bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellophane banding for the gradual attenuation of single extrahepatic portosystemic shunts in eleven dogs
Authors: YOUMANS KR , HUNT GB
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy and short term effects of a cellophane banding technique for progressive attenuation of canine single extrahepatic portosystemic shunts.

DesignA prospective trial of 11 dogs with single congenital extrahepatic shunts.

ProcedureRectal ammonia tolerance testing and routine biochemical tests were performed preoperatively on all dogs. In seven dogs, preoperative abdominal Doppler ultrasonography was also performed. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a single extrahepatic portocaval shunt in each animal, which was attenuated using a cellophane band with an internal diameter of 2 to 3 mm. The abdomen was closed routinely. Follow‐up biochemical analysis and abdominal Doppler ultrasonography or splenoportography were performed postoperatively.

ResultsThe shunt was not amenable to total ligation in 11 dogs, based upon reported criteria. All dogs recovered uneventfully from surgery without evidence of portal hypertension, and showed clinical improvement thereafter. Shunt occlusion was deemed to have occurred in 10 dogs based on resolution of biochemical and/or sonographic abnormalities. One dog continued to have sonographic evidence of portosystemic shunting when evaluated 3 weeks after surgery, despite normal ammonia tolerance, but was lost to subsequent follow‐up. Two dogs, in which 3 mm cellophane bands were placed, experienced delayed shunt occlusion.

ConclusionCellophane banding is simple to perform, and causes progressive attenuation of single extrahepatic shunts in dogs. Further work is needed to determine the maximum diameter of a cellophane band which will produce total attenuation, and the long‐term safety and reliability of the treatment.
Lymphoid neoplasia in the koala
Authors: CONNOLLY JH , CANFIELD PJ , HEMSLEY S. , SPENCER AJ
Published: March 2008

Objective Correlation of immunophenotype with history, anatomical and morphological features of lymphoid neoplasia in the koala.

Methods Routine necropsies were performed on 51 koalas with suspected lymphoid neoplasia between 1986 and 1997 in New South Wales and Queensland. Immuno‐phenotyping was by an immunoperoxidase method utilising species cross‐reactive antibodies raised against human lymphocytes and an antibody raised against koala IgG. Cases were classified according to organs and tissues affected and the morphological features of neoplastic cells.

Results Twenty‐six (51%) of the cases were of the T cell immunophenotype, 12 (24%) were of B cell immunopheno‐type and 13 (25%) did not stain. The age and sex of koalas did not correlate with immunophenotype (P = 0.686 and P = 1.000, respectively). Thirty‐two cases were leukaemic and 36 had multiple organ involvement, probably reflecting presenta tion of koalas at advanced stages of disease. Abdominal tissue involvement was most common (44 cases), followed by nodal (32), atypical (21) and cervicomediastinal (14). The T cell immunophenotype was over‐represented among the leukaemic cases (P = 0.013). Generally, the T cell immunophenotype predominated except for many affected atypical tissues. Neoplastic cells were mostly of medium nuclear size with round to oval nuclei. No correlations were found for cell morphology, mitotic index and immunopheno‐type.

Conclusion The prognostic value of an immunopheno‐typic, anatomical and morphological basis for the classifica tion of lymphoid neoplasia in the koala currently is limited by the need to detect these neoplasms at an early age, the requirement for freshly fixed tissues and the restricted range of available cross‐reacting antibodies.
Pathology of skin diseases in crocodiles
Authors: BUENVIAJE GN , LADDS PW , MARTIN Y.
Published: March 2008

Objective To establish which skin diseases occur in crocodiles, particularly those on farms, to indicate the relative frequency of each particular disease and to provide information on pathogenesis, especially in regard to lesions with two or more pathogens present.

Design A gross and microscopic retrospective (period of 1989 to 1995) and current (1996 to 1997) examination of skin lesions in crocodiles in Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Result Skin lesions were obtained from crocodiles on nine farms, from a group of experimental animals and from one adult found dead in the wild. A total of 203 lesions from 180, mostly young, crocodiles was examined; 119 lesions were from retrospectively examined cases and 84 were recent. The relative frequencies of four presumed primary pathogens in lesions were Dermatophilus s p 28.1 %, fungi 14.8%, poxvirus 3.4% and probable Mycobacterium s p 2.5%. In addition, other bacteria of unknown significance were present in many lesions, and there was one case of presumed Paratrichosoma crocodilus infection. In 32.5% of lesions, multiple pathogens were identified.

Conclusion Dermatophilosis is the most common and probably the most important skin disease of crocodiles in Australia, but it is frequently complicated by concurrent infection with fungi or other microorganisms.
Mycobacterial nodular granulomas affecting the subcutis and skin of dogs (canine leproid granuloma syndrome)
Authors: MALIK R. , LOVE DN , WIGNEY DI , MARTIN P.
Published: March 2008

Objective To obtain a better understanding of a disease affecting dogs in which nodular mycobacterial granulomas are present in the subcutis or skin.

Design Retrospective survey

Procedure A diagnosis of an unidentified mycobacterial infection was made in 45 dogs following detection of acid‐fast bacilli surrounded by granulomatous or pyogranulomatous inflammation in tissue sections. Eight cases were identified from the records of our diagnostic laboratory. In all cases culture for mycobacteria was unsuccessful. Another 37 cases were identified by practitioners and veterinary pathologists in response to a survey mailed to veterinary clinics throughout Australia. Data from these 45 cases were entered into a data base. The data set was incomplete, as some respondents did not answer all questions.

Results Over 90% of affected dogs had short coats and about half were Boxers or Boxer‐cross dogs. A weak seasonal trend for the development of primary lesions in autumn and winter was identified. Cases were recorded from New South Wales (35 dogs), Western Australia (4), Queensland (4), Tasmania (1) and New Zealand (1). The subcutis and skin of the ears and head (including the ears) were involved in 64% and 85% of cases, respectively, for which lesion site was recorded. Culture was attempted but was unsuccessful in 19 cases, including 11 cases where material was submitted to our laboratory and/or a Mycobacteria Reference Laboratory. Lymph node enlargement, internal organ involvement or constitutional signs were not a feature of the syndrome, and most lesions did not worry the dogs. Although many practitioners recorded a favourable response to therapy with doxycycline (response rate 57%) or amoxycillin‐clavulanate (63%), spontaneous resolution of infection was thought to have occurred in six of seven dogs (86%) not given systemic antimicrobials, and three dogs where antimicrobials had failed previously. A minority of cases failed to respond to antimicrobial therapy and continued to have chronic lesions. There was no discernible trend for dogs of a particular age or sex to be affected.

Conclusion This syndrome is caused by saprophytic mycobacteria of limited pathogenicity that give rise to lesions restricted principally but not exclusively to the subcutis and skin of body extremities. Fastidious growth requirements have prevented their isolation on synthetic media used for culture of mycobacteria. Organisms presumably enter the subcutis following a breach in integrity of the epidermal barrier and produce self‐limiting disease in immunocompetent dogs. Lesions tend to resolve spontaneously. The possibility of a public health threat from affected dogs is highly unlikely.
Convergent strabismus in a white Bengal tiger
Authors: BERNAYS ME , SMITH RIE
Published: March 2008

A white Bengal tiger was noted to have a convergent strabismus with poor vision since a cub. The tiger and a littermate with normal colouring and apparently normal eyes were anaesthetised for comparative ocular examination. A fundus typical of colour‐dilute cats and dogs was noted in the white tiger. Except for strabismus, no abnormalities were observed. Electroretinography showed similar retinal function in both tigers. Possible causes of strabismus considered were an adaptation to genetically determined abnormal visual pathways related to lack of pigment, abnormalities of the abducent nerves and mechanical restricting conditions of the medial rectus muscles.
A longitudinal study of racing Thoroughbreds: performance during the first years of racing
Authors: MORE SJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectivesTo develop a profile of the racing careers of Thoroughbred horses in south‐eastern Queensland, and to examine factors that affect racing during the first years of racing.

Design and procedureA longitudinal study using the racing records of a defined cohort of Thoroughbred horses that were born on or within 12 months following 1 August 1991. Data collection commenced in 1996 and will continue until all horses cease racing. In this paper two measures of performance were examined: race earnings during the first year of racing and cumulative proportion of horses still racing up to 2 years after their first start. Univariable and multivari‐able methods were used to describe and identify factors associated with the performance of these horses.

ResultsBy 31 July 1997, 1804 horses were enrolled in the study including 916, 701, 152 and 35 horses that first raced at 2, 3, 4 and 5 years of age, respectively. During their first year of racing, half the horses earned no more than A 450 from race earnings, and 710 (39.4%) horses earned no money at all. In comparison to poorly performing horses, well‐performing horses were more likely to be male, to have started as 2‐year‐olds and to have had more starts during this year. Of the horses that first started as 2 and 3‐year‐olds, only 71 and 46% continued racing for at least 1 and 2 years after their first start, respectively. Length of racing life was associated with performance during the first year of racing (number of starts and average earnings per race), and with sex, date of birth and age at first start.

ConclusionsThe study confirmed a high wastage among racing Thoroughbreds. As expected, premature retirement from racing was linked to poor performance. During the first year of racing, the race earnings of an estimated 1567 (86.9%) horses were insufficient to cover training costs. The 2‐year‐old racing cohort outperformed the older racing cohorts in each of the performance measures under investigation. Interpretation of this result, and the long‐term effects of 2‐year‐old racing, was limited by the problem of confounding.
Therapeutic efficacy of zeta‐cypermethrin pour‐on for the treatment of biting and sucking lice in cattle under field conditions
Authors: ROTHWELL JT , HACKET KC , RIDLEY I , MITCHELL L , DONALDSON C , LOWE LB
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo assess the efficacy of zeta‐cypermethrin pour‐on to control cattle lice.

DesignFive field trials in south‐eastern Australia.

ProcedureZeta‐cypermethrin pour‐on, deltamethrin pour‐on and pour‐on vehicle were applied to groups of 10 cattle. Lice were counted before treatment and 14, 28, 42 and 56 days after treatment.

ResultsZeta‐cypermethrin pour‐on given at 2.5 mg/kg was equivalent to, or marginally more effective than a deltamethrin pour‐on at 0.75 mg/kg. It eliminatedB bovisandH eurysternusand gave good control ofL vituliandS capillatus.Zeta‐cypermethrin at 1 mg/kg gave good control ofB bovisandH eurysternusbut was not satisfactory againstL vituliandS capillatus.

ConclusionZeta‐cypermethrin pour‐on, given at 2.5 mg/kg, is an effective treatment for cattle lice control. Zeta‐cypermethrin, and other synthetic pyrethroid pour‐ons, are the treatment of choice to controlB bovis.
Transmission of virulent footrot between sheep and goats
Authors: GHIMIRE SC , EGERTON JR , DHUNGYEL OP
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the infectivity of ovine and caprine strains ofDichelobacter nodosusfor both sheep and goats.

DesignPen experiments in which 20 sheep and 19 goats were challenged directly with the two strains, and trans mission experiments on pasture, using donors infected by experimental challenge.

ResultsSheep and goat strains ofD nodosusinfected both animal species in ex perimental challenges. Animals so infected transmitted footrot to both sheep and goats on pasture plots. A significantly smaller proportion of goats than sheep was infected when challenged with either strain. The interval between exposure and development of footrot in goats was longer than in sheep when recipient animals were exposed to infected donors on pasture. The disease was less invasive in goats than in sheep.

ConclusionsWith the strains ofD nodosusused there was no evidence of host specificity. Direct transmission of footrot can occur between sheep and goats in the same environment. There is a need to include goats in ovine footrot eradication programs and vice versa
Adipsia and hypernatraemia in a dog with focal hypothalamic granulomatous meningoencephalitis
Authors: MACKAY BM , CURTIS N.
Published: March 2008

A 7‐year‐old Doberman was presented with a history of progressive neurological disease of 4 weeks duration. Initially there were episodes of aimless wandering and uncharacteristic aggression, however, the dog was obtunded at presentation. Serum biochemical analysis revealed profound hypernatraemia and moderate hyperproteinaemia. Despite correction of the hypernatraemia by the infusion of hypotonic fluids, the dog continued to periodically exhibit pacing and head pressing. A patchy, ill‐defined contrast‐enhancing area was evident in the ventral mid‐brain on computed tomography of the brain. Analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid revealed a mild increase in protein concentration, positive Pandy's test and mild pleocytosis. Because of the poor prognosis, euthanasia and necropsy were performed. Histopathological analysis of the brain revealed a severe focal menin‐goencephalitis affecting hypothalamic nuclei and mammillothalamic tracts. Destruction of osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus responsible for recognition of thirst is believed to have resulted in adipsia and subsequent hypernatraemia.
Serological characterisation of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae isolated from pigs in 1993 to 1996
Authors: BLACKALL PJ , BOWLES R. , PAHOFF JL , SMITH BN
Published: March 2008

Objectives To clarify the serological identity of the proto type strain of a group of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae isolates that could not be serotyped in previous studies and to establish the serovar of 378 isolates of A pleuropneumoniae obtained from pigs in Australia over the period 1993 to 1996.

Design After initial validation, QGD and IHA tests were used to characterise the prototype isolate (HS143) selected to represent the cross‐reacting isolates that were found in a previous study. Next, 378 recent field isolates of A pleurop‐neumoniae were characterised using the existing gel diffusion serotyping technique and/or the IHA or QGD tests.

Results The indirect haemagglutination test was shown to be capable of correctly recognising the reference strain for all serovars except serovar 11. While the quantitative gel diffu sion test was not as effective as indirect haemagglutination, it could recognise serovar 11. When the two tests were used to examine the prototype strain (HS143) of the cross‐reactive isolates, the results indicated that HS143 is serologically distinct from all 12 of the recognised serovars of A pleurop‐neumoniae. However, as HS143 was subsequently identified as serovar 12 by one of the leading international reference laboratories, the antiserum to isolate HS143 was used as the serovar 12 antiserum. A total of 346 of the 378 A pleuropneumoniae field isolates examined could be confidently serotyped with almost 90% of the isolates being either serovar 1 (104 isolates); serovar 7 (83 isolates) or serovar 12 (142 isolates). A range of other serovars and some cross‐reactive isolates made up the remainder of the isolates.

Conclusion The serovar 12 antiserum produced against the international reference strain (1096) does not recognise Australian serovar 12 isolates. The antiserum raised against isolate HS143 does recognise the Australian serovar 12 isolates. The dominant serovars of A pleuropneumoniae infecting Australian pigs are (in decreasing order) serovars 12, 1 and 7.
Veterinary surgeon's guide to Australian bat lyssavirus
Authors: THOMPSON GK
Published: March 2008

Veterinary surgeons in Australia must be aware of the emerging viral diseases and their potential effects on public health generally and, more specifically, on the veterinary profession. Australian bat lyssavirus was identified in 1996 and causes rabies‐like disease in bats and humans. Two humans from Queensland have died of Australian bat lyssavirus encephalitis. Surveillance has shown that all Australian bats must be considered carriers of this new virus, therefore protective apparel should be used when handling bats. The pre‐exposure regimen of inactivated rabies vaccine (Pasteur Mérieux) provides protection against infection. As part of the preventive regimen, at risk groups, such as veterinary surgeons, should seriously consider preexposure rabies vaccination. The post‐exposure protocol involves administration of human rabies immunoglobulins and five intramuscular injections of the inactivated rabies vaccine.
Postoperative performance of racing horses with tearing of the medial palmar intercarpal ligament
Authors: WHITTON RC , KANNEGIETER NJ , ROSE RJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo examine the relationship between medial palmar intercarpal ligament (MPICL) tearing and postoperative performance in racing horses.

Materialsand methods The postoperative performance of 42 horses in which the midcarpal joint was examined arthroscopically was followed prospectively. Intra‐articular variables examined were the severity of MPICL tearing, subchondral bone damage and articular cartilage damage. Using a scoring system based on the class of race and the position in the race, a mean score was calculated for up to five races before and after surgery. The preoperative score was subtracted from the postoperative score to give a net score. Statistical analysis was by a Mann Whitney U test and multiple linear regression.

ResultsThirty‐two (76%) raced postoperatively, 23 (55%) won at least one race and 12 of 26 (46%) performed at the same or higher level. Horses with grades 2 to 4 MPICL tearing had significantly lower net scores than those with grade 1 or no tearing. The severity of subchondral bone damage was the only variable on its own that was significantly correlated with net score (r2= 0.23, P<0.05). The addition of the grade of MPICL tearing to bone damage significantly improved the prediction of postoperative performance (P < 0.05). The inclusion of articular cartilage damage had no effect on the prediction of postoperative performance.

ConclusionTears involving more than one third of the MPICL as observed arthroscopically have a significant detrimental affect on postoperative performance of racing horses.
Haematological, serum biochemical and serological features of platypuses with and without mycotic granulomatous dermatitis
Authors: CONNOLLY JH , OBENDORF DL , WHITTINGTON RJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine whether there are haematological, serum biochemical and serological differences between platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) with and without granulomatous dermatitis due to Mucor amphibiorum infection. An additional objective was to establish reference haematological and serum biochemical ranges for the species in Tasmania.

Design A clinicopathological and serological study.

Animals A total of 37 free‐living adult platypuses captured from streams and dams in Northern Tasmania were used in the clinicopathological study. Twenty‐seven were clinically normal and 10 had mycotic granulomatous dermatitis. A total of 22 platypuses (20 adult and 2 juvenile) were used for the serosurvey. Eighteen were captured from streams in Northern Tasmania, and four were submitted for necropsy.

Results Platypuses with mycotic ulcerative dermatitis had significantly smaller packed red cell volumes, haemoglobin concentrations, lymphocyte counts, serum cholesterol and calcium concentrations, and higher serum globulin and potassium concentrations than clinically normal animals. The lymphopenia and hyperkalaemia were thought to be clinically significant. Numbers of Trypanosoma binneyi in blood smears were similar between the two groups. Diseased platypuses had higher concentrations of serum antibody against Mucor amphibiorum as determined by ELISA compared to clinically normal platypuses.

Conclusion Platypuses affected by mycotic granulomatous dermatitis showed haematological and serum biochemical changes when compared to clinically normal animals from the same Tasmanian sites. A serological survey may be a useful method for detecting the prevalence of exposure to Mucor amphibiorum and humoral immunity in platypus populations both in Tasmania and the mainland of Australia.
Effect of phenobarbitone on the low‐dose dexamethasone suppression test and the urinary corticoid: creatinine ratio in dogs
Authors: FOSTER SF , CHURCH DB , WATSON ADJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectivesTo investigate potential effects of phenobarbitone on the low‐dose dexamethasone suppression (LDDS) test and urinary corticoid to creatinine ratio in dogs in a controlled prospective study and in a clinical setting.

AnimalsTen crossbreed experimental dogs and 10 client‐owned dogs of mixed breeds treated chronically with phenobarbitone to control seizures.

ProceduresExperimental dogs were allocated to treatment (6 mg/kg oral phenobarbitone, n = 6) and control (n = 4) groups. LDDS tests (dexamethasone 0.01 mg/kg intravenously, cortisol concentration determined at 0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 h) were conducted repeatedly over a 3‐month period. Urinary corticoid to creatinine ratios were measured before LDDS tests. A single LDDS test was performed on 10 epileptic dogs.

ResultsLDDS and urinary corticoid to creatinine ratios in dogs were not affected by treatment with phenobarbitone.

ConclusionsPhenobarbitone does not interfere with LDDS testing regardless of dosage or treatment time. Urinary corticoid to creatinine ratios are also unaffected.
Characterisation of isolates of Haemophilus paragallinarum from Indonesia
Authors: POERNOMO S. , SUTARMA  , RAFIEE M. , BLACKALL PJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To characterise 18 isolates of Haemophilus paragallinarum isolated from chickens in Indonesia.

Procedure The isolates were identified to species level by traditional phenotypic methods. Six of the isolates were also identified by a species‐specific polymerase chain reaction. Fourteen of the isolates were examined for resistance to a panel of seven antimicrobial agents using a disc diffusion method. All 18 isolates were serotyped according to the Page scheme using reference antisera in a haemagglutination inhibition test.

Results Four of the 18 isolates were obtained from indigenous (kampung) chickens, with the remainder being from typical intensive poultry production systems. The 18 isolates were obtained from 11 outbreaks that showed the typical clinical signs of infectious coryza and 11 of the isolates were obtained from chickens that had been vaccinated with infectious coryza vaccines. All 18 isolates were confirmed as H paragallinarum by biochemical testing and six isolates were also identified as H paragallinarum b y the polymerase chain reaction test. Eleven isolates were resistant to erythromycin and streptomycin, 10 to neomycin, eight to oxytetracycline, five isolates to doxycycline, three to sulphamethoxazol‐trimethoprim but only one to ampicillin. Seven isolates were Page serovar A, four were Page serovar B and seven were Page serovar C.

Conclusion The presence of all three Page serovars (A, B and C) has been confirmed for the first time in Indonesian chickens. As the majority of the infectious coryza vaccines in use in Indonesia contain only serovar A and C, the presence of serovar B in chickens indicates that the protection by these bivalent vaccines would be reduced. The use of trivalent infectious coryza vaccines that contain serovars A, B and C is recommended for use in Indonesia.
A clinical trial to evaluate the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment of lactating cows with high somatic cell counts in their milk
Authors: SHEPHARD RW , MALMO J. , PFEIFFER DU
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the effectiveness of treatment of lactating cows with high somatic cell counts in milk.

DesignRandomised clinical trial.

MethodsSingle pooled quarter samples of milk were obtained from cows with somatic cell counts above 500,000 cells/mL on fifty farms. Milk samples were cultured for known mastitis bacterial pathogens. Cows were randomly allocated to treated and untreated groups. Treated cows received both intramammary cloxacillin and parenteral erythromycin. Single pooled quarter milk samples were obtained at 6 weeks after treatment and were cultured for the presence of pathogenic bacteria. The percentage of samples with no growth at the post‐treatment culture was used as an estimate of the bacteriological cures for each pathogen type and for each treatment group. Somatic cell counts of cows were compared between treatment groups and within pathogen group. The number of cows that completed a full lactation were compared between each treatment group and within each pathogen group.

ResultsTreatment had no effect upon bacteriological cures, irrespective of pathogen present or the presence of bacteria during the previous lactation. There was no effect of treatment upon somatic cell count except for cows infected withStreptococcus dysgalactiaein which treatment caused a significant lowering of cell counts. This effect was not present in the subsequent lactation. Treatment of chronically infected cows did not alter the probability of a cow completing a full lactation but did improve the probability of newly infected cows being retained for the next lactation. Twenty‐eight of 214 treated cows developed clinical mastitis in more than one quarter after treatment, thus indicating a poor technique by farmers for the insertion of intramammary antibiotics.

ConclusionsTreatment during lactation of cows with high somatic cell counts in milk is ineffective in reducing bacterial infections and in reducing somatic cell counts to acceptable numbers.
Evaluation of an insulin zinc suspension for control of naturally occurring diabetes mellitus in dogs
Authors: HORN B. , MITTEN RW
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo evaluate duration of action of an insulin zinc suspension (Caninsulin, Intervet) in spontaneously occurring cases of canine diabetes mellitus and suitability of its use as a once daily administered insulin for treatment of this disease.

DesignEight client‐owned canine diabetics were included in a prospective pilot study. All dogs had been treated with Caninsulin for a minimum of 2 months and were considered on clinical grounds to be adequately stabilised.

ProcedureDogs were hospitalised for 24 h and blood collected every 2 h via indwelling venous catheters for blood glucose determination.

ResultsOnce daily Caninsulin administration failed to maintain glycaemic control for greater than 13 h in five of eight dogs, but acceptable blood glucose concentrations were maintained for 22 h and greater than 24 h in two others. One dog became distressed during hospitalisation and the blood glucose curve did not show an identifiable response to the insulin.

ConclusionMost diabetic dogs may require twice daily administration of Caninsulin for satisfactory glycaemic control, but once daily administration may be adequate in some animals. More comprehensive investigation into duration of activity of Caninsulin is warranted.
Application of ERIC PCR for the comparison of isolates of Haemophilus parasuis
Authors: RAFIEE M. , BARA M. , STEPHENS CP , BLACKALL PJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo validate a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based method, Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus‐PCR (ERIC‐PCR), for the fingerprinting ofHaemophilus parasuisstrains and to use that method to differentiate isolates from apparently related outbreaks of Glässers disease on three pig farms.

DesignERIC‐PCR was evaluated by comparing 15 different strains that represented all 15 recognised serovars in the Kielstein‐Rapp‐Gabrielson (KRG) scheme for serotypingH parasuis. Next, ERIC‐PCR was used to examine 14 Australian field isolates ofH parasuis; 12 collected from three farms suffering apparently related outbreaks of Glässers disease and two from two other farms with no known connection.

ResultsThe 15 serovar reference strains all gave unique, reproducible ERIC‐PCR fingerprints. The 12 isolates from the three apparently related outbreaks all gave a single fingerprint, which was distinct from any seen in the 15 serovar reference strains and the two other Australian field isolates in the studied farms. The confirmation that all 12 isolates were the same strain allowed the development of a prevention and control program that has prevented the emergence of any further outbreaks of Glässer disease on the three farms.

ConclusionERIC‐PCR is a suitable technique for the differentiation of unrelated strains ofH parasuis. The finding that the 12 field isolates ofH parasuisall shared the same fingerprint is strong evidence that there was a common source of infection on all three farms. This study has shown, for the first time, that ERIC‐PCR is a suitable technique for the sub‐typing ofH parasuisand useful for studying the epidemiology of outbreaks of Glässers disease.
Juvenile nephropathy in a Boxer, a Rottweiler, a Collie and an Irish Wolfhound
Authors: PEETERS D. , CLERCX C. , MICHIELS L. , DESMECHT D. , SNAPS F. , HENROTEAUX M. , DAY MJ
Published: March 2008

Juvenile nephropathy was diagnosed in a Boxer, a Rottweiler, a Collie and an Irish Wolfhound dog, each presenting with signs compatible with chronic renal failure. The diagnosis in each case was based on the presence of persistence of poorly differentiated tissue (immature glomeruli and/or tubules, persistent mesenchyme) on histopathologic examination. Although juvenile nephropathy has been reported in many breeds of dog, this is the first report of the condition in the Collie and the Irish Wolfhound and only the second description in the Boxer and the Rottweiler. The possibility of an inherited origin of the condition in these four breeds is at present unknown.
Cryptosporidium meleagridisin an Indian ring‐necked parrot (Psittacu la krameri)
Authors: MORGAN UM , XIAO L. , LIMOR J. , GELIS S. , RAIDAL SR , FAYER R. , LAL A. , ELLIOT A. , THOMPSON RCA
Published: March 2008

Objective To perform a morphological and genetic characterisation of a Cryptosporidium infection in an Indian ring‐necked parrot (Psittacula krameri) and to compare this with C meleagridis from a turkey.

Design Tissue and intestinal sections from an Indian ring‐necked parrot were examined microscopically for Cryptosporidium. The organism was also purified from the crop and intestine, the DNAextracted and a portion of the 18S rDNA gene amplified, sequenced and compared with sequence and biological information obtained for C meleagridis from a turkey as well as sequence information for other species of Cryptosporidium.

Results Morphological examination of tissue sections from an Indian ring‐necked parrot revealed large numbers of Cryptosporidium oocysts attached to the apical border of enterocytes lining the intestinal tract. Purified Cryptosporidium oocysts measured about 5.1 × 4.5 μm, which conformed morphologically to C meleagridis. The sequence obtained from this isolate was identical to sequence information obtained from a C meleagridis isolate from a turkey.

Conclusion
Cryptosporidium meleagridis was detected in an Indian ring‐necked parrot using morphological and molecular methods. This is the first time that this species of Cryptosporidium has been reported in a non‐galliform host and extends the known host range of C meleagridis.
DNA fingerprinting of Australian isolates of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis using IS900 RFLP
Authors: COUSINS DV , WILLIAMS SN , HOPE A. , EAMENS GJ
Published: March 2008

Objectives To evaluate additional restriction enzymes for IS900 RFLPof Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis and examine the genetic diversity among Australian isolates for epidemiological studies of Johne's disease.

Design and procedure Seventy‐one isolates of M paratuberculosis from cattle, sheep, goat, alpaca and rhinoceros in six Australian States and the Northern Territory, reference strains and reference DNA from previously characterised strains were tested for genetic variation. Bst EII, Pvu II and Pst I restriction enzymes were used, and four others (Bam HI, Alu I, Xho I and Dra I) were assessed for their ability to detect polymorphisms. Multiple isolates from some animals were tested.

Results
Bam HI, was the most effective enzyme for identifying polymorphisms (12 types), followed by Bst EII (11 types). Both Pvu II and Pst I were relatively ineffectual. Fifteen different types were identified, 12 in clinical isolates. Most isolates were cattle (C) strains and fell into the C1 (n = 28) and C3 (n = 32) groupings. All isolates from alpaca were type C1, and bovine isolates were commonly C1 (n = 15) or C3 (n = 28). All of the sheep were infected with sheep (S) strains; no S strains were identified in cattle. Two of six isolates from one animal had single band differences.

Conclusion The epidemiological features of M paratuberculosis in Australia are similar to those reported in New Zealand, where cattle and sheep are commonly infected with different strains. However, because of the lack of polymorphism identified within the major groups, it is unlikely that DNA fingerprinting will have a significant role in epidemiological studies of Johne's disease, unless an unusual strain is being studied.
Ventral midline caesarean section for dystocia secondary to failure to dilate the cervix in three alpacas
Authors: Saltet J , Dart AJ , Dart CM , Hodgson DR
Published: March 2008

Three alpacas that presented with dystocia characterised by failure of the cervix to dilate, underwent caesarean section. Surgery on each animal was performed through a ventral midline incision under general anaesthesia. Two live crias were delivered and one cria was dead at delivery. All three alpacas had retained foetal membranes for a period of 12 h to 4 d and one developed uterine prolapse, which was replaced using sedation and epidural anaesthesia. There were no complications associated with the surgical procedure and all three alpacas went on to have confirmed pregnancies. Caesarean section through a ventral midline incision should be considered an alternative for treatment of difficult dystocias in alpacas.
EEG changes in 4‐week‐old lambs in response to castration, tail docking and mulesing
Authors: JONGMAN EC , MORRIS JP , BARNETT JL , HEMSWORTH PH
Published: March 2008

Objective To interpret changes in EEG in relation to perceived pain of castration, mulesing and docking in lambs.

Design Analysis of covariance (randomised block design) to determine the effects of treatment on eight bandwidths of the EEG frequency spectrum.

Procedure Ninety‐eight, 3‐ to 4‐week‐old lambs were subjected to one of seven treatments: castration, tail docking, mulesing, ear tagging, sham shearing, formalin injection (to induce lameness) and handling. EEG was recorded for 15 min before treatment, during treatment, and for 15 min after treatment.

Results Consistently lower mean power values across all bandwidths of the EEG were found at the time of mulesing and docking than at handling and shearing (P<0.01). Formalin injection resulted in lower power values than handling and shearing (P<0.01). Castration had lower power values than handling and shearing. Similarly, for 15 min after treatment, mulesing and formalin injection had significantly lower power values than handling, shearing, ear tagging and castration (P<0.05).

Conclusion The consistent effects associated with mulesing, docking and castration compared to handling, shearing and ear tagging suggest that mulesing at both the time of treatment and during 15 min after treatment results in a response that is similar to that of induced lameness. Docking and castration result in a response at the time of treatment that is similar to induced lameness and mulesing, but during 15 min after treatmentis similar to the non‐noxious control treatments. However, the depressing effects on the mean power values are the reverse of that anticipated from a previously developed pain model, highlighting the need for further research to develop this technology to evaluate pain associated with husbandry procedures.
Improving the predictability of performance by prerace detection of dorsal metacarpal disease in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: GRIFFITHS JB , STEEL CM , SYMONS PJ , YOVICH JV
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence of dorsal metacarpal disease in 2‐year‐old Thoroughbred horses by prerace inspection and to evaluate the effectiveness of a dorsal metacarpal disease detection program on the predictability of race performance (finishing in the order predicted by punters) and the distance between the first‐ and last‐placed horse in a field.

DesignA retrospective study using client‐owned horses.

MethodsA program of prerace detection of dorsal metacarpal disease using digital palpation of the dorsal aspect of the third metacarpal bone of both forelimbs of 2‐year‐old Thoroughbreds racing at Ascot racecourse was instituted by the Western Australian Turf Club in December 1995. Horses that had significant pain reaction to digital palpation were considered to have pain due to dorsal metacarpal disease, withdrawn from that day's race and not permitted to race for 6 weeks. The race records of all 2‐year‐old Thoroughbreds racing at Ascot racecourse from December 1993 until December 1995 were compared with the race results from December 1995 until March 1997, after initiation of the dorsal metacarpal disease detection program.

ResultsAfter initiation of the program, horses were racing more predictably over 1100 m (P = 2.09) and 1200 m (P = 3.48). These horses finished closer to the winner over 1100 m (P = 3.39) and over 1200 m (P = 3.13). In 1000 m races, the trend for horses to race more predictably (P = 1.07) and for there to be less distance between first and last (P = 1.72) was not statistically significant.

ConclusionsThe program of prerace digital palpation for dorsal metacarpal disease was considered to be beneficial in 2‐year‐old Thoroughbreds racing over 1100 m and 1200 m, in that they raced more predictably.
The diagnosis and treatment of a thoracic abscess in an alpaca
Authors: ADOLF JE , DYKES NL , SEMEVOLOS S , DIVERS TJ
Published: March 2008

A 6‐month‐old alpaca presented for lethargy, failure to thrive and leucocytosis. Diagnostic procedures, including thoracic ultrasound, radiographs and a computed tomography scan, were used to document a thoracic mass. Based on appearance and ultrasound‐guided aspiration of purulent material, the mass was determined to be a large abscess. The abscess was treated with surgical drainage and long‐term antibiotic therapy. The origin of this thoracic abscess was felt to be the caudal mediastinum, secondary to bacterial seeding of the caudal mediastinal lymph nodes. Although an aetiological agent was not definitively determined, the most likely wasActinomycesspp orArcanobacterium pyogenes. The alpaca made a complete recovery following treatment.
Progressive neurological signs associated with systemic mastocytosis in a dog
Authors: TYRRELL D , DAVIS RM
Published: March 2008

A 9‐year‐old dog was presented with nonregenerative anaemia and severe thrombocytopenia, diarrhoea, spinal hyperalgesia and progressive hindlimb paresis. A moderately well differentiated cutaneous mast cell tumour (MCT) was removed from the skin of the right elbow along with the enlarged right prescapular lymph node. Due to deterioration of the dog's neurological condition, euthanasia was performed. On necropsy examination, haemorrhage and accumulations of poorly differentiated mast cells were found in the lumbosacral region and cauda equina. This article describes an unusual presentation of systemic mastocytosis and the previously unreported finding of metastasis of mast cells to the spinal cord.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Stenner VJ
Published: March 2008

Antimicrobial Therapy in Veterinary Medicine. 3rd edn. Edited by Prescott JF, Baggot JD and Walker RD
The development and survival of three species of coprophagous insect after feeding on the faeces of sheep treated with controlled‐release formulations of ivermectin or albendazole
Authors: WARDHAUGH KG , HOLTER P , LONGSTAFF B
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the toxicity from residues of controlled‐release formulations of ivermectin and albendazole to insects that feed on sheep faeces.

Animals In two consecutive years, groups of sheep were treated with controlled‐release capsules of ivermectin or albendazole. Untreated sheep were used as controls.

Procedures Larvae of the bush fly, Musca vetustissima, and adults and larvae of the dung beetles, Onthophagus taurus and Euoniticellus fulvus were fed on faeces collected at intervals after drug treatment. In assays using beetles, treatment effects were assessed by comparing numbers of eggs laid, survival of juveniles and survival of mature and immature adults. Survival at time of pupariation was used in assays on flies.

Results and conclusions Faeces from sheep treated with albendazole had no detectable effects on breeding by either flies or beetles. In contrast, faeces voided by sheep treated with controlled‐release capsules of ivermectin (CRI) precluded successful breeding by each of the species tested. No fly larvae and almost no beetle larvae survived in faeces collected up to 39 days after capsule administration. Newly‐emerged O taurus also suffered significant mortality whereas those that survived underwent delayed sexual maturation. Ivermectin residues had no effect on the survival of sexually mature beetles, but reduced the fecundity of O taurus. A model simulating the effects of drug residues on dung beetle populations indicates that CRIs have the potential to cause substantial declines in beetle numbers, particularly if treatment coincides with spring emergence.
Serological survey for Ehrlichia canis in urban dogs from the major population centres of northern Australia
Authors: MASON RJ , LEE JM , CURRAN JM , MOSS A , VAN DER HEIDE B , DANIELS PW
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo detect evidence ofEhrlichia canisinfection of dogs from the major population centres of northern Australia, if present.

DesignSerological investigation forE canis.

ProcedureThe sera of 316 domestic dogs, collected from the northern Australian population centres of Townsville, Cairns, Darwin, Kununurra and Broome from May 1997 to August 1999, were investigated for evidence of infection withE canis. Samples were tested for antibodies toE canisusing an indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) test. The buffy coats from blood of dogs whose serum reacted in the IFA test were subsequently tested with a nested PCR to detectE canisDNA. When available, blood from these dogs was injected into suckling mice, which were then examined for clinical disease and tested for the presence ofE canisantibodies.

ResultsOf the 316 samples tested seven reacted in the IFA test forE canis. None of the dogs from which these samples were obtained exhibited clinical signs of acute or chronic ehrlichiosis. The six positive samples available for testing were negative when tested with the nested PCR. Suckling mice inoculated with blood from three of the dogs whose serum was positive by IFA test showed no signs of clinical disease nor did their give positive reactions in the IFA test.

ConclusionsNo evidence ofE canisinfection was confirmed in any of the dogs examined. Northern Australia would appear to remain free of this obligate parasite.
Surgical repair of skull fractures in four horses using cuttable bone plates
Authors: DOWLING BA , DART AJ , TROPE G
Published: March 2008

Three horses with severely comminuted, open facial bone fractures and one horse with a comminuted, open orbital rim fracture were referred for treatment. Severe facial bone asymmetry and epistaxis were apparent in all cases and subcutaneous emphysema was present in two, however physical and neurological examinations were otherwise normal. Radiography and endoscopy were of some use in assessing the degree of damage, although the true extent of the damage was more apparent at surgery. Surgical reduction of the fractures was recommended to maximise cosmetic and functional outcome. After surgical debridement and reduction of the fractures the bone fragments remained unstable and were not amenable to stabilisation with inter‐fragmentary wires alone, so 2 mm cuttable bone plates were used to maintain fracture alignment. Screw migration occurred in three horses and in one of these horses the plate had to be removed. Other complications were minor and in all horses the fractures healed with good cosmetic and functional outcome. The use of cuttable bone plates should be considered as a reasonable alternative to inter‐fragmentary wiring for unstable, comminuted fractures of the facial bones, even where fractures are open.
Feline leukaemia virus status of Australian cats with lymphosarcoma
Authors: GABOR LJ , JACKSON ML , TRASK B. , MALIK R. , CANFIELD PJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the FeLV status of sera and tumours from Australian cats with lymphosarcoma in relation to patient characteristics, tumour characteristics (tissue involvement, histological grade and immunophenotype), haematological and biochemical values.

DesignProspective study of 107 client‐owned cats with naturally‐occurring lymphosarcoma.

ProcedureAn ELISA was used to detect FeLV p27 antigen in serum specimens collected from cats with lymphosarcoma. A PCR was used to detect FeLV DNA in formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue sections containing neoplastic lymphoid cells. The PCR was designed to amplify a highly conserved region of the untranslated long terminal repeat of FeLV provirus.

ResultsOnly 2 of 107 cats (2%), for which serum samples were available, were FeLV‐positive on the basis of detectable p27 antigen in serum. In contrast, 25 of 97 tumours (26%) contained FeLV DNA. Of the 86 cats for which both PCR and ELISA data were available, 19(22%) had FeLV provirus in their tumours but no detectable circulating FeLV antigen in serum, while 2 (2%) had FeLV provirus and circulating FeLV antigen. FeLV PCR‐positive/ELISA‐negative cats (19) differed from PCR‐negative/ELISA‐negative cats (65) in having fewer B‐cell tumours (P = 0.06), more non B‐/non T‐cell tumours (P = 0.02) and comprising fewer non‐Siamese/Oriental pure‐bred cats (P = 0.03).

ConclusionsThe prevalence of FeLV antigen or provirus was considerably lower in our cohort of cats compared with studies of lymphosarcoma conducted in the Northern hemisphere. This suggests that factors other than FeLV are important in the development of lymphosarcoma in many Australian cats. No firm conclusions could be drawn concerning whether FeLV provirus contributed to the development of lymphosarcoma in PCR‐positive/ELISA‐negative cats.