bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre-anaesthetic screening of geriatric dogs
Authors: Joubert K.E.
Published: August 2012

Pre-anaesthetic screening has been advocated as a valuable tool for improving anaesthetic safety and determining anaesthetic risk. This study was done determine whether pre-anaesthetic screening result in cancellation of anaesthesia and the diagnosis of new clinical conditions in geriatric dogs. One hundred and one dogs older than 7 years of age provided informed owner consent were included in the study. Each dog was weighed, and its temperature, pulse and respiration recorded. An abdominal palpation, examination of the mouth, including capillary refill time and mucous membranes, auscultation, body condition and habitus was performed and assessed. A cephalic catheter was placed and blood drawn for pre-anaesthetic testing. A micro-haematocrit tube was filled and the packed cell volume determined. The blood placed was in a test tube, centrifuged and then analysed on an in-house blood analyser. Alkaline phosphatase, alanine transferase, urea, creatinine, glucose and total protein were determined. A urine sample was then obtained by cystocentesis, catheterisation or free-flow for analysis. The urine specific gravity was determined with a refractometer. A small quantity of urine was then placed on a dip stick. Any new diagnoses made during the pre-anaesthetic screening were recorded. The average age of the dogs was 10.99+2.44 years and the weight was 19.64+15.78 kg. There were 13 dogs with pre-existing medical conditions. A total of 30 new diagnoses were made on the basis of the pre-anaesthetic screening. The most common conditions were neoplasia, chronic kidney disease and Cushing's disease. Of the 30 patients with a new diagnosis, 13 did not undergo anaesthesia as result of the new diagnosis. From this study it can be concluded that screening of geriatric patients is important and that sub-clinical disease could be present in nearly 30 % of these patients. The value of screening before anaesthesia is perhaps more questionable in terms of anaesthetic practice but it is an appropriate time to perform such an evaluation. The value of pre-anaesthetic screening in veterinary anaesthesia still needs to be evaluated in terms of appropriate outcome variables.
A preliminary report on the use of FAMACHAÂ© for haemonchosis in goats in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa during the late autumn / early winter period : short communication
Authors: Sri Jeyakumar C.
Published: August 2012

From May to July 2005 a study was conducted on the prevalence and effects of haemonchosis in goats farmed on communal grazing belonging to resource-poor farmers at two study sites, namely Mlungisi (26Â°53'E, 31Â°53'S) and Ezibeleni (26Â°58'E, 31Â°53'S), situated within the Chris Hani District Municipality in Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The usefulness of the FAMACHAÂ© system for identifying goats needing treatment was confirmed. It allowed stock owners to identify badly affected goats accurately, as borne out by the agreement between FAMACHA scores and corresponding haematocrits.
Hyperzincaemia in a pet African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus Waterhouse, 1840) : clinical communication
Authors: Cooper R.G. , Erlwanger K.H.
Published: August 2012

Presented is an African giant rat (Cricetomys gambianus) following zinc ingestion. The sick rat was lethargic, withdrawn, had soft, mucus-impregnated faeces and diahorrea, foot twitching and icterus. Comparative age, sex and body weight (b.wt.)-matched analyses were made with a healthy giant rat. Twelve-hourly Urine volume (UV), Haematocrit (Hct), urinary glucose, plasma zinc and Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) were performed over an 8-week period. Full blood counts were performed and differential WBC counts and microscopic observations were made on blood smears obtained from both healthy and sick rats. Consecutive blood samples were drawn at the end of each week (Weeks 2-6 treatment; Weeks 7-8 post-treatment). Treatment involved oral vitamin B12 supplement at 4 µg / day and 2m diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) intramuscular injections at 1m / 450g b.wt. / 5 wks (Week 2 - 6). Day 1 showed neutropaenia, Heinz bodies on RBCs (reticulocytes and immature forms). Zinc (Day 1 - end Week 7), glucose (Day 1 - end Week 4), ALP (Day 1 - Week 4) and UV were elevated (Day 1 - end Week 6). Indications of moderate zinc toxicosis following ingestion and stress-associated glucosuria were concluded.
Anaerobic bacterial pericardial effusion in a cat : clinical communication
Authors: Lobetti R.G.
Published: August 2012

A 9-year-old male cat was presented for evaluation of chronic weight loss and was subsequently diagnosed with pericardial effusion. The effusion was quantified as a septic exudate caused by the anaerobic bacterium Peptostreptococcus. Antibiotic therapy resulted in complete resolution of the pericardial effusion. As Peptostreptococcus is a common oral bacterium and the cat had a previous dental procedure, it is speculated that the pericardial effusion was secondary to bacteraemia from the dental procedure.
Alternatives to animal disposal including the use of foresight technology and agri-intelligence, Norman G. Willis (Ed.) : book review
Authors: Penrith M-L.
Published: August 2012

The conventional approach to control of outbreaks of serious animal diseases by massive destruction of animals is increasingly being questioned. While this approach has been reasonably successful in achieving outbreak control, intensification of animal production has resulted in ever larger numbers of animals having to be destroyed in as short a period of time as possible. In order to control highly contagious diseases, the culling involves not only infected and in-contact herds but at-risk herds within a defined area, which results in the destruction of large numbers of healthy animals.
Veterinary education in South Africa : the Classes of 1932 & 1933 : short historical communication
Authors: Bigalke R.D.
Published: August 2012

The Class of 1933 of the Onderstepoort Faculty was the smallest in its history, having only 1 student for much of the BVSc course. The photographs of the Classes of 1932 and 1933 are both of the customary composite type. Not only the graduates, but also the Dean, Prof. Dr P J du Toit, as well as the presumed Acting Dean, Prof. Dr G de Kock, and the head of the students' hostel, Mr WO Neitz, feature. Concise descriptions are given of the life histories of the 7 graduates. Once again their careers show considerable variation. Although they all initially joined Field Services as state veterinarians, none spent their entire careers in that division. Three spent virtually their entire careers at Onderstepoort, also teaching (part-time) at the Faculty. After a most impressive start to his career, a 4th graduate died at the age of only 30 shortly after leaving Onderstepoort for municipal (public health) service. A 5th spent most of his career in private practice while also serving the veterinary profession for 8 years in the high office of president of its association. One spent the greater part of his career in municipal (public health) service and another went into private practice, eventually also farming with citrus.
A questionnaire survey of perceptions and preventive measures related to animal health amongst cattle owners of rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Hesterberg U.W. , Bagnall R. , Perrett K. , Horner R. , Gummow B.
Published: August 2012

A questionnaire survey of 315 cattle owners from the rural districts of KwaZulu-Natal was carried out. The aim of the survey was to improve our understanding of local farmers' perceptions and practices of animal disease prevention and control and to establish the extent of their relationship with veterinary services. The survey showed that many owners practice preventive measures such as deworming, tick control and vaccination. Traditional medicines were in use by over half the respondents (58.9 %). Diseases are regarded as an important management problem (56.1 %); ticks, worms and diarrhoea dominated the mentioned health problems in cattle. Veterinary services still play an important role and are a frequent source of advice to owners. The findings of the survey and their context are discussed.
The effect of cholecystokinin peptides on ovine duodeno-jejunal slow waves with and without pretreatment with proglumide
Authors: Romanski K.W.
Published: August 2012

Cholecystokinin exerts a composite influence on gastrointestinal motility but little is known about its effect on small-intestinal slow waves. Thus, six rams were implanted with four bipolar serosal electrodes onto the duodeno-jejunal wall. In the course of chronic experiments the myoelectric activity was continuously recorded in the non-fasted animals. After recording of the full normal migrating myoelectric complex (MMC), 0.15 M NaCl or CCK peptides were injected intravenously during various phases of the next MMC cycle. Five mℓ of saline was injected over 30 s during phases 1, 2a, or 2b of the MMC. Cerulein was administered at doses of 1 (over 30 s), 10 (over 30 or 60 s), or 100 ng/kg (over 30, 60, 120 or 300 s) and cholecystokinin octapeptide (CCK-OP) at doses 20 times higher. CCK peptides were applied during early or late phase 1 of the MMC and during phases 2a and 2b of the MMC. In the course of additional experiments, saline and hormone administration was directly preceded by infusion of proglumide, an unspecific CCK receptor antagonist, at a dose of 10 mg/kg. The myoelectric recordings were continued until the arrival of a subsequent regular phase 3 of theMMC.In the duodenal bulb, slow waves were occasionally observed. In the duodenum the slow-wave frequency oscillated between 20 and 24 cpm and in the jejunum between 19 and 22 cpm before or after CCK peptides and proglumide. In the duodenum the slow-wave amplitude increased significantly after all doses of cerulein injected during phase 2b of the MMC. After administration of CCK-OP changes in duodenal slow-wave amplitude were not significant but exhibited a tendency similar to those after cerulein. In the jejunum, injection of cerulein and CCK-OP during phase 2 of the MMC increased the slow-wave amplitude significantly and the duration of these changes was longer than in the duodenum. After infusion of proglumide, administration of cerulein at the low dose over 30 s and at the high dose over 300 s in the course of late phase 1 and phases 2a and 2b of the MMC, significantly increased the duodenal slow-wave amplitude. Cerulein injection during phase 2b of the MMC at the high dose over 30 and 60 s, preceded by proglumide infusion, significantly inhibited the duodenal slow-wave amplitude. In the jejunum these changes were even more pronounced and their duration was much longer. It is concluded that CCK peptides affect slow-wave amplitude in the duodeno-jejunum in non-fasted sheep. This effect is stronger in the jejunum and is altered but not abolished by pretreatment with proglumide. Cerulein evokes more pronounced alterations in the slow-wave amplitude than CCK-OP in conscious sheep.
Multiple cutaneous inverted papillomas in a dog : clinical communication
Authors: Lane E.P. , Tubbesing U.
Published: August 2012

Cutaneous inverted papillomas are described in an 8-month-old mixed breed domestic dog from Windhoek, Namibia. Multiple firm, rapidly growing, doughnut-shaped masses formed on the ventral abdomen, which histologically consisted of a cup-shaped rim of marked epithelial hyperplasia, giant keratohyaline granules and prominent koilocytes and marked hyperkeratosis filling the centre of the mass. Current literature on canine papillomas is briefly reviewed.
Index, Volume 78 - 2007 : subject / Indeks, Jaargang 78 - 2007 : onderwerp
Authors: Subject Index
Published: August 2012

Comparison of quality of induction of anaesthesia between intramuscularly administered ketamine, intravenously administered ketamine and intravenously administered propofol in xylazine premedicated cats
Investigation of a syndrome characterised by passage of red urine in smallholder dairy cattle in East Usambara Mountains, Tanzania : clinical communication
Authors: Karimuribo E.D. , Swai E.S. , Kyakaisho P.K.
Published: August 2012

A case-control study was carried out to investigate a syndrome in smallholder dairy cattle in East Usambara Mountains characterised by urination of clotted blood. Smallholder dairy farms with the problem (cases) were matched with nearest farms without the problem (controls). In total, 30 farmers from Mbomole (19), Shebomeza (9) and Mlesa (2) villages in Amani division participated in the study. Using a structured questionnaire, information on risk factors associated with conditions characterised by passage of red urine in cattle was collected. In addition, serum samples from 80 smallholder dairy animals were collected and submitted for serodiagnosis of leptospirosis and babesiosis by microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Laboratory analysis showed that the seroprevalence of leptospirosis and babesiosis was 21.3 % and 46.3 %, respectively and there was no significant difference between 'case' and 'control' farms (P 0.05), hence the occurrence of urination of clotted blood syndrome in Amani was not explained. However, bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) was found to be ubiquitous in the area, and also found to be widespread in all areas used as sources of animal fodder. Given the presence and distribution of bracken ferns and clinical signs and post-mortem lesions described by informants, chronic bracken-fern poisoning is more likely to be associated with the syndrome affecting animals in the study area. However, further investigation is required to confirm this observation so that appropriate control strategies can be devised.
An outbreak of chlamydiosis in farmed Indopacific crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) : clinical communication
Authors: Huchzermeyer F.W. , Langelet E. , Putterill J.F.
Published: August 2012

An outbreak of chlamydiosis was diagnosed in hatchling and juvenile Indopacific crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) on a crocodile farm in Papua New Guinea. The outbreak was characterised by high mortality with hepatitis and exudative conjunctivitis. The agent appears to have been introduced with live wild-caught crocodiles, which are purchased routinely by the farm. Improved quarantine procedures and treatment with tetracycline led to a rapid reduction of losses on the farm.
Three cases of osteoma and an osseous fibroma of the paranasal sinuses of horses in South Africa : clinical communication
Authors: Cilliers I. , Williams J. , Carstens A. , Duncan N.M.
Published: August 2012

Four horses were presented to the Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital with histories of facial asymmetry, nasal discharge or obstruction of normal nasal passage airflow. Radiographic examination of the maxillary sinuses of 2 cases revealed well circumscribed, unilateral, mineralised masses; the other 2 cases showed less mineralisation. The masses were accessed for further investigation by surgically created frontonasal bone flaps or trephination of the maxillary sinuses. Diagnosis of osteoma was confirmed histopathologically in 3 of the cases and of ossifying fibroma in the 4th. Two horses were euthanased directly after surgical intervention due to poor prognosis. Osteomas are by nature expansile tumours and follow the complex communication of the sinuses, and therefore are not all amenable to surgical removal. Osseous fibromas are large, solitary, expansile lesions that are rare in all species but reported most frequently in horses. They have an apparent predilection for the rostral mandible of the horse.
Review of African swine fever : transmission, spread and control : review article
Authors: Penrith M-L. , Vosloo W.
Published: August 2012

African swine fever is one of the most important and serious diseases of domestic pigs. Its highly contagious nature and ability to spread over long distances make it one of the most feared diseases, since its devastating effects on pig production have been experienced not only in most of sub-Saharan Africa but also in western Europe, the Caribbean, Brazil and, most recently, the Caucasus. Unlike most diseases of livestock, there is no vaccine, and therefore prevention relies entirely upon preventing contact between the virus and the susceptible host. In order to do so it is necessary to understand the way in which the virus is transmitted and spreads. By implementing strict biosecurity measures that place barriers between the source of virus and the pigs it is possible to prevent infection. However, this has implications for free-ranging pig husbandry systems that are widespread in developing countries. Attempts to produce a vaccine are ongoing and new technology offers some hope for the future, but this will not remove the necessity for implementing adequate biosecurity on pig farms.
Effects of lumbosacral epidural ketamine and lidocaine inxylazine-sedated cats : article
Authors: DeRossi R. , Benites A.P. , Ferreira J.Z. , Neto J.M.N. , Hermeto L.C.
Published: August 2012

In order to determine the analgesic and cardiovascular effects of the combination of epidural ketamine and lidocaine, 6 sedated cats were studied. Six healthy, young cats were used in a prospective randomised study. Each cat underwent 3 treatments, at least 1 week apart, via epidural injection: (1) ketamine (2.5 mg/kg), (2) lidocaine (4.0 mg/kg), and (3) ketamine (2.5 mg/kg) plus lidocaine (4.0 mg/kg). Epidural injections were administered through the lumbosacral space. Analgesia, motor block, sedation, heart rate, arterial blood pressure, respiratory rate and arterial oxygen saturation were measured. Rectal temperature was compared before and after sedation as well as after epidural administration of the drugs. Epidural administration of the ketamine/lidocaine combination induced prolonged analgesia extending from the coccygeal to the T13-L1 dermatomes, leading to severe ataxia. Cardiovascular effects were significant in all treatments: heart rate decreased, but there was a minimal reduction in arterial pressure. It was concluded that adding a dose of ketamine to epidural lidocaine in cats is feasible and effective.
Nuchal crest avulsion fracture in 2 horses : a cause of headshaking : clinical communication
Authors: Voigt A. , Saulez M.N. , Donnellan C.M.
Published: August 2012

The medical records of 2 Thoroughbred horses that developed headshaking after blunt trauma to the occipital region are reviewed. The history, signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic methods, diagnosis and treatment were recorded in each case. Both horses displayed headshaking, while one horse repeatedly lifted its upper lip and pawed excessively at the ground. In both horses, diagnostic imaging of the occipital region revealed avulsion fragments of the nuchal crest and a nuchal desmitis in association with hyperfibrinogenaemia. The presence of an avulsion fragment of the nuchal crest with associated nuchal desmitis should be considered in horses presenting with headshaking and may respond favourably to conservative therapy.
Onderstepoort 1908 - 2008, D.W. Verwoerd and R.D. Bigalke (Eds.) : book review
Authors: Penzhorn B.L.
Published: August 2012

October 2008 saw the commemoration of the centenary of the inauguration of the first building on the Onderstepoort campus. This building was declared a national monument in 1983. The roots of the Onderstepoort Veterinary Institute actually go back further, to 1896, when the rinderpest pandemic sweeping down the African continent prompted the government of the then Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek to establish a 'disinfection station' at Daspoort, on the outskirts of Pretoria, under the supervision of Arnold Theiler. The activities of that rather basic laboratory were transferred in October 1908 to the state-of-the-art building that had been erected on the farm 'De Onderstepoort', north of Pretoria. The name Onderstepoort has since become synonymous with veterinary research and education, not only in South Africa, but also far beyond its borders.
Cooking and drying as effective mechanisms in limiting the zoonotic effect of Mycobacterium bovis in beef
Authors: Van der Merwe M. , Bekker J.L. , Van der Merwe P. , Michel A.L.
Published: August 2012

For this study 48 non-infected muscle, lymphatic and visceral bovine tissue samples were collected from an approved red meat abattoir and spiked with 8 × 107cfu/mℓ of M. bovis. The different spiked samples were subjected to cooking and drying (drying through the process of biltong-making) processes in a controlled laboratory environment. Mycobacterial isolates confirmed as M. bovis by means of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were observed in 17 of a total of 576 samples that were exposed to the secondary processing method of cooking. The study showed that not only can M. bovis survive the cooking process but the survival of the bacterium will be determined by its unique adaptive changes to the surrounding composition of the environment. The results for the samples exposed to the drying process (n = 96) did not show any growth, suggesting that the process of biltong production as used in this study is likely to render infected meat safe for human consumption.
Inadequate thickness of the weight-bearing surface of claws in ruminants : clinical review
Authors: Shakespeare A.S.
Published: August 2012

The term 'thin soles' refers to the suboptimal thickness of the weight-bearing surface of claws in ruminants. These palmar / plantar surfaces of the claws support the weight of the animal and consist of the distal wall horn, the sole proper, the heel and the minute white line area. The sole should normally only bear weight on uneven or undulating surfaces. A decrease in the thickness of the weight-bearing claw surface will decrease the protective function of this structure and may alter the proportion of weight-bearing by each section with possible detrimental effects on hoof function. Horn tissue readily absorbs water and becomes softer which can lead to increased wear rates. Growth rates normally match wear rates but, unlike the latter, time is needed for the growth rate response to adapt to changes in wear rate. Concrete surfaces can be abrasive and dairy cows that spend their lactation cycle on these floors should be let out to pasture in the dry period so that their claws can recoup lost horn. Frictional coefficient is a measure of the 'slipperiness' of hooves on various surfaces. Newly laid or fresh concrete is not only abrasive but the thin surface suspension of calcium hydroxide that forms has a very alkaline pH which causes keratin degradation and is mostly responsible for the excessive claw wear that occurs. Four case studies are used to illustrate the importance of the distal wall horn, the dangers of over-trimming and the effects of disease and concrete on horn growth and wear rates.
Construction and insertion of oesophageal cannulae for use in domestic ruminants : clinical communication
Authors: Booyse D.G. , Harmse G. , Boomker E.A.
Published: August 2012

The design of an oesophageal cannula for goats, sheep and cattle is described. The cannula consists of a base, threaded bar and stopper made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or wood. The surgical procedure in goats for inserting the cannula is described as well as how to keep the wound around the cannula clean.
Bilateral axillary skin fold flaps used for dorsal thoracic skin wound closure in a dog : clinical communication
Authors: Nevill B. G.
Published: August 2012

A 10-year-old greyhound-cross dog was presented with a large, chronic skin wound extending over the interscapular region. The substantial skin defect was closed by making use of bilateral axillary skin fold flaps. It was possible to elevate the 2 skin flaps sufficiently to allow them to meet at the dorsal midline and thus facilitate complete closure of a large and awkwardly positioned wound. Small dorsal areas of the skin flaps underwent necrosis, but the resulting defects were closed without difficulty in a subsequent procedure. To the author's knowledge, this is the 1st clinical report of the use of bilateral axillary skin fold flaps in this fashion and describes an additional use of a versatile skin flap procedure.
An anatomical and clinical review of cricopharyngeal achalasia in the dog
Authors: Elliott R.C.
Published: August 2012

Cricopharyngeal achalasia is a rare cause of dysphagia in the dog. However it must be differentiated from other causes of dysphagia as it is treatable with surgery. It is a disruption of the cricopharyngeal phase of the oropharyngeal phase of deglutition. There appears to be an incoordination in the swallowing process between the relaxation of the rostral, middle pharyngeal muscles and the caudal pharyngeal muscles. It is seen as a primary condition in young animals presenting soon after weaning onto solid food. The dogs appear clinically healthy unless there is secondary aspiration pneumonia or emaciation. These dogs may present as respiratory emergencies and require intensive support and treatment prior to corrective surgery. The diagnosis is made on videofluoroscopy. The condition carries a good prognosis for cure with surgical myectomy of the cricopharyngeal muscle and the thyropharyngeal muscle, which make up the upper oesophageal sphincter. Temporary relief prior to surgery can be achieved by injection of the cricopharyngeal muscle with botulism toxin. Surgical treatment for dysphagia secondary to an underlying neurological, neuromuscular or pharyngeal weakness carries a guarded prognosis and will make aspiration pneumonia worse.
South African Association of Veterinary Technologists : congress abstracts
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

The following are abstracts of papers and posters presented at the 'Back to Basics Congress' of the South African Association of Veterinary Technologists (SAAVT), 15-16 September 2009, Batter Boys, Pretoria, South Africa.
Research on animal blood groups and biochemical polymorphisms at Onderstepoort (1956-1990) : historical article
Authors: Osterhoff D.R.
Published: August 2012

The introduction and wide use of artificial insemination in cattle in the 1950s led to a need for accurate parentage identification. Blood group determination by means of the newly emerging scientific discipline called immunogenetics provided the answer. A blood group laboratory was consequently established at Onderstepoort in 1956, initially concentrating on the production of blood typing reagents. Once established the technology was also applied to studies on a variety of problems in various animals as summarised in this paper. Investigations include zygosity in cattle twins, blood transfusion in domestic animals, breed relationships, genetic polymorphisms and the identification of useful genetic markers for production and disease parameters in breeding programmes.
Surgical uterine drainage and lavage as treatment for canine pyometra : clinical communication
Authors: De Cramer K.G.M.
Published: August 2012

Pyometra is a common post-oestral syndrome in bitches. Classical treatment consists of either ovariohystorectomy or medical intervention. Surgical uterine drainage and lavage via direct trans-cervical catheterisation using a 5% povidone-iodine in saline solution was performed successfully in 8 bitches with pyometra. All bitches conceived and whelped without complications subsequent to this treatment. It is concluded that this method offers an effective alternative treatment for canine pyometra with shorter recovery times as well as good clinical recovery and pregnancy rates in bitches destined for further breeding.
Summary of foot-and-mouth disease outbreaks reported in and around the Kruger National Park, South Africa, between 1970 and 2009
Authors: Dyason E.
Published: August 2012

Information with regard to foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreaks that occurred in the Kruger National Park (KNP) and adjacent areas of South Africa between 1970 and 2009 was collected from reports and files of various government departments and collated into one report. The collected data were summarised in a table and assessed for patterns. Fifty-one FMD outbreaks occurred during this period in the target area, of which 16 were SAT 1, 31 were SAT 2, 4 were SAT 3 and 3 were not serotyped. No pattern could be discerned although SAT 1 outbreaks occurred more frequently in the summer months while more SAT 2 outbreaks occurred in winter.
Steroid-sparing effect of mycophenolate mofetil in the treatment of a subepidermal blistering autoimmune disease in a dog : clinical communication
Authors: Ginel P.J. , Blanco B. , Lucena R. , Jimenez C.R. , Peinado-Guitart C. , Mozos E.
Published: August 2012

A 7-year-old female Cocker spaniel-cross was referred with an 8-month history of mucocutaneous erosive dermatitis. On physical examination, skin lesions affected the eyelids and periocular area, lips and vulva. Lesions were symmetrical with small diffuse superficial ulcers, haemorrhagic crusts, adherent purulent exudation in haired skin, and alopecia with hyperpigmentation and scarring. Histopathologic evaluation showed multiple, non-intact dermoepidermal junction vesicles and ulceration associated with a dermal lichenoid infiltrate. Immunohistochemistry showed strong to moderate reactivity in the dermoepidermal junction for the antibodies directed against canine IgG, human IgG lambda light chains and C3, respectively. A diagnosis of autoimmune subepidermal blistering dermatosis was made. Treatment with oral prednisone at 2 mg/kg and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) at 20 mg/kg twice daily was initiated and after 4 weeks the ulcers and erosions were cured. During the rest of treatment, MMF was maintained at 10 mg/kg twice daily and prednisone could be tapered to 0.25 mg/kg once every other day without recurrences. In conclusion, this case report shows that MMF was well tolerated and might be effective as steroid-sparing agent in the long-term treatment of this autoimmune subepidermal blistering disease.
William Horner Andrews (1887–1953) – First Professor of Physiology at Onderstepoort
Authors: Verwoerd D. W. , Andrews W. J. H.
Published: August 2012

WHAndrews qualified as a veterinarian in London in 1908 and was recruited soon after, in 1909, by Sir Arnold Theiler to join the staff of the newly established veterinary laboratory at Onderstepoort. After initial studies on the treatment of trypanosomosis and on snake venoms he was deployed by Theiler in 1911 to start research on lamsiekte (botulism)at a field station on the farm Kaffraria near Christiana, where he met and married his wife Doris. After a stint as Captain in the SA Veterinary Corps during World War I he succeeded D T Mitchell as head of the Allerton Laboratory in 1918, where he excelled in research on toxic plants, inter alia identifying Matricaria nigellaefolia as the cause of staggers in cattle.Whenthe Faculty ofVeterinary Science was established in 1920 he was appointed as the first Professor of Physiology. After the graduation of the first class in 1924, and due to health problems, he returned to the UK, first to the Royal Veterinary College and then to the Weybridge Veterinary Laboratories of which he became Director in 1927.After his retirement in 1947 he returned to South Africa as a guest worker at Onderstepoort where he again became involved in teaching physiologywhenProf. Quin unexpectedly died in 1950. Andrews died in Pretoria in 1953 and was buried in the Rebecca Street Cemetery.
The sensitivity of direct faecal examination, direct faecal flotation, modified centrifugal faecal flotation and centrifugal sedimentation/flotation in the diagnosis of canine spirocercosis
Authors: Christie J. , Schwan E. V. , Bodenstein L. L. , Sommerville J. E. M. , Van der Merwe L. L.
Published: August 2012

Several faecal examination techniques have shown variable sensitivity in demonstrating Spirocerca lupi (S. lupi) eggs. The objective of this study was to determine which faecal examination technique, including a novel modified centrifugal flotation technique, was most sensitive to diagnose spirocercosis. Ten coproscopic examinations were performed on faeces collected from 33 dogs confirmed endoscopically to have spirocercosis. The tests included a direct faecal examination, a faecal sedimentation/flotation test, 4 direct faecal flotations and 4 modified faecal centrifugal flotations. These latter 2 flotation tests utilised 4 different faecal flotation solutions:NaNO3 (SG 1.22),MgSO4 (SG 1.29),ZnSO4 (SG 1.30) and sugar (SG 1.27). The sensitivity of the tests ranged between 42 %and 67 %, with theNaNO3 solution showing the highest sensitivity in both the direct and modified-centrifugal flotations. The modified NaNO3 centrifugal method ranked 1st with the highest mean egg count (45.24±83), and was superior (i.e. higher egg count) and significantly different (P 0.05) compared with the routine saturated sugar,ZnSO4 andMgSO4 flotation methods. The routine NaNO3 flotation method was also superior and significantly different (P 0.05) compared with the routine ZnSO4 andMgSO4 flotation methods. Fifteen per cent (n=5) of dogs had neoplastic oesophageal nodules and a further 18 % (n = 6) had both neoplastic and non-neoplastic nodules. S. lupi eggs were demonstrated in 40%of dogs with neoplastic nodules only and 72.9 % of the dogs with non-neoplastic nodules. The mean egg count in the non-neoplastic group (61) was statistically greater (P = 0.02) than that of the neoplastic group (1). The results show that faecal examination using a NaNO3 solution is the most sensitive in the diagnosis of spirocercosis. The modified centrifugal flotation faecal method using this solution has the highest egg count. The study also found that dogs with neoplastic nodules shed significantly fewer eggs than dogs with non-neoplastic nodules.
Detection and characterisation of papillomavirus in skin lesions of giraffe and sable antelope in South Africa
Authors: Van Dyk E. , Bosman A-M , Van Wilpe E. , Williams J. H. , Bengis R. G. , Van Heerden J. , Venter E. H.
Published: August 2012

Papillomavirus was detected electron microscopically in cutaneous fibropapillomas of a giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) and a sable antelope (Hippotragus niger). The virus particles measured 45 nm in diameter. Histopathologically, the lesions showed histopathological features similar to those of equine sarcoid as well as positive immunoperoxidase-staining of tissue sections for papillomavirus antigen. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detected bovine papillomavirus (BPV) DNA. Bovine papillomavirus-1 was characterised by real-time PCR in the sable and giraffe, and cloning and sequencing of the PCR product revealed a similarity to BPV-1. As in the 1st giraffe, the lesions from a 2nd giraffe revealed locally malignant pleomorphism, possibly indicating the lesional end-point of papilloma infection. Neither virus particles nor positively staining papillomavirus antigen could be demonstrated in the 2nd giraffe but papillomavirus DNA was detected by real-time PCR which corresponded with BPV-1 and BPV-2.
The spinal nerves that constitute the lumbosacral plexus and their distribution in the chinchilla
Authors: Martinez-Pereira M. A. , Rickes E. M.
Published: August 2012

In this study, the spinal nerves that constitute the lumbosacral plexus (plexus lumbosacrales) (LSP) and its distribution in Chinchilla lanigera were investigated. Ten chinchillas (6 males and 4 females) were used in this research. The spinal nerves that constitute the LSP were dissected and the distribution of pelvic limb nerves originating from the plexus was examined. The iliohypogastric nerve arose from L1 and L2,, giving rise to the cranial and caudal nerves, and the ilioinguinal nerve arose from L3. The other branch of L3 gave rise to the genitofemoral nerve and 1 branch from L4 gave rise to the lateral cutaneous femoral nerve. The trunk formed by the union of L4–5 divided into medial (femoral nerve) and lateral branches (obturator nerve). It was found that the LSP was formed by all the ventral branches of L4 at L6 and S1 at S3. At the caudal part of the plexus, a thick branch, the ischiadic plexus, was formed by contributions from L5–6 and S1. This root gave rise to the nerve branches which were disseminated to the posterior limb (cranial and caudal gluteal nerves, caudal cutaneous femoral nerve and ischiadic nerve). The ischiadic nerve divided into the caudal cutaneous surae, lateral cutaneous surae, common fibular and tibial nerve. The pudendal nerve arose from S1–2 and the other branch of S2 and S3 formed the rectal caudal nerve. The results showed that the origins and distribution of spinal nerves that constitute the LSP of chinchillas were similar to those of a few rodents and other mammals.
Veterinary education in South Africa : the classes of 1938 and 1939 : historical article
Authors: Bigalke R. D.
Published: August 2012

Concise descriptions are given of the life histories of the 10 members of the classes of 1938 and 1939. All of them initially joined the government service, Hugo, Steenekamp and Schatz spending their entire careers in the South African Veterinary (Field) Services. Mansvelt, the first recipient of the much-coveted Theiler medal, was the 2nd veterinarian to be appointed Director of Veterinary Services, a position specially created for the 'Field' in 1962. Having first established a successful private practice, Hofmeyr was appointed as the 1st full-time Professor of Surgery of the Onderstepoort Faculty in 1958 and its 1st full-time Dean in 1976. Albertyn opted for a career in public health, becoming director of 1 of the largest local municipal abattoirs. Turner spent virtually his entire career in private practice and was eventually joined by Brown who had served in the British Colonial Veterinary Service for many years. Fick was a government veterinarian for his entire career, first in South Africa, then in the British Colonial Service (for 13 years) and finally returning to South Africa. Like Hugo, Muller filled a senior position in Veterinary (Field) Services before he opted for a farming career.
A study of some infectious causes of reproductive disorders in cattle owned by resource-poor farmers in Gauteng Province, South Africa
Authors: Njiro S. M. , Kidanemariam A. G. , Tsotetsi A. M. , Katsande T. C. , Mnisi M. , Lubisi B. A. , Potts A. D. , Baloyi F. , Moyo G. , Mpofu J. , Kalake A. , Williams R.
Published: August 2012

Two hundred and thirty-nine cattle from Gauteng Province in South Africa were tested for various pathogens causing reproductive diseases including bovine viral diarrhoea/mucosal disease (BVD/MD) virus, infectious bovine rhinotracheitis/infectious pustular vulvovaginitis (IBR/IPV) virus, Neospora caninum and Brucella abortus using various tests. For BVD/MD virus, 49.37 % tested positive, 74.47 % for IBR/IPV virus, 8.96 % for Neospora caninum and 3.8 % for Brucella abortus. The result for Brucella abortus is higher than the national average, possibly due to the small sample size. A high seroprevalence of antibodies to both BVD/MD virus and IBR/IPV virus was evident. These 2 viruses should be considered, in addition to Brucella abortus, when trying to establish causes of abortion in cattle. The clinical significance of Neospora caninum as a cause of abortion in Gauteng needs further investigation. One hundred and forty-three bulls were tested for Campylobacter fetus and Trichomonas fetus, and a low prevalence of 1.4 % and 2.1 % respectively was found in this study. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.
Pharmacokinetics of ceftazidime administered to lactating and non-lactating goats
Authors: Rule R. , Villagra S. , Barrena P. , Lacchini R. , Reynaldni F. J.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this work was to determine the pharmacokinetics of intravenous (iv) and intramuscular (im) ceftazidime administered to lactating (LTG; n = 6) and non-lactating (NLTG; n=6) healthy Creole goats in 2 trials (T1 and T2). During T1 and T2, goats randomly received a single dose of im or iv ceftazidime (10 mg/kg). Serum concentration of iv ceftazidime in NLTG and LTG goats is best described by 2 and 3 compartment models, respectively. The pharmacokinetic parameters of iv and im ceftazidime administered to LTG and NLTG showed statistically significant differences (P0.05) in the constants (λz, T1 vs T2 [iv] 0.5±0.1 vs 0.3±0.1 /h; T1 vs T2 [im] 0.5±0.2 vs 0.3±0.1 /h) and in the mean times (t1/2, T 1 vs T 2 [iv] 1.6±0.3 vs 2.3±0.6 h; T 1 vs T 2 [im] 1.6±0.7 vs 2.6±0.9 h) of elimination. The bioavailability of ceftazidime in LTG and NLTG was 113.0 ± 17.8 and 96.0 ± 18.0 %, respectively. Ceftazidime concentration in milk at 2 h was: iv = 1.9 ± 0.2 and im = 2.4 ± 0.5 μg/m ; the penetration in milk was iv = 18.3 ± 13.5 and im = 14.3 ± 10.6 %. Ninety-six hours after iv and im administration, residues of the drug were not found in milk. In conclusion, ceftazidime, when administered to goats, showed high concentration times in serum, good penetration into milk and a bioavailability that makes it suitable to be used by the im route.
Treatment rationale for dogs poisoned with aldicarb (carbamate pesticide) : clinical review
Authors: Arnot L. F. , Veale D. J.H. , Steyl J. C.A. , Myburgh J. G.
Published: August 2012

The treatment rationale for dogs poisoned by aldicarb is reviewed from a pharmacological perspective. The illegal use of aldicarb to maliciously poison dogs is a major problem in some parts of the world. In South Africa, it is probably the most common canine poisoning treated by companion animal veterinarians. Aldicarb poisoning is an emergency and veterinarians need to be able to diagnose it and start with effective treatment immediately to ensure a reasonable prognosis. Successful treatment depends on the timely use of an anti-muscarinic drug (e.g. atropine). Additional supportive treatment options, including fluid therapy, diphenhydramine, benzodiazepines and the prevention of further absorption (activated charcoal) should also be considered. Possible complications after treatment are also briefly discussed.
Hypercalcaemia in a dog with primary hypothyroidism : clinical communication
Authors: Lobetti R. G.
Published: August 2012

A 7-year old female beagle was evaluated for symptomatic hypercalcaemia and primary hypothyroidism. Clinical findings were typical for hypothyroidism. Plasma parathyroid hormone was low and obvious causes for the hypercalcaemia were ruled out by means of abdominal ultrasonography, ultrasonography of the parathyroid glands, survey thoracic radiographs, and fine needle aspirate cytology of the spleen, liver, and peripheral lymph nodes. Treatment with thyroxine resulted in resolution of the hypercalcaemia after approximately 9 weeks of therapy. This is the 1st report of primary adult-onset hypothyroidism associated with symptomatic hypercalcaemia in a dog.
Makatinus Macropunctatus n.sp. (Nematoda: Aporcelaimidae) from the Kruger National Park
Authors: Heyns Juan
Published: August 2012

Makatinus Macropunctatus n.sp. (Nematoda: Aporcelaimidae) from the Kruger National Park
Observation on developmental biology, growth and some aspects of the population ecology of the African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer Sparrman) in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Pienaar U. De V.
Published: August 2012

Observation on developmental biology, growth and some aspects of the population ecology of the African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer caffer Sparrman) in the Kruger National Park
Notes on the small mammals of the Eastern Cape National Parks
Authors: De Graaff G. , Nel J. A. J.
Published: August 2012

Notes on the small mammals of the Eastern Cape National Parks
A supplementary list of flowering plants occurring in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Van Wyk P.
Published: August 2012

A comprehensive list of the plant species occurring in the Kruger National Park, compiled in the period prior to 1956, was followed by a supplementary list covering additions up to 1960. The present article deals with those species which were discovered from 1960 onwards. Short notes on the habitat and outstanding morphological features of each species are also included.
Sex reversal in the Sparid fish Chrysoblephus Laticeps
Authors: Penrith M. J
Published: August 2012

Protogynous hermaphroditism is reported in the sparid fish Chrysoblephus laticeps. It appears that there is a factor in their genetic make-up making it possible for various degrees of hermaphroditism to develop.
A systematic check list of flowering plants collected in the Addo Elephant National Park
Authors: Penzhorn B.L. , Olivier Maria C.
Published: August 2012

The vegetation and botanical exploration of the Park are discussed briefly. The 301 species of flowering plants recorded in the Park are listed in a systematic check list. Of the 54 families recorded, Compositae (39 spp.), Gramineae (32 spp.), Liliaceae (28 spp.) and Aizoaceae (28 spp.) are the best represented.
A new species of Tomopterna (Anura: Ranidae) from the Kruger National Park, with notes on related species
Authors: Passmore N. I. , Carruthers V. C.
Published: August 2012

A new species of Tomoptema, T. krugerensis, sp. n., has been recorded from the Kruger National Park, Republic of South Africa.Morphologically it is very similar to T. delalandei cryptotis (Boulenger) but the mating call is markedly different from that of the other members of the genus and this is coupled with small but consistent morphological differences.T. krugerensis sp. n. is known to occur only on a portion of the western fringe of the vast sandveld areas of Mozambique, but possibly has a much wider distribution. Mating call, calling behaviour, eggs, early development and defence mechanisms are described. The affinities of the new form are discussed and the mating calls of other members of the genus are reviewed. Mating call is again shown to be a sensitive non-morphological taxonomic tool.
Die geskiedenis van die Nasionale Bontebokpark, Swellendam
Authors: Van Rensburg A.P.J.
Published: August 2012

A description of the early history of the Swellendam district is given. The following aspects of the bontebok Damaliscus dorcas dorcas (Pallas, 1766) are discussed: distribution; origins of the historical confusion between bontebok and blesbok (D. d. phillipsi Harper, 1939); decline of the sub-species; conservation measures and redistribution.
Geographical index
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Scientific bibliography on the national parks of South Africa
Korttermyn plantegroeistruktuur- veranderings op Basalt in die sentrale distrik, Nasionale Krugerwildtuin
Authors: Coetzee B. J. , Gertenbach W. P.D. , Nel P. J.
Published: August 2012

Short term changes in vegetation structure on basalt in the Central District, Kruger National Park. A monitor system in the Kruger National Park, Republic of South Africa, allows for recording changes in vegetation structure in terms of frequency of different height ranges of individuals in 1 m x 1 m blocks. Structural changes over four above average rainfall years became the subject of investigation when wildebeest and zebra populations of the Acacia nigrescens Bushveld of the basalt plains declined rapidly in numbers. Changes in woody vegetation structure were ordinated by Principal Components Analysis and compared with a floristic classification. Three major types of structural changes were found to be related to floristic differences within Acacia nigrescens Bushveld.
The archaeology of the mountain Zebra National Park
Authors: Brooker Mary
Published: August 2012

Thirty archaeological sites were located during a survey of the Mountain Zebra National Park. These include three-small rock shelters and 27 open station sites. The artefact samples collected from two of the latter are discussed in detail.