bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mycoplasmas and mites in the ears of clinically normal goats
Authors: COTTEW G. S. , YEATS F. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Mycoplasmas were detected in the external ear canal of goats by swabbing and culture. Up to 108 colony forming units were recovered from single swabs. The resulting cultures were usually mixtures of mycoplasmas containing up to 5 species. The species present in sequential swabs varied. Pathogenic species (M.agalactiae, M.capricolum, M.mycoides subsp. capri, M.mycoides subsp. mycoides of the large colony (LC) type, M.putrefaciens) were isolated from the ears and in addition 3 untyped mycoplasmas G, U and V were often present. The same mycoplasmas were found in large numbers in the mites Psoroptes cuniculi and Raillietla caprae which were sometimes present in the external ear canal.

The role of the mycoplasmas in the external ear canal as a source of infection and disease and of the mites in the spread of infection requires further elucidation.
Epidemiology and transmission of Theileria sp of cattle in Australia
Authors: RIEK R. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Theileria sp* occurs in cattle in Australia where Boophilus microplus is not present. Two species of ixodid ticks namely Haemaphysalis longicornis and H. bancrofti have been implicated as natural vectors. Experimental transmission was obtained with these two species but attempts to transmit the infection with B. microplus, ixodes holocyclus and Amblyomma triguttatum were not successful. Although calves born in the enzootic area may become infected before one‐month‐old most show evidence of infection by 5 months of age. Calves born in the winter also become infected earlier than those born at other times of the year.
The prevalence and economic significance of liver disorders and contamination in grain‐fed and grass‐fed cattle
Authors: ROBERTS J. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Livers were examined from 5,647 grain‐fed and 621 grass‐fed cattle of similar breed, age and weight, killed at a Queensland abattoir in 1980–81. The prevalences of disorders found in grain‐fed cattle were liver abscesses 5.6% and 11.1% (after 80 and 120 days in the feedlot), telangiectasis 8.4%, Echinococcus granulosis 3.3%, Fasciola hepatica 0.4%, unclassified lesions 7.4%, and contamination 3.2%. In grass‐fed cattle liver abscesses were 0.2%, telangiectasis 1.0%, E. granulosis 18.9%, F. hepatica 5.4%, unclassified lesions 6.5%, and contamination 1.0%. Liver abscess disease was the main cause of loss in grain‐fed cattle and the mean carcase weight of affected steers was 298kg±42kg, compared wiith 308kg±40kg in non‐affected (p 0.01). Liver weights of grain‐fed and grass‐fed cattle were highly significantly correlated with carcase weights (r ‐ 0.78 and 0.49 respectively). Total losses were $2.25 per head in grain‐fed steers and $0.90 in grass‐fed steers.
Experimental production of dermatitis in sheep with Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: BURRELL D. H. , MERRITT G. C. , WATTS J. E. , WALKER K. H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The attachment, to sheep skin, for 4 days, of control wool pads saturated with sterile culture medium which contained a bacteriostat, induced only a mild dermatitis, whereas wool pads saturated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa culture induced a subacute dermatitis characterised by scaling, microabscess formation and seropurulent exudate. Changes similar to the latter were observed in skin affected by natural fleece‐rot which developed spontaneously after 7 days of artificial wetting and in which P. aeruginosa was the predominant species of bacteria. An exacerbatory, if not causal, role for this organism is suggested in the development of the dermatitis associated with fleece‐rot and in the exudation of seropurulent material, a step essential in the development of body strike.
Isoimmune thrombocytopenic purpura in piglets
Authors: DIMMOCK C. K. , WEBSTER W. R. , SHIELS I. A. , EDWARDS C. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A haemorrhagic diathesis due to isoimmune thrombocytopenia occurred in the fourth litter of a Landrace sow. Maternal antibodies, absorbed by piglets from the colostrum, were incompatible with platelet antigens inherited from the sire. The severity of haemorrhage varied between piglets although all were thrombocytopenic. Two deaths occurred, one at 24 h and the other at 3 weeks of age. The surviving 11 piglets were clinically and haematologically normal at 16 weeks of age.
The cultural and pathological examination of bulls serologically positive for brucellosis
Authors: HILL B. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The genitalia from 34 bulls were examined for the presence of Brucella lesions using histological, bacteriological and serological methods. Tissue fluids extracted from the various genital organs and the serums were examined using the serum agglutination test (SAT), the Rose Bengal plate agglutination test (RBPT), the complement fixation test (CFT) and the indirect haemagglutination test (IHLT) for the presence of Brucella antibody. Titres to one or more of these tests were found in 17 bulls and B. abortus was cultured from 5 of these. The testing of tissue fluids from genital organs did not increase the number of seroligically positive animals.
Observations on the effect of electro‐immobilisation on the dehorning of cattle
Authors: CARTER P. D. , JOHNSTON N. E. , CORNER L. A. , JARRETT R. G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A group of cattle was dehorned while restrained with an electro‐Immobiliser. The level of stress was evaluated by measuring serum Cortisol and comparisons made with alternative handling methods. Serum Cortisol levels rose significantly in groups that were dehorned compared with non‐dehorned controls, but no significant difference was noted between groups dehorned using local anaesthesia, electro‐immobilisation, or no pre‐treatment. The degree of haemorrhage resulting from dehorning was not significantly different between the groups. It was concluded that the immobiliser may be painful on application and should not be relied upon to produce analgesia.
Animal welfare and the Australian veterinarian
Authors: SMITH J.B.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY This paper discusses the moral and philosophical arguments related to animal welfare. The veterinary profession in Australia has, to date, addressed this matter on a superficial and unsatisfactory level. In my view, the Australian Veterinary Association has not yet considered sound philosophical and moral positions in any area of animal welfare.

This paper provides some examples of arguments concerning animal rights. It is suggested that the veterinary profession in Australia needs to take heed of these arguments and to develop a philosophy of its own. The profession is not seen to be having sufficient influence on the development of community standards in animal welfare. For example, public statements on the stray cat and dog problem concern the nuisance to human society and little is said of the welfare or rights of the animals themselves. The Australian Veterinary Association has not looked thoroughly at problems of animal welfare in the livestock industries, where the need for attention is urgent.

Few veterinarians in Australia have the knowledge and experience to tackle problems in the area of animal experimentation. These include questions of laboratory animal production and disease, as well as those of a moral and philosophical nature. A discussion of ethical problems in studies on animal behaviour points to the lack of experience el veterinarians in this area. Possible mechanisms for statutory control of animal experimentation are explored. Antivivisectionist ideas and the significance of their political influence are outlined.
Suspected ergotism in two heifers
Authors: FRASER D. M. , DORLING P. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A syndrome similar to gangrenous ergotism was seen in 2 Frieslan heifers grazing meadow hay containing perennial rye grass seed heads parasited by an ergot presumed to be Clavlceps purpurea. Clinical signs were bilateral hind limb lameness and gangrene. There was angiographic evidence of vasoconstriction in the lower hind limbs with necrosis of all tissues in the distal region of both hind limbs.
Onset and remission of ovine footrot
Authors: EGERTON J. R. , RIBEIRO L. A. , KIERAN P. J. , THORLEY C. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Sheep exposed to uncontrolled outbreaks of footrot were observed on one farm for 3 successive years and on another for one year. Observations were made from mid‐winter to early summer. In each outbreak about 70% or more of sheep exposed to footrot acquired the disease. Natural remission occurred in each outbreak and some cases healed while new cases continued to develop. A feature of all outbreaks observed was that a much higher proportion of late onset cases healed than cases which developed early in the outbreaks. By contrast, 90% of sheep already affected before spring had lesions which persisted into next summer.

It is suggested that there is a spectrum of resistance to footrot among sheep. This spectrum includes animals which remain chronically infected and those that do not become infected at all. Intermediate levels of resistance are reflected firstly in the time taken by different groups of sheep, to become affected after exposure and secondly, to heal after becoming affected.
Pyometra and pyovagina in koalas
Authors: CANFIELD P. J. , OXENFORD C. J. , LOVE D. N. , DICKENS R. K.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Four female koalas were found to have pyometra and pyovagina at autopsy. All had soiling of fur around the cloaca and were in poor condition. One koala had cystic ovaries in addition to the pyometra while another had extensive peritonitis due to rupture of one of the uterine horns. Chronic cystitis was present in all koalas while one also had pyelonephritis. Microbiological examination revealed a mixed flora of both aerobes and anaerobes.
Progressive interstitial pneumonia in goats
Authors: SIMS L. D. , HALE C. J. , McCORMICK B. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Seven Anglo‐Nubian goats, 5 months to 3 years old, developed clinical signs of increased respiratory rate, weight loss and exercise intolerance. Post‐mortem examination of the goats revealed extensive consolidation of the lungs involving all lobes. Lesions, consisting of peribronchial and perivascular lymphoid cuffing, accumulations of homogeneous eosinophilic material in alveolar spaces, alveolar epithelialisation and thickening of alveolar septa as a result of lymphocytic infiltration, were detected histologically.

A syncytial forming virus was consistently isolated from affected animals in explant cultures of lung, synovial membrane and choroid plexus. This agent had similar growth characteristics to the caprine arthritis‐encephalitis (CAE) virus and the possible relationship between the respiratory disease and the diseases caused by the CAE virus is discussed.
Dactylomegaly, a type of club foot (talipes) in a herd of Shorthorn cattle
Authors: HAWKINS C. D. , GRANDAGE J.
Published: March 2008

Enlarged dew claws associated with syndactyly and/or deviation of the adjacent major digit are reported from 9 heifers in a herd of 800. The anomaly created a club‐footed appearance.
Tick (Ixodes holocydus) paralysis in the dog – induction of immunity by injection of toxin
Authors: WRIGHT I. G. , STONE B. F. , NEISH A. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Three beagle dogs were immunised against the paralysing effects of holocyclotoxin, using toxic extracts derived from salivary glands of the Australian paralysis tick, Ixodes holocydus. Upon subsequent challenge with four ED50, of toxin the animals were completely immune, whereas during the early stages 2 of 3 dogs became paralysed after injection with 0.5 ED50. Three immunised beagles, on which 15 I. holocydus ticks had fed, showed no symptoms but a control beagle became paralysed after 4 I. holocydus females fed on it. Treatment was instituted immediately upon the onset of clinical signs and the dog recovered uneventfully.
Babesia bovis: comparison of culture‐derived parasites, non‐living antigen and conventional vaccine in the protection of cattle against heterologous challenge
Authors: TIMMS P. , DALGLIESH R. J. , BARRY D. N. , DIMMOCK C. K. , RODWELL B. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Twenty Bos taurus cattle were vaccinated with either live commercial Babesia bovis vaccine, live parasites from in vitro culture or non‐living supernatant antigen (NLSA) derived from in vitro culture and combined with the adjuvant saponin. Heterologous strain challenge 10 weeks later indicated that cattle vaccinated with live parasites from either source were strongly protected, those given 2 doses of NLSA 2 weeks apart were partially protected, and those given one dose of NLSA were poorly protected. Enzyme immunoassay detected comparable, increasing levels of specific babesial antibody in all vaccinated cattle during the 2 to 3 weeks following vaccination, after which levels in cattle given NLSA decreased. Antibody to bovine blood group factors was detected in 4 of the 10 animals given NLSA. Titres peaked after 3 to 4 weeks and then declined rapidly.
Bovine papillomavirus type 2 from bovine cutaneous papillomas in Australia
Authors: SPRADBROW P. B. , FORD J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Papillomavirus DNA was demonstrated in 10 of 12 samples extracted from cutaneous bovine papillomas and electrophoresed on agarose gels without further treatment or after concentration by freeze drying. Six of the DNA samples were treated with restriction endonucleases and 4 had restriction patterns characteristic of bovine papillomavirus type 2.
Antibiotic resistant coliform bacilli, isolated from freshly slaughtered poultry and from chilled poultry at retail outlets
Authors: BENSINK J. C. , BOTHAM F. P.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Antibiotic resistance in conforms isolated from poultry was investigated. Poultry carcases were examined immediately after slaughter or at retail outlets; the carcases were from the same processing plant and 100 were examined from each source. Approximately 85% of the total of 13,858 isolates examined were found to be resistant to at least one antibiotic. Highly significant differences were found in the levels of antibiotic resistance from the 2 sources; ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and sulphonamide resistance was found more frequently in isolates from poultry at retail, while resistance against streptomycin and neomycin occurred more frequently in isolates from poultry examined at slaughter. The data were insufficient to explain these changes. Transfer of resistance occurred less frequently in isolates from poultry at retail; in particluar the transfer of resistance from coliforms other than Escherichia coli was found to be greatly reduced.
Changes in plasma biochemistry in horses competing in a 160 km endurance ride
Authors: ROSE R. J. , HODGSON D. R. , SAMPSON D. , CHAN W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Plasma biochemical values were measured in 14 horses, before a 160 km endurance ride, immediately after 85 km, immediately after 160 km, after 30 min recovery period and the day after the ride. For statistical analysis, a group of 7 horses that completed the ride at a mean speed of 234 metres per min (m/min) (Fast Group) was compared with 7 horses that completed the ride at a mean speed of 144 m/min (Slow Group). Estimations were made of sodium, potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, glucose, creatinine, urea, bilirubin, iron, total protein, albumin, calcium, phosphate, cholesterol, alkaline phosphate, gammaglutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, a hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase, asparate amino transferase, alanine amino transferase, Cortisol and insulin. Disturbances in boichemical values associated with endurance exercise reflected dehydration, hepatic dysfunction, reduced renal function and muscle damage. The faster the speed of exercise, the greater was the stress as reflected by Cortisol values. The Fast Group of horses also demonstrated lower glucose and higher CK and LD values than the Stow Group of horses. However, biochemical values the day after the ride were similar to values before the ride.
Serum and red cell folate and serum vitamin B12 levels in horses
Authors: ROBERTS M. C.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Vitamin B12 and folate concentrations were determined by radioimmunoassay in groups of horses in Queensland. Highest serum vitamin B12 levels were found in supplemented performance horses. These, together with pastured horses that included pregnant and lactating mares, had significantly greater serum folate activity than permanently stabled animals. The range of red cell folate concentrations was much narrower in horses in training than from any other group. Red cell folate may be a better indicator of a horse's folate status than the serum folate value. Vitamin B12 and folate concentrations were highest in spring and summer.

Small intestinal dysfunction in 2 horses was not associated with vitamin B12 or folate malabsorption. Serum folate levels returned to normal 24 h after intramuscular injections of 75 to 150 mg folic acid, whereas serum vitamin B12 values remained elevated for at least one week following injections of 8 to 10 mg to non‐supplemented horses.
Comparison of a microneutralisation test with ELISA and precipitin tests for detection of antibodies to infectious bronchitis virus in chickens
Authors: WILCOX G. E. , NANDAPALAN N. , FLOWER R. L. P. , FRY‐SMITH D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A microneutralisation test for infectious bronchitis virus using virus antigens available in Australia, cell culture medium containing low concentrations of serum and an elevated incubation temperature is described. The technique was economical on reagents and of comparable sensitivity to the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The value of the microneutralisation, ELISA and precipitin tests in assessing the serological response of a flock of commercial chickens to vaccine and natural virus challenge was determined.
Applied serology in the latter stages of the eradication of bovine brucellosis
Authors: SUTHERLAND S. S. , MACKENZIE R. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Late in the program to eradicate bovine brucellosis from Western Australia, Rose Bengal test (RBT) and complement fixation test (CFT) results on the serums from 2,307 cattle (from herds where infection was still present after a minimum of 3 complete herd tests) showed that 327 were positive in the CFT and 246 were positive in the RBT (p<0.001). Subsequent testing by the RBT, CFT and the indirect haemolysis test (IHLT) of 722 serums from cattle slaughtered as part of infected herds showed that of 177 cattle positive on culture, 138 were positive in all 3 tests, 9 were negative in all 3 tests and no animal positive on culture had a reaction only in the RBT.

In the 177 cattle from which B. abortus was isolated, positive reactions in the CFT occurred in the serums of 159 of them. Application of the RBT as a screening test followed by a confirmatory CFT would have resulted in 149 of the 177 cattle being positive and application of the CFT/IHLT (double test) on the serums of all cattle in the herds would have resulted in 168 or the 177 being regarded as positive.
Bovine abortion associated with Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo infection
Authors: SLEE K. J. , McORIST S. , SKILBECK N. W.
Published: March 2008

During 1981, 265 bovine abortions were investigated by serological and histological methods for evidence of leptospiral infection. Leptospires were demonstrated in the tissues of 10 foetuses by a Levaditi silver impregnation technique. Serological testing of maternal sera indicated that Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo was associated with 5 of the abortions while the remaining 5 were due to L. interrogans serovar pomona infection.

In cases of abortion associated with L. interrogans serovar hardjo leptospires were readily demonstrated in foetal liver, kidney, intestine and heart. They were demonstrated less often in lung and placenta and could not be found in foetal brain. Autolysis did not appear to interfere with the demonstration of leptospires by silver impregnation. No lesions attributable to leptospiral infection were seen in placentas but mild interstitial nephritis was found in some of the foetuses.

Fourteen other cows had serological evidence of recent leptospiral infection but leptospires were not detected in foetal tissues.

Histological examination of silver impregnated foetal tissues in combination with the microscopic agglutination test was shown to be an effective method for diagnosing abortion associated with L. interrogans serovar hardjo in cattle.
Skeletal abnormalities in young horses associated with zinc toxicity and hypocuprosis
Authors: EAMENS G. J. , MACADAM J. F. , LAING E. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Four young horses grazing pastures near industrial plants developed illthrift, lameness and skeletal abnormalities characterised by periarticular enlargement of the long bones. The clinical signs and lesions were attributed to hypocuprosis induced by an excessive intake of zinc from pasture. High pasture intakes of iron may have further compounded the problem.
The effectiveness of levamisole hydrochloride against the microfilaria of Dirofilaria immitis
Authors: CARLISLE C. H. , ATWELL R. B. , ROBINSON S.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Levamisole hydrochloride was an efficient microfilaricide when used in dogs at a dosage of 10 mg/kg twice daily for 14 days. Increasing the dose rate every 3 days to 10 mg/kg twice daily and maintaining it at 10 mg/kg twice daily for a further 8 days, was also effective but a dosage of 5 mg/kg twice daily for 21 days was less effective and a dose rate of 20 mg/kg was efficient, but toxic.
Comparison of the immunogenicity of Newcastle disease virus strains V4, Hitchner Bl and La Sota in chickens
Authors: WESTBURY H. A. , PARSONS G. , ALLAN W. H.
Published: March 2008

The immunogenicity of three Newcastle disease virus (NOV) strains – V4, Hitchner B1 and La Sota, was assessed in chickens that had varying levels of maternal antibody to the virus. Chickens were immunised at different ages by the eye drop and aerosol methods.

The immune response of chickens to similar doses of the strains was affected by the presence of maternal antibody. Both the level of maternal antibody and the strain of virus used affected the result. Strain La Sota was least affected as it took higher levels of maternal antibody to depress response to it than were required to have a similar effect on Hitchner B1 and V4. Strain V4 was the strain most affected by circulating maternal antibody.

The results demonstrated that strain V4 was less immunogenic than Hitchner B1 and La Sota when used in chickens with maternal antibody to NDV.
A survey of disease in five commercial flocks of meat breeder chickens
Authors: REID G. G. , GRIMES T. M. , EAVES F. W. , BLACKALL P. J.
Published: March 2008

Causes of sickness and death in approximately 30,000 chickens in 5 meat breeder flocks were investigated between May 1979 and April 1980. Approximately 23% of disease was due to neoplasms; 81% of these were Marek's disease despite vaccination against this infection. Other frequent diagnoses included cellulitis (15%), respiratory disease (14%), lesions of the reproductive tract (11%) and tenosynovitis/arthritis (9%). Antibodies to Mycoplasma gallisepticium, avian adenovirus, infectious bursal disease virus and reticuloendotheliosis virus were present in all flocks. Antibody to Newcastle disease virus (NDV) was found in 2 flocks but titres were not considered protective against a virulent NDV challenge. Antibody to egg drop syndrome 1976 virus was found in 2 flocks comprised of the same breed of bird.
Chronic chondritis of the arytenoid cartilages in a pony mare
Authors: MACLEAN A. A. , ROBERTSON‐SMITH R. G.
Published: March 2008

The upper respiratory tract of a pony mare with marked exercise intolerance and respiratory stridor was examined with a flexible fibreoptoscope. Both arytenoids were adducted and distorted. A diagnosis of bilateral chondritis of the arytenoids was made and confirmed at autopsy after surgery to enlarge the rima glottidis was unsuccessful. Other space occupying lesions of the rima glottidis are discussed and theories on the aetiology are postulated. Aust. vet. J. 61: 27–28
Prevalence of reoviruses in commercial chickens
Authors: ROBERTSON M. D. , WILCOX G. E. , KIBENGE F. S. B.
Published: March 2008

The prevalence of reoviruses in commercial chickens with the runting/stunting syndrome, tenosynovitis, and normal chickens was investigated. Reoviruses were isolated from 3‐week‐old chickens affected with the runting/stunting syndrome and from older chickens with tenosynovitis; viruses were isolated from tissues with and without lesions. Reoviruses were also frequently isolated from rectal contents of normal 3‐week‐old chickens, and there was serological evidence of previous reovirus infection in all flocks of adult meat breeder chickens examined. The widespread occurrence of reoviruses in both normal and diseased chickens indicates that the isolation of reoviruses from tissues of chickens with lesions does not necessarily imply any aetiological relationship of reovirus with disease, even in the absence of other known causes. However, the occurrence of reovirus in normal chickens does not preclude an aetiological relationship with disease and further investigation of strain variation and possible virulence factors in avian reoviruses is required.
Molecular epidemiology and pathogenesis of some equine herpesvirus type 1 (equine abortion virus) and type 4 (equine rhinopneumonitis virus) isolates
Authors: STUDDERT M. J. , FITZPATRICK D. R. , HORNER G. W. , WESTBURY H. A. , GLEESON L. J.
Published: March 2008

Representative strains of EHV isolated from an aborted foetus and from a horse with rhinopneumonitis in New Zealand had restriction endonuclease ONA fingerprints typical of those usually associated with these syndromes elsewhere and now designated EHV1 and 4 respectively.

EHV1 was isolated from the brain and spinal cord of a 4‐year‐old gelding that died of myeloencephalitis. A mare on the same farm, at about the same time as the gelding developed myeloencephalitis, aborted and EHV1 was isolated from the tissues of the aborted foetus. Restriction endonuclease DNA fingerprints of the viruses isolated from myeloencephalitis and abortion were indistinguishable by Bam HI but were distinguishable using Bgl I, Pvu II, Xho I and Hind III.

The restriction endonuclease DNA fingerprints of 3 EHV1 strains known to cause myeloencephalitis were compared with each other and with EHV1 strains not known to be associated with myeloencephalitis. The Bgl I Pvu II and Hind III DNA fingerprints of the 3 myeloencephalogenic strains appear distinguishable from non‐myeloencephalogenic strains.

Abortion was induced in a mare by intrauterine inoculation of EHV4. The Bam HI, Bgl I, Pvu II, Xho I and Hind III restriction endonuclease DNA fingerprints of the inoculum virus were indistinguishable from virus recovered from the foetus. It was concluded that passage of the virus through the foetus did not detectably alter the restriction endonuclease DNA fingerprint. Aust. vet. J. 61: 345–348
Histopathology of experimental brucellosis in rams following vaccination with Brucella ovis
Authors: RAHALEY R. S. , DENNIS S. M.
Published: March 2008

Lesions induced by inoculation of Brucella ovis into the epididymis were compared in rams previously vaccinated with B. ovis bacterin and unvaccinated rams. Inoculation of killed B. ovis did not produce significant lesions in either group whereas prior vaccination exacerbated epididymal lesions following inoculation of live B. ovis. Increased numbers of neutrophils, macrophages and lymphocytes were present in the interstitium and neutrophilic infiltration of the epididymal duct epithelium and intraepithelial cyst formation was more prominent. The inflammatory response surrounding extravasated spermatozoa was more severe in vaccinated rams but it was not determined if the response was directed at spermatozoa or intermixed brucellae, or both.
A comparison of six methods used for detecting pregnancy in sheep
Authors: WATT B. R. , ANDERSON G. A. , CAMPBELL I. P.
Published: March 2008

The speed and accuracy of 4 ultrasonic devices (Scanopreg®, Pregmatic 3®, Medata® external probe and Medata® rectal probe) were compared with udder scoring and harnessed vasectomised rams as methods of pregnancy diagnosis in 177 ewes, 59 of which were non‐pregnant. When using the Scanopreg® in ewes of greater than 50 days gestation, accuracy in pregnant ewes averaged 98% and in non‐pregnant ewes 87%. The Pregmatic 3® was 97% accurate in pregnant ewes after 50 days gestation and was 96% accurate in non‐pregnant ewes. Ewes were examined at between 85 and 185 per hour using these devices. The Medata® external probe was 99% accurate in pregnant ewes of greater than 110 days gestation but less accurate in early gestation. This instrument averaged 89% accuracy in non‐pregnant ewes and an examination rate of 29 to 35 ewes per hour was achieved. The Medata® rectal probe averaged 85% accuracy in pregnant ewes after 70 days gestation. Accuracy averaged 94% in non‐pregnant ewes. Ewes were examined at between 35 and 59 per hour using this device. After 130 days gestation 84% of ewes had firm, obviously enlarged udders and another 14% had slight to moderate udder development. After 130 days gestation thick, clear udder secretions were expressed from 18% of ewes and thick, milky udder secretions were expressed from 8%. Harnessed vasectomised rams raddled one of 118 pregnant ewes (an accuracy in pregnant sheep of 99%) and raddled 53% of non pregnant ewes.

It was concluded that the ultrasonic pregnancy testing devices have a commercial role, especially as aids to decision making. Udder scoring may be useful alone or in conjunction with other pregnancy diagnosis methods. Harnessed vasectomised rams are a simple inexpensive method for the diagnosis of pregnancy but they have limited value as expression of oestrus is necessary for optimal results.
The use of Clenbuterol to produce relaxation of the myometrium during Caesarean operation in cattle
Authors: HASSETT L. J. , SLOSS V.
Published: March 2008

The tocolytic drug Clenbuterol was clinically tested as a means of producing relaxation of the myometrium to facilitate exteriorisation of the uterus during Caesarean operation in 17 cows. When myometrial tone was found to be high during surgery, the intravenous injection of 10 ml of Clenbuterol resulted in a lowering of tone in less than 3 min allowing easy exteriorisation of the uterus. Alternative methods of myometrial relaxation are compared.
Some observations on the development of the long bones of ratite birds
Authors: REECE R. L. , BUTLER R.
Published: March 2008

Observations were made on the long bones of 16 young ratite birds (10 rheas, 3 emus and 3 ostriches), from 1‐day‐old to 12 weeks of age.

At hatching all long bones contained large cartilaginous cones which were continuous with the growth plates, and an osseous cortex. At one week of age ossification had commenced on the periphery of these embryonic cones and in some bones the cones had become separated from the growth plates. At 3 weeks of age the embryonic cones of cartilage were still present in the proximal and distal tibio‐tarsi and narrow cartilaginous bridges connected the cones to the growth plates. Embryonic cones were not present in other long bones of this 3‐week‐old rhea nor in the long bones of ratites 6, 8 and 12 weeks of age. Other praecocial birds such as turkey poults and chickens have cones of embryonic cartilage in their long bones at hatching and these persist in the tibio‐tarsi till one to 2 weeks of age. The presence of large cones of embryonic cartilage in the tibio‐tarsal bones of 3‐week‐old ratite birds is probably a normal phenomenon. Awareness of this feature is necessary for the correct differential diagnosis of the prevalent musculoskeletal disorders of ratite birds.
Extraskeletal osteoma in a cat
Authors: JABARA A. G. , PATON J. S.
Published: March 2008

This paper describes a case of a benign osseous lesion which arose in the right front leg of an 8‐year‐old spayed female cat. The growth was situated in the dermal tissue above the olecranon, but not attached to it, and shelled out easily at surgery.

While certain non‐neoplastic lesions, such as hamartomas or cases of heterotopic ossification, may appear histologically similar, the present case was considered to be a true tumour on the basis of the clinical, macroscopic and histological findings, and was termed an osteoma. The cat is remaining under observation, but there had been no recurrence 3½ months after surgery.
Comparison of the residual virulence of Newcastle disease vaccine strains V4, Hitchner Bl and La Sota
Authors: WESTBURY H. A. , PARSONS G. , ALLAN W. H.
Published: March 2008

The clinical response of 7‐day‐old chickens to Newcastle disease vaccine strains V4, B1 and La Sota administered by the aerosol method was used to study the residual virulence of the strains. Parameters used to assess the severity of the clinical response were the number of sneezes recorded and the weight gain of chickens in the 10 day test period. The demeanour of the chickens was also observed.

Strain V4 was less pathogenic for chickens than strain B1 which was less virulent than strain La Sota. Statistically significent differences were recorded in weight gain and the number of sneezes detected in each group. An unexpected mild respiratory disease recorded in chickens dosed with strain V4 may have been associated with administration of virus as a fine particle aerosol. Aust. vet. J. 61: 47–49
The long term efficacy of a Hardjo‐pomona vaccine in preventing leptospiruria in cattle exposed to natural challenge with Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo
Authors: HANCOCK G. A. , WILKS C. R. , KOTIW M. , ALLEN J. D.
Published: March 2008

The long term efficacy of a commercially prepared bivalent vaccine against Leptospira interrogans serovar hardjo and L. interrogans serovar pomona was evaluated in a group of 82 dairy heifers exposed to natural challenge with L. interrogans serovar hardjo for up to 55 weeks after calfhood vaccination. Nineteen heifers were vaccinated twice with a one‐month interval, at calfhood (9 to 10 months). A further 18 heifers received a similar calfhood vaccination regimen plus a third injection at adulthood (22 to 23 months), while 19 heifers were vaccinated twice at adulthood only and finally 22 heifers were used as unvaccinated controls.

At 55 weeks after calfhood vaccination and prior to adulthood vaccination, only 2.7% of the vaccinated heifers were found to have leptospiruria compared with 58.5% of the unvaccinated heifers (p<0.0001). Microscopic agglutination (MA) titres at the same time in the unvaccinated heifers ranged from 32 to 4096 while those vaccinated at calfhood ranged from 32 to 64.

Adult vaccination of infected animals did not significantly reduce leptospiruria. Prior to adulthood vaccination, 9 of 19 heifers had leptospiruria, in comparison to 4 of 15 after adulthood vaccination. At the same sampling periods 15 of 22 controls had leptospiruria in comparison to 4 of 9 subsequently tested.
Prevalence of congenital abnormalities in pigs
Authors: MULLEY R. C. , EDWARDS M. J.
Published: March 2008

The prevalence of congenital defects in piglets in a large intensive piggery was determined by autopsy examination of piglets dying in the first week of life and from records kept by the farm staff. A total of 1908 piglets was examined at autopsy and 14,535 were born over the period of the survey. The prevalence of defects on this farm was estimated to be 2.9% of all piglets born, and at least one piglet with a congenital defect was found in 17.4% of litters. Of the piglets dying in the first week 9.5% had a defect and of these 8% had multiple anomalies.

The mean litter size at birth for litters with a malformed piglet was 10.9 compared with 9.9 for litters without a malformed piglet. The total preweaning loss in litters containing a malformed pig was higher (29.8%) than that in litters without malformations (17.4%). The antepartum and parturient deaths in litters with a malformed piglet were 35% higher than normal litters. Parturient and anteparturient deaths amounted to 7.5% of piglets born and the total preweaning mortality was 19.9%. Sixty‐six per cent of these mortalities occurred within the first week of life.

The litter size at birth increased with parity as did the prevalence of litters containing malformed piglets. Neonatal loss was about 2 pigs per litter for all parities. Litter size at birth in litters containing a malformed pig was consistently higher by one pig per litter from all parities, but parturient (7.1%) and anteparturient (1.4%) deaths were also higher in these litters than in litters without malformations (5.1% and 1.2% respectively).

Of the malformed piglets observed, defects most commonly affected the musculoskeletal system (183 of 339 malformed piglets 54.0%), digestive system (54 of 339 – 15.9%) or urogenital system (51 of 339 – 15.0%). The most commonly encountered malformations were myofibrillar hypoplasia, cryptorchidism, anal atresia and skeletal defects. The population frequency of many defects such as diaphragmatic hernia, intestinal atresia, tongue hypertrophy, cranioschisis, micromelia, spina bifida and cyclopia‐rhinocephalia is reported for the first time.
Liver biopsy as a technique for assessing copper status of sheep
Authors: DONALD G. E. , PAULL D. R. , LANGLANDS J. P.
Published: March 2008

A procedure for taking biopsy samples from the ovine liver by a paracostal route is described. Samples were taken from 120 Merino rams on up to 3 occasions over a 3 month period. At the end of the period, the rams were subjected to 2 further biopsies and were then slaughtered, and the liver was removed and homogenised. Copper contents of all samples were determined.

Frequency of biopsy did not affect hepatic copper concentration which was significantly overestimated by the biopsy method by approximately 5%. Variability associated with the biopsy procedure was approximately ± 30 to 40 mg Cu/kg DM (SD) and was small relative to variability between animals. Experimental designs were preferred in which samples are taken before and after treatments are applied; changes in concentration are then analysed. Such analyses eliminate errors associated with variability between animals and the small bias in the sampling procedure. Liver biopsy did not significantly reduce bodyweight or the rate of gain.
Coccidiosis associated with post‐weaning diarrhoea in beef calves in a dry tropical region
Authors: PARKER R. J. , BOOTHBY K. , POLKINGHORNE I. , HOLROYD R. G.
Published: March 2008

The roles of helminths and coccidia in post‐weaning diarrhoea in beef calves in the dry tropics were investigated. Diarrhoea occurred approximately one month after weaning in both anthelmintic treated and untreated calves. The highest numbers of coccidial oocysts were seen 29 days after weaning and 3 necropsies confirmed Eimeria zuernii coccidiosis. In the absence of wet overcrowded conditions, disease may have been precipitated by environmental interactions leading to suppression of host immunity. Other Eimeria identified were E. bukidnonensis, E. wyomingensis, E. bovis, E. auburnensis, E. cylindrica, E. ellipsoidalis and E. subspherica. The last 5 species are believed not to have been previously documented in Australia. The presence of E. canadensis was strongly suspected.
The pathology of psittacine beak and feather disease
Authors: PASS D. A. , PERRY R. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Psittacine beak and feather disease is characterised by toss of feathers, abnormally shaped feathers and overgrowth and irregularity of the surface of the beak. The disease occurs in a number of psittacine species including the Sulphur‐crested Cockatoo, Lovebirds, Budgerigars and Galahs. The abnormal appearance of feathers and beak is due to a dystrophic process within the epidermis of the feather and beak. The process consists of epidermal cell necrosis, epidermal hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis. Many of the feather abnormalities are due to retention of a hyperkeratotic feather sheath. A characteristic microscopic finding is the presence of macrophages containing purple intracytoplasmic inclusions in affected epidermis and feather pulp. The inclusions consist of aggregates of particles 17 to 22 nm in diameter. Similar but smaller inclusions occur in epidermal cells. In addition, non‐suppurative inflammation occurs in the feather pulp. The findings are suggestive of a viral infection.
The comparative susceptibility of five breeds of sheep to foot‐rot
Authors: EMERY D. L. , STEWART D. J. , CLARK B. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Five breeds of sheep, Romney Marsh, Dorset Horn, Border Leicester, Peppin Merinos and Saxon Merinos were examined for their susceptibility to foot‐rot by exposure to natural transmission of infection on irrigated pasture or by the application of pure cultures of Bacteroides nodosus to each foot in a pen experiment. On pasture, the sheep encountered a moderate challenge and the British breeds were more resistant than Merinos to the development of severe foot‐rot. Resistance was manifested by a rapid resolution of relatively benign lesions in the interdigital skin, rather than a reduction in the number of feet affected. However, under more severe challenges with foot‐rot in pens, all breeds were equally susceptible. There was little difference between resistant and susceptible sheep in the kinetics and magnitude of their antibacterial immune responses indicating that resistance did not depend on pre‐existing antibody or a more rapid induction of antibody production. In each experiment, humoral immune responses against B. nodosus were not greatly elevated until under‐running lesions of the hoof developed.
Normal haematological and biochemical values for the swamp buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) in Australia
Authors: CANFIELD P. J. , BEST F. G. , FAIRBURN A. J. , PURDIE J. , GILHAM M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Blood samples were collected from 24 immature male, 55 immature female and 99 mature female water buffalo kept at an experimental farm in the Northern Territory. Haematological analysis was performed on blood collected in dipotassium — ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid while biochemical analysis was performed on serum and plasma (for glucose) samples. Haematological values of mature buffalo were similar to those recorded for swamp buffalo in Malaysia. Blood cell appearances were similar to those reported for adult Indian river buffalo though values recorded for red cell components were higher. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences between immature male and female buffalo. Red cell components, eosinophils, total plasma and serum proteins, albumin, γ globulins, inorganic phosphate and the enzyme gamma‐glutamyl transferase were significantly higher for mature female buffalo when compared to immature females. Reasons for the differences were not fully determined but the effect of age and nutritional status in combination with a variable period of domestication were considered.
Effect of enzootic pneumonia of pigs on growth performance
Authors: BYRT D. , HEAP P. , POINTON A.M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Growing pigs were naturally infected with a field strain of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae to assess the effect of enzootic pneumonia on production. Both the initial (breakdown) and endemic stages of infection were evaluated. The pigs were reared under environmental and management conditions commonly found on commercial piggeries in South Australia.

Growth rate of pigs held in‐contact with inoculated pigs was reduced by 12.7% (p<0.01) between 50 to 85 kg bodyweight. In the second trial inoculated gilts were used to naturally infect piglets during suckling. Growth rate of infected pigs was reduced by 15.9% (p<0.001) between 8 to 85 kg bodyweight, while feed conversion was depressed by 13.8% (p<0.05) between 10 to 25 kg bodyweight. At current feed and production costs this reduced performance added approximately 2.80 to the cost of every pig produced. These losses were recorded in groups of pigs in which enzootic pneumonia was present. At slaughter, 40% of lungs contained gross lesions of enzootic pneumonia which were free of significant secondary bacteria.

The nature of the infection was established by gross and microscopic pathology and confirmed by the detection of specific complement fixing antibody in infected pigs and the demonstration of M. hyopneumoniae by direct immunofluorescent staining of lung sections.
The protection given by pilus and whole cell vaccines of Bacteroides nodosus strain 198 against ovine foot‐rot induced by strains of different serogroups
Authors: STEWART D. J. , CLARK B. L. , PETERSON J. E. , EMERY D. L. , SMITH E. F. , GRIFFITHS D. A. , O'DONNELL I. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A highly purified pilus vaccine prepared from cells of Bacteroides nodosus strain 198 provided a high level of protection against homologous challenge and small, not statistically significant, levels of protection against challenge with 4 other strains each from different serogroups. In a second experiment, a partially purified pilus vaccine from strain 198 induced significant immunity to 1 of 4 heterologous strains which were different from those used in the first experiment. In a third experiment a strain 198 whole cell vaccine produced significant immunity against 3 of 6 heterologous strains used in the first 2 experiments. There was no obvious relationship between the colony type, degree of piliation and level of cross‐protection obtained against a particular strain. The results provide further evidence that immunogens associated with, but distinct from, the pilus are involved in cross‐protection and that cross‐protective antigens are common to some, but not all, strains.
Haemorrhagic necrotising enteritis in foals associated with Clostridium perfringens
Authors: SIMS L. D. , TZIPORI S. , HAZARD G. H. , CARROLL C. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Two foals aged 35 and 48 h from 2 Thoroughbred studs died several hours after developing clinical signs of depression, severe haemorrhagic diarrhoea and dehydration. Both foals had an acute haemorrhagic enteritis extending from the anterior jejunum to the terminal ileum which was characterised histologically by villus necrosis. Necrotic villi were surrounded by large numbers of rod‐shaped Gram positive bacteria. Clostridium perfringens was recovered from the intestines of both foals and the isolates were considered to be C. pertringens type C. Other cases of diarrhoea were also observed in foals of the same age on these 2 studs, but the aetiology of these was not determined.
Changes in cattle tick control practices in south eastern Queensland from 1977 to 1982
Authors: ELDER J. K. , HASS C. R. , REID T. J. , KEARNAN J. F. , EMMERSONS F. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Results of a survey of cattle producers in south eastern Queensland in 1982 concerning cattle tick control have been compared with those of a similar survey carried out in 1977–78. During the interval between these surveys the proportion of beef farms with tick resistant (Bos indicus infusion) cattle as the main breed had increased from 47.8% to 60.0%. Chemical control methods had improved but many producers were continuing to treat their cattle more often than necessary. Over the period there was an increase in the proportion of farms with small numbers of animals, and 30% of the farms had less than 50 cattle.