bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attitudes of suburban Western Australians to proposed cat control legislation
Authors: GRAYSON J , CALVER M , STYLES I
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the knowledge, attitudes and practices of cat‐owners and non‐owners in suburban Perth, Western Australia, on issues relating to proposed local government regulation of cat‐ownership.

Design The 1261 respondents to a mailed survey were ranked on issues regarding restrictions on cat‐ownership and cat roaming (control scale), attitudes to wildlife in suburbia and putative impacts of cats on wildlife (wildlife scale), knowledge of cat behaviour and husbandry (knowledge scale) and attitudes and practices regarding cat sterilisation (sterilisation scale). Age, gender and cat‐ownership status of the survey respondents were explored to see if any of these factors influenced the position of respondents on the scales.

Results Cat‐owners, particularly female owners, scored significantly higher on the knowledge scale than non‐owners, whilst non‐owners scored significantly higher than cat‐owners on the control and wildlife scales. Women were more likely to favour compulsory sterilisation of pet cats than men, but men were more willing to implement controls on cat‐ownership. Age was also a significant factor, with older people more willing to implement controls. Analysis of specific questions showed that both cat‐owners and non‐owners agreed that there was a need for cat control legislation and supported measures such as compulsory sterilisation, registering of cats, restricting cats' ability to roam and stipulating a maximum number of cats per property. Nevertheless, both groups rejected the idea that local governments should enforce cat‐free zones.

Conclusion Cat legislation that avoids or educates about the contentious issue of cat‐free zones should receive solid community support.
The integration of grazing management and summer treatments for the control of trichostrongylid infections in Merino weaners
Authors: NIVEN P , ANDERSON N , VIZARD AL
Published: March 2008

Objective To compare two strategies for the preparation of pastures that have reduced trichostrongylid infections during winter and spring for Merino weaners.

Design A replicated field experiment was conducted over two successive years. A ‘standard’ strategy, comprising set‐stocked wethers given anthelmintic treatments in late October and early February, was compared with a ‘new’ one in which intensive grazing for 1 month after each treatment and destocking for 1 or 2 months was integrated with the anthelmintic treatments. Paddocks prepared according to these strategies were set‐stocked at 15 Merino weaners/ha from April to October inclusively.

Results Contamination of pastures prepared according to the new strategy was substantially reduced compared to those of the standard strategy. Worm counts showed that on new strategy paddocks the numbers of trichostrongylid larvae, except Nematodirus spp, were reduced by 50 to 95% compared to standard strategy paddocks.

Worm egg counts from the set‐stocked weaners were reduced by about 50% on new strategy paddocks from April to October. Weaners grazing the new strategy paddocks grew significantly more clean wool (254 g, P=0.01) and were significantly heavier in October (3.2 kg, P = 0.01) than weaners in the standard strategy paddocks. The improved production was attributable partially to better pasture growth early in winter and partially to reduced parasitism.

Conclusion The new strategy is a simple, practical and widely applicable example of the integration of grazing management with strategically timed anthelmintic treatments to reliably reduce trichostrongylid infections in weaners grazing during winter and spring.
Trichostrongylid infections in sheep after rainfall during summer in southern Australia
Authors: NIVEN P , ANDERSON N , VIZARD AL
Published: March 2008

Objective To relate trichostrongylid infections acquired by sheep during summer to prevailing weather conditions.

Procedure Groups of worm‐free ‘tracer’ sheep were put onto pastures, previously contaminated with trichostrongylid eggs, for successive periods of 2 weeks from December to March. After grazing the sheep were housed for 6 weeks. Weekly worm egg counts and worm counts were used to estimate the numbers of worms acquired and related to weather conditions during the grazing period.

Results No worm eggs were detected in the faeces of sheep that grazed at the end of January when only 7 mm of rainfall was recorded. At other times rainfall between 12 and 24 mm occurred and strongyle egg counts were generally either < 50 or > 150 eggs per g (epg). Mean counts of 1100 Ostertagia and Trichostrongylus adults gave rise to mean counts of about 350 epg whereas about 6000 Nematodirus spp were associated with mean egg counts of about 200 Nematodirus spp epg.

Conclusions Rainfall events during summer determine the numbers of trichostrongylid larvae acquired by sheep in summer but further studies are necessary before the implications for strategic control programs in southern Australia can be fully assessed.
Osteoma of paranasal sinuses in a horse with inspiratory dyspnoea
Authors: STEINMAN A , SUTTON GA , LICHAWSKI D , JOHNSTON DE
Published: March 2008

We describe a case of osteoma in the frontal and maxillary sinuses of a 3‐year‐old Arabian mare, presented due to an inspiratory dyspnoea. The mare underwent two surgical procedures in order to excise the tumour. Twelve months after admission the mare was healthy with no signs of respiratory abnormalities. Sinus radiographs and endoscopy repeated at that time revealed some regrowth of the tumour in the maxillary sinus, however, twenty‐two months following surgery the mare did not show clinical signs of upper airway disease.
Spironucleosis in Australian king parrots (Alisterus scapularis)
Authors: PHILBEY AW , ANDREW PL , GESTIER AW , REECE RL , ARZEY KE
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo describe a syndrome of wasting, diarrhoea and mortality in Australian king parrots (Alisterus scapularis).

DesignField observations and laboratory examinations.

Procedure Pathological examinations were performed on 50 Australian king parrots with wasting and diarrhoea. Wet preparations of intestinal contents were examined by light microscopy. Tannins were extracted from acorns (Quercussp) and tested for toxicity in mice.

Clinicalsigns and epidemiology A syndrome of wasting, diarrhoea and mortality was observed in wild juvenile Australian king parrots in eastern Australia from 1984 to 2000. Sporadic cases and outbreaks of disease occurred from May to September in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory and Victoria. Outbreaks in the Australian Capital Territory in 1990 and 1991 were associated with parrots congregating to feed on acorns. Most affected birds failed to respond to treatment with dimetridazole and died 1 to 14 days after hospitalisation. Selected cases recovered following treatment with metronidazole.

PathologyAffected birds were emaciated, with faecal matting of feathers around the cloaca and yellow‐green fluid, foamy intestinal contents. Abundant motile Spironucleus trophozoites were observed in wet preparations of faeces of clinically affected birds and intestinal contents of birds examined within 1 h of death. Protozoa were detected histologically in crypts of Lieberkühn in the intestine in association with exudation of mucus (catarrhal enteritis) or lymphoplasmacytic enteritis.

ToxicologyTannin extracts from acorns induced periacinar hepatic necrosis in mice.

ConclusionWasting, diarrhoea and mortality in wild juvenile Australian king parrots were associated with Spironucleuslike protozoa in the intestine. Acorns were not considered to be the cause of the syndrome.
Cytology of haematological cells of otariid seals indigenous to Australasian waters
Authors: CLARK P , BOARDMAN WS , DUIGNAN PJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo characterise the morphology of cells from the blood of otariid seals.

MethodsExamination of blood by light and scanning electron micrcoscopy.

ResultsErythrocytes were typically discocytes. Leukocytes that were recognised included neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils and basophils. The morphology varied little between species for neutrophils, lymphocytes and monocytes. Some variation between species was observed for eosinophils and basophils. Platelets were generally aggregated.

ConclusionThis study provides a guide for the identification of cells from the blood of otariid seals.
Effect of local anaesthetic combined with wound cauterisation on the cortisol response to dehorning in calves
Authors: SUTHERLAND MA , MELLOR DJ , STAFFORD KJ , GREGORY NG , BRUCE RA , WARD RN
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo reassess whether local anaesthesia before dehorning and wound cauterisation after dehorning eliminates the cortisol response to dehorning.

MethodsA control group was compared with three dehorned groups (dehorned alone, dehorned after local anaesthesia, dehorned after local anaesthesia then cautery of the amputation wounds). The local anaesthetic regimen used produced nerve blockade for about 5 h. Blood samples were taken before and after dehorning and plasma cortisol concentrations were determined.

ResultsDehorning caused a marked cortisol response lasting for about 7 h. Local anaesthetic reduced the plasma cortisol concentrations to control values for 5 h, after which they increased for a further 5 h. Subsequently in both groups, cortisol concentrations remained at control values until at least 24 h after treatment. Local anaesthetic combined with wound cautery virtually abolished the cortisol response until at least 24 h after dehorning.

ConclusionCombining local anaesthesia with cautery of the amputation wounds substantially reduced the cortisol response until at least 24 h after dehorning.
Assessment of organoleptic postmortem inspection techniques for bovine offal
Authors: UZAL FA , MORE SJ , DOBRENOV B , KELLY WR
Published: March 2008

Objective To evaluate organoleptic postmortem inspection techniques for bovine livers and kidneys.

Study design At Australian export abattoirs, bovine liver and kidneys are assessed and graded by qualified meat inspectors during normal operations. Over a 12‐month period at a large abattoir in eastern Australia during 1997 and 1998, a sample of these organs was reassessed independently using a range of pathological and microbiological methods. Agreement between routine inspection and independent assessment was evaluated using methods of inter‐rater agreement.

Results A total of 944 livers and 1374 kidneys were included in the study. All of these organs had been classified during routine inspection. The authors examined 363 livers and 329 kidneys both grossly and histologically, including 36 livers and 14 kidneys that were also subjected to microbiological examination. All other organs were only examined grossly. There was only a moderate level of agreement between the routine and independent assessment methods. For livers, the percentage agreement was 80.2%, McNemar's test of symmetry 55.2 (3 degrees of freedom, P<0.001) and kappa 0.63. For kidneys, the percentage agreement was 67.8%, McNemar's test of symmetry 9.9 (1df, P = 0.002) and kappa 0.35.

Conclusions The results reinforce concerns from a number of authors about organoleptic postmortem inspection. Risk assessment methodologies offer the opportunity to modify inspection techniques in a manner that is most relevant to current public health concerns.
Longitudinal study of veterinarians from entry to the veterinary course to ten years after graduation: career paths
Authors: HEATH TJ
Published: March 2008

Objective

Design

Methods

Data from 129 (96%) questionnaires completed during the eleventh year after graduation were coded numerically then analysed, together with data from previous questionnaires, with SAS System 7 for Windows 95.

Results

Ten years after they graduated, 80% were doing veterinary work, 60% were in private practice, 40% in small animal practice and 18% in mixed practice. The equivalent of 25% of the working time of all females was taken up by family duties. When part‐time work was taken into account, veterinary work constituted the equivalent of 66% of the group working full‐time. That 66% consisted of 52% on small animals, 7% on horses, 6% on cattle/sheep and 1% on pigs/poultry. Those who had grown up on farms with animals were twice as likely to be working with farm animals as were those from other backgrounds. Forecasts made on entry to the veterinary course were of no value in predicting who would remain in mixed practice.

Conclusions

fewer than one‐fifth of graduates were in mixed practice after 10 years, but the number was higher for those who grew up on farms with animals. Forecasts that may be made at interview before entry to the course were of little value in predicting the likelihood of remaining in mixed veterinary practice.
Treatment of an acromegalic cat with the dopamine agonist L‐deprenyl
Authors: ABRAHAM LA , HELMOND SE , MITTEN RW , CHARLES JA , HOLLOWAY SA
Published: March 2008

Acromegaly was diagnosed in a 14‐year‐old domestic short
Noninvasive estimation of cardiac systolic function using continuous‐wave Doppler echocardiography in dogs with experimental mitral regurgitation
Authors: ASANO K. , MASUI Y. , MASUDA K. , FUJINAGA T.
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo evaluate the feasibility of noninvasive estimation of cardiac systolic function using transthoracic continuous‐wave Doppler echocardiography in dogs with mitral regurgitation.

Procedure Seven mongrel dogs with experimental mitral regurgitation were used. Left ventriculography and measurement of pulmonary capillary wedge pressure were performed under inhalational anaesthesia. A micromanometer‐tipped catheter was placed into the left ventricle and transthoracic echocardiography was carried out. The peak rate of left ventricular pressure rise (peak dP/dt) was derived simultaneously by continuous‐wave Doppler and manometer measurements. The Doppler‐derived dP/dt was compared with the catheter‐measured peak dP/dt in the dogs.

Results Classification of the severity of mitral regurgitation in the dogs was as follows: 1+, 2 dogs; 2+, 1 dog; 3+, 2 dogs; 4+, 1 dog; and not examined, 1 dog. We were able to derive dP/dt from the transthoracic continuous‐wave Doppler echocar‐diography in all dogs. Doppler‐derived dP/dt had a significant correlation with the catheter‐measured peak dP/dt (r = 0.90, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion It was demonstrated that transthoracic continuous‐wave Doppler echocardiography is a feasible method of noninvasive estimation of cardiac systolic function in dogs with experimental mitral regurgitation and may have clinical usefulness in canine patients with spontaneous mitral regurgitation.
Unusual ovarian activity in a mare preceding the development of an ovarian granulosa cell tumour
Authors: JB CHOPIN , LK CHOPIN , LM KNOTT , DM DE KRETSER , KF DOWSETT
Published: March 2008

An 8‐year‐old mare, with a foal at foot, was inseminated on foal heat with frozen semen, with the resultant pregnancy lost between days 34 and 41. The right ovary developed a large anovulatory follicle that was non‐responsive to multiple doses of ovulating agents. The follicle eventually appeared to luteinise, although plasma progesterone concentrations did not reflect this. Another follicle developed, responded to GnRH and resulted in a pregnancy from frozen semen that went to term with a healthy foal. When the mare was examined after foaling, the structure on the right ovary appeared to be a granulosa cell tumour; the left ovary was smaller than normal and non‐functional. Surgical removal of the right ovary before increasing photoperiod resulted in a return to function of the left ovary and a pregnancy to frozen semen on the second cycle following removal. Figures showing concentrations of inhibin, progesterone, androstenedione, oestradiol and testosterone are presented for this entire period. Unusual ovarian activity in the mare might be a prelude to the development of a granulosa cell tumour.
Brain damage in sheep from penetrating captive bolt stunning
Authors: FINNIE JW , MANAVIS J. , BLUMBERGS PC , SUMMERSIDES GE
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the severity and distribution of structural changes in the brains of adult sheep stunned by penetrating captive bolt.

ProcedureThe unconstrained heads of ten, anaesthetised, unhorned, 2‐year‐old Merino sheep were impacted at the summit of the head with a penetrating captive bolt pistol. Six sheep were ventilated and four received no respiratory support. Two hours after impact, brains from the six ventilated sheep were perfusion‐fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde. Sixteen whole, serial coronal sections from each brain were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemi‐cally for amyloid precursor protein, a sensitive marker of axonal and neuronal reaction in the brain after trauma. Pathological changes in these brains were then quantified by morphometric analysis.

ResultsStructural change in all impacted brains was a mixture of focal injury around the wound track and more widely distributed damage in the cerebral hemispheres, cerebellum and brainstem, but varied considerably in severity between individual sheep. All nonventilated sheep died rapidly following respiratory arrest.

ConclusionsAfter penetrating captive bolt stunning, damage to the central reticular formation, axonal connections, and the cortical mantle is the likely reason for failure of respiratory control and traumatic loss of consciousness.
Evaluation of d,l‐ethionine as a mechanism for pancreatic islet regeneration in dogs
Authors: GOVENDIR M. , CANFIELD PJ , EMSLIE DR , WATSON ADJ , CHURCH DB
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine whether induction of pancreatic necrosis and islet proliferation by d,l‐ethionine has potential for treating dogs with b ‐cell insufficiency.

Design Eighteen mixed breed dogs of both sexes were given d,l‐ethionine at 100 mg/kg three times weekly for 2 weeks; 6 dogs were euthanased at 2, 14 and 28 d after the last dose.

Methods Clinical signs during administration and recovery were assessed. Routine biochemical analyses were performed before each ethionine dose and then once weekly. Faecal samples were examined weekly for malassimilated nutrients and blood. Blood coagulation screening tests (OSPT and APTT) were determined on four dogs after ethionine administration. Intravenous glucose tolerance tests were conducted before the first and after the last ethionine dose and then fortnightly. All dogs were necropsied and pancreas, liver, kidney and jejunum were examined microscopically.

Results During ethionine administration all animals displayed vomiting, inappetence, diarrhoea (often with blood), weight loss and depression. Three dogs were euthanased prematurely due to severe illness, but those allowed to recover were eating and brighter 7 d after cessation of ethio‐nine administration. Serum concentrations of TLI, amylase and lipase increased initially, then decreased, during administration but returned to normal during recovery. Concentrations of ALT, ALP, unconjugated and conjugated bilirubin increased during administration then decreased slowly. Histological examination revealed hepatic lipidosis and necrosis, but no renal or jejunal lesions. In most dogs, faecal examination demonstrated increased undigested starch and muscle, as well as increased digested and undigested fat, during ethio‐nine administration or early during the recovery period, suggesting transient malassimilation. APTT was unchanged but OSPT was prolonged in all dogs. There was no impairment of insulin secretion or glucose intolerance and C‐peptide concentrations were unaffected. Immediately after ethionine administration there was delayed insulin degradation and by day 43 there was evidence of increased insulin sensitivity.

Conclusion d,l‐ethionine administration in dogs appeared not to interfere with insulin secretion, but caused clinical signs and laboratory changes indicative of pancreatic exocrine necrosis, severe hepatobiliary disease and transient malas‐similation. Pancreatic and hepatic dysfunction was severe but clinical recovery occurred after ethionine administration ceased. The severe side‐effects observed with d,l‐ethionine should preclude its potential use for treating diabetes mellitus in dogs.
Intramedullary interlocking nail stabilisation of 21 humeral fractures in 19 dogs and one cat
Authors: MOSES PA , LEWIS DD , LANZ OI , STUBBS WP , CROSS AR , SMITH KR
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the suitability of the intramedullary interlocking nail to stabilise humeral diaphyseal fractures in dogs and cats.

Method This multi‐centre study retrospectively examined medical records, between June 1994 and May 2001, of 19 dogs and one cat, in which a total of 21 humeral fractures were stabilised with intramedullary interlocking nails.

Results Animals ranged in body‐weight from 4 to 97 kg. Eighteen (86%) of the fractures were comminuted. Adjunctive stabilisation was used in twelve (57%) fractures and bone grafts in nine (43%) fractures. A rapid return of function was noted in the majority of animals, with 14 (67%) having good or excellent function within four days of surgery. In two fractures the repair collapsed when a single proximal transcortical screw was placed cranial to the tricipital line of the humerus. This suggests that if a single transcortical screw is placed proximally the screw should be distal or caudal to the tricipital line in order to engage sufficient cortical bone. Eighteen (86%) of the fractures healed when stabilised with intramedullary interlocking nails. Three fractures did not heal. One was in a dog where a pathological fracture was temporarily stabilised with an intramedullary interlocking nail, one in a dog that died of an abdominal crisis three weeks after surgery and one in a dog in which fracture stabilisation collapsed due to incorrect implant selection.

Conclusion Intramedullary interlocking nails are well suited to the stabilisation of humeral diaphyseal fractures in dogs and cats.
Diffuse mesenteric lipodystrophy (massive fat necrosis) in a cat
Authors: AYDIN Y. , TEMIZSOYLU D. , TOPLU N. , VURAL SA
Published: March 2008

Clinical, radiographic, and pathological findings of diffuse mesenteric lipodystrophy in a 3‐year‐old, female domestic short‐haired cat are described. The animal and fallen from a height of approximately 20 metres 6 weeks previously, after which it developed respiratory distress and anorexia. The cat was thin, exhausted and had rapid, shallow, open‐mouthed breathing. Serial upper gastrointestinal contrast radiographs showed a prolonged transit time of the contrast medium due to restricted gastric emptying, and filling defects of the duodenojejunal portions of the small intestines. The cranial abdominal cavity contained large, firm, white masses that adhered to most of the anterior abdominal organs. The intestinal walls were completely surrounded by large, hard, lobulated masses of lipomatous tissue. The masses were characterised histologically by extensive areas of coagulative necrosis of adipocytes containing foci of saponification. The lesions resembled those of massive fat necrosis or lipomatosis in cattle, pigs and deer.
Renal pathology of polycystic kidney disease and concurrent hereditary nephritis in Bull Terriers
Authors: O'LEARY CA , GHODDUSI M. , HUXTABLE CR
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe the renal lesions in Bull Terrier poly‐cystic kidney disease (BTPKD), to confirm that the renal cysts in BTPKD arise from the nephron or collecting tubule, and to identify lesions consistent with concurrent BTPKD and Bull Terrier hereditary nephritis (BTHN).

Design Renal tissue from five Bull Terriers with BTPKD and eight control dogs was examined by light and transmission electron microscopy. Clinical data were collected from all dogs, and family history of BTPKD and BTHN for all Bull Terriers.

Results In BTPKD the renal cysts were lined by epithelial cells of nephron or collecting duct origin that were usually squamous or cuboidal, with few organelles. They had normal junctional complexes, and basal laminae of varying thicknesses. Glomeruli with small, atrophic tufts and dilated Bowman's capsules, tubular loss and dilation, and interstitial inflammation and fibrosis were common. Whereas the lesions seen in BTHN by light microscope were nonspecific, the presence of characteristic ultrastructural glomerular basement membrane (GMB) lesions and a family history of this disease indicated concurrent BTHN was likely in three of five cases of BTPKD.

Conclusion This paper provides evidence that renal cysts in BTPKD are of nephron or collecting duct origin. In addition, GBM lesions are described that strongly suggest that BTPKD and BTHN may occur simultaneously.
Specificity of absorbed ELISA and agar gel immuno‐diffusion tests for paratuberculosis in goats with observations about use of these tests in infected goats
Authors: WHITTINGTON RJ , EAMENS GJ , COUSINS DV
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the specificity of serological tests that are currently used in veterinary diagnostic laboratories in Australia for detection of Mycobacterium aviumsubsp para‐tuberculosisinfection in goats.

Design A laboratory study.

Procedure Four tests were studied, comprising AGID with M a paratuberculosis antigen derived from cattle isolates of caprine or bovine origin, the EMAI caprine Johne's disease absorbed ELISA and the CSL PARACHEK Johne's absorbed EIA. The specificities of AGID and ELISA for paratuberculosis (Johne's disease) were estimated after examining a panel of 1000 serum samples collected from goats in Western Australia, a region free of paratuberculosis. In addition a comparison was made of test performance in a small number of paratuberculous goats from New South Wales using sera from two archival collections.

Results The specificity of the AGID tests was 100% while the specificities of the two absorbed ELISA were 99.7 to 99.8% at appropriate positive‐negative cut‐offs. Based on testing the small sample of sera from infected goats, the absorbed ELISA tests detected about twice as many goats with Johne's disease as the AGID. Each test detected para‐tuberculous animals regardless of whether infection was caused by cattle or sheep strains of M a paratuberculosis.

Conclusions Both ELISA and AGID tests for paratubercu‐losis have high specificity and can be used in a market assurance program without risk of generating large proportions of false positive test results. However, the results suggested the ELISA is more sensitive for detection of infected goats and should be used in preference to the AGID. The two formats of ELISA evaluated in this study have similar characteristics and could be used in paratuberculosis control programs for the goat industries, but further data on sensitivity would increase confidence in their application.
Tail docking in dogs: a review of the issues
Authors: BENNETT PC , PERINI E
Published: March 2008

Different groups in our community hold strong views about tail docking in domestic dogs. These range from veterinary associations and welfare organisations, which typically want the practice banned, to purebred dog associations, which vigorously oppose the introduction of antidocking legislation. An evaluation of the tail docking issue, which is informed and nonemotive, requires the integration of moral views with biological and behavioural facts. In recent years, much data have been accumulated concerning the welfare implications of tail docking. Unfortunately, however, there has been limited transfer of this knowledge to people interested in the issue. In this review some of the main arguments for and against canine tail docking are presented and evaluated.
Renal dysplasia and urinary tract infection in a Bull Mastiff puppy
Authors: ABRAHAM LA , BECK C , SLOCOMBE RF
Published: March 2008

Renal dysplasia and concurrent pyelonephritis were diagnosed in a 15‐week‐old female Bull Mastiff which presented with clinical signs compatible with chronic renal failure. Ultrasound examination was consistent with renal dysplasia and clinical pathology supported a diagnosis of chronic renal failure and urinary tract infection. Renal histological examination demonstrated inflammation and scarring with concurrent tubular dysplasia and persisting primitive glomeruli, although the presence of chronic inflammation complicated interpretation. It is uncertain whether renal dysplasia was inherited or due to a urinary tract infection acquired in the neonatal period. Renal dysplasia has not previously been reported in the Bull Mastiff breed.
Comparison of two doses of oestradiol benzoate administered at a resynchronised oestrus on reproductive performance of dairy cows
Authors: CAVALIERI J , HEPWORTH G , EAGLES VE , MACMILLAN KL
Published: March 2008

Objective To compare the effects of two doses of oestra‐diol benzoate (ODB) administered as part of a treatment designed to resynchronise returns to oestrus on the reproductive performance of cows in a controlled breeding program.

Design Cohort study

Procedure Lactating dairy cows on two farms were treated to synchronise three successive oestrous cycles. An intrav‐aginal progesterone releasing insert (IVP4) was used to synchronise the first oestrous cycle. The cows were then treated 15 days after the first treatment by reinsertion of an IVP4 that had been used to synchronise the first oestrus and administration of 1.0 mg of oestradiol benzoate (ODB) IM at device insertion. The IVP4 device was removed 8 days later and either 0.5 (n = 421) or 1.0 mg of ODB (n = 446) was administered 24 h later. Injections of (ODB) with or without the use of an IVP4 were used to synchronise the third oestrous cycle. Different synchronisation treatments were used to synchronise first and third oestrous cycles but differences were included in statistical models to account for variation in the data. This enabled examination of effects due to differences in the dose of ODB used to synchronise the second synchronised oestrus.

Results The dose of ODB (0.5 or 1.0 mg) administered just before the second synchronised oestrus did not significantly (P > 0.10) affect the cumulative pregnancy rates over three successive rounds of artificial insemination, the mating start date to the conception intervals, the conception rates to the first or second insemination, the proportion of cows submitted for insemination at the second synchronised oestrus or the proportion of cows that were not pregnant yet failed to show signs of oestrous (phantom cows) identified within each herd.

Conclusion There was no difference in reproductive performance between cows receiving either 0.5 mg or 1.0 mg ODB after removal of used IVP4 devices that had been inserted to resynchronise them for a second insemination.
Survey for hydatidosis in cattle bred in the northern region of the Northern Territory of Australia
Authors: SMALL LM , PINCH DS
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine whether hydatidosis occurs in cattle bred in the northern region of the Northern Territory.

Design A survey utilising two stage sampling was designed to provide 95% confidence of detecting hydatids in cattle with a herd prevalence of 10% and animal prevalence of 10%.

Procedure For a 1 year abattoir killing season, lesions from the liver and/or lung were collected from 4348 cattle being slaughtered at a Northern Territory abattoir and examined for hydatid cysts. The origin of cattle was established through identification of the brand.

Results Sample sizes of 41 or more Northern Territory bred cattle were achieved for each of 29 properties. No hydatid cysts were found in cattle bred in the northern region of the Northern Territory.

Conclusion This study provides evidence that a cycle of hydatid transmission does not occur in the northern region of the Northern Territory.
Comparison of four methods for detection of oestrus in dairy cows with resynchronised oestrous cycles
Authors: CAVALIERI J. , EAGLES VE , RYAN M. , MACMILLAN KL
Published: March 2008

Objective To compare the sensitivity and positive predictive value of four methods for detection of oestrus in dairy cows with resynchronised oestrous cycles.

Procedure Oestrous cycles in cows in three herds were synchronised for a first round of artificial insemination (AI) and then resynchronised for a second round of AI. Sensitivity and positive predictive value of four aids (pedometers, radiotele‐metric transmitters [HeatWatch; HW], tail‐paint and heat‐mount detectors) that were used to detect the resynchronised oestrus were compared. Milk progesterone concentration and pregnancy testing at 12 weeks were used as the reference standard for cows being in oestrus.

Results The mean sensitivity and positive predictive value for detecting the resynchronised oestrus, for each aid that was used, was >80%. Tail‐paint was significantly more sensitive at detecting oestrus compared to heatmount detectors (P = 0.002), but not significantly more sensitive than pedometers (P = 0.07) or HW (P = 0.55) for detecting oestrus (91.3, 85.7; 81.4 and 88.4%, respectively). Positive predictive value of HW for detecting oestrus was greater than tail‐paint (P = 0.014) and heatmount detectors (P = 0.024) but not pedometers (P = 0.25; 100, 91.7, 92.9 and 87.5%, respectively). Positive predictive value of heatmount detectors was greater than pedometers in herd C (93.4% vs 73.3%; P = 0.035) but not in herds A (95.0% vs 90.0%; P = 0.56) or B (90.8% vs 100%; P = 0.10). No other significant differences in sensitivity or positive predictive value of detection of oestrus were found between aids.

Conclusion Tail‐paint, heatmount detectors, pedometers and HW provide a high sensitivity (>80%) and positive predictive value (>85%) of detecting oestrus in dairy cows with resynchronized oestrous cycles.
Metaphyseal osteomyelitis in an immature Abyssinian cat
Authors: BRADLEY WA
Published: March 2008

Metaphyseal osteomyelitis is a rarely described condition in small animals, especially the cat. Infection, most commonly Staphylococcus sp, is considered to occur in the metaphyseal region of the immature animal due to vascular anomalies that predispose tothe haematogenous seeding of bacteria in this area. There is also speculation that the characteristics of the bacteria that allow them to adhere to cartilage matrix, rather than vascular linings and erythrocytes, may provide an advantage for colonisation in the metaphysis, resulting in infection. This case describes the successful management of a case of distal radial metaphyseal osteomyelitis in an immature cat using surgical intervention and antibacterial therapy.
Science and its application in assessing the welfare of laying hens in the egg industry
Authors: BARNETT JL , HEMSWORTH PH
Published: March 2008

Objective

To provide a rational framework for the scientific assessment of welfare and to use this framework to assess the welfare implications of issues relevant to the Australian egg industry.

Procedure

A well‐accepted approach to the assessment of animal welfare, based on assessing how well the animal is adapting, is described. This approach is used to consider the welfare implications of issues such as space, perches, nest boxes, dust baths, abrasive strips and non‐cage housing systems.

Conclusions

The role of science in the welfare debate is to provide biological facts and thus it is important to separate welfare and ethics. The welfare of an animal in response to a housing system or husbandry procedure can be assessed by evaluating how much has to be done by the animal in order to cope and the extent to which the coping attempts are succeeding. Using this approach there is evidence for improved welfare from increasing space in cages, based on reduced aggression, corticosterone concentrations and mortalities and increased production, and for incorporating perches, based on the reduction in injuries at depopulation. Similar evidence for the inclusion of dust baths and nest boxes is lacking. The data on abrasive strips are equivocal with recommendations from overseas for their inclusion, whereas some local data have shown an increase in mortality can occur. Similarly, the data on non‐cage systems are equivocal. The data on bone strength suggest improved fitness in non‐cage systems, the data on stress suggest fitness may be better, similar or worse in non‐cage systems, and the limited data on immunology suggest fitness may be worse in non‐cage systems than in conventional cages.
Large segmental radius and ulna defect treated by bone transportation with the Ilizarov technique
Authors: RAHAL SC , VOLPI RS , VULCANO LC , CIANI RB , MANNARINO R.
Published: March 2008

An 8‐year‐old male Boxer with a severely contaminated open fracture of the left radius and ulna fracture, produced by a helicopter propeller, was treated using bone transport by the Ilizarov method. Extensive diaphyseal bone loss and soft‐tissue vascular damage were present. The radius and ulna were stabilised with an Ilizarov ring external fixator. The bone defect was partially shortened and restored by gradual transport of a bone segment created from proximal segments of the radius and ulna. The external fixator was removed 4fi months after the beginning of the latency period, due to instability caused by osteolysis around the wires. A cast was placed for 3 weeks. Although the bone transport had resulted in formation of approximately 4 cm of bone, the antebrachium showed approximately 50% shortening when compared to the contralateral limb. The infection was eradicated, and the dog was able to bear weight on the operated limb when walking.
The medicine and epidemiology of bovine respiratory disease in feedlots
Authors: CUSACK PMV , McMENIMAN N , LEAN IJ
Published: March 2008

Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) results from a complex, multifactorial interaction of stressors, animal susceptibility, and respiratory pathogens. The infectious agents associated with BRD are ubiquitous among cattle populations. Typically, one or a combination of stressors are necessary to initiate BRD. Prevention of BRD should, therefore, address management procedures to minimise stressors. Administration of vaccines against BRD agents may help reduce the incidence of BRD but is unlikely to eliminate the condition. The effectiveness of antimicrobials in the treatment of BRD depends primarily on early recognition and treatment. The use of antioxidant vitamins, minerals or other agents in the prevention and treatment of BRD warrants further research.
Effect of solute lipophilicity on penetration through canine skin
Authors: MILLS PC , MAGNUSSON BM , CROSS SE
Published: March 2008

Objective To investigate the effect of lipophilicity on the percutaneous penetration of a homologous series of alcohols through canine skin

Design Skin harvested from Greyhound thorax was placed in Franz‐type diffusion cells and the in vitro passage of radio‐labelled (14C) alcohols (ethanol, butanol, hexanol and octanol (Log P 0.19 ‐ 3.0)) through separate skin sections was measured in replicates of five. Permeability coefficient (kP, cm/h), maximum flux (Jmax, mol/cm2/h) and residue remaining within the skin were determined.

Results The kP increased with increasing lipophilicity (6.2 times 10‐4± 1.6 times 10‐4 cm/h for ethanol to 1.8 times 10‐2± 3.6 times 10‐3 cm/h for octanol). Alcohol residues remaining within each skin sample followed a similar pattern. An exponential decrease in Jmax with increasing lipophilicity was observed.

Conclusion Changes in canine skin permeability occur with increasing alcohol lipophilicity. This finding has practical consequences for the design of topical formulations and optimisation of drug delivery through animal skin.
Cross reactivity of airborne allergens based on 1000 intradermal test results
Authors: MUELLER RS , CHAPMAN PL
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to evaluate concurrent positive reactions of related versus nonrelated allergens based on 1000 intradermal tests of dogs with atopic dermatitis.

ProcedurePairs of closely related allergens (based on botanical relations and results of research in human allergic disease) and nonrelated allergens were evaluated. Significance of the difference between group means of log odds ratios was estimated using a Bootstrap percentile confidence interval.

ResultsThere was a significant difference in the mean log odds ratio between related and nonrelated allergen pairs. However, there was also a significant difference between most groups consisting of nonrelated allergen pairs.

ConclusionThese results provide conflicting evidence and emphasise the need for further studies. Numbers of concurrent reactions of related allergens indicate that immunotherapy should be formulated based on testing with single allergens to avoid exposure to allergens not involved in the dog's atopic disease.
Cross‐sectional study of risk factors for the clinical expression of ovine Johne's disease on New South Wales farms
Authors: LUGTON IW
Published: March 2008

Objective To explore the environmental and management risk factors that promote the clinical expression of ovine Johne's disease on farms in New South Wales.

Design Cross‐sectional study.

Procedure A questionnaire about the farm, flock and their management was mailed to all farmers known to keep infected sheep in the area zoned residual for ovine Johne's disease in New South Wales. The resultant data were analysed by multivariate statistical methods, specifically examining the factors associated with farmers reporting some mortality due to ovine Johne's disease; the reported annual incidence of ovine Johne's disease‐associated mortality; the youngest age at which sheep die from ovine Johne's disease; whether scouring was a feature of the disease; and the season of peak mortality from ovine Johne's disease.

Results Fine wool Merino sheep were more likely to die from ovine Johne's disease than other sheep types. Mortality was higher on farms with light sandy soils and those with a high proportion of improved pastures containing subterranean clover. Winter shearing was also associated with clinical expression. The time that the infection had been present on a farm was not strongly associated with mortality. Higher stocking density, high rainfall and access to open water, factors that are believed to aid transmission, were not found to be influential.

Conclusion Clinical expression appears to be principally associated with light infertile soils and their associated pastures and pasture improvement practices which may lead to micronutrient deficiencies or imbalances. Genetic effects are also important and are likely to be exacerbated by physiological stressors, such as winter shearing.
Carboplatin pharmacokinetics following a single‐dose infusion in sulphur‐crested cockatoos (Cacatua galerita)
Authors: FILIPPICH LJ , CHARLES BG , SUTTON RH , BUCHER AM
Published: March 2008

Objective T o determine the pharmacokinetics of carboplatin in sulphur‐crested cockatoos, so that its use in clinical studies in birds can be considered.

Design A pharmacokinetic study of carboplatin, following a single intravenous (IV) or intraosseus (IO) infusion over 3 min, was performed in six healthy sulphur‐crested cockatoos (Cacatua galerita).

Procedure Birds were anaesthetised and a jugular vein cannulated for blood collection. Carboplatin (5 mg/kg) was infused over 3 min by the IV route in four birds via the contralateral jugular vein, and by the IO route in two birds via the ulna. Serial blood samples were collected for 96 h after initiation of the infusion. Tissue samples from 11 organs were obtained at necropsy, 96 h after carboplatin administration. Total Pt and filterable Pt in plasma and tissue Pt concentrations were assayed by inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. A noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was performed on the plasma data.

Results The mean ± SD for the Cmax of filterable Pt was 27.3 ± 4.06 mg/L and in all six birds occurred at the end of the 3 min infusion, thenceforth declining exponentially over the next 6 h to an average concentration of 0.128 ± 0.065 mg/L. The terminal half‐life (T1/2) was 1.0 ± 0.17 h, the systemic clearance (Cl) was 5.50 ± 1.06 mL/min/kg and the volume of distribution (Vss) was 0.378 ± 0.073 L/kg. The extrapolated area under the curve (AUC0‐x) was 0.903 ± 0.127 mg/mL.min; the area extrapolated past the last (6 h) data point to infinite time averaged only 1.25% of the total AUC0‐x. The kidneys had the greatest accumulation of Pt (7.04 ± 3.006 μg/g), followed by the liver (3.08 ± 1.785 μg/g DM).

Conclusions and clinical relevance Carboplatin infusion in sulphur‐crested cockatoos produced mild, transient alimentary tract signs and the Pt plasma concentration was similar whether carboplatin was given intravenously or intraosseously. Filterable plasma Pt concentrations for carboplatin persisted longer than for cisplatin, due mostly to the difference in systemic clearance between these drugs in sulphur‐crested cockatoos. The distribution of tissue Pt after carboplatin administration was similar to that reported for cisplatin in sulphur‐crested cockatoos. Despite anatomical, physiological and biochemical differences among animal species, the pharmacokinetic disposition of filterable Pt in the sulphur‐crested cockatoo shares some features with the kinetics reported previously in other animals and human beings.
Comparison of the efficacy of a subunit and a live streptomycin‐dependent porcine pleuropneumonia vaccine
Authors: TUMAMAO JQ , BOWLES RE , VAN DEN BOSCH H , KLAASEN HLBM , FENWICK BW , STORIE GJ , BLACKALL PJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of two new‐generation porcine pleuropneumonia vaccines when challenged with Australian isolates ofActinobacillus pleuropneumoniaeof serovars 1 and 15.

DesignThe Porcilis APP vaccine and an experimental streptomycin‐dependent strain ofA pleuropneumoniaewere evaluated in a standardised pen trial. Each vaccine/challenge group consisted of 10 pigs.

ResultsWith the serovar 1 challenge, the Porcilis APP vaccine and the live vaccine, compared with the control group, gave significant protection in terms of clinical signs, lung lesions, re‐isolation scores and average daily gain (ADG) postchallenge. Only the Porcilis APP vaccine provided significant protection against mortality. In the serovar 15 challenged pigs, the only significant difference detected was that the Porcilis APP vaccinated pigs had a better postchallenge ADG than the controls. None of the Porcilis APP vaccinated pigs showed signs of depression postvaccination and none were euthanased after challenge with either serovar 1 or 15. The pigs vaccinated with the live vaccine showed obvious depression after each vaccination and a total of 3 pigs were euthanased after challenge (one with serovar 1 and two with serovar 15).

ConclusionsBoth of the vaccines provided significant protection against a severe challenge with serovar 1A pleuropneumoniae.Neither vaccine was effective against a serovar 15A pleuropneumoniaechallenge. There was evidence that the Porcilis APP vaccine did provide some protection against the serovar 15 challenge because the ADG, after challenge of pigs given this vaccine, was greater than the control pigs.