bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amoebic meningoencephalitis caused byBalamuthia mandrillarisin an orang utan
Authors: CANFIELD PJ , VOGELNEST L. , CUNNINGHAM ML , VISVESVARA GS
Published: March 2008

Objective

To describe a case of meningoencephalitis caused byBalamuthia mandrillarisin an orang utan.

Design

A pathological case report.

Animal

A 20 years old male orang utan(Pongo pygmaeus).

Procedure

The disease process was investigated by clinical pathology, necropsy, histopathology and immunofluorescence labelling.

Results

The orang utan developed sudden onset of depression, lethargy, inappetence and apparent head pain. The condition was considered to be related to a 2 year history of upper and lower respiratory disease, and the animal was placed on antibiotics after extensive testing. By the seventh day the animal had become ataxic and disoriented and a brain abscess was suspected. He died on the ninth day of illness. At necropsy, and subsequent sectioning, the brain showed multiple circular, soft, white to grey brown areas of varying size, the largest being in the left temporal (3.5 cm diameter) and right occipital (2.5 cm diameter) regions of the cerebrum. Histological examination of these regions revealed many amoebic trophozoites and occasional cysts associated with areas of haemorrhage and inflammatory necrosis. The trophozoites were packed in perivascular spaces and their nuclei often contained two or more prominent nucleoli. Immunofluorescent labelling of histological sections suggested that the agent wasB mandrillaris.

Clinical implications

This report provides further evidence thatB mandrillaris, a free living amoeba, can act as a pathogen in animals as well as people, and cause fatal meningoencephalitis. Along withNaegleriaandAcanthamoebaspp,B mandrillarisshould be considered amongst the causes of acute onset meningoencephalitis in animals.
Do postvaccinal sarcomas occur in Australian cats ?
Authors: BURTON G. , MASON KV
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY:A soft tissue sarcoma occurred in the interscapular area of a cat, 1 to 7 months after vaccination at that site. The vaccine contained inactivated feline panleucopaenia virus combined with modified live feline herpesvirus and calicrvirus. The tumour showed histological features of both fibrosarcoma and malignant fibrous histiocytoma. The tumour was observed to evolve from the site of a presumed postvaccinal granuloma. Local recurrence 6 weeks post excision necessitated more radical resection. Euthanasia was performed 2 years later when pleural effusion developed. The cause of effusion was not determined. There was no palpable evidence of local tumour regrowth at the time of euthanasia. A causal relationship between vaccination and sarcoma formation is considered based on the temporal association between the two events, the anatomical location of the tumour and histopathology consistent with postvaccinal sarcomas reported overseas. Six other vaccine site fibrosarcomas, potentially vaccine associated using the above criteria, are summarised.
Disease signs reported in south‐eastern Australian dairy cattle while grazing Brassica species
Authors: MORTON JM , CAMPBELL PH
Published: March 2008

Objective

To estimate the relative frequency of various disease signs in dairy cattle fed brassicas in south‐eastern Australia, to estimate the incidence of disease signs within affected groups and to identify risk factors for commonly reported signs in brassica‐fed dairy cows.

Design

A case series study and a case‐control study.

Procedures

Case data was collected using an incident reporting system. Herd managers and veterinarians recorded details about disease incidents in brassica‐fed dairy cattle in summer and autumn 1995 using a standard questionnaire. Potential risk factors for photosensitisation were assessed using a case‐control study.

Results

Disease signs were reported in 66 groups of brassica‐fed dairy cattle. Photosensitisation and bloat were the more frequently reported signs. While high incidences were reported in some groups, the incidence of disease signs was low within most affected groups. Photosensitisation occurred more frequently among groups of cows fed brassica crops treated with nitrogenous fertilisers or which were low yielding. Risks of other disease signs were greatest while the first one quarter of the crop was grazed.

Conclusions

In the study population, most disease outbreaks occurring in brassica‐fed cattle were of low incidence. However, some high incidence outbreaks occurred. Results from this study suggest that important risk factors exist for disease signs in brassica‐fed dairy cattle. Further studies are required if these risk factors are to be fully identified. This would allow the development of preventative strategies for high incidence disease outbreaks while feeding brassicas to dairy cattle.
Subject‐based problem‐based learning in the veterinary science course at the University of Queensland
Authors: RAND JS , BAGLIONI AJ
Published: March 2008

Objective

To assess students' perceptions of subject‐based problem‐based learning in the fourth year of the veterinary science course at the University of Queensland.

Design

A questionnaire‐based study.

Procedure

Subject‐based problem‐based learning was introduced into parts of two fourth year subjects in a 5‐year veterinary science course. The problem‐based learning exercise used modified clinical cases and was computer‐assisted. Students worked in groups of two to four, and small group discussion sessions were tutorless. Lectures were replaced by large group discussion and feedback sessions, led by the teacher, with approximately 85 students.

Results

There was a significant increase in the percentage of students who strongly agreed that they had better understanding of the subject, and had learned to apply principles from this class in new situations. The only consistent criticism by students was directed at the extra time required compared to traditional lecture‐based subjects.

Conclusion

Students' perceptions of the learning outcome were very favourable for problem‐based learning when compared to the lecture‐based subject.
Antibiotic prophylaxis of lower respiratory tract contamination in horses confined with head elevation for 24 or 48 hours
Authors: RAIDAL SL , TAPLIN RH , BAILEY GD , LOVE DN
Published: March 2008

Objective

To evaluate the administration of procaine penicillin prior to or during confinement with head elevation as a means of reducing the associated accumulation of inflammatory lower respiratory tract secretions and increased numbers of bacteria within the lower respiratory tract of confined horses.

Design and Procedure

Two experiments were conducted to evaluate the efficacy of different dose rates and dosing frequencies. In experiment A a single low dose (15,000 IU/kg) of procaine penicillin was administered to four horses immediately prior to confinement with head elevation for 48 hours. The systemic leucocyte response, gross and cytologic characteristics of transtracheal aspirate and bacterial numbers in lower respiratory tract samples were compared with corresponding samples from two horses confined with heads elevated but not given penicillin. The efficacy of higher dose rates (20,000 IU/kg and 40,000 IU/kg) given before and during confinement with heads elevated for 24 hours was evaluated in experiment B.

Results

Treatment with procaine penicillin had no effect on the systemic leucocyte response or on the accumulation of inflammatory lower respiratory tract secretions at any of the dosing schedules evaluated. The number of bacteria isolated from trans‐tracheal samples was reduced at 12 hours for treated horses in experiment A and at 24 hours for experiment B. β‐haemolyticStreptococcusspp were not isolated from treated horses in either experiment. Bacterial species isolated from treated horses were predominantlyPasteurellaand/orActinobacillusspp, however, members of the familyEnterobacteriaceaéand aStaphylococcussp were isolated from treated horses. One treated horse in experiment A developed clinically apparent pulmonary disease.

Conclusions

The prophylactic administration of penicillin before or during confinement did not reliably reduce bacterial numbers or prevent the accumulation of purulent lower respiratory tract secretions in horses confined with their heads elevated. Numbers of β‐haemolyticStreptococcusspp were reduced following treatment, suggesting that the repeated administration of procaine penicillin may have some merit as part of a strategy to prevent transport‐associated respiratory disease. However, methods directed at minimising the duration of confinement with head elevation, augmentation of the clearance of accumulated secretions and prompt identification of animals in which airway inflammation has extended to the pulmonary parenchyma remain the best ways of minimising transport‐associated respiratory disease.
Comparison of bandaging and elevation of the claw for the treatment of foot lameness in dairy cows
Authors: PYMAN MFS
Published: March 2008

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of three treatments for sole injuries in dairy cows and to evaluate the ease and speed of applying the treatments.

Design

A randomised clinical trial.

Procedure

The three forms of treatment were elevating the affected claw of a lame cow with a wooden block glued to the unaffected claw (39 cows), elevating the affected claw with a rubberised shoe glued to the unaffected claw (42 cows) or applying a padded bandage to the whole foot of a lame cow (31 cows).

Results

the percentages of cows that recovered from lameness at 3 and 7 days after treatment were significantly higher for cows treated with wooden blocks (P = 0.013 and P = 0.008) or rubberised shoes (P = 0.026 and P = 0.0003) than padded bandages. Cows treated with blocks had a recovery rate of 48.7% at day three and 65.8% at day seven, and cows treated with rubberised shoes, rates of 45.2% and 76.2%, respectively. Cows which had a bandage applied to the foot had recovery rates of 19.4% at day three and 32.3% at day seven. However, by day 14, there was no significant difference in recovery rate between the three treatments. Rubberised shoes were shown to offer a number of advantages over wooden blocks. The shoes were significantly quicker to attach than blocks (median of 9.5 minutes compared with 14.0 minutes, P < 0.0001) and remained on the claw longer (57.1% of rubberised shoes remained at 30 days compared to 30.8% of blocks, P = 0.025). The rubberised shoes also offered an advantage over wooden blocks for operator safety and health by reduing contact between the potantially hazardous adhesive used to attach both devices and the skin of the person applying the device.

Conclusions

Rubberised shoes are a superior method of elevating an affected claw in conditions of lameness likely to respond to removal of weightbearing forces.
Serum chlortetracycline concentrations in parrots fed medicated seed diets
Authors: WARD KL
Published: March 2008

Various seed diets containing chlortetracycline were fed to large and small parrots to evaluate serum chlortetracycline concentrations. The substitution of dehulled sunflower seed for whole sunflower in the seed mix may have resulted in higher chlortetracycline concentrations in cockatoos and parrots. The serum chlortetracycline concentration achieved for all diets was less than the goal of 1 μg/mL, but the concentrations attained may be useful for therapy.
Neural angiostrongylosis in three captive rufous bettongs (Aepyprymnus rufescens)
Authors: HIGGINS DP , CARLISLE‐NOWAK MS , MACKIE J.
Published: March 2008

Neurological disease attributed to migration of the rat lungworm (Angiostrongylus cantonensis), is described in three captive rufous bettongs (Aepyprymnus rufescens). Clinical signs, including ascending paralysis and multifocal neurological deficits, were similar to those seen in other species. Histologically, the severity of meningoencephalomyelitis ranged from mild to moderate. In one animal cerebrospinal fluid contained a high percentage of eosinophils but peripheral blood cell counts were within normal limits. Treatment with dexamethasone, diazepam and vitamin E was unsuccessful. The prognosis for bettongs with this disease is poor. The susceptibility of this species to this disease has implications for enclosure design.
Effect of transportation on lower respiratory tract contamination and peripheral blood neutrophil function
Authors: RAIDAL SL , BAILEY GD , LOVE DN
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of transportation on lower respiratory tract contamination and peripheral blood neutrophil function in horses and to compare results from transported horses with those obtained in earlier experiments from horses confined with heads elevated.

DesignA prospective study.

ProcedureSix horses were transported by road for 12 h. Clinical and haematological examination, transtracheal aspiration and cell function studies were conducted before and after transportation. Results obtained after transportation were compared to pre‐transportation values.

ResultsAfter transportation, peripheral blood leucocyte and neutrophil numbers were increased and rectal temperatures were elevated. Transtracheal aspirates showed an accumulation of purulent respiratory tract secretions with increased numbers of bacteria, particularly β‐haemolyticStreptococcusspp and members of thePasteurellaceaefamily. Three horses also had increased numbers of bacteria from theEnterobacteriaceaefamily relative to corresponding samples from earlier studies. Phagocytosis by peripheral blood neutrophils was significantly reduced, while the oxidative burst activity of peripheral blood leucocytes was either unchanged or enhanced.

Clinical ImplicationsBacterial contamination of the lower respiratory tract occurs as a routine consequence of transportation of horses and is likely to be an important determinant in the development of transport‐associated respiratory disease. Inflammatory airway secretions and increased numbers of bacteria were rapidly cleared, without clinical evidence of significant pulmonary disease and without additional treatment, in normal horses that were allowed to lower their heads after transportation. Peripheral blood neutrophilia and a reduction in neutrophil phagocytic function were evident for at least 36 h after transportation, suggesting that horses may require a number of days to recover from the stress of transportation. As the potential role of bacteria from theEnterobacteriaceaefamily in the development of transport‐associated respiratory disease has not been elucidated, horses which develop clinical disease following transportation should undergo thorough bacteriological investigation to ensure appropriate treatment.
Detection of calves persistently infected with bovine pestivirus in a sample of dairy calves in south‐eastern Queensland
Authors: BOCK RE , RODWELL BJ , McGOWAN M.
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the proportion and incidence of calves persistently infected with bovine pestivirus in calves (n = 1521) supplied to the Tick Fever Research Centre and to assess the test regime to detect calves persistently infected with bovine pestivirus.

Design Calves, 1 to 6 weeks old, selected for use in the production of the tick fever vaccine were collected from 21 properties in 56 separate groups between October 1990 and December 1996. Each group was examined for the presence of calves persistently infected with bovine pestivirus.

Procedure All calves were routinely tested for antibody to bovine pestivirus and bovine pestivirus antigen using a serum neutralisation test and an antigen‐capture ELISA, respectively. Pooled lymphocyte samples from calves were also monitored for bovine pestivirus by inoculation of sheep. Whole herd testing was carried out in eight herds, using a serum neutralisation test as a screen test followed by an antigen‐capture ELISA of cattle with a serum neutralisation test titre of less than 32.

Results Fourteen of the 1521 calves tested (0.9%), were detected as persistently infected and the incidence ranged from 0.0 to 3.0 % per year over 6 years. Persistently infected calves were found in 13 of the 59 groups and originated from 7 of the 21 herds used. In whole herd testing on the properties of origin, cattle persistently infected with bovine pestivirus were detected in four of the eight herds tested

Conclusions The proportion of calves persistently infected with bovine pestivirus is similar to that in other countries and indicates that bovine pestivirus could be a significant cause of economic loss in Australian cattle herds. In detecting calves persistently infected with bovine pestivirus, the combination of sheep inoculation, paired antigen‐capture ELISA and serum neutralisation tests appeared to be highly sensitive and specific.
Effect of breed of cattle on innate resistance to infection with Babesia bovis, B bigemina and Anaplasma marginale
Authors: BOCK RE , de VOS AJ , KINGSTON TG , McLELLAN DJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the innate resistance of naive Bos taurus, Bos taurus cross Bos indicus and Bos indicus cattle to virulent Babesia bovis, B bigemina and Anaplasma marginale parasites.

Design Groups of 10, pure B indicus, fi B indicus cross,/B indicus cross and pure B taurus steers were infected with virulent B bovis, B bigemina and A marginale parasites.

Procedure Sequential infections were carried out by intravenous inoculation of infected blood containing 1 times 108 parasites of B bovis, followed by B bigemina and then A marginale. To assess resistance, measurements were made of parasitaemia, rectal temperature, packed cell volume and the number within a group requiring chemotherapy to control infection. There was a recovery period between each infection.

Results Infection with B bovis showed that pure B indicus steers were significantly more resistant to B bovis infection than the other groups, with none of this group requiring treatment. There was no significant difference between fi B indicus cross and/B indicus cross with 30% and 20%, respectively, of steers in these groups requiring treatment. The pure B taurus steers were significantly more affected then those in the other three groups with 80% requiring treatment. Infections of B bigemina produced a mild response in comparison to that of B bovis and none of the steers required treatment. However, the pure B taurus group was significantly more affected than the other three groups for all other measurements. After the A marginale infection, B indicus steers were moderately affected with 50% requiring treatment, whereas 70% of the fi B indicus group, 80% of the /B indicus cross group and 100% of the pure B taurus group required treatment.

Conclusions All breeds of cattle, ranging from pure B indicus to pure B taurus may be at risk of severe disease if exposed to virulent A marginale. The results confirm that pure B indicus cattle are relatively resistant to B bovis, but there could be a significant risk of severe mortalities if cross‐bred herds are exposed to virulent infection.
Effects of inflammation‐associated acute‐phase response on hepatic and renal indices in the horse
Authors: MILLS PC , AUER DE , KRAMER H. , BARRY D. , NG JC
Published: March 2008

Objectives To determine the effect of an acute soft tissue inflammatory response on biochemical and haematological indices of hepatic and renal function in the Thoroughbred horse.

Procedure Soft tissue inflammation was induced in four Thoroughbred horses by intramuscular injections of Freunds complete adjuvant. The horses were clinically examined and blood and urine samples were collected before and after the adjuvant injections. Biochemical and haematological indices were measured in samples collected and used to determine the onset of the acute‐phase response and to assess hepatic and renal function at this time.

Results After adjuvant injection, significant increases (P< 0.01) in total white (13.1 ± 1.4 times 109/L) and neutrophil (10.2 ± 1.2 times109/L) cell counts, rectal temperature (39.7 ± 0.5A°C) and various plasma protein concentrations, including fibrinogen (6.6 ± 1.2 g/L), haptoglobin (1.3 ± 0.1 g/L) and total protein (88.1 ± 2.7 g/L), indicated the induction of an acute‐phase response. This corresponded with significant reductions (P< 0.01) in the plasma elimination half‐lives (t½β) sodium bromo‐sulphthalein (3.13 ± 0.05 to 2.82 ± 0.07 min) and sodium sulphanilate (38.29 ± 4.04 to 19.60 ± 5.68 min) and reductions in the plasma activities of aspartate aminotransferase, gluta‐mate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, alkaline phosphatase, gamma glutamyl transferase; the urinary creatinine clearance ratios of sodium, chloride and potassium; and the urinary gamma glutamyl transferase‐to‐creatinine clearance ratios. (All values mean ± SD.)

Conclusions The effects of the acute‐phase response on indices of hepatic and renal function in the horse suggest that the disposition of pharmacological agents administered at this time may be altered and that indices of acute inflammation should be interpreted cautiously.
Snake bites recorded by veterinary practices in Australia
Authors: MIRTSCHIN PJ , MASCI P. , PATON DC , KUCHEL T.
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the extent of the snake bite problem in domestic animals, its regional significance and the effects of antivenom treatment.

Design A questionnaire was designed seeking information on the number and type of domestic animals referred, whether treated or untreated, type of snakes and management of the bite.

Procedure The survey form was sent to 10% of veterinary surgeons, selected at random throughout Australia.

Results The response of 106 veterinary surgeons revealed that snake bite in domestic animals is frequent, with an estimated 6200 cases reported annually. Bites were more prominent in rural (78%) than urban areas (22%) with brown, tiger and black snakes accounting for 76%, 13% and 6% of cases, respectively. Cats and dogs were the most frequently reported victims. Ninety‐one percent of cats and 75% of dogs survived following the administration of antivenom whereas 66% of cats and 31% of dogs survived without antivenom. Overall, in 33% of cases antivenom was not used, and venom detection kits were used in only 1% of cases. A number of drugs were used in various combinations with or without antivenom and intravenous fluids in the treatment of animals with snake bite, but their role in reducing the severity of envenomations was not assessed.

Clinical implications Antivenom significantly improves the chances of survival of domestic animals bitten by snakes.
Diabetes mellitus in a koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Authors: HEMSLEY S. , GOVENDIR M. , CANFIELD PJ , CONNOLLY JH
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe a case of diabetes mellitus in a koala (Phascolarctos cinereus).

Design A case report with controls.

Procedures We describe clinical and laboratory findings in a 6‐year‐old, free‐living, female koala presented with traumatic injury and subsequently found to have polydipsia, hyperglycaemia and glucosuria. Over a 5 week period, serum biochemical analyses, haematological examinations, urinal‐yses, measurement of serum insulin and fructosamine concentrations, necropsy, histopathological examination of a range of tissues and immunohistochemical examination of the pancreas for insulin‐containing cells were done. For reference purposes, serum insulin and fructosamine concentrations were determined in four and two healthy koalas, respectively, and three healthy koalas pancreases were examined histo‐logically and immunohistochemically.

Results The koala had persistent hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia, hyponatraemia, hypochloraemia and glucosuria. Serum insulin concentration of the diabetic koala was only marginally smaller than that of healthy koalas, but all concentrations were smaller than reference concentrations in dogs and people. Fructosamine concentration did not allow the diabetic koala to be distinguished from healthy koalas and concentrations of all koala analytes were greater than expected for healthy dogs and people. Histopathological examination revealed extensive degeneration of pancreatic islet cells and fatty infiltration of hepatocytes. Immunoperoxidase staining revealed decreased or absent insulin in the b cells of the affected koala.

Conclusion Clinical signs, clinicopathological results and histopathological changes were consistent with diabetes mellitus. The pathogenesis of the condition could not be determined but may have been related to the administration of a parenteral corticosteroid preparation, the stress of capture or tissue damage and inflammation.
Streptococcal peritonitis in a young dromedary camel
Authors: HELLER M. , ANDERSON D. , SILVEIRA F.
Published: March 2008

A male dromedary camel was presented for a primaryStreptococcal zooepidemicusseptic peritonitis. An underlying gross lesion was not identified during abdominal exploratory surgery. The camel responded to peritoneal lavage, peritoneal drainage and systemic antibiotic therapy. Thrombophlebitis of the left jugular vein was diagnosed 14 days after surgery. The camel died of an unknown cause 24 days after surgery.
Risk factors for culling and deaths in eight dairy herds
Authors: STEVENSON MA , LEAN IJ
Published: March 2008

Objectives To identify risk factors for culling of dairy cows from eight New South Wales dairy herds.

Design A longitudinal population study of dairy cow culling in eight non‐seasonally calving dairy herds in the Camden district of New South Wales. Cox's proportional hazards model was used to evaluate various risk factors for culling for a specific reason (sales, deaths, reproductive failure, disorders of the udder and low milk production).

Results Age at first calving was not a significant risk factor for culling. Milk production in the first lactation greater than the population mean did not influence length of productive life overall, but was associated with a greater hazard of removal for disorders of the udder. Risk of culling for reproductive failure differed significantly between farms, and was not related to events in the previous lactation such as calving‐to‐first service interval or calving‐to‐conception interval. Shorter calving intervals were associated with increased risk of removal for low milk production and disorders of the udder.

Conclusion Longitudinal surveys to accurately identify reasons for removal from a wide range of herds, identification of herds with low culling rates (especially for reproductive failure and udder disorders), and the identification of practices associated with these culling rates would be worthwhile to the Australian dairy industry.
Oesophageal impaction in a Canada goose (Branta canadensis)
Authors: MUSCATELLO G.
Published: March 2008

An oesophageal impaction, consisting of plant material and nylon fishing line, and alimentary parasitism were diagnosed and treated in a Canada goose. At presentation the bird was non‐ambulatory with flaccid neck muscles, lethargic, emaciated, dehydrated and had watery brown to green faeces. Palpation of the neck revealed a solid tubular mass ventrally in the mid‐cervical region with gritty material cranial to it. Radiographs disclosed an oesophageal mass containing seed or grit‐like radio‐opaque material, and dilated cranial oesophagus containing radio‐opaque material. Laboratory investigations revealed non‐regenerative anaemia, heterophilia, lymphopenia, hypoproteinaemia, and many strongyle eggs in faeces. Treatment included supportive therapy, oesophageal gavage, oesophagotomy and drug therapy. The bird recovered and was released 27 days after initial presentation.
Effects of delmadinone acetate on pituitary‐adrenal function, glucose tolerance and growth hormone in male dogs
Authors: COURT EA , WATSON ADJ , CHURCH DB , EMSLIE DR
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo characterise the effects of delmadinone acetate on the pituitary‐adrenal axis, glucose tolerance and growth hormone concentration in normal male dogs and dogs with benign prostatic hyperplasia.

DesignA prospective study involving nine normal male dogs and seven with prostatic hyperplasia.

ProcedureDelmadinone acetate was administered to six normal male dogs and seven dogs with benign prostatic hyperplasia at recommended dose rates (1.5 mg/kg subcuta‐neously at 0, 1 and 4 weeks). Three normal controls received saline at the same intervals. Blood concentrations of ACTH, cortisol, glucose, insulin and growth hormone were measured over 50 days. Intravenous glucose tolerance and ACTH response tests were performed before and after treatment in the nine normal animals.

ResultsA substantial suppression of basal and 2 h post‐ACTH plasma cortisol secretion was demonstrated after one dose in all dogs given delmadinone acetate. Individual responses after the second and third administration varied between recovery in adrenal responsiveness to continued suppression. Plasma ACTH concentration was also diminished after one treatment. No effects were evident on glucose tolerance or serum growth hormone concentrations.

ConclusionDelmadinone acetate causes adrenal suppression from inhibition of release of ACTH from the pituitary gland. Treated dogs may be at risk of developing signs of glucocorticoid insufficiency if subjected to stressful events during or after therapy. Neither glucose intolerance nor hyper‐somatotropism seems likely in male dogs given delmadinone acetate at the recommended dose rate, but the potential for excessive growth hormone secretion in treated bitches remains undetermined.
Prevalence of intercurrent disease in dogs and cats presented for vaccination at a veterinary practice
Authors: BANYARD MRC
Published: March 2008

A prospective study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of intercurrent disease in dogs and cats presented for vaccination in general practice. Fifty‐two percent of animals were found to suffer from intercurrent disease and 3% had severe debilitating disease. A thorough clinical examination conducted at the time of routine vaccination appears to be an important element in maintaining companion animal health and welfare.
Subcutaneous granuloma caused by Mycobacterium avium complex infection in a cat
Authors: MALIK R. , GABOR L. , MARTIN P. , MITCHELL DH , DAWSON DJ
Published: March 2008

A localised subcutaneous swelling developed on the nasal bridge of a cat receiving chemotherapy for alimentary tract lymphosarcoma. Cytological and histological examination of representative samples of the lesion demonstrated pyogranulomatous inflammation and abundant acid‐fast bacilli. AMycobacteriumsp was cultured from tissue excised from the lesion. Extensive testing at three reference laboratories indicated the strain was a member of theMycobacterium aviumcomplex. The infection was treated successfully by cytoreductive surgery and a 6 weeks course of orally administered clofazimine.
Trends in the use of pesticides and pestiside residues on Queensland wool
Authors: WARD MP , ARMSTRONG RTF
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine the amounts of organophosphorous and synthetic pyrethroid residues on Queensland wool sampled between 1995 and 1997, and to study if pesticide use changed during the period.

Design Estimated amounts of residues were obtained from a survey of Queensland wool clips, and information on pesticide use was obtained from a trace‐back postal survey of flock managers.

Procedure Trends in amounts of residues over time were assessed using analysis of variance and simple linear regression models, and changes in pesticide use was assessed using x2 tests.

Results Significant linear reductions in organophosphorous (P = 0.0012), synthetic pyrethroid (P = 0.0044) and total (P = 0.0002) residues were detected. The proportion of woolgrowers treating for louse infestation (P = 0.0046) treating twice or more (P = 0.0006) and treating more than 4 months after shearing (P = 0.0001) decreased between 1994 and 1997. However, the proportion of growers who treated for blowfly strike (P = 0.0124) and used insect growth regulator pesticides increased (P < 0.0001). The use of handjetting to apply pesticides for blowfly strike control increased and the use of dips decreased (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion Residues of organophosphorous compounds and synthetic pyrethroids reduced in Queensland wool between 1994 and 1997. Although woolgrowers treated for louse infestation less, pesticide use to control blowfly strike increased. The increasing use of insect growth regulators in the industry needs to be monitored.
Skin disease affecting the conservation of the western swamp tortoise (Pseudemydura umbrina)
Authors: LADYMAN JM , KUCHLING G. , BURFORD D. , BOARDMAN W. , RAIDAL SR
Published: March 2008

Objective To review the present position of the western swamp tortoise (Pseudemydura umbrina) as an endangered species and significant health issues affecting efforts to save it from extinction.

Procedure A retrospective analysis of the husbandry, hospital and pathology records of the western swamp tortoise captive breeding program at Perth Zoo.

Results In 1987 a captive breeding project was developed to prevent the extinction of the western swamp tortoise but an outbreak of a necrotising dermatitis in 1989 threatened the survival of the captive bred hatchlings. Less severe outbreaks occurred in 1990 and 1993, with isolated cases in between. Of 283 tortoises that were born in captivity or came into captivity from the wild, 37 (13.1%) were affected, comprising 37% of all males, 26% of all females and 13% of animals of unknown gender. Of the affected animals, 70% were less than 2 years of age and 29% were older. Males were 1.6 times more likely to be infected than females but this difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.27). Culture of the lesions consistently yielded unidentified Pseudomonas sp.

Conclusion Improved husbandry, such as strict maintenance of water quality and temperature conditions similar to that of the animal's natural habitat, and monitoring the health of individual tortoises have successfully controlled skin disease in the captive breeding of the western swamp tortoise.
Acute onset of pulmonary necrotising arteritis in a dog with a left‐to‐right patent ductus arteriosus
Authors: GAVAGHAN BJ , LAPOINTE J‐M , THOMAS WP
Published: March 2008

A 12‐week‐old, clinically normal Chihuahua was referred for investigation for a continuous heart murmur. Cardiac evaluation revealed an anatomically and haemodynamically typical left‐to‐right shunting patent ductus arteriosus. The continuous wave Doppler measurement of peak ductal jet velocity of 5.6 m/s was suggestive of a normal pulmonary to systemic arterial pressure ratio. The dog returned 16 days later with right heart failure and severe pulmonary hypertension. Marked reduction in left‐to‐right shunting was demonstrated and the ductal jet velocity had decreased to 2.5 m/s. Immediate ductus ligation, oxygen therapy before and after the operation, and administration of hydralazine failed to reduce pulmonary hypertension, and the dog was euthanased. Histopathological examination of the lung showed pulmonary necrotising arteritis with acute and chronic arterial lesions. Chronic pulmonary vascular changes related to high flow have been associated with altered nitric oxide and endothelin responses. These changes may be responsible for the acute onset of pulmonary hypertension due to relatively minor vascular insults in some human and veterinary patients with left‐to‐right shunts. The potential for acute progression supports the recommendations for early ductus ligation and the prognostic importance of detecting pulmonary hypertension presurgically in patent ductus arteriosus patients.
Antibiotics for the preservation of koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) semen
Authors: JOHNSTON SD , OBOYLE D. , FROST AJ , MCGOWAN MR , TRIBE A. , HIGGINS D.
Published: March 2008

Aim To determine the normal microbial flora of the koala ejaculate and prepuce in order to select appropriate antibiotics for addition into diluents designed for the preservation of semen.

Procedure Bacteriological samples of the koala prepuce (n = 12) and ejaculate (n = 20) were submitted for microbial culture and sensitivity testing. Microbial flora of ejaculates collected by electroejaculation and artificial vagina were compared. The effects of varying concentrations of penicillin G and gentamicin on sperm motility and on the growth of bacteria in diluted semen stored at room temperature and 16°C over a 24 h period were investigated.

Results A range of bacteria was isolated from the koala prepuce and ejaculate. The predominant organisms in semen collected by electroejaculation and artificial vagina were Corynebacterium spp, none of which could be assigned to any recognised species. The addition of penicillin G and gentamicin to a PBS‐based diluent at dose rates of 1000 to 2000 IU/mL and 100 to 200 m g/mL respectively, resulted in no adverse effect on sperm motility over a 24 h incubation period. Penicillin G (1000 IU/mL) and gentamicin (100 m g/mL) prevented growth of bacterial contaminants in diluted koala semen.

Conclusion By controlling the growth of bacteria in extended koala semen, penicillin G and gentamicin are likely to lengthen the period by which spermatozoa can be stored at 16°C and reduce the possibility of disease transmission during artificial insemination procedures.
Effectiveness of a mixture of cyromazine and diazinon for controlling flystrike on sheep
Authors: LEVOT GW , SALES N.
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine whether there is any need for woolgrowers to add diazinon to cyromazine jetting fluid to control active flystrike on sheep.

Method Larval implants were placed on 143 sheep and allowed to develop for 2 days. Groups of 47 or 48 of these struck sheep were jetted with cyromazine at 1000 mg/L, diazinon at 400 mg/L, or a mixture of the two. After treatment, the implants were assessed daily for 3 days for the presence of feeding larvae.

Results When checked 1 day after treatment, there was a 62% reduction in flystrike in the diazinon treated sheep compared to only 12% reduction on the cyromazine treated sheep. Flystrike reduction on the sheep jetted with the mixture of cyromazine and diazinon was 69%. Three days after treatment flystrike control was 97 to 99% in the latter two groups.

Conclusion Diazinon provided a faster resolution of strikes but by 3 days after treatment there was no significant difference in the number of implants remaining active on the sheep treated with cyromazine or with the mixture of cyro‐mazine and diazinon.
Gram‐negative bacterial infections and cardiovascular parasitism in green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas)
Authors: RAIDAL SR , OHARA M. , HOBBS RP , PRINCE RIT
Published: March 2008

Objective To investigate causes of ill health and mortality in juvenile wild green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) found along the mid‐north west coast of Western Australia between June and October of 1997.

Procedure Department of Conservation and Land Management rangers submitted four dead or dying green sea turtles from separate incidents for veterinary examination, necropsy, and bacteriological, parasitological and histopatho‐logical examination.

Results Numerous different species of trematodes belonging to the families Pronocephalidae, Microscaphidiidae and Paramphistomidae were detected in the intestines of two turtles examined, and in all turtles there was severe spirorchid fluke infection including Haemoxenicon sp, Amphiorchis sp and Hapalotrema sp. Histopathological examination demonstrated severe multifocal to diffuse granulomatous vasculitis, aggregations of spirorchid fluke eggs and microabscesses throughout various tissues including intestines, kidney, liver, lung and brain. Cultures and or histopathological examination demonstrated disseminated Gram‐negative bacterial infections including salmonella, E coli, Citrobacter freundii and Moraxella sp.

Conclusion Infections caused by salmonellae, E coli and other Gram‐negative bacteria should be considered as causes of systemic illness and death in wild green sea turtles infected with spirorchid cardiovascular flukes and other internal parasites.
Acute cortisol responses of calves to four methods of dehorning by amputation
Authors: SYLVESTER SP , STAFFORD KJ , MELLOR DJ , BRUCE RA , WARD RN
Published: March 2008

Objective To measure the plasma cortisol response in calves dehorned by four different methods (scoop, guillotine shears, saw, embryotomy wire) for 9 h after dehorning.

Design A physiological study with controls.

Procedure Horn amputation was carried out on calves restrained manually in a race.

Results The four methods of dehorning provoked similarly increased cortisol responses which lasted for 6 h. During the first hour after dehorning the plasma cortisol concentrations were similar to those following ACTH injection. The overall cortisol response to control handling was about 30% of the responses to dehorning.

Conclusions The similarity of the cortisol responses produced by the four methods of dehorning suggests that the distress experienced by calves following dehorning by amputation is similar regardless of method used.
Effectiveness of small workshops for improving farmers knowledge about ovine footrot
Authors: THOMPSON GK , LARSEN JWA , VIZARD AL
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine sheep farmers' attitudes to and beliefs about ovine footrot, and to improve their knowledge about the diagnosis, control and eradication of this disease.

MethodEighteen workshops, involving 291 farmers, were conducted across Victoria in the spring of 1996. The workshops were designed as small‐group discussions with a maximum attendance of 20 farmers to encourage active participation. All participants completed questionnaires before each workshop and 12 to 40 weeks after the last workshop.

Results Before the workshops the farmers had a poor understanding of the principles of diagnosis, control and eradication of footrot. For example, only 50% knew the footrot organism survived in soil for less than 7 days, over two‐thirds did not know the reason for paring sheep's feet during an eradication program, and only 31% realised cattle were a potential source of footrot infection for sheep. After the workshops, understanding about footrot was significantly improved; 87% said Dichelobacter nodosus survived in soil less than 7 days, 71% knew the reason for paring sheep's feet and 64% realised that cattle were a potential source of footrot infection. As well as improved knowledge, change of attitude among farmers is fundamentally important if virulent footrot is to be successfully controlled and eradicated. The workshops successfully initiated this process; 40% of farmers thought the workshops changed their attitudes to footrot, while 37% said they gained an increased understanding of other people's opinions about the disease.

ConclusionFarmer's poor understanding of ovine footrot is a constraint to the programs aimed at controlling this disease. Small group workshops may be an effective way to influence farmers' attitudes and beliefs, and could facilitate the effectiveness of regulatory disease control programs.
BOOK REVIEW
Authors: France Malcolm
Published: March 2008

Veterinary Pathology, 6th edn, TC Jones, RD Hunt & NW King, Mosby‐Williams & Wilkins
Polycystic kidney disease in Bull Terriers: an autosomal dominant inherited disorder
Authors: O'LEARY CA , MACKAY BM , MALIK R. , EDMONDSTON JE , ROBINSON WF , HUXTABLE CR
Published: March 2008

The prevalence, mode of inheritance and urinalysis findings in Bull Terriers with polycystic kidney disease were assessed by screening 150 clinically normal dogs. The disorder was diagnosed in 39 dogs on the basis of renal ultrasound results and family history of the disease. In equivocal cases confirmation required gross and histopathological renal examination. Necropsy was performed on nine affected dogs and the kidneys from another five affected animals were also examined. Renal cysts were usually bilateral, occurred in cortex and medulla and varied from less than 1 mm to over 2.5 cm in diameter. Cysts were lined by epithelial cells of nephron origin. Abnormal urine sediment and proteinuria were common in affected dogs. The disease appears to be inherited in a highly penetrant autosomal dominant manner.
Comparative immunogenicity of two bivalent botulinum vaccines
Authors: BROWN AT , GREGORY AR , ELLIS TM , HEARNDEN MN
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo compare the ability of a new single‐dose botulinum vaccine containing a non‐mineral oil adjuvant with a single dose of a conventional botulinum vaccine product to produce antibody toClostridium botulinumtypes C and D in cattle in Northern Australia.

Design and procedureOne hundred and fifty Brahman steer weaners were randomly divided into two groups receiving either a single dose of CSL Bivalent Botulinum vaccine or Websters Singvac. Blood samples were collected at 0, 8 and 24 weeks and tested by antibody ELISA. The final samples were also tested by the toxin neutralisation test, to test titres of neutralising antibody.

ResultsSix months after inoculation, cattle vaccinated with Websters Singvac had ELISA antibody response twice that of CSL conventional product. However, this difference was only evident for neutralising antibody to typeC botulinumtoxin. Both products produced similar titres of type D neutralising antibody after a single dose.

ConclusionWebsters' Singvac produces a greater neutralising antibody response to typeC botulismupon single inoculation than a conventional vaccine. The product produces an equivalent neutralising antibody response to type D.
Benign masses in the pericardium of two dogs
Authors: SIMPSON DJ , HUNT GB , CHURCH DB , BECK JA
Published: March 2008

Two miniature Schnauzer dogs were treated for pericardial masses. In one dog the mass consisted of necrotic fat that was attached to the apex of the pericardium by a pedicle. No obvious communication with the abdomen was present. The second dog had a peritoneopericardial hernia associated with a chronic cystic haematoma. In each case the mass was presumed to have arisen following congenital displacement of the omentum into the pericardium. The pericardial mass was removed and subtotal pericardectomy performed in both dogs. Recovery was complete in each case.
Comparison of a competitive inhibition ELISA and the card agglutination test for detection of antibodies to Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma centrale in cattle
Authors: MOLLOY JB , BOWLES PM , KNOWLES DP , McELWAIN TF , BOCK RE , KINGSTON TG , BLIGHT GW , DALGLIESH RJ
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo compare a recently developed recombinant MSP‐5 competitive inhibition ELISA with a card agglutination test for detection of antibodies to Anaplasma marginale and Anaplasma centralein Australian cattle.

Materials and methodsThe ELISA was compared with the card agglutination test using 208 sera from cattle in Anaplasma‐free herds, 86 sera from cattle experimentally infected with A marginale or A centrale and 757 sera from cattle in areas endemic for A marginale.

ResultsThe specificity of the ELISA, based on testing 208 sera from cattle in Anaplasma‐free areas, was 99.5%, and the sensitivities for detection of antibodies to A marginale and A centrale in sera from the experimentally infected cattle were 98.0% and 100%, respectively. For the same sets of sera, the specificity of the card agglutination test was 98.6% and the sensitivities for detection of antibodies to A marginale and A centrale were 98.0% and 100%, respectively. For the 757 sera collected from cattle in areas endemic for A marginale, the agreement between the ELISA and the card agglutination test depended on the positive threshold selected for the ELISA. The maximum achievable agreement was 91.5% (kappa = 0.73; 95% confidence interval 0.66, 0.79).

ConclusionWe conclude that the competitive inhibition ELISA is a useful alternative to the card agglutination test for detection of A marginale or A centrale infection in cattle. The assay should be particularly useful for epidemiological applications such as prevalence studies and control programs.