bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing ketamine dose enhances the anaesthetic properties of ketamine-xylazine-midazolam combinations in growing pigs : short communication
Authors: Ajadi R.A. , Smith O.F. , Makinde A.F.M. , Adeleye O.E.
Published: August 2012

The influence of increasing the dosage of ketamine on anaesthesia induced by a combination of ketamine, xylazine and midazolam in pigs was determined by assessing the onset of action (OAN), duration of analgesia (DAN), anaesthesia time (ANT), and recovery time (RCT) in 10 growing pigs (Mean weight: 18.2 ± 1.65 kg) receiving either 10 mg / kg intramuscular (i.m) injection of 10 % ketamine, 2 mg / kg i.m injection of 2 % xylazine and 0.25 mg / kg i.m injection of 0.1%midazolam (K10XM) or 20 mg / kg i.m injection of ketamine and 2 mg / kg i.m injection of xylazine and 0.25 mg / kg i.m injection of 0.1 % midazolam (K20XM). In addition, the heart rates (HR), respiratory rates (RR) and rectal temperatures (RT) were determined immediately after drug administration and at 10 minute intervals over a period of 60 minutes. Analgesia was assessed by the response of the pigs to artery forceps applied at the interdigital space. Recovery was determined as pigs' ability to stand without ataxia. Data were expressed as mean ± SEM while anaesthetic indices were compared using Student's t-tests. AP value of 0.05 was accepted as significant in all cases. In this study, both the OAN and RCT were significantly (P 0.05) shorter in K10XM (1.4 ± 0.2 min; 7.8 ± 2.2 min) than in K20XM (2.2 ± 0.2; 18.6 ± 1.4 min) respectively. Similarly, the duration of anaesthesia was significantly (P 0.05) shorter in K10XM (55.4 ± 8.4 min) than in K20XM (92.0 ± 13.6 min). The pigs that received K20XM combination had analgesia of duration of 41.4±12.6 min while those that received K10XM combination had no analgesia. However, the HR, RR, and RT were not significantly (P 0.05) different between K10XM and K20XM. It was therefore concluded that the lower dose ketamine combination is better for the induction of anaesthesia, while the higher dose ketamine combination is preferable for surgery of short duration in pigs.
Computer simulations of propofol infusions for total intravenous anaesthesia in dogs : review article
Authors: Joubert K.E.
Published: August 2012

The volatile anaesthetic agents halothane, isoflurane and enflurane are all chlorofluorocarbons and according to international treaties, their emission into the atmosphere will be prohibited from the year 2030. The agents desflurane and sevoflurane are fluorinated hydrocarbons and act as greenhouse gases. The future of veterinary anaesthesia could be dependent on the development of total intravenous anaesthesia. Drugs utilised in total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) should have a short duration of action and no tendency to accumulate in the body. Propofol has been the dominant agent used. Computer technology has enabled targeted plasma concentration controlled infusions to replace manual infusion regimens. This study simulated the pharmacokinetics of various infusion regimens similar to those used in clinical practice using previously published pharmocokinetic data. Bolus doses of 0, 4, 6 and 8 mg/kg were simulated in combination with infusion rates of 0, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 mg/kg/min for either 240 or 1440 min. The computer was also programmed to maintain a steady state plasma concentration based on the previous simulated data. Generated data were then compared with published data. Changes in the context-sensitive half-life for propofol were also evaluated. Results showed that the generated data were similar to published data. A decrease in plasma concentration to levels associated with a light plane of anaesthesia was evident even when the highest bolus dose and infusion rate were used. There was a slow rise in plasma concentration when only an infusion was used. A lightening of anaesthetic plane may be evident early in the course of TIVA and careful monitoring of anaesthetic depth is required. As the duration of the infusion increased, plasma concentration steadily rose but achieved 95 % of the steady state by 204 min. The most dramatic changes in plasma concentration occurred in the first hour of an infusion. Similarly, the infusion rates decreased most in the first 70 min. Most changes in anaesthetic depth are likely to occur early in the course of TIVA and careful observation of anaesthetic depth is required.
Intramammary infection rate during the dry period in cows that received blanket dry cow therapy : efficacy of 6 different dry-cow intra-mammary antimicrobial products
Authors: Petzer I-M. , Lourens D.C. , Van der Schans T.J. , Watermeyer J.C. , Van Reenen R. , Rautenbach G.H. , Thompson P.
Published: August 2012

The objectives of this study were to compare the efficacy of 6 different dry-cow intramammary antimicrobial products for the treatment and prevention of mastitis during the dry period in a well-managed high producing Friesland dairy herd, and the influence of treatment on the somatic cell count (SCC) of cows during early lactation. One of 6 dry-cow intramammary antimicrobial products was randomly allocated to 162 cows due for drying off over a period of 14 months. All cows were sampled twice prior to drying off, and twice after calving for the determination of SCC and presence of microorganisms. The quarter prevalence of pathogens at drying off and post-calving, the overall quarter cure rate and the rate of new intramammary infections occurring during the dry period were determined. The overall quarter prevalence of intramammary infections (IMIs) at drying off was 29.78 % and after calving 22.22 %.There was a statistically significant difference (P 0.05) between the prevalence of major and minor pathogens at drying off (7.87 % and 21.91 %) and at calving (4.47 % and 17.75 %). The most prevalent pathogens isolated at drying off (21.14 %) and at calving (16.98 %) were coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS). The quarter cure rate during the dry period was 83.94 %. The cure rate for the major pathogens (98%) was significantly better (P 0.05) than that for minor pathogens (78.9 %).The overall quarter cure rate varied from 72.3 % to 93.9 % for the various products. The rate of new quarter infections during the dry period was 17.44 % with a significant difference (P0.05), between the prevalence of new quarter infections with major (4.32 %) and minor pathogens (13.12 %). CNS was the most prevalent pathogen causing new quarter infections (12.34 %) and the rate o f new quarter infections varied from 13.4 % to 24.1 % for the various products.It is concluded that there is a difference in efficacy between antimicrobial intramammary dry-cow products in their ability to cure and prevent new IMIs during the dry period. Dry-cow products are mainly formulated for efficacy against Gram-positive cocci, while providing no or little protection against Gram-negative bacteria. Therapeutic levels may persist for only 14 to 28 days into the dry period and fail to protect the udder during the last trimester. Dry-cow therapy should, however, always form part of a holistic approach to the dry period which also considers cow factors, dry-cow management, microorganisms and the environment of the dry cow.
Putative Aspergillus niger-induced oxalate nephrosis in sheep : clinical communication
Authors: Botha C.J. , Truter M. , Bredell T. , Lange L. , Mulders M.S.G.
Published: August 2012

A sheep farmer provided a maize-based brewer's grain (mieliemaroek) and bales of Eragrostis curvula hay to ewes and their lambs, kept on zero-grazing in pens. The 'mieliemaroek' was visibly mouldy. After 14 days in the feedlot, clinical signs, including generalised weakness, ataxia of the hind limbs, tremors and recumbency, were noticed. Six ewes died within a period of 7 days. A post mortem examination was performed on 1 ewe. The carcass appeared to be cachectic with mild effusions into the body cavities; mild lung congestion and pallor of the kidneys were observed. Microscopical evaluation revealed nephrosis and birefringent oxalate crystals in the renal tubules when viewed under polarised light. A provisional diagnosis of oxalate nephrosis with subsequent kidney failure was made. Amongst other fungi, Aspergillus niger was isolated from 'mieliemaroek' samples submitted for fungal culture and identification. As A. niger is known to synthesise oxalates, a qualitative screen to detect oxalic acid in the mieliemaroek and purified A. niger isolates was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Oxalic acid was detected, which supported a diagnosis of soluble oxalate-induced nephropathy.
A retrospective investigation of canine adenovirus (CAV) infection in adult dogs in Turkey : article
Authors: Gur S. , Acar A.
Published: August 2012

Canine adenovirus (CAV) type 1 and 2, respectively, cause infectious canine hepatitis and infectious canine laryngotracheitis in members of the families Canidae and Ursidae worldwide. Both of these infections are acute diseases, especially in young dogs. The aim of this study was to conduct a serological investigation of canine adenovirus infection. For this purpose, serumsamples were collected from native pure-bred Kangal (n = 11), and Akbash dogs (n = 17) and Turkish Greyhounds (n=15) in Eskisehir and Konya provinces. None ofthe dogs were previously vaccinated against CAV types. Indirect ELISA detected 88.2 %, 93.3 % and 100 % prevalences in Akbash, Greyhound and Kangal dogs, respectively. The remainder of the samples (n = 51) were collected at the Afyonkarahisar Municipality Shelter. Fourty-two of these dogs (82.3 %) were detected as seropositive. In total, 82 of 94 dogs (87.2 %) were found to be positive for CAV serum antibodies.
C-reactive protein in canine babesiosis caused by Babesia rossi and its association with outcome : article
Authors: Koster S. , Van Schoor M. , Goddard A. , Thompson P.N. , Matjila P.T. , Kjelgaard-Hansen M.
Published: August 2012

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a positive major acute-phase protein in dogs and can be used as a predictive marker for risk of disease and to monitor the response to treatment. Increased concentrations in certain diseases are associated with poor outcome. This cross-sectional, observational study of 75 dogs naturally infected with Babesia rossi was designed to examine the relationship between outcome and CRP concentration at admission and the magnitude of CRP change 24 hours after admission. Diagnosis was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse line blot. CRP concentrations were determined by an automated human CRP Turbidometric Immunoassay, previously validated for use in dogs. There was no significant difference in mean CRP concentration between survivors (n=57), 107.5 ± 49.5 mg/ℓ and non-survivors (n=11), 122.1 ± 64.6 mg/ℓ at admission and using the exact logistic regression, adjusting for age and sex, there was no association with outcome (P = 0.53). Multiple regression analysis failed to show a significant relationship between admission CRP concentration and number of days of hospitalisation in the survivors, adjusting for age and sex (P=0.65). Similarly, no significance was found in the relationship between the magnitude of change in CRP concentration 24 hours after admission, and the number of days of hospitalisation in survivors, (P=0.34). It is concluded that CRP concentration, as a measure of the acute phase response, is not associated with outcome in canine babesiosis, and inflammation is unlikely to be the only cause of severity of disease.
Combination therapy using intratumoral bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG) and vincristine in dogs with transmissible venereal tumours : therapeutic efficacy and histological changes : article
Authors: Mukaratirwa S. , Chitanga S. , Chimatira T. , Makuleke C. , Sayi S.T. , Bhebhe E.
Published: August 2012

Therapeutic efficacy and histological changes after bacillus Calmette-Guerin (BCG), vincristine and BCG/vincristine combination therapy of canine transmissible venereal tumours (CTVT) were studied. Twenty dogs with naturally occurring CTVT in the progression stage were divided into 4 groups and treated with intratumoral BCG, vincristine, BCG/vincristine combination therapy or intratumoral buffered saline (control group). Tumour sizes were determined weekly and tumour response to therapy was assessed. Tumour biopsies were taken weekly to evaluate histological changes. Complete tumour regression was observed in all the dogs treated with BCG, vincristine and BCG/vincristine combination therapy. BCG/vincristine combination therapy had a statistically significantly shorter regression time than BCG or vincristine therapy. No tumour regression was observed in the control group. Intratumoral BCG treatment resulted in the appearance of macrophages and increased numbers of tumour infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) followed by tumour cell apoptosis and necrosis. Treatment with vincristine resulted in increased tumour cell apoptosis, reduction in the mitotic index and a decrease in the number of TILs. Tumours from dogs on BCG/vincristine combination were characterised by reduction in the mitotic index, and appearance of numerous TILs and macrophages followed by marked tumour cell apoptosis and necrosis. This study indicates that combined BCG and vincristine therapy is more effective than vincristine in treating CTVT, suggesting that the clinical course of this disease may be altered by immunochemotherapy.
Changes in weight gain, faecal oocyst count and packed cell volume of Eimeria tenella-infected broilers treated with a wild mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) aqueous extract : article
Authors: Ogbe A.O. , Atawodi S.E. , Abdu P.A. , Sannusi A. , Itodo A.E.
Published: August 2012

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of a wild Ganoderma lucidum aqueous extract in coccidian-infected broilers. At 6 weeks of age the birds were randomly allocated to 6 treatment groups of 20 Ross broilers each in wire cages. Groups A, B and C were infected with Eimeria tenella Houghton strain at the rate of 36 250 sporulated oocysts/mℓ per bird. Theremaining 3 groups D, E and F were uninfected controls. At 7 weeks the birds in group A were treated with G. lucidum aqueous extract and those in B with amprolium in drinking water ad libitum at the rate of 200 mg/mℓ each for 7 days consecutively. Body weight gain, feed intake, faecal oocyst output and some haematological parameters were monitored. The result showed that all the infected birds in groups A, B and Chad clinical signs of weakness and reduced appetite on day 4 post-infection. By the 5th day post-infection their faeces became bloody and watery, and large numbers of E. tenella oocysts were present in the faeces. On day 3 after treatment the oocysts detected were considerably reduced in both treated groups A and B and slightly higher in the untreated group C. The faeces of the uninfected control groups were normal and free of coccidial oocysts. After treatment for 7 days no coccidial oocysts were found in faeces of the birds that had been treated. Infected, untreated birds showed a slight drop in feed intake and weight gain from 7 to 8 weeks of age. The final mean weight gain recorded in the treated groups A and B was comparable to that of the uninfected birds in the 3 control groups, while it was lower in the untreated group C. The feed to gain ratio was higher in C than in the other groups. A slight drop in packed cell volume was observed in groups A, B and C at 7 weeks of age, 1 week after infection. This study showed that treatment with G. lucidum results in a marked reduction in the number of E. tenella oocysts shed in the faeces, leading to improved weight gain and decreased weight loss. The results confirmed the virulence of the Houghton strain of E. tenella and the effectiveness of both amprolium and G. lucidum extract against E. tenella.
Lymphoma in 3 related Rottweilers from a single household : clinical communication
Authors: Lobetti R.G.
Published: August 2012

Over a period of approximately 1 year, 2 sibling Rottweilers and their dam in the same household developed stage IV and stage III lymphoma, respectively. All 3 initially responded to doxorubicin chemotherapy but relapsed after approximately 3 months and were subsequently euthanased. As no obvious environmental trigger could be identified in these dogs, it is speculated that an underlying genetic predisposition could have played a role in the development of lymphoma in these related dogs.
Myotonia congenita in a Jack Russell terrier : clinical communication
Authors: Lobetti R.G.
Published: August 2012

A 4-month-old male Jack Russell terrier was evaluated for non-painful muscle spasms and collapse associated with exercise and activity. Clinical examination revealed well-defined, non-painful hypertrophic muscles of the fore and hind limbs and exercise and excitement induced hindquarter bunny-hopping gait, which improved with activity but worsened with resting and with any sudden changes in direction of movement. Neurological examination and routine laboratory testing showed no abnormalities. DNA analysis for myotonia congenita showed the dog to have a gene mutation in the chloride ion channel, diagnostic for myotonia congenita, which has not been reported in the Jack Russell terrier breed.
Parasitological Society of Southern Africa 37th Annual Congress of the Parasitological Society of Southern Africa (PARSA), 7-9 October 2008 : conference abstracts
Authors: Editorial The
Published: August 2012

The following are abstracts of papers and posters presented at the 37th Annual Congress of the Parasitological Society of Southern Africa (PARSA), 7-9 October 2008, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
The epidemiology of lion lentivirus infection among a population of free-ranging lions (Panthera leo) in the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: Adams H. , Van Vuuren M. , Bosman A-M. , Keet D. , New J. , Kennedy M.
Published: August 2012

Feline immunodeficiency virus is a lentivirus of domestic cats that causes significant lifelong infection. Infection with this or similar lentiviruses has been detected in several non-domestic feline species, including African lions (Panthera leo). Although lion lentivirus (FIVple) infection is endemic in certain lion populations in eastern and southern Africa, little is known about its pathogenic effects or its epidemiological impact in free-ranging lions. This report describes the epidemiological investigation of lentivirus positivity of free-ranging lions in the Kruger National Park, South Africa. A nested polymerase chain reaction assay for virus detection was performed on all whole blood samples collected. In addition, serum samples were tested for cross-reactive antibodies to domestic feline lentivirus antigens and to puma lentivirus synthetic envelope peptide antigen. The results were analysed in conjunction with epidemiological data to provide a descriptive epidemiological study on lion lentivirus infection in a free-ranging population of lions. The overall prevalence of lentivirus infection was 69 %, with a prevalence of 41 % in the north of the park, and 80 %in the south. Adult males had the highest prevalence when combining the factors of sex and age: 94 %. The lowest prevalences were found among juveniles, with male juveniles at 29 %. Adults were 5.58 times more likely to test positive for FIVple than juveniles, with adult males being 35 times more likely to be test positive for FIVple compared with juvenile males. This research represents the 1st epidemiological study of the lion lentivirus among free-ranging lions in the Kruger National Park.
Efficacy of a genotype 2 Newcastle disease vaccine (Avinew®) against challenge with highly virulent genotypes 5d and 3d
Authors: Bwala D.G. , Abolnik C. , Van Wyk A. , Cornelius E. , Bisschop S.P.R.
Published: August 2012

Since 2002, following its introduction, the lineage 5d Newcastle disease virus (so-called Goose paramyxovirus -GPMV) strain has caused numerous disease outbreaks among commercial and backyard poultry in South Africa, raising questions about the ability of commercially available Newcastle disease vaccines to fully protect poultry against the strain. This study aimed to determine whether there are differences in the level of protection offered by Avinew® Newcastle disease vaccine against GPMV virus as compared with a 3d Newcastle disease virus isolated in South Africa in 1993 (Rainbow challenge virus - RCV) strain. Six groups of 10-day-old, specific pathogen-free chickens were vaccinated with doses of 103.0, 104.5 and 106.0 EID50 of Avinew® vaccine and challenged at 4 weeks of age intramuscularly at a dose of 105.3EID50/ 0.2 mℓ/bird of GPMV and RCV. No statistically significant difference could be found in the protection offered by Avinew® vaccine against GPMV as compared to RCV challenge. The protection offered against the ND challenge was found to be dose dependent. At the recommended field dose of 106.0 EID50 the vaccine gave 100 % protection from mortality against both the challenge viruses, but not against infection and replication of the viruses, as gross lesions were evident even in apparently healthy birds that survived the challenge. The protective dose (PD90) of the Avinew® vaccine against GPMV challenge was calculated at 104.38 and against that of RCV at 104.43.
Preliminary assessment of the AAI Index® during isoflurane anaesthesia in dogs undergoing clinical procedures
Authors: Joubert K.E.
Published: August 2012

The auditory evoked potential (AEP) is correlated to anaesthetic depth. The AEP has been used in rats, pigs, dogs and humans to assess anaesthetic depth. This study was undertaken to determine whether the AAI Index® derived from the AEP correlated with changes in end tidal isoflurane concentration in dogs. The average AAI Index was 21.8 ± 10.5 and isoflurane concentration was 1.7±0.4 %. Data were divided into 0.5 % intervals of end tidal anaesthetic agent concentration (ETAA). When ETAA values were higher than 2.5 % the AAI values were 2.1-2.5 %, 1.6-2.0 % and 1.1-1.5 % higher than AAI values although not statistically different. The 2.1-2.5 % interval was statistically different from the 1.1-1.5 % and 1.1 % interval. The 1.6-2.0 % interval was statistically different from the 1.1-1.5 % and the 1.1 % intervals. The 1.1-1.5 % interval was statistically different from the 1.1 % interval. The correlation between the AAI Index and isoflurane was -0.176 and was statistically significant (P=0.0009). A linear regression between the AAI Index and isoflurane revealed the following relationship: AAI = 29.074 - (4.2755 × isoflurane) with a power of 0.913. The polynomial regression relationship was AAI = 53.334 - (35.715 x isoflurane) + (10.322 x isoflurane2) - (0.43646 x isoflurane3) with a power of 0.999. The AAI Index was found to correlate with changes in isoflurane concentration
A survey of ectoparasites, cestodes and management of free-range indigenous chickens in rural Zimbabwe
Authors: Mukaratirwa S. , Hove T.
Published: August 2012

A survey of ectoparasites, cestodes and husbandry aspects of indigenous free-range chickens was carried out in selected districts from the highveld and lowveld of rural Zimbabwe. The survey recorded infection with 4 species from the order Phthiraptera (lice), 1 species from the order Siphonaptera (fleas), 6 species from the order Acarina (ticks and mites) and 9 species of cestodes. Among the ectoparasites, the most prevalent was Menacanthus stramineus (87.7 %) followed by Echidinophaga gallinacea (71.9 %). Chickens in the Mazowe district had the highest number of ectoparasites species (10 of 11) followed by Goromonzi district (9 of 11) both these districts are situated in the highveld of Zimbabwe. The most prevalent cestode species was Raillietina tetragona (84.4 %), followed by Raillletina echinobothrida (32.2 %). Chickens in the Goromonzi district had the highest number of cestode species (7 of 9), followed by Mazowe district (one subgenus and 5 of 9). In all the districts sampled the main purpose of keeping free-range chickens was for meat for the household, with few households using the birds as a source of income. The majority of households kept their birds extensively with barely any appropriate housing, and supplementary feeding was only occasionally practised.
Urinary bladder botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma with widespread metastases in an 8-month-old Labrador cross dog : clinical communication
Authors: Gerber K. , Rees P.
Published: August 2012

An 8-month-old crossbred Labrador retriever was presented with a history and clinical signs suggestive of lower urinary tract obstruction. Laboratory results revealed azotaemia and hyperphosphataemia. Ultrasonographic evaluation of the urinary tract showed a mass at the bladder trigone, hydronephrosis, hyrodureter, and suspected metastases to lymph nodes and the liver. Pulmonary metastasis was identified on thoracic radiographs. A post mortem confirmed metastases to the liver, lungs and regional lymph nodes, as well as to the mesenteric lymph nodes, mediastinum, heart, subcutaneous tissue and several muscle groups. A histopathological diagnosis of metastatic botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma (sarcoma botryoides) was made. A review of the literature shows that, although the bladder trigone is a well documented location for this tumour, this case was unique with its widespread metastases to previously undocumented organs. The incidence, embryology, ultrasonographic appearance and treatment of this tumour are discussed.
Heartwater : an abridged historical account : historical article
Authors: Bezuidenhout J.D.
Published: August 2012

Heartwater was first recognised and recorded in South Africa as early as 1838. Since then the disease has been described from almost all the countries in Africa south of the Sahara, from certain islands around Africa and from a number of islands in the Caribbean. Most of the research on the disease, at least until fairly recently, was conducted in South Africa. Progress in research on the disease has been slow but a few important findings are highlighted in this paper.
'Emerging' mycobacteria in South Africa : review article
Authors: Van Helden P.D. , Parsons S.D.C. , Gey van Pittius N.C.
Published: August 2012

Disease can be caused by various species of the genus Mycobacterium. A number of reports, both published and unpublished, of rarely reported mycobacteria have surfaced in South Africa in the last few years. Some unusual hosts have also been involved, causing concern in some quarters.These include reports on Mycobacterium goodii in a spotted hyaena (Crocuta crocuta), M. xenopi in a ruffed lemur (Varecia variegata), M. intracellulare in wild-caught chacma baboons (Papio ursinus), the 'dassie bacillus' in free ranging rock hyrax (dassies; Procavia capensis) the 'oryx bacillus' from free-ranging buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and M. tuberculosis in suricates (Suricata suricatta), a domestic dog and in baboons. In this article it has been attempted to put these in context and show how improved surveillance and technologies have allowed mycobacteria to be identified to species level more easily. Most of the unusual mycobacterial species have most likely been present in the region for many years and have probably caused disease episodes before, but have been misdiagnosed. Each case must be evaluated carefully with respect to the animal species involved, the environment in which the host is found and the mycobacterial species, and operational decisions made accordingly.
Annual ryegrass toxicity in Thoroughbred horses in Ceres in the Western Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Grewar J.D. , Allen J.G. , Guthrie A.J.
Published: August 2012

An outbreak of annual ryegrass toxicity occurred on a Thoroughbred stud in Ceres in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. This is the 1st report of annual ryegrass toxicity in horses in South Africa, although the condition has been reported in cattle and sheep populations in the past. Annual ryegrass toxicity is characterised by a variety of neurological signs including tremors, convulsions, recumbency and in many cases death. The description of the outbreak includes the history, clinical presentation and treatment protocol administered during the outbreak. Various epidemiological variables and their influence in the outbreak are also considered.
Detection of the bovine viral diarrhoea / mucosal disease (BVD/MD) virus in tissues from aborted ruminant foetuses using immunohistochemistry
Authors: Njiro S.M. , Nkosi C.M.
Published: August 2012

Various tissues from aborted ruminant foetuses were collected, fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin wax. Sections were made and exposed to a primary monoclonal antibody against the bovine viral diarrhoea / mucosal disease (BVD/MD) virus, and subsequently to a goat anti-mouse secondary antibody conjugated to horse radish peroxidase (HRP). Diaminobenzidine (DAB) was the substrate and it released a brown pigment in the tissues on reacting with the HRP in an immunohistochemistry (IHC) procedure. Of 27 aborted foetuses, an immunoperoxidase staining reaction was observed in 1 ovine and 5 bovine foetuses. The IHC procedure located BVD/MD viral antigen in a wide variety of foetal tissues including cerebral cortical neurons, the pseudostratified columnar epithelial cells lining the bronchi, alveolar lining cells and alveolar macrophages, hepatocytes, renal tubular lining cells and the Purkinje fibres in the myocardium.
An investigation of the quality of meat sold in Lesotho
Authors: Seeiso T.M. , McCrindle C.M.E.
Published: August 2012

Since the closure of the Lesotho abattoir in 2003, only imported meat can be legally sold. However, it was estimated in 2007 that 80 % of the meat sold at butcheries comes from informal slaughter. The aim of this study was to investigate the situation. The number and location of informal butcheries in Lesotho (n = 143) were recorded and mapped using Geographical Information Systems. Observations (photographs) of informal slaughter indicated a lack of hygiene, unskilled slaughtermen and illegal disposal of offal with possible environmental pollution. In addition, a cross-sectional study was undertaken to determine the microbiological quality of meat from randomly selected carcasses (n = 237) of cattle, sheep and pigs from a sample of 44 butcheries, 4 of which were associated with registered supermarkets. As a control, samples for microbiological assay were taken from imported meat originating from carcasses (n = 20) slaughtered at a registered abattoir in South Africa. Of the 44 butcheries investigated only the 4 commercial butcheries associated with supermarkets sold imported meat only; 3 butcheries sold meat inspected at government slaughter slabs (n = 3), while the rest (n = 37) sold both imported and informally slaughtered meat. In terms of Lesotho legislation, informally slaughtered meat is only for home consumption. The bacteriological counts from all samples showed a total bacterial plate count exceeding 30 organisms per mℓ in contrast with the controls which all showed a count less than 5 colonies per mℓ. This was found for both imported and informally slaughtered meat sold in Lesotho. In addition, meat samples from butcheries showed the presence of the potential pathogens Salmonella (n = 2), Staphylococcus aureus (n = 12) and Escherichia coli (n=15). During the study, anthrax was confirmed in 9 human patients, 5 of whom died, after consumption of informally slaughtered livestock. Although no cases of animal abuse were detected, it was considered that informal slaughter can prejudice livestock welfare. It was concluded that the current situation is not acceptable in terms of meat safety. Thus, the Veterinary Public Health Directorate of the National Veterinary Services has prioritised the monitoring of butchers, registration of slaughter slabs and a general extension campaign to improve hygiene and animal welfare standards for slaughter in Lesotho. This paper highlights the major risks associated with meat consumption without Veterinary Public Health intervention in accordance with international standards.
Index, Subject - Indeks, Onderwerp
Authors: Subject Indexes
Published: August 2012

Journal of the South African Veterinary Association, Vol 80, Issue 4, Dec
Index, Author - Indeks, Outeur
Authors: Author Index
Published: August 2012

Index, Author - Indeks, Outeur Volume 80 / Jaargang 80 - 2009
The ovarian and uterine arteries in the chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)
Authors: Cevik-Demirkana A. , Ozdemira V. , Demirkan I.
Published: August 2012

The purpose of this study was to describe arteries supplying the ovaries and uterus in the chinchilla. Five healthy adult female chinchillas were used. In order to reveal the arterial network by dissecting under a stereoscopic microscope, latex coloured with red ink was injected through the common carotid artery. The ovaries of the chinchilla are supplied by the arteriae ovaricae which formed end-to-end anastomoses with the cranial termination of the arteria uterina. Soon after leaving the aorta abdominalis, the arteriae ovaricae extended 2-3mm caudolaterally, then released 1 branch and extended caudally and bifurcated into 2 further branches. One of these supplied branches to fat tissue. The other branch coursed caudally and anastomosed with the arteria circumflexa ilium profunda and dispersed into fat tissue. The arteria ovarica further subdivided into 2 rami ovaricae. The origins of the uterine arteries were exclusively from the left arteria iliaca externa. The arteria uterina gave a branch to the arteria umbilicalis and consecutive branches which supplied to the ureter, urinary bladder and cranial aspects of the vagina. It also gave rise to 2-3 branches to the cervix and further supplied 10-12 meandering branches to the uterine horns. The arteria uterina gave rise to many tortuous arteries to the uterus and provided 2 further branches to the ovary.
Changes in Mithun (Bos frontalis) spermatozoa during epididymal passage
Authors: Bhattacharyya H.K. , Bujarbaruah K.M. , GoswamI B.K. , Biswas R.K. , Khan I.
Published: August 2012

Genital organs of 10 healthy, adult Mithun bulls (6-8 years old) that were slaughtered at the dwellings of tribal people for meat were collected. Immediately after collection, spermatozoa from 3 different regions of the epididymis, i.e. the head, body and tail, were obtained to study morphological changes of the spermatozoa during passage through these regions. The prevalence of proximal cytoplasmic droplets significantly decreased from the head to the tail of the epididymis. Conversely, the percentage of distal cytoplasmic droplets increased significantly from the head to the tail region. The incidence of tailless heads rose significantly from head to body and then reduced significantly in the tail region. The percentage of total head abnormalities did, however, not change markedly, but total mid-piece and tail abnormalities differed significantly between the three epididymal regions.
Questionnaire survey on urban and peri-urban livestock farming practices and disease control in Kisumu municipality, Kenya
Authors: Kagira J.M. , Kanyari P.W.N.
Published: August 2012

To characterise the urban livestock keeping practices and constraints in Kisumu municipality, Kenya, a questionnaire survey was carried out. Thirty-four contact farmers were interviewed on general farm characteristics and production constraints. The farming activities were categorised as either livestock only (41 %), or mixed crops and livestock (59 %). The surveyed farmers kept mainly cattle (100 %), chickens (82 %) and goats (74 %). Most (94 %)of the farmers had kept livestock for prolonged periods mainly for income generation (97 %) and domestic consumption (59 %). These data show that livestock keeping was popular and could be harnessed to increase food security, although the farmers kept mainly low-producing indigenous cattle (98 %) which were grazed on unutilised land. The main production constraints mentioned by farmers included diseases (100 %), poor fertility (68 %) and lack of feed (56 %). The diseases varied with species of ruminants and included lumpy skin disease (71 %), diarrhoea (65 %) and helminthosis (62 %). The source of advice on management and treatment of the livestock was almost equally from private and government veterinary personnel. To improve livestock productivity, it is recommended that key stakeholders address the constraints mentioned in this study and in particular that the occurrence of diseases should be investigated with a view to developing sustainable control strategies.
Evaluation of PCR assays for the detection of Campylobacter fetus in bovine preputial scrapings and the identification of subspecies in South African field isolates
Authors: Schmidt T. , Venter E.H. , Picard J.A.
Published: August 2012

As a result of the high lability and slow growth of Campylobacter fetus subspecies, the laboratory diagnosis of bovine genital campylobacteriosis has always been difficult. This is especially true under South African conditions, where farms are far apart, laboratories are only present in major centres and there are high ambient temperatures. In order to overcome the shortcomings associated with traditional diagnostic methods, the implementation of a molecular assay was sought. This work describes how a previously published PCR assay (MG3F / MG4R primers) was adapted, optimised and applied in the diagnostic laboratory to test preputial samples directly for the presence of Campylobacter fetus. Field evaluation of the assay revealed an analytical sensitivity and specificity of 85.7 % and 99 %, respectively. Subsequent genotyping and phenotyping of a diverse collection of South African field isolates revealed that South Africa has an unexpected and previously unreported high incidence of Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis biovar intermedius strains. These strains were not identified correctly by the subspecies-specific primer set evaluated. Until such time that cost-effective genotyping methods are available to diagnostic laboratories in South Africa, and other countries with these atypical Campylobacter fetus subsp. venerealis strains, the need for bacterial culture will persist. Identification to subspecies level of isolates at present remains dependent upon a single phenotypic criterion, namely tolerance to 1 % glycine.
Prevalence of helminth parasites in free-range chickens from selected rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa
Authors: Mukaratirwa S. , Khumalo M.P.
Published: August 2012

A total of 79 chickens were randomly collected from 4 rural localities and processed to detect the presence of helminth parasites and their prevalences. Sixteen helminth species comprising 12 nematode and 4 cestode species were recorded from the 4 localities. Syngamus trachea and Cyathostoma spp. were the only helminth species recovered from the respiratory tract and the rest of the helminth species were from the gastrointestinal tract. The most prevalent nematode species across the 4 localities were Heterakis gallinarum (prevalence range 80-94.4 %), Gongylonema ingluvicola (43.3-86.7 %), Tetrameres americana (53.3-66.7 %) and Ascaridia galli (22.2-43.8 %) and for cestode species, Raillietina tetragona(16.7-40 %) and Skrijabinia cesticillus (3.3-13.3 %) were the most prevalent in that order.Heterakis gallinarum and T. americana had the highest intensity of infection in chickens acrossall the rural areas compared with other helminth species. There was no significant difference (P 0.05) observed in the sex distribution for As. galli, Baruscapillaria obsignata (syn. Capillaria obsignata), Eucoleus annulatus (syn. Capillaria annulata), Eucoleus contortus (syn. Capillaria contorta) and Subulura suctoria among the 4 rural areas. However, a significant difference (P0.05) was observed in the intensity of infection of both males and females for H. gallinarum and T. americana across the 4 localities studied. Tetrameres americana, A. galli, C. obsignata and C. annulata had prevalence and number of females higher than that of males, while H. gallinarum showed the opposite. Prevalence of H. gallinarum and T. americana as determined by faecal egg count were much lower compared with the prevalence as determined by post mortem examination, confirming the limitation of using faecal samples in determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites in chickens.
A study of preslaughter pig handling and stunning in selected South African Highveld Region abattoirs
Authors: Spencer B.T. , Veary C.M.
Published: August 2012

The study hypothesis was that pre-slaughter handling is not conducted in such a way that pigs can be considered humanely slaughtered, nor is it conducive to promoting those properties of fresh meat that could enhance pork quality. The 1st phase of the investigation was aimed at confirming the present compliance level within the prescribed norms. To this end the importance of stunning induction requirements for effective electrical stunning, the welfare implications relating to the pre-slaughter handling of pigs and the stunning and sticking techniques were investigated. Pre-slaughter welfare of the pigs at the abattoir was found to be influenced at the outset by the origin and type of pig slaughtered, the daily throughput range of pigs and the type of abattoir involved. A disappointing pre-arrival aspect was that deficiencies in road motor vehicles were observed while off-loading pigs. Through poor design or lack of maintenance, another factor that hampered free movement of pigs was the off-loading facilities. The nature of animal behaviour in the pens, in the passages and when going into the stunning area was directly related to the pig handling efficiency and to the nature and extent of design and maintenance problems with equipment. None of the abattoirs had a well designed in-feed to a well planned stunning area / facility, and a very high level of pig pre-slaughter stress prevailed. The optimum position of the electrodes is virtually impossible to attain under practical conditions and the practice of repeat application of electrical stunning is common. Of the total sample size (n = 1175), 34% were difficult to shackle, 90% of these being from the abattoirs tending to slaughter more routinely a wide range of different sized pigs. In this survey 149 pigs (13 %) required more than a single sticking attempt to bleed out properly, considerably higher than in other published reports.
Isolation of pathogenic aerobic bacteria from the blood of septicaemic neonatal calves and the susceptibility of isolates to various antibiotics
Authors: Kirecci E. , Ozkanlar Y. , Aktas M.S. , Uyanik M.H. , Yazgi H.
Published: August 2012

An automated blood culture system (BACTEC 9240) was used for the isolation of aerobic bacteria from the blood of septicaemic neonatal calves. Blood samples were collected from 90 clinically septicaemic and 20 healthy neonatal calves and inoculated into blood culture bottles. There were 89 significant isolates from 90 positive blood cultures using the BACTEC system. Escherichia coli was the most common pathogen detected accounting for 56 (63 %) out of 89 isolates. The other pathogens were β-haemolytic streptococci (15.7 %), Staphylococcusaureus (10.1 %), Klebsiella sp. (5.6 %) and Corynebacterium sp. (5.6 %). All isolates showed a susceptibility rate of 100 % to enrofloxacin, cefepim, cefoperazone / sulbactam, imipenem and meropenem while some of them were ranged from 75 to 91.7 % susceptible to amoxicillin / clavulanic acid, ampicillin / sulbactam, gentamicin and cephalosporins.
Oesophageal obstruction in Dorper ewes caused by impaction of a pelleted ration
Authors: Anderson R. , Bath G.F. , Thompson P.N. , Stadler M.M.
Published: August 2012

Two adult Dorper ewes developed an oesophageal obstruction (choke) by consuming a pelleted ration. The history, clinical signs and method of treatment were recorded in each case. One case was treated surgically via rumenotomy and the other conservatively. Both ewes recovered uneventfully and no recurrence was observed. Reasons for the compaction of the pelleted ration in the oesophagus are discussed.
Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of stray dogs impounded by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Durban and Coast, South Africa : short communication
Authors: Mukaratirwa S. , Singh V.P.
Published: August 2012

Coprological examination was used to determine the prevalence and intensity of gastrointestinal parasites of stray dogs impounded by the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Durban and Coast, South Africa. Helminth and protozoan parasites were found in faeces of 240 dogs with an overall prevalence of 82.5% (helminth parasites 93.1% and protozoan parasites 6.9 %). The following parasites and their prevalences were detected; Ancylostoma sp. (53.8 %), Trichuris vulpis (7.9 %), Spirocerca lupi (5.4 %), Toxocara canis (7.9 %), Toxascaris leonina (0.4 %) Giardia intestinalis (5.6 %) and Isospora sp. (1.3 %). Dogs harbouring a single parasite species were more common (41.7 %) than those harbouring 2 (15 %) or multiple (2.1 %) species. Ancylostoma sp., Toxocara canis and Giardia intestinalis have zoonotic potential and were detected in 66.7 % of the samples.
Veterinary education for global animal and public health, D.A. Walsh : book review
Authors: McCrindle C.M.E.
Published: August 2012

This 28th annual volume published by the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), addresses the need for a global shift in the way veterinary students are taught veterinary public health (VPH). As well as taking the lead in prevention and control of animal diseases, the OIE develops health and welfare standards to promote food security and equitable international trade in animals and animal products.
Prevalent organisms on ostrich carcasses found in a commercial abattoir
Authors: Hoffman L.C. , Britz T.J. , Schnetler D.C.
Published: August 2012

The prevalent microbial growth on carcasses before and after overnight cooling in an ostrich abattoir and de-boning plant was investigated. The effect of warm or cold trimming of the carcasses was examined together with possible causes of contamination along the processing line. An attempt was made to link the prevalent microorganisms that were identified from carcasses to those from specific external contamination sources. Samples of carcasses and possible contaminants were collected in the plant, plated out and selected organisms were typed using a commercial rapid identification system. It was indicated that the cold trim (mainly of bruises) of carcasses was advantageous in terms of microbiological meat quality. Results indicated pooled water in the abattoir as the most hazardous vector for carcass contamination and that contaminants from this source are mostly Gram-negative pathogens. Pseudomonas and Shigella were frequently isolated from surface and air samples and indicated that the control of total plant hygiene is a requirement for producing ostrich meat that is safe to consume and has an acceptable shelf-life.
An investigation of the effects of secondary processing on Mycobacterium spp. in naturally infected game meat and organs
Authors: Van der Merwe M. , Michel A.L.
Published: August 2012

The risk for humans to contract bovine tuberculosis through the consumption of undercooked game meat as well as biltong (traditionally dried game meat) is a concern. The survival potential of Mycobacterium bovis during the cooking and drying processes was researched in a preceding study on beef and the positive results compelled the authors to investigate the results with a similar preliminary study on game meat. Muscular, lymphatic and visceral tissues from skin test positive African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) and greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) with tuberculous lesions were collected from the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park during the park's culling programme. The different tissues were exposed to cooking and the muscular tissue to the drying process prior to culture. All acid-fast isolates were analysed by polymerase chain reaction for the presence of Mycobacterium bovis. All tissues were found negative for Mycobacterium bovis but non-tuberculous mycobacteria were isolated from kidney, liver, heart and lymph nodes. The results showed that these processes will kill Mycobacterium bovis but the unexpected recovery of non-tuberculous mycobacteria suggests possible survival and resistance characteristics of these strains which might be of veterinary public health interest.