sheep
Authors: STEWART D. J. , CLARK B. L. , JARRETT R. G.
Published: March 2008

The effects of 3 ovine and one bovine strains of Bacteroides nodosus on the severity of foot‐rot, bodyweight and wool growth were compared in Merino sheep in a field experiment. Based on the severity of the induced foot lesions, one strain was classed as virulent (causing underrunning lesions in most feet), one was benign (causing lesions of the interdigital skin only), and 2, including the bovine strain, were of intermediate virulence (causing underrunning lesions in a small proportion of feet).

Differences among strains in their effect on foot‐rot severity and bodyweight were significant when compared over the whole experimental period, but were not significant at any single time of measurement, because of large differences between replicates. Bodyweight loss and severity of foot‐rot caused by the virulent strain were significantly greater than that caused by the benign strain. The intermediate strains lay between these 2 extremes in terms of both bodyweight and foot‐rot scores but were not significantly different from either in a statistical sense. Total greasy wool weight did not differ among groups over the whole experiment, but the rate of wool growth during the period when foot lesions were most prevalent and severe was reduced appreciably by the virulent strain and to a lesser extent by the intermediate strains.
A survey of heartworm in dogs in Australia
Authors: CARLISLE C. H. , ATWELL R. B.
Published: March 2008

A survey conducted throughout Australia indicated that Dirofilaria immitis was far more widespread than previously described. It was prevalent throughout Queensland and New South Wales, including the western regions and was increasing in incidence. Confusion exists as to which diagnostic tests to use and the methods of treatment are extremely variable.
Staggers in sheep associated with the ingestion of Tributes terrestris
Authors: BOURKE C. A.
Published: March 2008

The history of an unusual locomotory disturbance of sheep is traced from its first recognition in 1937 through to the most recent outbreak in 1981–83. The condition occurred only at certain times and in restricted areas of the central and northern slopes districts of New South Wales. Outbreaks were repeatedly associated with drought periods during which sheep grazed large areas of Tribulus terrestris for many months at a time. Many thousands of sheep were affected, but the prevalence varied greatly between flocks. The course of the disease was characterised by a slowly developing, irreversible, asymmetrical, weakness of the hindlimbs. The clinical signs suggested that a lesion of the thoraco‐lumbar spinal cord region was present. The macroscopic and microscopic examination of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems failed to demonstrate abnormalities which would account for the clinical signs. Haematological, biochemical and toxicological test results supported the concept of a neuromuscular disease process being present, but failed to indicate its aetiology.
A small episode of single quarter conform infections in lactating dairy cows kept at pasture
Authors: JOHNSTON K. G. , ENGLISH A. W.
Published: March 2008

For a period of 150 days, an Escherichia co/; infection in a single quarter of the udder of 13 cows occurred on average every 9 days, in a herd of 120 cows kept at pasture under temperate environmental conditions. Most cases were clinically mild, affecting cows in lactations 1 to 10 and at all stages of lactation; none were evident at calving. Samples of secretion from infected quarters sometimes had few demonstrable organisms. Eleven different serotypes in 8 (0) groups were recovered; one isolate was multiply resistant to antibiotics and one infection persisted for 120 days. A precise explanation for this episodic exacerbation of the new infection rate was not established, but probable contributing factors were recognised.
The effect of air movement on the activity, lying position and huddling behaviour of weaned piglets
Authors: McINNES S. J. , BLACKSHAW J. K.
Published: March 2008

An experiment was carried out in a 55‐sow, specific pathogen‐free commercial unit, to observe the behavioural adaptation of newly weaned pigs (7 to 10 kg) to air movement in a typical weaner pen. Direct air currents were generated by a fan placed at 4 positions around the pen. Observations were made of activity, lying position, huddling and orientation. Increased activity was observed when the wind was directed on to the preferred lying area of the pigs. The pigs usually moved out of the region of greatest air movement and indirect currents appeared to be more favourable. Wind inhibited huddling in the pigs when it was directed over the lying area but orientation was unaffected. Social factors were important in the choice of lying position. The percentage of pigs huddling gave a behavioural indication of the suitability of the husbandry environment for production and welfare.
Experimental infection of mares with Haemophilus equigenitalis
Authors: ROGERSON B. A. , CONDRON R. J. , BAKER J. , CRAVEN J. A.
Published: March 2008

Inoculation of Haemophilus equigenitalis into the uterus of 7 mares caused a disease clinically indistinguishable from contagious equine metritis. The duration of clinical signs varied from 4 to 11 days. The causative organism persisted for a relatively short time (2 to 10 weeks) in 5 mares, but in 2 others it established a carrier status and persisted until they were killed 6 and 10 months after infection. H. equigenitalis was recovered from the vestibule of the vagina and from a combined swab of the clitoral fossa and sinuses throughout the course of the infection. In some mares there were extended periods (2 weeks) when it could not be reisolated. All mares experienced a transitory serological response to infection. The complement fixation test was generally negative 12 weeks after infection whereas antibodies detected by the passive haemaggiutination test and serum agglutination test were more persistent. In some animals the PHT and SAT titres increased during the breeding season following infection. The serological response did not appear to be related to the duration of infection.
Death in sheep following dosing with copper diethylamine oxyquinoline sulphonate as a commercial injectable copper preparation
Authors: MASON R. W. , McMANUS T. J. , HENRI D. , MIDDLETON M. , SLOAN C.
Published: March 2008

Death occurred in sheep following diethylamine oxyquinoline sulphonate (DOS) copper injections given at recommended dose rates. The copper content in unused portions of DOS copper packs was normal and free of bacterial contamination. Liver and blood copper levels in dead and sick sheep were not high. Sick sheep showed signs of hepatic encephalopathy and dead sheep were generally piled against fences and scrub. Deaths were associated with acute, severe, generalised, centrilobular, hepatocellular necrosis and live sheep had elevated circulating levels of liver enzymes consistent with liver damage. In recovered sheep there were no residual complications. It would appear that even at 0.5 mg/kg of DOS copper the safety threshold may sometimes be exceeded in some sheep.
Osteomyelitis in dogs and cats caused by anaerobic bacteria
Authors: JOHNSON K. A. , LOMAS G. R. , WOOD A. K. W.
Published: March 2008

Localised osteomyelitis was diagnosed in 2 dogs and 2 cats. The disease was caused by fight wounds in 3 cases. Radiographic examination demonstrated a circumscribed zone of cortical bone lysis, sequestra and periosteal new bone. Each case was treated surgically by sequestrectomy and debridement. Infection was due mainly to anaerobic bacteria. The pathogenic bacteria isolated from the lesions of dogs were Actinomyces viscosus, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Bacteroides spp, and from the lesions in cats were Clostridium villosum, Peptostreptococcus anaerobius, Wolinella recta and Bacteroides gingivalis. As all the bacteria were sensitive to penicillin, each case was treated with penicillin and by irrigation of the wound. This resulted in resolution of the disease, within 4 weeks, in all cases.
Behaviour of amitraz in cattle dipping baths
Authors: McDOUGALL K. W. , LEWIS I. J.
Published: March 2008

The settling rates of 0.025% w/v amitraz (used as a 50% w/w active ingredient wettable powder) and lime stabiliser (0.7% Ca(OH)) were studied in cattle dipping baths in the Tick Quarantine Area of northern New South Wales. Although lime settled more rapidly than amitraz, the rate for both decreased as the number of cattle dipped increased. After a total of 1,200 head had been dipped the settling rate during the hour following stirring was negligible, and re‐stirring was not necessary within the hour following use. Baths could also be cleaned of heavy sediment by scooping without significant loss of chemicals. When the bath volume was allowed to decrease to 2,100/ below working volume no significant changes in amitraz and Ca(OH)2 concentrations occurred.

Data collected from 796 baths showed a significant concentration change of +0.00066% amitraz and ‐0.017% Ca (OH)2 per 1,000 head of cattle. Replenishment per 700/of water with 254 g amitraz was found to be in good agreement with 250 g recommended by the manufacturer, while 12.53 kg for lime was substantially more than the 10 kg recommended.
A necropsy technique for cattle to eliminate contamination of lymph nodes by mycobacteria
Authors: NORTON J. H. , DUFFIELD B. J. , COWARD A. J. , HIELSCHER R. W. , NICHOLLS R. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A field necropsy technique for cattle is described which avoids contamination by environmental mycobacteria of tissues intended for bacteriological examination. Settling the dust by hosing on and around the carcase, using sterile instruments for the collection of each tissue, excising lymph nodes without incising the capsule and submitting the nodes to the laboratory intact in saturated tetraborate solution resulted in uncontaminated samples even under adverse field conditions. The procedure is recommended for future investigations into the role of mycobacteria other than Mycobacterium bovis in the sensitisation of cattle to the intradermal test for tuberculosis.
Illness in horses following spraying with amitraz
Authors: AUER D. E. , SEAWRIGHT A. A. , POLLITT C. C. , WILLIAMS G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Sickness occurred in 3 of 4 horses within 24 h of being sprayed with an 0.025% w/v aqueous suspension of amitraz. The latter consisted of a portion of an amitraz aqueous suspension made up some 3 weeks previously, to which some freshly prepared spray fluid had been added. It seemed likely that the amitraz in the older solution had broken down to the highly toxic N‐3, 5‐ dimethylphenyl N‐methyl formamadine derivative and that this was in fact the main cause of the untoward effects observed. The horses displayed typical clinical signs of tranquillisation, depression, ataxia, muscular incoordination and impaction colic lasting up to 6 days. Subcutaneous oedema of the face occurred in one horse. The syndrome was accompanied by mild dehydration and acidosis. All horses survived after persistent symptomatic treatment including the giving of intravenous fluids, enemas, analgesics every 3 h, multiple doses of paraffin oil per os and dexamethasone intravenously. Following the eventual relief of constipation the horses scoured profusely for 24 h before their condition returned to normal.
Clinical and haematological features of haemangiosarcoma in dogs
Authors: NG C. Y. , MILLS J. N.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Canine haemangiosarcoma was studied retrospectively in 31 cases recorded among 2,871 dogs presented for necropsy (1.08%). The German Shepherd breed was more frequently represented than other breeds. Affected dogs were older than 5 years (mean 9.1 years). Nineteen were males. Presenting signs often included episodic lethargy and weakness, with depression, anorexia and mucosal pallor. Spleen and lungs were the most frequently affected sites.

Haematological findings in 9 dogs with splenic or hepatic haemangiosarcoma included a mild to moderate normochromic anaemia, neutrophilia, thrombocytopaenia, poikilocytosis and increased target cells. Acanthocytes occurred in 90% of cases, schizocytes in 80% and keratocytes and metarubyricytes in 70%. Fibrin split products were increased in 2 of the 3 cases in which they were measured. The changes in erythrocyte morphology are considered to be useful diagnostic features of canine haemangiosarcoma.
The occurrence of the snail Lymnaea columella on grazing areas in New South Wales and studies on its susceptibility to Fasciola hepatica
Authors: BORAY J. C. , FRASER G. C. , WILLIAMS J. D. , WILSON J. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Field surveys were carried out in the Lismore and Casino area for the presence of fresh water snails potentially responsible for the transmission of trematodes in ruminants. Although the North American snail, Lymnaea columella has previously only been reported from metropolitan areas, large populations of the snail were found east of Lismore. Natural infection with F. hepatica was detected in some of the snails and laboratory studies showed that this snail species was highly susceptible to infection with miracidia of F. hepatica and produced viable metacercariae. Three species of planorbid snails, Helicorbis australiensis, Pygmanisus pelorius and Gyraulus gilberti were also found. The first 2 planorbid species were infected with paramphistomid cercariae.
Comparison of immune response stimulated in sheep, rabbits and guinea pigs by the administration of multi‐component clostridial vaccines
Authors: WEBSTER A. C. , FRANK C. L.
Published: March 2008

Over 3 years, the immunogenic responses of various batches of multi‐component clostridial vaccines in sheep, rabbits and guinea pigs were compared. Fully susceptible healthy sheep were found to be more suitable than rabbits or guineas pigs for testing the potency of multi‐component clostridial vaccines containing Clostridium novyi type 6, C. perfringens type D, C. septicum and C. tetani, and recommendations are made that sheep are the preferred species for testing the potency of clostridial vaccines.
Pituitary tumour causing multiple endocrinopathies in a dog
Authors: BARR S. C.
Published: March 2008

A 9‐year‐old male Boxer with signs of lethargy, weight gain, polyuria, polydipsia, eosinopaenia and lymphopaenia was diagnosed as having hyperadrenocorticism. Concurrent central diabetes insipidus was diagnosed using a water deprivation test and antidiuretic hormone response test. A contrast radiographic technique was used to outline a pituitary mass. A chromophobe adenoma and secondary hypothyroidism were found on post‐mortem examination.
Prevalence of Dirofilaria immitis and Dipetalonema reconditum in greyhounds
Authors: MARTIN T. E. , COLLINS G. H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Blood samples from 331 greyhounds in the Hunter Valley and nearby coastal areas of New South Wales were examined for microfilariae using a filtration technique. Species were identified by histochemical staining; 10.9% of the greyhounds were Infected with Dirofilaria immitis and 3.6% with Dipetalonema reconditum. The prevalence of infection of both species was significantly greater in summer than in winter (p≤0.05). Infection with D. immitis was correlated with differences in age, sex, bodyweight and coat colour, and a reported lack of stamina and the presence of a cough. No significant association was found. Diethylcarbamazine citrate was used for prophylaxis in 8.8% of all the greyhounds examined.
Pre slaughter handling of cattle: The availability of water during the lairage period
Authors: WYTHES J. R. , JOHNSTONt G. N. , BEAMANS N. , O'ROURKE P. K.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A comparison was made of the effect of providing or denying water to steers during the last 20 h before slaughter on carcase weight, bruising, muscle pH, and during the dressing process on the numbers of rumens from which ingesta was spflt and the number of heads and tongues condemned because of contamination with ingesta. All cattle were offered water from arrival at the abattoir until the start of the treatment period. In one experiment the steers were rested for 24 or 48 h after a 120 km journey before being slaughtered, while in a second experiment they rested for 66 h after a 725 km journey.

Giving steers access to water until they were slaughtered did not affect adversely carcase weight, bruise score, muscle pH or the incidence of ingesta spillage from rumens. The number of condemned heads and tongues was not consistently related to the availability of water. In the absence of any adverse effects it is recommended that cattle be provided with water during the lairage period.
Changes in the synovia after the intra‐articular injection of sodium hyaluronate into normal horse joints and after arthrotomy and experimental cartilage damage
Authors: HILBERT B. J. , ROWLEY G. , ANTONASS K. N. , McGILL C. A. , REYNOLDSON J. A. , HAWKINS C. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Sodium hyaluronate was injected into normal horse joints and joints that had undergone an arthrotomy and experimental cartilage damage. The elimination half‐life for hyaluronic acid in normal joints was found to be approximately 96 h. The injection caused a non‐significant increase (42%) in synovial fluid protein concentration and a fall in the intrinisic viscosity of the fluid. In the arthrotomy group the synovial fluid hyaluronic acid concentration fell after surgery but it was unaffected by the injection of sodium hyaluronate. An initial rise in the intrinsic viscosity of the synovial fluid from the arthrotomy group coincided with an increase in protein concentration. However there was no significant difference between the mean intrinsic viscosity or protein concentration in synovia from the control and treated joints at any time after surgery.
Influence of frequency of anthelmintic treatment on the growth rate of Australian Friesian Sahiwal heifers
Authors: ISLES D. H. , DAVISON T. M. , FROST R. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A group of 42 Australian Friesian Sahiwal heifers was divided into 3 groups. Two groups received levamisole at different frequencies; once every 3 months or once per month at the rate of 4.45 mg of the phosphate base/kg; while the third group was untreated. Treatments were applied between 9 and 23 weeks of age, after weaning. A fourth group of 7 Friesian calves of equivalent age were initially not treated and were used as a comparison with the Australian Friesian Sahiwal control group.

Bodyweights of cattle and faecal egg counts were measured every 2 weeks and larval cultures were performed on samples with high egg counts. A significant (P<0.05) increase in weight gain was recorded in the Australian Friesian Sahiwal heifers treated once per month compared with once every 3 months and the untreated group. The group of Friesian calves had to be treated after 7 weeks due to weight loss and poor body condition.
A survey of fascioliasis in beef cattle killed at abattoirs in southern Queensland
Authors: BALDOCK F. C. , ARTHUR R. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The overall prevalence of fascioliasis in beef cattle found in an abattoir survey completed in May 1983 in southern Queensland, was 1.1%. Prevalence was 36% in the Stanthorpe Shire, varied from >1 to 10% in 12 shires and was 1% or less in 24 shires. Fascioliasis was not recorded from the other 46 shires in the area of the survey. Prevalence was <1% in female cattle of all ages. In males, prevalence increased with age from 0.6% in 17‐month‐old cattle to 4.7% in 4‐year‐old cattle. The differences in sex‐specific prevalences may be due to differences in susceptibility to the parasite between sexes, differences in susceptibility to the parasite between sexes, differences in management between sexes, or artefacts associated with sampling for a disease of very low prevalence. The presence of the exotic snail species, Lymnaea columella and L. viridis was confirmed in southern Queensland in 1977. These snails are suitable intermediate hosts for Fasciola hepatica and may widen the endemic area for liver fluke because of their more aquatic character and greater tolerance to high temperatures than L. fomentosa, the traditional snail host in Queensland. We suggest that introduced snails have not yet had a substantial impact on the importance of fascioliasis to the beef industry of southern Queensland. The survey provides baseline data for the future monitoring of this potentially important parasitic disease.
Phalangeal bone ash as an aid in diagnosing some nutritional causes of lameness in sheep
Authors: MASON R. W. , KOEN T.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Normal bone ash levels were determined on first phalangeal bones from lambs dying of acute causes and from abattoir specimens. First phalanges were chosen because they represent a whole bone thereby ensuring constant and natural proportion which would be difficult if sampling only a portion of a bone.

No practical difference in percentage ash, expressed in terms of green bone weight, was found between fore or hind feet of young male or female sheep. Consequently a single regression equation can adequately express the relationship between bone ash and bone length for sheep up to about 9 months of age.

Lambs suffering from hypocuprotic osteoporosis or osteodystrophy consistent with hypovitaminosis D have phalangeal bone ash values which tend to lie outside the lower range expected for normal sheep with first phalanges of similar length. Consequently bone ash can be a useful aid in the diagnosis of certain nutritional causes of lameness in sheep.
Attempted conversion of twin to singleton pregnancy in two mares with associated changes in plasma oestrone sulphate concentrations
Authors: HYLAND J. H. , MACLEAN A. A. , ROBERTSON‐SMITH G. R. , JEFFCOTT L. B. , STEWART O. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The removal of one of twin embryos was attempted by infusion of 24% (w/v) saline into the gestation sac in 2 mares by laparotomy. The treatment was successful in one mare (Case 1) and the untreated embryo remained viable. However, neither foetus survived in the second mare (Case 2). Plasma oestrone sulphate (E, S) concentrations fell immediately after treatment in both mares but recovered to approximately 50% of pre‐treatment levels in Case 1. In Case 2 plasma E, S concentrations declined steadily and were < 1 ng/ml within 6 days of treatment. These preliminary results suggest that the method may be useful for selective removal of one of twin embryos in mares. Furthermore, plasma E, S concentrations may be a useful indicator of embryonic viability.
Ocular inserts for application of drugs to bovine eyes —in vitro studies on gentamicin release from collagen inserts
Authors: PUNCH P. I. , SLATTER D. H. , COSTA N. D. , EDWARDS M. E.
Published: March 2008

Soluble collagen and insoluble collagen films were impregnated with gentamicin and investigated in vitro as vehicles for the delivery drugs. Succinylated collagen released significantly higher levels of antibiotic than the insoluble films, and maintained mean inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for Moraxella bovis for 24 h.
A retrospective study of head fractures in 21 horses
Authors: LITTLE C. B. , HILBERT B. J. , McGILL C. A.
Published: March 2008

The clinical features of 21 horses which sustained head fractures are reviewed. There was a higher incidence of fractures in males and Standardbred horses. Surgical treatment was practical and successful in most cases when the fractures involved the bones of the jaws and the face. Fractures which involved the cranial cavity or the cranial nerves were difficult to treat and usually held a poor prognosis.
Evaluation of an enzyme linked‐immunosorbent assay for the diagnosis of Brucella ovis infection in rams
Authors: LEE K. , CARGILL C. , ATKINSON H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A simple enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed for the serological diagnosis of Brucella ovis infections in rams. Serums from brucellosis accredited‐free flocks and flocks known to be infected with B. ovis were tested and the results correlated with warm complement fixation (CF) test and bacteriological examination of semen. Both the ELISA and the CF test detected 0.5% false positive reactions in rams from clinically negative flocks. However the ELISA detected significantly more positive reactors in infected flocks and the CF test failed to detect some rams excreting B. ovis. The ELSA proved to be a valuable test in eradicating brucellosis from infected flocks.
The effect of season on reproduction in dairy cattle
Authors: FULKERSON W. J. , DICKENS A. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A survey was carried out in North West Tasmania to compare the breeding performance of 2,068 cows in 27 dairy herds — 15 herds calving in spring and 12 in autumn. The percentage of cows submitted to artificial insemination for the first time in the first 24 days of the mating period was 87% for the spring calving group and 75% for the autumn calving group. Figures for non‐return‐to‐service rate over the subsequent 21 days were 72% and 55%, respectively. The difference in breeding performance associated with time of calving was not attributable to age, calving to mating interval or on cow condition or daily milk fat yield at 3 weeks (+‐ 1 week) after the start of mating.
Experimental combined aflatoxin B1 and ochratoxin A intoxication in pigs
Authors: TAPIA M. O. , SEAWRIGHT A. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Twenty‐one pigs weighing approximately 18 kg were placed in 7 groups of 3 and given diets containing respectively aflatoxin B, alone at 0.375 and 0.0750mg/kg, ochratoxin A alone at 1 and 2 mg/kg, 0.375 mg/kg of aflatoxin B1 plus 1 mg/kg of ochratoxin A and 0.750 mg/kg aflatoxin B1 and 2 mg/kg of ochratoxin A. The remaining group served as untreated control. At the respective dose levels, pigs receiving similar doses of ochratoxin A alone or in combination with aflatoxin B1, were similarly affected, the clinical effects of aflatoxin having been mostly obscured by those due to ochratoxin A. Mild degenerative hepatic changes typical of aflatoxicosis were observed in pigs fed this toxin alone or in combination with ochratoxin A. In kidneys of pigs fed diet containing 1 and 2 mg of ochratoxin A alone changes included interstitial fibrosis of the vortex and dystrophy and degeneration of the tubular epithelium. Similar lesions but less pronounced fibrosis were found in kidneys of pigs receiving both toxins. The respective lower dose levels of mycotoxins selected were judged to be about the no‐effect levels for each dosed separately under the conditions of the trial. Such levels have been found not infrequently on mould affected grain and stock foods. The result highlights the difficulties that may be experienced in the recognition of such multimycotoxicoses as they are likely to occur in the field and indicate the need for toxicological analysis as well as pathological investigation in establishing a diagnosis.
Cultural characteristics and virulence of strains of Fusobacterium necrophorum isolated from the feet of cattle and sheep
Authors: EMERY D. L. , VAUGHAN J. A. , CLARK B. L. , DUFTY J. H. , STEWART D. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Sixty‐one isolates of Fusobacterium necrophorum were recovered for study. Thirty‐one were obtained from lesions of foot abscess in cattle (25) and sheep (6), 28 were from interdigital lesions in cattle and 2 were from the normal interdigital skin of cattle. The majority of isolates from lesions of foot abscess were virulent, belonged to biotype AB (Fievez 1963), produced flat, irregular shaped, greyish colonies and haemolysis on blood agar, and grew as turbid filamentous suspensions in liquid media. They produced a soluble exotoxin, a leucocidin, and were pathogenic for cattle and mice. Virulent isolates also produced a haemolysin which most readily lysed bovine, equine and chicken erythrocytes; those from sheep were less susceptible while those of rabbit and pig were the most resistant. Isolates recovered from lesions of the feet not classified as foot abscess and from clinically normal feet were predominantly of the B biotype and caused few experimental lesions, produced convex, round, yellow colonies, flocculated and sedimented while growing In liquid medium and produced little or no haemolysin or leucocidin. Routine differentiation between virulent and non‐virulent bovine isolates of F. necrophorum could be achieved by assessing the colour, morphology, and degree of haemolytic activity of colonies grown on blood agar.
Use of electroacupuncture as an analgestic for laparotomies in two dairy cows
Authors: WHITE S. S. , BOLTON J. R. , FRASER D. McK.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Electroacupuncture was used as the sole analgesic for standing laparotomies on 2 Friesian cows. Needles placed in the lumbosacral space, and second lumbar interspinous space and high in the lumbar fossa were stimulated with an AC current at 15 to 28 Hz. The analgesia produced was similar to that of a paralumbar nerve block.