bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal patterns and quantification of excretion ofMycobacterium aviumsubspparatuberculosisin sheep with Johne's disease
Authors: WHITTINGTON RJ , REDDACLIFF LA , MARSH I. , McALLISTER S. , SAUNDERS V.
Published: March 2008

ObjectivesTo determine the frequency of excretion ofMycobacterium aviumsubspparatuberculosisin Merino sheep with Johne's disease and to quantify excretion in a group of Merino sheep.

DesignA pen and laboratory experiment

ProcedureSeven sheep selected from an affected flock on the basis of acid‐fast bacilli in the sheep's faeces were housed and total daily faecal output was collected, weighed and subjected to culture forM aviumsubspparatuberculosis.An end‐point titration method was used to enumerate viableM aviumsubspparatuberculosisin a 15 day pooled sample from five sheep that had acid‐fast bacilli in their faeces while housed.

ResultsFour sheep with subclinical multibacillary Johne's disease excretedM aviumsubspparatuberculosiseach day for 11 days of cultural observation. A further three sheep were intermittent excreters but lacked other evidence of infection withM aviumsubspparatuberculosis.The average number of viable bacteria excreted was 1.09 × 108per gram of faeces while total daily excretion was 8.36 × 1010viableM aviumsubspparatuberculosisper sheep. Examination of faecal smears stained with Ziehl Neelsen was an unreliable means of assessing daily excretion in individual animals except in those with severe lesions.

ConclusionExcretion ofM aviumsubspparatuberculosisin Merino sheep with multibacillary Johne's disease occurred daily, proving that environmental contamination can be continuous on farms with endemic ovine Johne's disease. Faecal culture is a useful method for detecting infection as it does not appear to be affected by the timing of collection of a sample from sheep with multibacillary disease however, to maximise the sensitivity of disease surveillance using faecal culture, sampling rates should be adjusted to take account of the proportions of multibacillary and paucibacillary cases.
The role of lectures in veterinary education
Authors: MCLENNAN MW , HEATH TJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To study the role of lectures from the perspective of staff and students involved in the veterinary course at The University of Queensland

Methods The Nominal Group Technique of Delbecq et al, which provides the maximum opportunity for group members to put forward points, was used to help develop a questionnaire which was completed by 351 students (a response rate of 84%) and 35 staff (76%) from the five years of the veterinary course, and was analysed using the SAS System for Windows.

Results Almost all the staff and students agreed that lectures should fulfil many roles including stimulating and motivating students and encouraging them to think, as well as presenting ideas and concepts and an indication of the structure and relevance of the material. They should provide a guide for effective deep learning, but not encourage rote (or superficial) learning. A smaller percentage of staff and even fewer students agreed that lectures did fulfil these roles, especially those directed at encouraging students to look beyond simple memorisation of facts. The perceived disparity between reality and the ideal was greater amongst the older, clinical students than amongst their more junior colleagues.

Conclusions The focus of attention in lectures needs to change from the superficial, rote learning of information to deep, active learning directed at using information to solve problems that are perceived by the students to be relevant. If done in a stimulating and interesting way, this should develop skills in reasoning and critical analysis as well as providing a framework for storage and recall. It should also increase the motivation towards learning both during the veterinary course, and over the professional lifetime. Furthermore, the place of the lecture in veterinary education needs to be reassessed regularly in the face of newly‐emerging educational technology.
Chiari 1 / syringomyelia complex in a King Charles Spaniel
Authors: CHURCHER RK , CHILD G.
Published: March 2008

A 9‐year‐old King Charles Spaniel presented with a history of progressive forelimb weakness and paroxysmal involuntary flank scratching over a 2‐year period. Neurological examination suggested a myelopathy of C1 to C4 spinal cord segments. Advanced imaging studies revealed hydrocephalus, caudal herniation of part of the caudal lobe of the cerebellum through the foramen magnum and marked syrinx formation to the level of the caudal thoracic spine, resembling Arnold‐Chiari malformation with secondary hydromyelia in humans. Mechanical obstruction at the craniocervical junction, altering CSF flow dynamics, may lead to syrinx formation. Response to diuretic therapy was moderate but surgical decompression may offer better long term prognosis.
Surgical salvage from comminuted metatarsal fracture using a weight‐bearing pin‐putty apparatus in a dog
Authors: OKUMURA M. , WATANABE K. , KADOSAWA T. , FUJINAGA T.
Published: March 2008

Comminuted metatarsal fractures in a dog were treated using intramedullary pins externally connected and stabilized by epoxy resin putty and application of a fibreglass cast. Two weeks later the cast was removed. After further 2 weeks application of a Robert‐Jones bandage the dog could stand and walk with the pin‐putty apparatus in position. The pin‐putty apparatus was removed 3 months postoperatively, and the dog resumed normal activity. This fixation method could be an easy, economical and effective alternative treatment for managing comminuted fractures of the metatarsal and possibly metacarpal bones in selected cases.
Synchronising ovulation in dairy cows with either two treatments of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone and one of prostaglandin, or two treatments of prostaglandin
Authors: JEMMESON A.
Published: March 2008

Objective To compare oestrus synchronisation using two treatments of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) and one of prostaglandin F2∝aL(PG) with a double prostaglandin synchronisation protocol under southern Australian conditions.

Design A clinical trial.

Procedure Eight hundred and forty, seasonally calving, lactating dairy cows within nine herds in the Tallangatta district of northeast Victoria were randomly allocated to treatment and control groups. The treatment (GnRH) group received gonadotropin‐releasing hormone followed by prostaglandin F2∝aL and then a second treatment with gonadotropin‐releasing hormone. These cows were inseminated at a fixed time after the second gonadotropin‐releasing hormone treatment. Cows in the control (PG) group received two injections of prostaglandin F2∝aL, 14 days apart, and were inseminated according to detected oestrus.

Results The effect of GnRH treatment on first service conception rate (CRS1) and 30 day pregnancy rate (PR30) varied between herd (P < 0.001 and P < 0.02, respectively). A significant difference in CRS1 between treatment (GnRH) and control (PG) groups existed in pooled data from eight of the nine herds (38.1% vs 65.9%, P < 0.001). A significant difference also existed in PR30 between treatment (GnRH) and control (PG) groups in pooled data from eight of the nine herds (64.1% vs 72.4%, P = 0.03). Pregnancy rates after 56 days of mating for both groups were not significantly different (79.8% vs 84.1%, P = 0.13 for treatment (GnRH) and control (PG) groups, respectively). Submission rates (proportion of cows submitted for insemination) for the treatment (GnRH) groups were 100%. There was significant variation in submission rates in the control (PG) groups.

Conclusion The GnRH protocol may be of benefit in herds where a poor response to the double prostaglandin program is anticipated. However, in the majority of herds in this trial, the double prostaglandin program achieved better results with fewer inseminations.
The relationship between the rate of intake of trichostrongylid larvae and the occurrence of diarrhoea and breech soiling in adult Merino sheep
Authors: LARSEN JWA , ANDERSON N.
Published: March 2008

Background and objective A hypersensitive inflammatory response, associated with the ingestion of trichostrongylid larvae, is a major cause of diarrhoea and soiling of the breech with faeces in adult Merino sheep (‘hypersensitivity scours’). This response is characterised by an infiltration of eosinophils and altered lymphocyte populations in the gut of affected sheep. The objective of this study was to investigate the numbers of Ostertagia circumcincta and Trichostrongylus vitrinus infective larvae that were needed to induce diarrhoea in adult Merino sheep grazing improved pastures.

Method Sheep from three farms were categorised as either being susceptible, or not susceptible, to hypersensitivity scours, then transported to an experimental farm and grazed on pastures with low numbers of trichostrongylid infective larvae. They were ranked by farm of origin and previous worm egg count, then systematically allocated to one of five dose‐rate groups and infected with 0, 2, 4, 10 or 20 × 103 trichostrongylid infective larvae per week for 13 weeks.

Results In sheep selected as being susceptible to hypersensitivity scours, the lowest dose rate of infective larvae (2000 per week) was as effective in inducing diarrhoea as the highest dose rate (20,000 per week). In contrast, even the highest larval dose did not induce diarrhoea in sheep selected as not susceptible to hypersensitivity scours. Sheep selected with an increased susceptibility to hypersensitivity scours also had a significantly higher amount of moisture in their faeces at all times except during summer.

Conclusions The apparent lack of a threshold dose of trichostrongylid infective larvae needed to induce hypersensitivity scours suggests that even improved worm control programs, which substantially decrease the ingestion of larvae, may not be able to reduce the prevalence of hypersensitivity scours or the severity of breech soiling. Controlled‐release anthelmintic capsules will control breech soiling but are often not a cost‐effective strategy. Thus, genetic selection of less susceptible sheep is probably the best long‐term option for the control of hypersensitivity scours, and the assessment of faecal moisture may be a convenient marker of susceptibility to this syndrome.
Dermoid cyst in the tongue of a dog
Authors: LIPTAK JM , CANFIELD PJ , HUNT GB
Published: March 2008

A German Shepherd Dog presented with recurrent intermandibular and intralingual swelling. Cytological and microbiological findings on fluid aspirated from the mass were consistent with an infected cyst lined by epithelium. The sinus was explored and an epithelium‐lined cystic structure was extirpated from the frenulum and body of the tongue. This structure was diagnosed histologically as a dermoid cyst.
Novel Propionibacterium infection in cattle
Authors: FORBES‐FAULKNER JC , PITT D. , NORTON JH , THOMAS AD , BERNARD K.
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe four cases of infection in cattle, from geographically different places, with a presumptive new species of Propionibacterium, which causes granulomatous lesions in the head, thorax, abdomen, pelvic area and skin.

Procedure Gross lesions, ranging from 0.5 to 15 cm and detected during routine carcase inspection at the abattoir, were submitted to the laboratory for routine testing in the National Granuloma Submission Program.

The bacterium isolated was identified using morphological characteristics, biochemical reactions, cell wall components, products of fermentation and 16S rRNAgene sequencing.

Results Gross lesions submitted for examination consisted of a fibrous outer capsule enclosing thick yellow pus‐like material. A Gram‐Glynn stain of the histological sections revealed colonies of Gram‐positive, filamentous, branching bacteria. Bacteriological culture, cell wall analysis, biochemical reactions and 16S rRNA sequencing identified the organism as a Propionibacterium sp closely related to P cyclohexanicum and the P freudenreichii cluster.

Conclusion This is the first report of a Propionibacterium sp closely related to P cyclohexanicum and the P freudenreichii cluster associated with extensive granulomatous lesions in cattle in Queensland. Sequencing data are suggestive of a previously undescribed species of the Propionibacterium genus.
Neospora caninuminfections in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: REICHEL MP
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo review the current state of knowledge ofNeospora caninuminfections with particular reference to Australia and New Zealand.

ProcedureSeveral databases were searched electronically including Medline, Current Contents, Vet CD using several Key words (Neospora caninum, neosporosis, abortion, cattle, dogs) and authors names. References in original articles were also traced and use made of the author's own original research in the field.

ConclusionN caninumis recognised worldwide and is also widespread, in particular in dairy cattle, in Australia and New Zealand. It has been reported in both countries retrospectively (in dogs) from the early 1970s. Abortion storms in dairy herds appear to be the most common feature. Recent reports indicate that the dog is the definitive host, in which the sexual cyle is completed. Further studies are however required to establish important aspects of the epidemiology, such as mode of transmission. In the absence of an effective vaccine, the most effective control strategy is selective culling of infected animals and the prevention of access of dogs to expelled placentas and foetuses and, possibly, to raw beef.
Towards an understanding of equine pleuropneumonia: factors relevant for control
Authors: RACKLYEFT DJ , RAIDAL S , LOVE DN
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo review relevant literature on factors associated with the development of equine pleuropneumonia

DesignA review of the literature using a range of databases including Current Contents, Medline, ChemAbstracts, Biological Abstracts and CAB and a comprehensive search strategy which involved use of keywords, author and subject category searches. Additional sources included review of articles cited by key accumulated references.

ResultsSince the early years of this century, many of the ‘gaps’ in our knowledge of the pathogenesis of this disease have been filled. We now know that equine pleuropneumonia results from contamination of the lower respiratory tract with bacteria similar to the normal oropharyngeal microbiota of the horse and that transportation of any mode, especially over long distances (and consequently with no or short rest periods), is the single most important predisposing factor for this disease. This is associated with restraint of horses such that they are unable to lower their heads, which leads to increased opportunity for lower respiratory tract contamination and a reduced opportunity for clearance. Strenuous exercise also results in lower respiratory tract contamination and exercise subsequent to transportation exerts additive detrimental effects on the defenses of the lower respiratory tract.

Clinical ImplicationsWhile modern veterinary medicine and surgery have significantly reduced the death rate from pleuropneumonia, horses that develop the disease have a high probability of not returning to their prior use. This underscores the importance of developing the most effective strategies for its prevention.
Clinical abnormalities detected in post‐race examinations of poorly performing Standardbreds
Authors: KNIGHT PK , EVANS DL
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo describe the clinical abnormalities found on post‐race examination of poorly performing Standardbreds.

MethodThe results of 541 post‐race veterinary examinations on Standardbreds were analysed. The horses were selected for examination by the stipendiary stewards on the basis of poor performance from a population of approximately 20,000 runners which competed at Harold Park Paceway, Sydney.

ResultsClinical abnormalities were detected on post‐race examination in 264 of the 541 poorly performing horses. Some horses displayed more than one abnormality. Twenty three individual abnormalities were reported. Seventy three horses had suffered interference‐type injuries (cross firing, scalping, over reaching) during the race. Lameness was the second most commonly found abnormality (n = 60), with 73% of these lamenesses being in a forelimb. Twenty nine horses had sacroiliac pain (representing 10.6% of the abnormalities detected). Poor recovery, exercise induced pulmonary haemorrhage, respiratory infection or nasal discharge, gluteal pain, unilateral nasal haemorrhage and mouth injuries complete the list of the ten most common findings.

ConclusionInterference‐type injuries, lameness and sacroiliac pain were the most common abnormalities found on post‐race examination of Standardbreds, which performed poorly.
Changes in liver copper concentration of Thoroughbred foals from birth to 160 days of age and the effect of prenatal copper supplementation of their dams
Authors: GEE EK , GRACE ND , FIRTH EC , FENNESSY PF
Published: March 2008

Objectives To monitor the change in liver copper concentration of Thoroughbred foals from birth to 160 days of age and to determine the effects of supplementation by two injections of copper edetate given to dams in late gestation on the liver copper concentration of their foals at birth.

Procedure Ten mares pregnant to the same stallion were randomised into two groups on the basis of age, liver copper concentration and expected foaling date. The treatment group mares were given 100 mg and 250 mg copper edetate intramuscularly during the ninth and tenth months of gestation respectively. Foals had liver biopsies taken weekly in the first month of life, then monthly for four months. Foals were euthanased at 160 days of age; liver samples were taken and the copper concentrations were determined.

Results Two distinct patterns of age dependant decline in liver copper concentration were evident. The mean (± SD) liver copper concentration of the foals was high at birth (374 ± 130 mg/kg DM), and for seven it declined to adult values by 160 days of age (21 ± 6 mg/kg DM). In three foals the decline was at a slower rate than in the other seven and at 160 days of age the mean concentration was 162 ± 32 mg/kg DM. Repeated measures analysis showed significant differences between each biopsy (P<0.01) and between ‘normal’ and‘accumulator’ foals (P<0.002). Copper injections given to mares in late pregnancy had no effect on the liver copper concentration of foals at birth.

Conclusions The significance of the two patterns of age dependant decline in liver copper concentration is unknown. Parenteral copper supplementation of the dam in late gestation had no effect on the liver copper concentration of the foal at birth.
Plasma and urinary trypsinogen activation peptide in healthy dogs, dogs with pancreatitis and dogs with other systemic diseases
Authors: MANSFIELD CS , JONES BR
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the specificity and sensitivity of plasma and urinary trypsinogen activation peptide (TAP) concentrat

DesignRetrospective analysis of clinical cases.

ProcedureDogs were classified into three groups: healthy animals, dogs with confirmed pancreatitis and dogs with nonpancreatic disease, which clinically or biochemically resembled pancreatitis. This last group was further subdivided into dogs with renal and those with nonrenal disease. The plasma and urinary TAP concentration was determined by a competitive enzyme immunoassay. Clinical cases additionally had serum trypsin‐like immunoreactivity concentration measured, as well as radiography and ultrasound of the abdomen and further diagnostic procedures. Nonparametric analysis of variance (Kruskal‐Wallis test) was performed using Statistix 4.0 program.

ResultsThere was a wide range of urinary TAP concentration in healthy dogs (mean 52.30 nmol/L, standard deviation 55.25) that made interpretation of urinary TAP concentrations difficult in the other groups. There was a narrow reference range for plasma TAP (mean 2.67 nmol/L, standard deviation 0.93). Plasma and urinary TAP concentrations, as well as urinary TAP to creatinine ratio, were all increased in dogs that died with necrotising pancreatitis. Values were not increased in mild, interstitial pancreatitis. Increased plasma TAP concentrations were also present in dogs with severe renal disease.

ConclusionPlasma TAP concentration isa good prognostic indicator in naturally occurring pancreatitis in dogs. The failure of TAP to increase in mild pancreatitis, and the increase present in severe renal disease, suggests its measurement has limited application as a sole diagnostic tool for canine pancreatitis. Further investigations are required in order to explain the large variability of urinary TAP concentration and the presence of circulating TAP in healthy dogs.
Subcutaneous larval Taenia serialis in a ring‐tailed possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus)
Authors: HOUGH I
Published: March 2008

Coenuriasis is a condition resulting in subcutaneous cyst formation associated with infection by the larval stage of Taenia serialis, a tapeworm of the dog and associated carnivores.1,2 This article is the first report of coenuriasis in an Australian arboreal marsupial (I Beveridge personal communication) and only the second in an Australian marsupial.3
Sunlight associated hyperthermia as a consistent and rapidly developing clinical sign in sheep intoxicated by St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Authors: BOURKE CA
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the usefulness of rectal temperature responses in Australian bred Merino sheep, following the oral administration of Hypericum perforatum (St John's wort), as an early indicator of Hypericum intolerance.

Design Thirty‐three Merino ewes were divided into three groups of 11. Each group was dosed with finely ground, dried, flowering growth stage H perforatum plant material at either 5.7, 4.0, or 2.85 g dry plant per kg live weight. This corresponded to 5.3, 3.7 and 2.65 mg hypericin per kg live weight, respectively.

Procedure The sheep were dosed with a plant slurry by stomach tube and then exposed to bright sunlight for up to 5 h per day over successive days. Their clinical responses were observed and rectal temperature measured.

Results Ingestion of H perforatum followed by exposure to bright sunlight frequently resulted in clinical signs attributable to skin irritation and central nervous effects, including an inappropriate increase in body temperature. A decrease in H perforatum ingestion from 5.7 to 2.85 g dry plant per kg live weight and a corresponding decrease in hypericin ingestion from 5.3 to 2.65 mg per kg live weight, was associated with a decrease in the severity of the clinical signs, including the severity of the hyperthermia.

Conclusions The rectal temperature rise in affected sheep is a reliable indicator of the early development of an adverse clinical effect. There appears to be an absolute requirement for exposure to bright sunlight before any effects of H perforatum will develop. A single dose of H perforatum remains potentially effective for up to 4 days. In the small group of Merino sheep tested a tolerance level for H perforatum, eaten at the flowering stage, of<1% (plant wet weight) of body weight and a tolerance level for hypericin of<2.65 mg per kg live weight, were demonstrated.
Agricultural consultancy—a career choice for veterinarians
Authors: TAYLOR KL , SWAN RA , CHAPMAN HM
Published: March 2008

Objective To document the personal, educational and professional skills that characterise veterinarians pursuing careers as agricultural consultants and to determine the future direction for veterinary‐related advisory services to agriculture in Australia.

Design Thirty‐six veterinarians practising as consultants in agriculture throughout Australia were sent a postal survey in 1994.

Procedure A descriptive analysis was chosen because of the relatively small population available to sample. Comparisons were made on a percentage basis where appropriate.

Results Twenty‐four useable responses to the questionnaire were received. Consultants were mostly men with an agricultural background, aged 31 to 40 years. They considered their undergraduate veterinary studies to be a stepping stone into further education and practical experience and ultimately consultancy. Consultants predicted an increased reliance for their work on corporate farms, private agribusiness, research and development and sub‐contracted work, rather than on family‐owned farms. Consultants disagreed on the wisdom of combining consultancy activities with alternative businesses (for instance mixed veterinary practice). Only 13 consultants derived greater than 76% of their income from consultancy and 14 combined another business with consulting. The need for continuing education was considered important. Consultants predicted various future prospects for the industry. Many predicted that there would not be enough veterinarians to fulfill the demand for this type of work.

Implications for the veterinary profession Results from this survey suggest that veterinary consulting will extend into finance, agronomy and marketing in addition to current skills in animal nutrition, parasite control and animal reproduction. As clients demand specialised skills and knowledge, the formation of co‐operatives or companies of specialists may be beneficial to both client and consultant in the future. The consultant:s role can be characterised as one of extending relevant information to clients in a useful form. Excellent communication skills are necessary, as is an understanding of rural issues and animal industries.
Ribotype diversity of porcine Pasteurella multocida from Australia
Authors: BOWLES RE , PAHOFF JL , SMITH BN , BLACKALL PJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To use the technique of ribotyping to investigate the genetic diversity of Australian isolates of Pasteurella multocida associated with outbreaks of clinical disease in Australian pigs.

Design One hundred and seven porcine P multocida isolates were analysed by ribotyping using the restriction enzymes HpaII and HindIII. The genetic population structure of the Australian porcine P multocida isolates was determined through statistical analysis of the joint ribotype patterns, and this was then compared with biochemical and epidemiological data available for the population.

Results A total of 25 combined ribotypes were recognised, which were grouped into five ribotype clusters. Despite the deliberate selection of diverse isolates, the study revealed only a limited degree of genetic diversity. Fourteen of the ribotypes contained multiple isolates, and 12 of these ribotypes were present on more than one farm. Three of the seven biovars analysed in the study showed very limited diversity. All fifteen biovar 2 isolates (subsp multocida) were found in a single cluster (III), while all four biovar 8 isolates, which correspond to P multocida subsp gallicida, were allocated by themselves to a single cluster (IV). All nine of the biovar 12 isolates (lactose‐positive subsp multocida) were assigned to a single cluster (I), together with the single biovar 14 isolate, which was the only other lactose‐positive isolate in the population (ODC‐negative).

Conclusion A limited number of ribotypes of P multocida are associated with Australian pigs. The majority of these ribotypes are widely distributed across multiple farms, and across multiple states. Individual farms can possess multiple ribotypes of P multocida. Some of the unusual biochemical variants of P multocida present in Australian pigs have a very limited genetic diversity. The nature of pig production in Australia, primarily involving continuous flow systems with few closed herds, has possibly contributed to the widespread distribution of a limited number ribotypes.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Abraham LA
Published: March 2008

The 5‐MinuteVeterinary Consult: Canine and Feline. 2nd edn. Tilley LP, Smith FWK, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
Identification of equine herpesvirus 3 (equine coital exanthema virus), equine gammaherpesviruses 2 and 5, equine adenoviruses 1 and 2, equine arteritis virus and equine rhinitis A virus by polymerase chain reaction
Authors: DYNON K , VARRASSO A , FICORILLI N , HOLLOWAY SA , REUBEL GH , LI F , HARTLEY CA , STUDDERT MJ , DRUMMER HE
Published: March 2008

Objective To develop rapid (< 8 hour) tests using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the diagnosis of equine herpesvirus 3 (EHV3; equine coital exanthema virus), equine gammaherpesviruses 2 (EHV2) and EHV5, equine adenovirus 1 (EAdV1), EAdV2, equine arteritis virus (EAV), equine rhinitis A virus (ERAV; formerly equine rhinovirus 1)

Design Either single round or second round (seminested) PCRs were developed and validated.

Methods Oligonucleotide primers were designed that were specific for each virus, PCR conditions were defined and the specificity and sensitivity of the assays were determined. The application of the tests was validated using a number of independent virus isolates for most of the viruses studied. The PCRs were applied directly to clinical samples where samples were available.

Results We developed a single round PCR for the diagnosis of EHV3, a seminested PCR for EHV2 and single round PCRs for EHV5, EAdV1, EAdV2 and RT‐PCRs for EAV and ERAV. The PCR primer sets for each virus were designed and shown to be highly specific (did not amplify any recognised non‐target template) and sensitive (detection of minimal amounts of virus) and, where multiple virus isolates were available all isolates were detected.

Conclusion The development and validation of a comprehensive panel of PCR diagnostic tests, predominantly for viruses causing equine respiratory disease, that can be completed within 8 hours from receipt of clinical samples, provides a major advance in the rapid diagnosis or exclusion diagnosis of these endemic equine virus diseases in Australia.
Effect of short‐term treatment with bumetanide, quinapril and low‐sodium diet on dogs with moderate congestive heart failure
Authors: MARTINEZ‐ALCAINE MA , YNARAJA E , CORBERA JA , MONTOYA JA
Published: March 2008

Objective To evaluate the effect of bumetanide, quinapril and a low‐sodium diet on clinical response tolerance and side‐effects on dogs with moderate congestive heart failure.

Design A prospective clinical study, using 32 client‐owned dogs with naturally occurring disease.

Procedure Thirty‐two dogs diagnosed with congestive heart failure (International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council stage II) due to mitral valve disease were included. During 4 weeks, patients received 0.5 mg/kg quinapril (Ectren, Menarini), 0.1 mg/kg bumetanide (Fordiuran, Boehringer Ingelheim) and a low sodium diet (CNM‐CV, Purina) was fed. All dogs were examined weekly and results were treated statistically

Results The treatment was safe, effective and well‐tolerated and no major side‐effects were observed. There were no significant changes in measured haematological and biochemical variables, including serum electrolyte concentrations and urinary fractional excretion of electrolytes.

Conclusion This study suggests that the combined treatment with bumetanide, quinapril and low‐sodium diet for controlling moderate CHF due to mitral insufficiency in dogs is simple, easy‐to‐administer and effective in controlling clinical signs and prompting improvement even after short‐term treatment.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: Gibson N R
Published: March 2008

Manual of Canine and Feline Wound Management and Reconstruction. Edited by Fowler D and Williams JM
Evaluation of high‐speed treadmill videoendoscopy for diagnosis of upper respiratory tract dysfunction in horses
Authors: DART AJ , DOWLING BA , HODGSON DR , ROSE RJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo evaluate high‐speed treadmill videoendoscopy as a diagnostic technique and document the abnormalities found in Australian horses referred for poor performance associated with abnormal upper respiratory tract noise but where a definitive diagnosis could not be made at rest.

DesignA retrospective clinical study using client‐owned horses.

ProcedureThe clinical records and videorecordings of all horses referred to the University of Sydney for poor performance associated with abnormal upper respiratory tract noise during a 13‐month period were examined. Only horses with a normal physical examination including absence of lameness, and where a definitive diagnosis of the cause of the abnormal upper respiratory tract noise could not be made from the resting videoendoscopic examination were included in the study. The age, gender, breed of horse and the purpose for which the horse was used were ascertained from the record and videorecordings were reviewed by the authors and any abnormalities noted.

ResultsThere were 37 horses included in the study. An upper airway abnormality was identified during high‐speed treadmill videoendoscopy in 73% of horses. One abnormality was identified in 22 horses, 2 abnormalities in 4 horses and 3 abnormalities in 1 horse. Abnormalities identified included laryngeal hemiparesis (n=15), axial deviation of the aryepiglottic folds (n=10), pharyngeal collapse (n=3), dorsal displacement of the soft palate (n=2), epiglottic collapse (n=1), axial deviation of the vocal cord (n=1) and laryngeal collapse (n=1).

ConclusionsThe results of this study are similar to reports from overseas and suggest high‐speed treadmill video‐endoscopy appears to be a useful technique to diagnose the cause of upper airway dysfunction in Australian horses referred specifically for poor performance associated with abnormal upper respiratory noise. However, a diagnosis will not be made in all horses undergoing this procedure. There were five horses with two or three abnormalities none of which were apparent at rest. This would suggest that in all horses making abnormal upper respiratory noise associated with poor performance, even where an abnormality is identified at rest, high‐speed treadmill videoendoscopy should be performed for a complete diagnosis.
Efficacy of macrocyclic lactones for the control of larvae of the Old World Screw‐worm Fly (Chrysomya bezziana)
Authors: WARDHAUGH KG , MAHON RJ , AHMAD HAMDAN BIN
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the efficacy of four macrocyclic lactones for the control of larvae of the Old World Screw‐worm Fly (OWS), Chrysomya bezziana, and to examine the effects of excreted residues on the dung fauna.

Animals 100 heifers were divided into five groups of 20 animals. One group remained untreated, whereas the other groups were treated respectively with pour‐on formulations of moxidectin, eprinomectin or doramectin, or a sustained‐release bolus of ivermectin.

Procedures At intervals of 1 to 15 weeks after treatment, five cattle from each group were challenged with newly‐laid eggs of OWS. The efficacy of each treatment was determined 48 h later by comparing the number of myiases in the treated and untreated groups. Abundance of fly larvae in naturally‐voided dung pads and the survival of a species of dung beetle, Onthophagus sagittarius, were used to assess the effects of drug residues on the dung fauna.

Results and Conclusions Moxidectin showed no activity against larvae of OWS during the first 14 days after treatment. Eprinomectin provided protection for 3 days after dosing, but failed at days 7 and 14, whereas doramectin was effective at day 7, but not at days 14 or 21. In contrast, no myiases were established on bolus‐treated cattle from 14 to 102 days after treatment. Faecal residues of moxidectin had no effect on the survival of larvae of dung‐feeding flies, whereas those of eprino‐mectin and doramectin reduced survival for 1 to 2 weeks. Dung voided by bolus‐treated cattle inhibited fly breeding and had adverse effects on the development and survival of O sagittarius for up to 15 weeks after treatment.
Peritonitis associated withActinobacillus equuliin horses: 51 cases
Authors: MATTHEWS S , DART AJ , DOWLING BA , HODGSON JL , HODGSON DR
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo review the clinical findings, diagnosis and treatment of 51 horses with peritonitis attributed toActinobacillus equuli.

DesignRetrospective study of clinical cases

MethodsBreed, age and gender of horse, history, physical examination findings, treatment and outcome were determined from the hospital records of 51 horses in which a diagnosis of peritonitis attributed toA equuliwas made between January 1993 and June 1999. Results of abdominal fluid cytology and bacteriology, antimicrobial sensitivity patterns, haematology and faecal egg counts, when performed, were also retrieved.

ResultsThere was a variety of breeds of horses affected. There were 35 male and 17 female horses, aged from 9 months to 22 years, presented. Lethargy, signs of depression with mild to moderate signs of abdominal pain and inappetence were the most common reasons for presentation. Most horses had elevated heart and respiratory rates, an elevated rectal temperature and reduced intestinal borborygmi heard on auscultation of the abdomen. Abnormal colour with an elevated protein were features of an abdominal fluid sample in 98% of horses and a marked elevation in nucleated cell count was present in all samples. Pleomorphic gram‐negative rods were seen on cytology in 53% of samples and a positive culture ofA equuliwas returned in 72% of samples. Other laboratory findings in some horses included mild haemoconcentration, hypoproteinaemia, an elevated circulating nucleated cell count with a left shift, an elevation in fibrinogen concentration and an elevated faecal egg count. All horses demonstrated a rapid response to treatment with procaine penicillin alone, or a combination of procaine penicillin and gentamicin sulphate. Where antimicrobial sensitivity tests were performed, all but two isolates were sensitive to procaine penicillin. All horses responded to antimicrobial and supportive therapy and were discharged from hospital.

ConclusionHorses withA equuliperitonitis present with similar clinical signs as horses with other causes of abdominal pain. However, these signs, when evaluated in conjunction with the results of abdominal fluid analysis and response to treatment, are characteristic ofA equuliperitonitis. Pleomorphic gram‐negative bacteria may be seen on a cytological preparation of the abdominal fluid sample, and a positive bacterial culture may be obtained in some, but not all, cases. Most isolates are sensitive to procaine penicillin, so treatment with procaine penicillin and gentamicin sulphate is recommended until antimicrobial sensitivity is known.
Radioactive gold‐198 seeds for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma in the eyelid of a cat
Authors: HARDMAN C , STANLEY RG
Published: March 2008

A19‐year‐old, speyed, domestic short‐hair cat was presented with an eyelid tumour of 3 months duration. Ophthalmic examination revealed a large, raised, ulcerated and bleeding mass affecting the left lower eyelid. The mass was 12 mm x 10 mm in size, extended to the medial canthus and had eroded 10 mm of eyelid margin. Mandibular lymph nodes were not palpably enlarged. A diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma was confirmed by histologic examination. Due to involvement of more than half the lower eyelid, it was decided that treatment with radioactive gold‐198 seeds was appropriate. Nine radioactive gold‐198 seeds were implanted, delivering a minimum tumour dose of 65 Gy. Three weeks postoperatively the mass had resolved, with only a small scab remaining. After a further 3 weeks, there was no evidence of the eyelid tumour. Although approximately 7 mm of eyelid margin was absent, this did not cause any clinical signs other than mild conjunctivitis. There was no evidence of the tumour 10 months postoperatively, when the cat was euthanased for unrelated disease.
A postal survey of blowfly strike occurrence in two Queensland shires
Authors: WARD MP
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe the occurrence of blowfly strike in sheep flocks in two shires located in south‐eastern Queensland.

Design Postal survey of woolgrowers within Stanthorpe and Inglewood shires.

Procedure Questionnaire posted to woolgrowers in June 1999 seeking information on the monthly occurrence of flystrike and number of sheep at risk.

Results Incidence of body strike and breech strike between August 1998 and May 1999 was 1.1 and 0.5%, respectively. The highest incidence of body strike and breech strike was reported in lambs (6.1%) and weaner sheep (1.5%), respectively. The seasonality of the incidence of body strike was bimodal (November and February), whereas the seasonality of the incidence of breech strike was unimodal (April). Occurrence of body strike within a 3‐month period in flocks located within 40 to 50 km of each other was significantly (P < 0.05) clustered.

Conclusion Body strike appears to be more common than breech strike in the study area, mainly affects lambs and weaners and high‐risk periods occur during late spring and autumn. Study results provide valuable information for planning blowfly strike control programs in the area (such as timing of management procedures, use of fly traps), and enable the economic impact of flystrike on the industry in this area to be assessed.
Reduced efficacy of ivermectin, abamectin and moxidectin against field isolates of Haemonchus contortus
Authors: WOOSTER MJ , WOODGATE RG , CHICK BF
Published: March 2008

Objectives To investigate the reduced efficacy of ivermectin, abamectin and moxidectin against two field isolates of Haemonchus contortus. These isolates were identified on separate properties in the New England region of New South Wales.

Procedure Reduced efficacy of macrocyclic lactone anthel‐mintics against two field isolates of H contortus was suspected. These isolates were obtained from sheep on separate farms and pen trials were performed to investigate the efficacy of macrocyclic lactones. The percentage efficacy was calculated for moxidectin, ivermectin and closantel against the isolate from one farm (VHR23) and for moxidectin, ivermectin and abamectin against the isolate from the second (VHR29). The persistent activity of moxidectin against both isolates was investigated.

Results Ivermectin and closantel were found to have efficacies below 80% against established populations of VHR23. Moxidectin was effective against an established population of VHR23 but the persistent activity was reduced to 7 days. Moxidectin was also found to be effective against established populations of VHR29, however, ivermectin and abamectin were found to have efficacies below 80%. There was no evidence of persistent activity of moxidectin against VHR29.

Conclusion A reduction in efficacy of abamectin and/or ivermectin against field isolates of H contortuswas identified from two farms in the New England region of New South Wales. The persistent effect of moxidectin was reduced against both isolates.
Effects of surgical or banding castration on stress responses and behaviour of bulls
Authors: FISHER AD , KNIGHT TW , COSGROVE GP , DEATH AF , ANDERSON CB , DUGANZICH DM , MATTHEWS LR
Published: March 2008

Objective To compare the effects of surgical and latex banding methods of castration in 14‐ and 9‐month‐old bulls.

Design Two randomised, controlled experiments.

Procedure In Experiment 1, following administration of local anaesthetic, 14‐month‐old bulls were castrated by either surgical or banding methods, or left entire. Behavioural, plasma cortisol, plasma haptoglobin and bodyweight responses were recorded. A group of steers from the same mob was used as an additional comparison for bodyweight data. In Experiment 2, following administration of local anaesthetic, 9‐month‐old bulls were castrated by either surgical or banding methods and cortisol, haptoglobin and bodyweight responses were recorded. Entire bulls from the same group were used as an additional comparison for bodyweight data.

Results In Experiment 1, surgical castrates exhibited more leg stamping and tail swishing than banded or entire animals in the hours after castration. Surgical castrates in both experiments also showed an increase in plasma haptoglobin, which resolved after 4 days. Plasma cortisol was generally not affected by castration. Surgical castrates grew more slowly than entire bulls, but faster than banded animals, in the 56 days after treatment. In Experiment 1, after 56 days, the bodyweights of surgical and banded castrates were not different from the bodyweights of the steers. Fourteen‐month‐old banded cattle developed persistent wounds above the latex band which remained for several weeks after scrotal dehiscence, but this did not occur in the 9‐month‐old animals.

Conclusion The banding procedure produced fewer acute effects, but a greater suppression of growth than surgical castration and induced prolonged wound formation in the older age group, suggesting that this procedure may not be as suitable for yearling cattle.
The use of ultrasound in the investigation of gastric carcinoma in a dog
Authors: BECK C , O'NEILL T , HOLLOWAY SA , SLOCOMBE RF
Published: March 2008

Gastric neoplasia accounts for less than 1% of all canine malignancies.1 Malignant epithelial tumours are the most common gastric neoplasm in dogs and are referred to as carcinoma or adenocarcinoma.2 Dogs with gastric carcinoma usually present with vomiting, anorexia, and weight loss.2,3 The duration of clinical signs is from weeks to months.1 Survey and contrast radiography2,3 endoscopy,2, 4–6 and ultrasonography7,8 have been used in the diagnosis of gastric carcinoma in dogs. This report describes a case of gastric carcinoma in which the survey and contrast radiographs and endoscopic findings were normal. Gastric neoplasia was suspected on ultrasound examination and confirmed histologically.
Prevalence of antibodies to Leptospira serovars in beef cattle in central Queensland
Authors: BLACK PF , CORNEY BG , SMYTHE LD , DOHNT MF , NORRIS MA , SYMONDS ML
Published: March 2008

Objective To obtain up‐to‐date data on the prevalence of antibodies to Leptospiraserovars in central Queensland beef herds preliminary to assessing their role in bovine subfertility and the role of cattle as a zoonotic reservoir.

Design Sera from 2857 female cattle in 68 central Queensland beef herds were tested for antibodies to 14 Leptospiraserovars using the microscopic agglutination test. Vaccination use and age of cattle were collected to enable the calculation of crude and age‐stratified seroprevalences.

Results The most commonly detected antibodies were to serovars hardjo (15.8% crude seroprevalence), tarassovi (13.9%), pomona (4.0%) and szwajizak (2.2%). Vaccinates were omitted from the hardjo and pomona seroprevalence data. The seroprevalence for hardjo and pomona tended to increase with age of the animals.

Conclusion These results are broadly similar to those of previous serological surveys. The data suggest that serovars other than hardjo, pomona and tarassovi, are unlikely to have a significant role in bovine subfertility and that cattle are unlikely to be a source of human infection with them in central Queensland.