bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and function of the bovine fetomaternal unit in relation to the causes of retained fetal membranes
Authors: McNaughton A. P. , Murray R. D.
Published: October 2010

Approximately 5 per cent of dairy cows are affected by retained fetal membranes. Retained fetal membranes are an important risk factor for the metritis/endometritis disease complex occurring in early lactation, and costs the UK dairy industry approximately £16 million annually in lost production. Veterinary clinicians have described the clinical signs, treatment and some associated risk factors of the condition since early Victorian times, and these have not changed over time. Research carried out within the past 20 years suggests that there is an immunological basis for retained fetal membranes. In a normal calving, the maturation of the placenta and its separation from healthy caruncles depends upon incompatibility between maternal and fetal major histocompatibility complex class I expressed on epithelium within the fetomaternal unit. Placental maturation follows stimulation of the maternal immune response and the production of neutrophilactivating factors within the epithelium in the caruncular arcade. This affects the extracellular matrix components within the placentome, breaking down collagen within the chorionic villi and assisting in separation from the caruncle. Factors influencing normal placental maturation include downregulation of antioxidative defence mechanisms against reactive oxygen species, a lower ratio of prostaglandin E2to prostaglandin F2αwithin the fetomaternal compartments of the placentome, and an elevated steroid hormone receptor status, which reduces the rate of apoptosis occurring in the chorionic epithelium before calving.
Antimicrobial resistance and phylogenetic groups in isolates of Escherichia coli from seagulls at the Berlengas nature reserve
Authors: Radhouani H. , Poeta P. , Igrejas G. , Gonçalves A. , Vinué L. , Torres C.
Published: October 2010

Fifty‐three faecal samples from yellow‐legged gulls (Larus cachinnans) at the Berlengas nature reserve in Portugal were cultured on Levine agar plates not supplemented with antimicrobial agents, and one Escherichia coli colony was isolated and identified from each sample. The percentages of resistant isolates for each of the drugs were ampicillin (43·4 per cent), tetracycline (39·6 per cent), nalidixic acid (34·0 per cent), streptomycin (32·1 per cent), trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole (SXT) (26·4 per cent), ciprofloxacin (18·9 per cent), chloramphenicol (18·9 per cent), gentamicin (7·5 per cent), tobramycin (7·5 per cent) amikacin (5·7 per cent) and amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid (1·9 per cent). All the isolates were susceptible to cefoxitin, ceftazidime, cefotaxime, aztreonam and imipenem. The following resistance genes were detected: bla TEM (17 of 23 ampicillin‐resistant isolates), tet (A) and/or tet (B) (18 of 21 tetracycline‐resistant isolates), aadA (12 of 17 streptomycin‐resistant isolates), cmlA (all chloramphenicol‐resistant isolates), aac(3)‐II with or without aac(3)‐IV (all four gentamicinresistant isolates), and sul1 and/or sul2 and/or sul3 (all 14 SXT‐resistant isolates). The intI1 gene was detected in 10 of 14 SXT‐resistant isolates, and three of them also contained class 2 integrons; four different gene cassette arrangements were identified among class 1 integrons (aadA, dfrA1 +aadA1, dfrA12 +orfF +aadA2 and sat +psp +aadA2) and one among the class 2 integrons (dfrA1 +sat +aadA1). Ninety per cent of the isolates were included in the A or B1 phylogenetic groups.
Investigation into the pathology of shoulder ulcerations in sows
Authors: Jensen H. E.
Published: October 2010

The pathogenesis and pathology of 421 cases of shoulder ulcerations in sows were examined and compared with 95 normal shoulders. The ulcerations started on the surface as a result of thrombosis and gradually progressed inwards to the tuber spina scapula. At each stage the lesions contained multiple bacterial colonies, and as the ulcerations progressed the amount of granulation tissues and fibroplasia increased. In 45 of the 95 normal shoulders there were areas of acute haemorrhage, oedema and fibroplasia, which followed the cords of normal fibrous tissue. However, in these cases the tissue was never necrotic, and the reaction was comparable with the subcutaneous lesions caused by blunt trauma to the skin.
Plasma lactate concentrations and blood gas values in dogs undergoing surgical attenuation of a single congenital portosystemic shunt
Authors: Cariou M. P. , Lipscomb V. J. , Hughes D. , Brodbelt D. , Brockman D. J.
Published: October 2010

Plasma concentration of lactate and the values of pH, pO2and pCO2were measured in the portal, systemic venous and, when possible, systemic arterial blood of 31 dogs with a single congenital portosystemic shunt, before and shortly after the temporary complete occlusion of the shunt, and at the end of surgery. At completion of the surgery, the shunt in 16 of the dogs had been occluded completely whereas in the other 15 it had been occluded only partially. There were no significant differences between any of the measurements of these variables in the portal venous, systemic venous or arterial plasma of any of the dogs, or between the values measured in the groups in which the shunts had been occluded completely or partially. Furthermore, there were no significant differences between the two groups of dogs in the arteriovenous gradients calculated at any of the sampling sites or sampling times. None of the variables was associated with the development of postoperative complications.
Cattle enterotoxaemia andClostridium perfringens: description, diagnosis and prophylaxis
Authors: Lebrun M. , Mainil J. G. , Linden A.
Published: October 2010

Cattle enterotoxaemia is one of numerous pathologies caused byClostridium perfringens. These anaerobic Gram‐positive bacteria are naturally present in the intestinal flora of mammals, but their uncontrolled multiplication under certain conditions results in the overproduction of toxins in the intestinal tract. Major clinical signs are induced by the systemic spread of these toxins in the blood and tissues. Enterotoxaemia may be acute or peracute, and sudden death is often reported in rapidly growing, apparently healthy cattle. Enterotoxaemia can be prevented only with better understanding of its risk factors and pathogenesis. This paper provides an up‐to‐date overview of knowledge concerning the aetiology of the syndrome, its epidemiological context, pathogenesis, clinical signs and lesions, the diagnostic procedures and prophylactic tools, with specific attention to field aspects that are directly relevant to practitioners and clinical researchers.
Enteral fluid therapy in 108 horses with large colon impactions and dorsal displacements
Authors: Monreal L. , Navarro M. , Armengou L. , José‐Cunilleras E. , Cesarini C. , Segura D.
Published: October 2010

To assess the effect of enteral fluid therapy (EFT) in horses with colic, 78 adult horses with colon impactions and 30 with left dorsal colon displacements received an isotonic electrolyte solution via a nasogastric tube at a rate of 8 to 10 l every two hours until resolution of clinical signs. Clinical progression was monitored closely, and plasma biochemistry was evaluated before, during and after treatment. Volume of fluids, time to resolution, and outcome were also recorded. EFT was well tolerated by 102 of 108 horses and was an effective method to resolve 99 per cent of colon impactions and 83 per cent of displacements. For both groups, the mean (sd) time to resolution was 20.2 (5.2) hours and the volume of fluid administered was 118.6 (34.5) l. No relevant abnormalities were observed in most plasma biochemistry parameters during treatment, except for a mild haemodilution effect in 63 per cent of horses.
Number and ownership profiles of cats and dogs in the UK
Authors: Murray J. K. , Browne W. J. , Roberts M. A. , Whitmarsh A. , Gruffydd‐Jones T. J.
Published: October 2010

A random sample of 2980 households in the UK in 2007 showed that 26 per cent and 31 per cent of households owned cats and dogs, respectively. Households with gardens were more likely to own cats and dogs than households without gardens. Households in which someone was qualified to degree level were more likely to own cats and less likely to own dogs than other households. Cats were more likely to be owned by semi‐urban/rural households and by female respondents. Dog ownership significantly decreased the likelihood of cat ownership, and respondents aged 65 years or more were less likely to report that their household owned a cat than younger respondents. Households with one or more dogs and children aged 11 to 15 years were more likely to own a cat than other households. The likelihood of dog ownership increased as household size increased. Dogs were more likely to be owned by rural households, and less likely to be owned by households with cats or children aged 10 years or younger. Female respondents and those aged less than 55 years were more likely to report dog ownership than other respondents. The estimated size (and 95 per cent confidence intervals) of the owned cat and dog populations in the UK in 2006 was 10,332,955 (9,395,642 to 11,270,269) cats and 10,522,186 (9,623,618 to 11,420,755) dogs.
Occurrence ofMycoplasma hyopneumoniaeinfections in suckling and nursery pigs in a region of high pig density
Authors: Nathues H. , Kubiak R. , Tegeler R. , Beilage E. Grosse
Published: October 2010

The occurrence ofMycoplasma hyopneumoniaeinfections in young pigs was surveyed in a retrospective study of 1122 datasets obtained from routine diagnostics where either suckling or nursery pigs were examined forM hyopneumoniaein lung tissue. Findings were correlated with the presence of lung lesions, detection of other respiratory pathogens, vaccination history and parameters describing the herd of origin. The prevalence ofM hyopneumoniaein lung tissue from 201 suckling pigs was 2.0 per cent and, therefore, significantly lower than in lung tissue from 921 nursery pigs, which was 9.3 per cent. Previous use of antimicrobials and the vital status of the pigs when delivered for postmortem examination did not influence the detection ofM hyopneumoniaeinfection. The presence of the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)‐EU genotype,Pasteurella multocida, Haemophilus parasuis, Mycoplasma hyorhinisorStreptococcus suiswas correlated with a higher probability of also findingM hyopneumoniae. The history of vaccination, the time of the first or second application, and the type of vaccine (one‐ versus two‐shot) did not influence the detection ofM hyopneumoniae. A correlation between the type of herd and the presence ofM hyopneumoniaewas statistically insignificant and no effect of farrowing rhythm could be confirmed.
Effects of plastic bits on the condition and behaviour of captive‐reared pheasants
Authors: Butler D. A. , Davis C.
Published: October 2010

Between 2005 and 2007, data were collected from game farms across England and Wales to examine the effects of the use of bits on the physiological condition and behaviour of pheasants. On each site, two pheasant pens kept in the same conditions were randomly allocated to either use bits or not. The behaviour and physiological conditions of pheasants in each treatment pen were assessed on the day of bitting and weekly thereafter until release. Detailed records of feed usage, medications and mortality were also kept. Bits halved the number of acts of bird‐on‐bird pecking, but they doubled the incidence of headshaking and scratching. Bits caused nostril inflammation and bill deformities in some birds, particularly after seven weeks of age. In all weeks after bitting, feather condition was poorer in nonbitted pheasants than in those fitted with bits. Less than 3 per cent of bitted birds had damaged skin, but in the non‐bitted pens this figure increased over time to 23 per cent four weeks later. Feed use and mortality did not differ between bitted and non‐bitted birds.
Control of caseous lymphadenitis in six sheep flocks using clinical examination and regular ELISA testing
Authors: Baird G. J. , Malone F. E.
Published: October 2010

In an effort to control the spread of caseous lymphadenitis (CLA) infection, flocks of affected sheep on six holdings were tested serologically at regular intervals using an antibody ELISA with a mean (sd) specificity of 99 (1) per cent and a sensitivity of 79 (5) per cent. Western blot assays to detect antibodies to the phospholipase D (PLD) exotoxin ofCorynebacterium pseudotuberculosiswere used as a further test when ELISA results were inconclusive. Owners were advised to remove from the flock any sheep that demonstrated clinical signs of CLA or tested positive for PLD by ELISA or western blot. Of the six trial flocks, one was dispersed after only two blood tests, and in another the recommendations for CLA control were not followed and infected animals were retained within the flock. In the remaining four flocks, the testing regimen and other advice enabled the disease to be controlled to such an extent that the appearance of new clinical cases of CLA was effectively halted. This remained the case for up to five years after the end of the trial. In two of these flocks, a small number of seropositive animals were detected at the last flock test). However, on the other two holdings all sheep were seronegative in the final two flock tests, consistent with the complete eradication of infection.
Foreign body‐associated intestinal pyogranuloma resulting in intestinal obstruction in four dogs
Authors: Papazoglou L. G. , Tontis D. , Loukopoulos P. , Patsikas M. N. , Hermanns W. , Kouti V. , Timotheou T. , Liapis I. , Tziris N. , Rallis T. S.
Published: October 2010

Intestinal obstruction resulting from an intramural foreign body‐associated pyogranuloma was diagnosed in four dogs. Vomiting and weight loss were the main clinical signs. On physical examination, a mass in the abdomen was detected in three dogs. Abdominal radiography demonstrated the presence of soft tissue opacity in three of the dogs and gas‐filled dilated intestinal loops in all four dogs. Abdominal ultrasonography showed hyperkinetic fluid‐filled dilated intestinal loops and a hypoechoic small intestinal mass in all the dogs. Exploratory coeliotomy confirmed the presence of a jejunal mass, which was removed by resection and anastomosis in all the dogs. In one of the dogs a linear foreign body was also found cranial to the mass and was removed through a separate enterotomy incision. The lesions were diagnosed as foreign body‐associated intestinal pyogranulomas on histological examination. Three dogs recovered without complications, but the fourth showed signs of septic peritonitis four days after surgery and was euthanased at the owner’s request. The other three dogs remained disease‐free 12 to 42 months after surgery.
Prevalence of viral infections in captive collections of boid snakes in Germany
Authors: Pees M. , Schmidt V. , Marschang R. E. , Heckers K. O. , Krautwald‐Junghanns M‐E.
Published: October 2010

Data on viral infections in apparently healthy snake collections in Germany were obtained with respect to husbandry conditions and health status. Samples from 100 boid snakes (from 14 collections) were examined microbiologically and for the presence of paramyxoviruses (PMVs) using RT‐PCR. Blood was tested for the presence of antibodies against PMV, adenovirus and reovirus and for inclusion bodies indicative of inclusion body disease. Nine snakes tested positive for PMV, and inclusion bodies were detected in six snakes. Antibodies against PMV were found in one snake, and two snakes had antibodies against an adenovirus. A significant correlation was found between the origin of the snake and the presence of PMV, and between the presence of remarkable microbiological findings and husbandry conditions.
Assessment of renal vascular resistance and blood pressure in dogs and cats with renal disease
Authors: Novellas R. , Ruiz de Gopegui R. , Espada Y.
Published: October 2010

This study investigated the possible relationships between renal resistive index (RI) or pulsatility index (PI) and systolic blood pressure and biochemical and haematological parameters in dogs and cats with renal disease. The study included 50 dogs and 20 cats with renal disease. RI and PI were significantly higher in both dogs and cats with renal disease than in 27 healthy dogs and 10 healthy cats. In dogs, a significant negative correlation was found between RI and red blood cell count, and a positive correlation was found between PI and serum creatinine. In cats, a positive correlation was found between RI and serum urea, between PI and serum creatinine, and between PI and serum urea. No relationship could be found between either RI or PI and systolic blood pressure.
Effect of route of administration on the efficacy and pharmacokinetics of an experimental formulation of the amino‐acetonitrile derivative monepantel in sheep
Authors: Hosking B. C. , Stein P. A. , Karadzovska D. , House J. K. , Seewald W. , Giraudel J. M.
Published: October 2010

The effect of the route of administration (oral, intraruminal and intra‐abomasal) on the efficacy and pharmacokinetics of the new anthelmintic monepantel in sheep was investigated. The target nematodes were fourth‐stageHaemonchus contortus, Teladorsagia circumcincta, Trichostrongylus colubriformis and Cooperia curticei. A clear difference in efficacy was identified between the routes of administration, although the difference did not consistently reach statistical significance; oral treatment was most effective, followed by intraruminal and then intra‐abomasal administration. The same pattern was observed in the pharmacokinetic analysis, with lambs treated orally having more favourable exposure to monepantel and its sulfone metabolite (albeit in all but one instance not significantly different) than the lambs treated by the other routes of administration, which were very similar for most parameters.
Veterinary students’ understanding of a career in practice
Authors: Tomlin J. L. , Brodbelt D. C. , May S. A.
Published: October 2010

Lack of a clear perception of the realities of a career in veterinary medicine could adversely affect young graduates’ satisfaction with the profession and their long‐term commitment to it. Veterinary students’ understanding of a career in practice were explored. Traditionalentry first‐year and final‐year students, as well as entry‐level ‘Gateway’ (widening participation) students, were invited to complete a questionnaire exploring their pre‐university experiences and their understandings of a career in general practice. Broadly speaking, the undergraduate students taking part in the survey (the majority of whom were entry‐level students) had a realistic view of average weekly working hours, out‐of‐hours duties and the development of their remuneration packages over the course of their careers. The main attractions of the profession were working with animals and the perception of a rewarding job. The main concerns were making mistakes and balancing work and home life. The vast majority of students wanted to pursue a career in general practice, and other career opportunities did not appear to be well understood, particularly by entry‐level students.
Bluetongue in Denmark during 2008
Authors: Rasmussen L. D. , Rasmussen T. B. , Belsham G. J. , Strandbygaard B. , BØtner A.
Published: October 2010

Following the first ever case of bluetongue in Denmark during late 2007, further outbreaks were observed in Denmark during 2008, despite vaccination against bluetongue virus (BTV) serotype 8 (BTV‐8) in the southern part of the country. In total, 15 separate outbreaks of infection were identified, mostly as a result of clinical suspicions but also because of surveillance of bulk milk samples. These outbreaks led to extensions of the original vaccination zone planned for 2008. Blood samples from clinical suspects were analysed using ELISA and real‐time RT‐PCR assays for the presence of anti‐BTV antibodies and viral RNA, respectively. A newly infected calf from the primary outbreak in 2008 was studied for a period of three months, during which time it seroconverted to BTV, but the presence of viral RNA in its blood was maintained throughout this time. Each outbreak was caused by BTV‐8, as determined by a serotype‐specific real‐time RT‐PCR assay. Furthermore, the nucleotide sequence of a portion of segment 2 of the viral RNA (encoding the outer capsid protein VP2) from the samples analysed was identical to the BTV‐8 segment 2 that circulated in the Netherlands during 2006.
Characterisation of milbemycin‐, avermectin‐, imidazothiazole‐ and benzimidazole‐resistant Teladorsagia circumcincta from a sheep flock
Authors: Sargison N. D. , Jackson F. , Wilson D. J. , Bartley D. J. , Penny C. D. , Gilleard J. S.
Published: October 2010

Selection for milbemycin resistance in a population of Teladorsagia circumcincta was examined in a sheep flock in which a lack of persistence of an oral dose of 0.2 mg/kg moxidectin against T circumcincta had previously been identified. A faecal egg count reduction test also showed resistance to benzimidazole, levamisole and avermectin anthelmintic groups. Bioassays were used to compare the moxidectin‐resistant T circumcincta with another previously characterised benzimidazole‐, levamisole‐ and ivermectin‐resistant (MTci5) strain that had been isolated from a sheep flock in the same region in south‐east Scotland and with an anthelmintic‐susceptible (MTci3) strain of T circumcincta. The mean ED50 value (the concentration of drug required to prevent 50 per cent of eggs from hatching) obtained for thiabendazole in egg hatch assays was higher in the moxidectin‐resistant T circumcincta than in the ivermectin‐resistant MTci5 strain. The inclusion of the cytochrome p450 inhibitor piperonyl butoxide in larval feeding inhibition assays increased the level of ivermectin resistance in vitro in the ivermectin‐ and moxidectin‐resistant populations, but not in the ivermectin‐susceptible MTci3 strain of T circumcincta.
Induction of anaesthesia with alfaxalone or propofol before isoflurane maintenance in cats
Authors: Martinez Taboada F. , Murison P. J.
Published: October 2010

Thirty‐nine healthy cats that were presented for ovariohysterectomy received intramuscular acepromazine (0.05 mg/kg) and subcutaneous meloxicam (0.3 mg/kg) as preanaesthetic medication. They were then randomly assigned to receive either propofol or alfaxalone by intravenous injection for induction of anaesthesia, administered to effect until tracheal intubation was possible. Anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. Cardiorespiratory variables were measured before induction and every five minutes throughout anaesthesia. The recovery times and quality of recovery were also recorded. Data relating to one cat were omitted because it was found to be pregnant. The mean (sd) induction doses were 4.7 (1.2) mg/kg for alfaxalone and 7.5 (2.0) mg/kg for propofol. Postinduction apnoea was not observed. There were no significant differences in cardiorespiratory variables between the alfaxalone group (mean pulse rate [PR] 155 [18]) bpm, Doppler arterial blood pressure [DBP] 73 [6] mmHg, respiratory rate [RR] 31 [8] breaths/minute, end‐tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure [PECO2] 3.7 [0.8] kPa) and the propofol group (PR 147 [16] bpm, DBP 77 [12] mmHg, RR 32 [8] breaths/minute, PECO2 3.7 [0.5] kPa). Recovery times were very similar and the quality of recovery was considered fair or good in most cats in both groups. The induction of anaesthesia, the cardiorespiratory variables and the recovery were clinically acceptable and similar after induction with either alfaxalone or propofol.
Development and use of an indirect ELISA in an outbreak of bovine besnoitiosis in Spain
Authors: Fernández‐García A. , Álvarez‐García G. , Risco‐Castillo V. , Aguado‐Martínez A. , Marcén J. M. , Rojo‐Montejo S. , Castillo J. A. , Ortega‐Mora L. M.
Published: October 2010

An indirect ELISA based on a soluble extract of Besnoitia besnoiti tachyzoites was developed and standardised. A set of positive and negative reference bovine sera were characterised using an immunofluorescence antibody test and Western blot. A cut‐off with a relative index per cent of 8.1 was determined for equal sensitivity and specificity (100 per cent) by twograph receiver operating characteristic analysis. Cross‐reactions with other closely related Apicomplexan parasites were discarded. The standardised ELISA was then used during an outbreak of bovine besnoitiosis in a mountainous area of central Spain. The outbreak occurred in nine herds, and 358 animals that shared grazing lands during the summer season were affected. Clinical examination and blood sampling were carried out for all animals, and skin biopsies were obtained from animals with skin lesions. The confirmatory diagnosis was carried out by means of the indirect ELISA, together with the identification of tissue cysts by microscopy. Most of the animals were seropositive (90·5 per cent), but only 43 per cent of seropositive cattle developed clinical signs compatible with besnoitiosis. Additionally, a significant increase in seroprevalence and clinical signs was found to be associated with the increasing age of the animals, suggesting rapid horizontal transmission of the disease.
Biochemical constituents of peritoneal fluid in cows
Authors: Wittek T. , Grosche A. , Locher L. , Alkaassem A. , Fürll M.
Published: October 2010

Samples of peritoneal fluid and jugular venous blood were taken simultaneously from 95 clinically healthy Holstein‐Friesian cows. The concentrations of total protein, albumin, glucose, cholesterol, fibrinogen, L‐lactate and D‐dimer, the activities of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase and creatine kinase, and the white blood cell count were determined in the samples. Light's criteria, the serum‐ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) and the ratios of the concentration of each parameter in peritoneal fluid to its concentration in blood were calculated. The mean concentrations of total protein, albumin and D‐dimer, the activity of LDH and the SAAG were different from the reference values for monogastric animals and human beings.
Measurement of serum acute phase proteins to monitor postoperative recovery in anoestrous bitches after ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Serin G. , Ulutas P. A.
Published: October 2010

Six healthy bitches underwent ovariohysterectomy, performed by medial laparotomy according to routine methods. Blood samples were taken by venepuncture just before and 24, 48 and 72 hours and seven days after surgery. The serum C‐reactive protein (CRP) (P<0.001), haptoglobin (P<0.001) and caeruloplasmin (P<0.05) levels were all significantly higher in the postoperative period than in the samples taken before surgery. The CRP levels increased rapidly and dramatically, while the levels of haptoglobin and caeruloplasmin rose more gradually.
Can we deliver preventive healthcare?
Authors: Sibley R. J.
Published: October 2010

Many livestock diseases can be prevented effectively. The challenge, says Dick Sibley, is to develop a system in which preventive medicine is seen as the norm
Factors associated with cat ownership in a community in the UK
Authors: Westgarth C. , Pinchbeck G. L. , Bradshaw J. W. S. , Dawson S. , Gaskell R. M. , Christley R. M.
Published: October 2010

A census‐based epidemiological study was carried out to investigate factors associated with cat ownership in a semi‐rural community of 1278 households in Cheshire, UK. Twenty‐two per cent of the households were identified as cat‐owning and 52 per cent owned a pet of any type. There was evidence to suggest that some types of household were more likely to own a cat than others. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that households were less likely to own a cat if they had one dog compared with no dog, but were more likely to have a cat if they also owned a horse. There was strong evidence that the composition of members of the household was also associated with cat ownership. Households that included people over 60 years old were less likely to own a cat. Households that consisted only of male adults were less likely to own a cat when compared with mixed‐sex households. Conversely, households consisting only of female adults were more likely to own a cat.
Efficacy of combined porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus andMycoplasma hyopneumoniaevaccination in piglets
Authors: Drexler C. S. , Witvliet M. H. , Raes M. , van de Laar M. , Eggen A. A. S. , Thacker E. L.
Published: October 2010

Three vaccination challenge studies were performed to evaluate the impact on vaccine efficacy of combining porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) andMycoplasma hyopneumoniaevaccines. Piglets were vaccinated with either aM hyopneumoniaebacterin, a modified live PRRSV vaccine based on a European‐type PRRSV strain, or a combination of both vaccines, followed by experimental infection with eitherM hyopneumoniaeor PRRSV. Vaccine efficacy was evaluated by assessing lung lesion scores forM hyopneumoniaeand measuring viraemia for PRRSV. There were no significant differences between the protective efficacy of the combined vaccine protocol and the protective efficacy of the two single vaccines, indicating that PRRSV vaccination did not interfere withM hyopneumoniaevaccine efficacy and vice versa.
Assessment and mitigation processes for disease risks associated with wildlife management and conservation interventions
Authors: Hartley M. , Gill E.
Published: October 2010

This paper describes the disease risk assessment procedure that is adopted for wildlife and conservation interventions controlled by wildlife legislation in England. A simple risk algorithm was developed that is used to identify and prioritise the procedures of most concern. The process provides a system that is intended to be practicable to implement, proportionate to the associated risks, and ensures that costs are not escalated so that the activity becomes unviable.
When to euthanase
Authors: Yeates J. W.
Published: October 2010

Decisions on when to treat, when to euthanase and when not to intervene are not always easy; both undertreatment and overtreatment may lead to unnecessary suffering. James Yeates offers some thoughts on how to evaluate patients’ best interests
Preparing for a medicines inspection
Authors: Millward John
Published: October 2010

It is just over a year since it became a legal requirement for veterinary practice premises from which veterinary medicinal products are supplied to be registered with the RCVS. Together with the requirement to register came the introduction of inspections to ensure that practices are complying with the Veterinary Medicines Regulations. Here, John Millward, head of the Animal Medicines Inspectorate at the Veterinary Medicines Directorate, highlights some of the most common issues that have arisen in the first year of inspections, to help other practices prepare for their own inspection.
Infection with bluetongue virus serotype 8 in Sweden in 2008
Authors: Sternberg Lewerin S. , Hallgren G. , Elvander M. , Treiberg Berndtsson L. , Chirico J. , Mieziewska K.
Published: October 2010

On September 6, 2008, bluetongue was detected for the first time in Sweden. Intensified active surveillance in cattle and vector surveillance, prompted by the situation in northern Europe, preceded the detection. A vaccination campaign and intensive surveillance activities were initiated nationally, but with a focus on the southern part of the country. Measures included both active and passive surveillance by serology and PCR in ruminants, along with vector surveillance. The investigations revealed that the infection occurred over a large area of southern Sweden during September and October 2008, despite comparatively low vector activity, an apparently low viral load and no clinical disease. Transplacental infection was detected in one case.
Use of transcutaneous external pacing during transvenous pacemaker implantation in dogs
Authors: Noomanová N. , Perego M. , Perini A. , Santilli R. A.
Published: October 2010

The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the utility of transcutaneous external pacing (TEP) during transvenous pacemaker implantation in dogs. Eighty‐two pacemakers were implanted in 77 dogs because of third‐degree atrioventricular block (AVB) (58 cases; 70.7 per cent), sinus node dysfunction (SND) (nine cases; 11.0 per cent), high‐grade seconddegree AVB (six cases; 7.3 per cent), persistent atrial standstill (PAS) (four cases; 4.9 per cent), post‐radiofrequency catheter ablation of the bundle of His (four cases; 4.9 per cent) and vasovagal syncope with atrial fibrillation (one case; 1.2 per cent). TEP was initiated during general anaesthesia after the onset of asystole or profound bradycardia, and stopped when permanent pacing was started. The use of TEP was necessary in 27 cases: 19 cases of third‐degree AVB, five of SND, two of PAS and one of vasovagal syncope. External pacing was successful in all but two dogs.
Reproducibility of ear cytology in dogs with otitis externa
Authors: Lehner G. , Sauter Louis C. , Mueller R. S.
Published: October 2010

Eighty‐three dogs with clinical signs of otitis externa and with ear cytology revealing microbial organisms were studied. Samples were collected from both ears of each dog by inserting two swabs successively into each ear canal, rotating each once through 360° and then rolling it out in a line on to a glass slide. For each animal, four single parallel smears (SPS) were made on one slide, which was then appropriately labelled to identify the animal as well as the order of the samples. The slides, one representing each animal, were subsequently stained with modified Wright's stain. Six high‐power fields of every SPS were counted. Golden retrievers and West Highland white terriers were found to be predisposed to developing otitis externa (P=0.0006 and P=0.0123, respectively). Otitis externa occurred significantly more frequently in dogs with pendulous pinnae than in dogs with erect pinnae (P=0.0009). There was no significant difference between the first and the second samples with respect to the number of microorganisms found (P>0.1 for cocci and P>0.5 for rods and yeasts), and there was a substantial agreement between the results of the two successive swabs for the presence of cocci (κ=0.765) and rods (κ=0.705). For yeasts, the agreement was only moderate (κ=0.581).
Outbreak of bovine brucellosis in County Clare, Ireland, in 2005
Authors: Hayes M. , Kilroy A. , Ashe S. , Power S. , Kenny K. , Collins D. M. , More S. J.
Published: October 2010

This paper describes an investigation of an outbreak of bovine brucellosis in County Clare, Ireland, during 2005. It is likely that infection on the index farm was linked to a previous outbreak of brucellosis in County Clare. During March to May 2005, transmission of brucellosis within the herd was rapid; this was facilitated by a range of factors, including close contact between cattle kept in winter housing, and the mixing of animals, both during grazing and at housing, throughout the year. Containment of the disease, including only limited spread to one contiguous herd, was facilitated by the recent construction of a shed for winter housing.
Association betweenNeospora caninumseropositivity and perinatal mortality in dairy heifers at first calving
Authors: Brickell J. S. , McGowan M. M. , Wathes D. C.
Published: October 2010

Associations betweenNeospora caninuminfection and the reproductive performance of dairy heifers in their first and second pregnancy on 18 UK farms were examined. Six‐month‐old heifer calves were tested forN caninum‐specific antibodies with a commercial ELISA, and were then monitored until their second calving. Random‐effects regression analyses were performed on the data, using serological status as the explanatory variable. Of 460 heifers tested, 7.2 per cent were seropositive. Seropositive heifers were more likely to suffer gestational loss (late embryonic/early fetal loss and abortion) than seronegative heifers during their first (odds ratio [OR] 5.3, P<0.01) and second (OR 6.0, P<0.001) pregnancy. Seropositive heifers were also four times more likely to experience perinatal mortality (calf born dead or dying within 24 hours of parturition) at first (OR 3.9, P<0.01) and second (OR 4.5, P<0.1) calving. No significant association between seropositivity and the fertility parameters (age at first breeding and calving, days from calving to first service and conception, services per conception and calving interval) or conception failure was found. The results suggest thatN caninuminfection before pregnancy is a significant contributing factor to gestational loss and perinatal death, and thus serological screening of potential replacement heifers is recommended.
Oestrous expression and relapse back into anoestrus at early postpartum ovulations in fertile dairy cows
Authors: Sakaguchi M.
Published: October 2010

A total of 368 ovulations from 92 lactations in 69 cows were analysed to determine the effects of timing of ovulation and signs of oestrus on the fertility of the cows. During the study period of 10 to 13 weeks postpartum, cows ranged from having reached their first ovulation to having reached their fifth. Before ovulation, the cows exhibiting standing oestrus or mounting activity with other oestrous signs were considered to be in oestrus. The total number of anoestrous ovulations was 136 (37 per cent). From the second to fifth ovulations, the percentage of cows expressing ST increased from 10 to 74 per cent, while the percentage of cows with ovulations accompanied by mounting oestrus increased from 1 per cent at the first ovulation to 19 to 24 per cent at subsequent ovulations. Seventeen relapses to anoestrous ovulation occurred in 14 cows that had resumed an oestrous cycle, and sixteen of these relapses were observed at the second to fourth ovulations. Cows exhibiting first oestrus at the third ovulation had a similar number of days open as at the second ovulation, but a significantly fewer number of days open than at the first, fourth or fifth ovulations. These results can be valuable for studying and improving the reproductive performance of high‐yielding dairy cows.
Human exposures to immobilising agents: results of an online survey
Authors: Haymerle A. , Fahlman Å. , Walzer C.
Published: October 2010

Cases of human exposure to veterinary injectable anaesthetics were reviewed following a literature search and completion of an online questionnaire in an attempt to provide an objective approach to the problem. The modified Glasgow Coma Scale was used to rank cases according to their severity. From the cases examined, results showed that intoxication with potent opioids, such as etorphine, carfentanil and thiafentanil, need to be treated with antagonists such as naloxone, nalmefene or naltrexone, and not with antagonists with agonistic properties, such as diprenorphine. With regard to the α2 ‐agonists xylazine, detomidine, medetomidine and romifidine, no antagonist is currently accredited for human use. Atipamezole, a specific α2 ‐antagonist, is widely used in veterinary medicine and has been used experimentally to reverse dexmetomidine in a study in human medicine. The high concentrations of α2 ‐agonists being used in zoo and wildlife medicine warrant the accreditation of atipamezole for use in cases of human exposure. Knowledge and availability of the appropriate antagonist are essential in cases of human intoxication with injectable anaesthetics. Preventive measures, such as wearing gloves and eye protection, need to be used more regularly to reduce the risk of exposure.
Assessing portable blood glucose meters for clinical use in cats in the United Kingdom
Authors: Dobromylskyj M. J. , Sparkes A. H.
Published: October 2010

The aims of this study were to evaluate six portable blood glucose meters for use in cats in a clinical setting and to identify potential sources of inaccuracy such as the effect of glucose concentration and haematocrit. Excess fluorinated whole‐blood samples were obtained and were tested using the six meters and a reference laboratory method. Bland‐Altman plots were constructed and an error grid analysis was performed, using a grid adapted in this study for diabetic cats. Error grids are a clinically oriented non‐parametric approach to blood glucose data, and are designed to determine whether differences between glucometer and laboratory readings are clinically significant. All the meters studied had the potential to under‐ or overestimate blood glucose levels to varying degrees throughout the glycaemic range. This variation was not consistent enough to be predictable and correctable. The study failed to demonstrate any link between haematocrit and difference between laboratory and glucometer readings.
Estimated prevalence of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis infection in herds of dairy goats in France
Authors: Mercier P. , Baudry C. , Beaudeau F. , Seegers H. , Malher X.
Published: October 2010

A study of the prevalence of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) infection in dairy goats was carried out in France, using a serological ELISA. One hundred and five herds were randomly selected in different regions, and all the goats aged six months or older (11,847 goats) were sampled. An estimation had previously been made of the accuracy of the ELISA, and the Rogan‐Gladen estimator was used to convert apparent prevalence values into estimates of true prevalence values. Given that sensitivity and specificity at herd level are functions of sample size, and because the sizes of the herds varied considerably, the true prevalence of infection at herd level was estimated using a weighted average depending on the herd size stratum. At the level of the individual animal, the total true prevalence was estimated by applying a weighted average in accordance with the regional distribution of the animals in the target population. At herd level, apparent prevalence and estimated true prevalence were 55.2 and 62.9 per cent, respectively; at individual animal level they were 2.9 and 6.6 per cent, respectively. In herds that were seropositive for MAP, the average within‐herd apparent prevalence was 5.9 per cent and the estimated average within‐herd true prevalence was 11.1 per cent.
Effect of the addition of tramadol to a combination of tiletamine‐zolazepam and xylazine for anaesthesia of miniature pigs
Authors: Lu D‐Z. , Fan H‐G. , Wang H‐B. , Hu K. , Zhang J‐T. , Yu S‐M.
Published: October 2010

This study investigated the effects of a combination of tiletamine‐zolazepam and xylazine plus tramadol (TZXT) and compared the efficacy of this combination with that of tiletaminezolazepam and xylazine (TZX) for providing anaesthesia in Chinese experimental miniature pigs. Fourteen healthy, eight‐month‐old miniature pigs of both sexes were immobilised with TZXT or TZX on two different occasions. The pigs' immobilisation and analgesia scores and baseline physiological parameters (heart rate, respiratory rate, non‐invasive systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressures, arterial haemoglobin oxygen saturation and rectal temperature) were determined before and five, 10, 30, 45, 60, 80 and 100 minutes after the administration of TZXT or TZX. Pigs in both groups became laterally recumbent within three minutes. Some physiological parameters were changed after administration of the drug combinations, but they remained within biologically acceptable limits and were not significantly different between the two treatments. The use of TZXT resulted in better induction time and quality of recovery compared with TZX, with higher scores for sedation, analgesia, muscle relaxation, posture and auditory response. The animals were much calmer during recovery after TZXT immobilisation.
Effect of a saline chaser for contrast enhancement of computed tomographic angiography in cattle
Authors: Lee K. , Kishimoto M. , Shimizu J. , Iwasaki T. , Miyake Y. , Yamada K.
Published: October 2010

Computed tomographic angiography was performed on nine normal Holstein calves in a crossover method to investigate the effect of a saline chaser for enhancement of the maxillary arteries and dorsal sagittal sinus. One group was administered a contrast injection (600 mg iodine/kg at 4 ml/s) followed by 50 ml of a saline chaser at the same rate as the contrast material. The second group was administered a contrast injection without a saline chaser. Addition of the saline chaser to the contrast material resulted in a higher peak attenuation in the maxillary artery (244.45 ± 36.19 v 202.20 ± 27.07, P<0.05) and dorsal sagittal sinus (241.2 ± 31.51 v 198.88 ± 21.09, P<0.05). These results indicate that a contrast injection followed by saline chaser increased uptake in contrast‐enhanced CT.
Review of the safety and efficacy of long‐term NSAID use in the treatment of canine osteoarthritis
Authors: Innes J. F. , Clayton J. , Lascelles B. D. X.
Published: October 2010

The published, peer‐reviewed literature was systematically searched for information on the safety and efficacy of long‐term (defined as 28 days or more of continuous therapy) NSAID use in the treatment of canine osteoarthritis. Online databases were reviewed in June 2008 and papers were selected based on their relevance. Fifteen papers were identified and evaluated. Six of seven papers indicated a benefit of long‐term treatment over short‐term treatment in terms of the reduction of clinical signs or lameness; one study showed no benefit. Fourteen papers evaluated safety with calculated experimental (adverse) event rates (EER) between 0 and 0.31, but there was no correlation between study length and EER (rs=‐0.109, P=0.793). The balance of evidence for the efficacy of NSAIDs supports longer‐term use of these agents for increased clinical effect. There is no indication in the literature that such an approach is associated with a reduction in safety, although robust data on the safety of long‐term NSAID use are lacking in large numbers of dogs.
FINITE-MEMORY AUTOMATA WITH NON-DETERMINISTIC REASSIGNMENT
Authors: KAMINSKI MICHAEL , ZEITLIN DANIEL
Published: October 2010

In this paper we extend finite-memory automata with non-deterministic reassignment that allows an automaton to "guess" the future content of its registers, and introduce the corresponding notion of a regular expression over an infinite alphabet.
Catalytic Activation of Mg-Doped GaN by Hydrogen Desorption Using Different Metal Thin Layers
Authors: Wei Tongbo , Wang Junxi , Liu Naixin , Lu Hongxi , Zeng Yiping , Wang Guohong , Li Jinmin
Published: October 2010

The annealing of Mg-doped GaN with Pt and Mo layers has been found to effectively improve the hole concentration of such material by more than 2 times as high as those in the same material without metal. Compared with the Ni and Mo catalysts, Pt showed good activation effect for hydrogen desorption and ohmic contact to the Ni/Au electrode. Despite the weak hydrogen desorption, Mo did not diffuse into the GaN epilayer in the annealing process, thus suppressing the carrier compensation phenomenon with respect to Ni and Pt depositions, which resulted in the high activation of Mg acceptors. For the GaN activated with the Ni, Pt, and Mo layers, the blue emission became dominant, followed by a clear peak redshift and the degradation of photoluminescence signal when compared with that of GaN without metal.
Effect of the Geoacoustic Parameters on the Range-Frequency Interference in Shallow-Water Waveguide
Authors: Hahn Jooyoung , Kim Byoung-Nam , Choi Bok Kyoung , Kim Bong-Chae , Park Kyoungju
Published: October 2010

In this study, range-frequency interference is analyzed in the propagation of acoustic waves in shallow-water waveguides. The interference pattern is examined using image processing techniques to produce the waveguide-invariant parameter β. The variability of the β-distributions of four geoacoustic parameters in a sediment layer and four typical sediment types is characterized by skewness and kurtosis. The result shows that a low value of skewness and a high value of kurtosis appear in the hard-sediment case and a high value of skewness and a low value of kurtosis appear in the soft-sediment case. This analysis technique will be useful in geoacoustic parameter inversion.