bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The pathogenicity and cultural characteristics of virulent, intermediate and benign strains of Bacteroides nodosus causing ovine foot‐rot
Authors: STEWART D J , PETERSON J E , VAUGHAN J A , CLARK B L , EMERY D L , CALDWELL J B , KORTT A A
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The relationship between the cultural and biochemical characteristics of 22 strains of Bacteroides nodosus and their virulence for sheep was examined. Virulent, intermediate and benign strains were recognised. Although there was some relationship between virulence and colony morphology on hoof medium with 4% agar, colonies of one virulent and 4 intermediate strains resembled those of benign strains. However, on hoof medium with 2% agar and on blood Euonagar, colonies of this virulent and one intermediate strain differed from each other and the other 3 intermediate strains, which in turn differed from the benign. The degree of piliation, as assessed by electron microscopy, was not a reliable indicator of virulence in strains not possessing a beaded colony type. Together, the results of colony morphology and proteolytic tests such as zymogram, degrading proteinase and elastin‐agar tests allowed better discrimination of virulent and benign strains. Intermediate strains generally possessed virulent protease activity. In strains with benign zymogram patterns, activity bands 2 and 3 were more labile than in strains with virulent patterns. The addition of CaCl2 to the culture medium resulted in greater stability of proteolytic activity, particularly with benign strains, and prevented the disappearance of protease activity in the band 5 position in virulent, intermediate and benign strains during prolonged incubation. There were slight differences in the sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) patterns of outer membrane proteins of some benign strains but those of intermediate category resembled virulent strains. There was some relationship between the apparent Mr, of the pilin monomer on SDS‐PAGE gels and serogroup specificity.
Two types of Newcastle disease viruses isolated from feral birds in Western Australia detected by monoclonal antibodies
Authors: ALEXANDER D J , MACKENZIE J S , RUSSELL P H
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Thirteen viruses isolated from feral birds and one isolated from a domestic duck, obtained in 1979–1980 during a survey of birds in Western Australia, were shown to be Newcastle disease viruses of low virulence for chickens. The binding of mouse monoclonal antibodies, raised against NDV‐Ulster 2C to MDBK cells infected with the isolates was assessed using an indirect immunoperoxidase test. Five viruses caused binding of all 9 monoclonal antibodies tested, whereas the other 9 isolates induced binding of only 4 monoclonal antibodies.
Use of enzyme immunoassay in a serological survey of leptospirosis in sheep
Authors: COUSINS D V , ROBERTSON G M
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A total of 731 serums, all from Merino rams from 20 farms, were tested for antibodies against Leptospira interrogans serovars hardjo, pomona and tarassovi using the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). The enzyme immunoassay (EIA) technique was used to test all serums for IgM and IgG antibodies to serovar hardjo. In the MAT, reactions to serovar hardjo were most common with 236 rams (32.3%) reacting at 1/100 or greater. Only 1.9% of serums reacted against serovar tarassovi and 1.1% against serovar pomona. The percentage of sheep with positive MAT reactions to serovar hardjo ranged from 0 to 94.9 between farms. When using EIA, 46 (6.2%) of the serums were positive for IgM antibody and 246 (33.6%) were positive for IgG antibody. Correlation of the EIA for detection of IgG antibody with the MAT was good. The EIA detection of IgG antibody was considered to be a good alternative test to the MAT for epidemiological studies in sheep.
Multiple anthelmintic resistance in Trichostrongylus colubriformis
Authors: DASH K M
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Following the failure of anthelmintic treatment to control an outbreak of trichostrongylosis in sheep, multiple resistance to levamisole and oxfendazole was confirmed in field strains of Trichostrongylus colubriformis at the CSIRO Pastoral Research Laboratory, Armidale. Resistance in Trichostrongylus spp to levamisole was also confirmed on an adjoining farm. From the results of an experiment where lambs were treated at the recommended dose rate with one or both anthelmintics, it was estimated that 32% of T. colubriformis were resistant to levamisole, 19% to oxfendazole, and 12% to both drugs. Simultaneous administration of levamisole and oxfendazole resulted in an additive anthelmintic effect. Naphthalophos (36.6 to 51.2 mg/kg) was 93% efficient against the multiple resistant strain. The similar histories of anthelmintic usage at the CSIRO Pastoral Research Laboratory and on the northern tablelands of New South Wales generally, suggest that multiple anthelmintic resistance in T. colubriformis may soon emerge as a problem on the northern tablelands.
Immunodiagnosis of autoimmune skin disease in the dog, cat and horse
Authors: DAY M J , PENHALE W J
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Skin biopsies from 47 dogs, 6 cats and 5 horses with suspected autoimmune skin disease were submitted for immunofluoresence from 1978 to 1985.

These cases were predominantly Western Australian in origin, although a number were also referred from Queensland and Victoria. In 5 dogs, 2 cats and 2 horses immunoglobulin binding to intercellular cement substance and/or basement membrane was demonstrated by direct immunofluorescence. Antinuclear antibody was also demonstrated in several of these cases.

Immunofluorescence was used in combination with histopathological examination to confirm the clinical diagnosis of autoimmune disease in 19/47 dogs, 4/6 cats and 2/5 horses.

There was no age, breed or sex predisposition amongst the 19 positive dogs, however there was a higher incidence of antinuclear antibody (54%) than the normal canine population (10%) and other autoantibodies (rheumatoid factor) were sometimes present. Abnormalities in serum protein electrophoresis and serum complement C4 levels were also recorded in this group.
Standards for Clostridium chauvoei vaccine—The relationship between the response of guinea pigs and sheep following vaccination and challenge with virulent C. chauvoei
Authors: CRICHTON R. , HARRIS D A , McKAY D J
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Twelve commercial 5‐component clostridial vaccines with known variations in potency of the blackleg (Clostridium chauvoei) component, were simultaneously tested in sheep and guinea pigs. Controlled challenge experiments provided evidence of a highly significant correlation in the response of the 2 species. The guinea pig laboratory model is considered to be a valid indicator of field performance for vaccines containing blackleg antigen.
Causes of preweaning mortality on a large intensive piggery
Authors: SPICER E M , DRIESEN S J , FAHY V A , HORTON B J , SIMS L D , JONES R T , CUTLER R S , PRIME R W
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Causes of preweaning mortality were examined on a large intensive piggery. Diagnosis was made using comprehensive clinical histories combined with post‐mortem data. Two thousand four hundred and twenty‐six piglets were born in 238 litters. Preparturient and parturient losses were 2.9% and 5.4% of the total numbers of piglets born. Birth to weaning mortality was 11.3%. Among piglets born alive, overlaying was the most frequent cause of death (2.1%), followed by deaths due to diarrhoea (1.7%), anaemia (1.2%), savaging (1.1%) and losses of small weak piglets (0.9%). Most deaths, including stillbirths, were associated with below average birth weight, and two‐thirds of all deaths of ihrebom pigs occurred within 4 days of birth. Increased litter size resulted in decreased birth weights, an increased percentage of stillborn piglets and mummified foetuses, but duration of parturition was not affected. Stillborn piglets were born late in the litter and after a longer interval between pigs born (Interpig interval).

Over 70% of deaths due to overlay were in previously healthy piglets, but some were associated with illness of the sow (18%) or both sow and piglet (3%). Savaging was confined mainly to first parity sows and was responsible for 20% of all deaths in these litters. Sixty‐two per cent of all piglets with a birth weight of less than 800g were stillborn or died before weaning compared with 18.7% mortality for all piglets. Anaemia in piglets was considered to be due to umbilical haemorrhage. Anaemic piglets had a 36% mortality to weaning compared with 10% for non‐anaemic piglets. The cause of this condition was not determined. Non‐haemolytic Escherichia coli was the predominant cause of early diarrhoea in piglets. Litters from first parity sows were affected more severely than those from higher parities. Splayleg occurred in 5.5% of all piglets born alive. The incidence of splayleg was related to the use of Landrace boars and was more prevalent in litters from higher parity sows. Twenty‐four per cent of splayleg pigs died.
Effect of immunotherapy with a saline phenol extract of allogeneic tumour on E‐rosette counts in horn cancer‐affected cattle
Authors: BATRA U K , SADANA J R , GUPTA R K PAUL
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The mean percentage of cells forming rosettes with 2‐aminoethyl isothiouronium bromide‐treated sheep erythrocytes (EAETRFC) in the peripheral blood of 10 horn cancer‐affected cattle (40.05 ± 2.91) was significantly low in comparison to the value in unaffected control animals (58.61 ± 1.68). Immunotherapy with a saline phenol extract of allogeneic tumour tissue resulted in a gradual increase in the mean percentage of EAETRFC on each subsequent week. The increase was statistically significant from the second week onwards and on the sixth week, the percentage of EAETRFC in horn cancer affected cattle (56.80 ± 1.38) closely approximated the value in unaffected controls.
The resistance of antimicrobial agents in Salmonella from veterinary sources in Australia from 1975 to 1982
Authors: MURRAY C J , RATCLIFF R M , CAMERON P A , DIXON S F
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A survey of antibiotic resistance in 1,287 strains of Salmonella from bovine, porcine and avian sources in Australia was carried out from 1975 to 1982. Isolates were tested against ampicillin, chloramphenicol, furazolidone, neomycin, streptomycin and tetracycline. Resistance was found to streptomycin in 286 isolates and to tetracycline in 282 isolates. Resistance to other antimicrobials was low and was unrelated to source. One hundred and seventy‐three isolates showed multiple resistance to 2 or more antimicrobial agents with resistance to streptomycin and tetracycline being the most common. The overall level of resistance did not change over the period examined.
Chemotherapy of paramphistomosis in cattle
Authors: ROLFE P F , BORAY J C
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Controlled tests were used to assess the efficacy of anthelmintics against immature paramphistomes, predominantly Calicophoron calicophorum, in 127 calves which were exposed to contaminated pasture for 7 weeks, treated and slaughtered. When a combination product of oxyclozanide and levamisole was used, oxyclozanide at 18.7 mg/kg reduced parasite numbers in the small intestine, abomasum and rumen‐reticulum by 61 to 96.1%, 50.0 to 92.6% and 56.5 to 98.1%, respectively. When 2 doses were given 3 days apart, oxyclozanide was 99.9%, 100% and 100% effective, respectively, in the above organs, and produced improvement in clinically affected calves. This treatment elicited transient diarrhoea. Hexachiorophene at 20 mg/kg as a single dose was 99.5%, 100% and 100% effective against the fluke in the small intestine, abomasum and rumen respectively but severe neurological signs were seen in some calves. Niclosamide at 160 mg/kg given as single or 2 doses 3 days apart was 91.1% and 92.6% effective, respectively, against the parasites in the small intestine. No toxicity was noted. Closantel, at 7.5 mg/kg was not effective. Oxyclozanide and niclosamide when given as a single treatment had varying activity. Two doses of oxyclozanide and a single dose of hexachiorophene gave consistent results.

Further tests based on reduction of faecal egg counts, 10 to 14 days after treatment were conducted with oxyclozanide and hexachiorophene against mature paramphistomes in 207 cattle. Oxyclozanide as a single dose or 2 doses 3 days apart at 12.8 to 18.7 mg/kg was 93.6 to 97.5% effective in reducing egg counts. Hexachiorophene at 20 mg/kg was 83.0% effective. The efficacy of anthelmintics which have been used against paramphistomes in cattle are reviewed and strategies for the control of paramphistomosis are discussed.
Studies of the pathogenesis of Rhodococcus equi infection in foals
Authors: BARTON M D , EMBURY D H
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Pyogranulomatous pneumonia was induced in Thoroughbred foals by intranasal challenge with freeze‐dried cultures of Rhodococcus equi (previously Corynebacterium equi). The incubation period was about 18 days and clinical signs were not seen for a further week. There were marked seasonal and individual foal differences in responses to infection. Elevations in serum caeruloplasmin oxidase activity and copper concentrations appeared to be sensitive indicators of infection. Serum zinc concentrations and serum a‐mannosidase and alkaline phosphatase activities fell in the more severely infected foals. Use of trace elements and trace element‐related parameters along with faecal culture for ft equi could prove useful for early diagnosis of field cases.
Metronidazole for the treatment of bovine pyometra
Authors: STEPHENS L R , SLEE K J
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY :Metronidazole, an antibiotic with specific activity against anaerobic bacteria, was assessed as a treatment for bovine pyometra. A preliminary experiment with metronidazole‐neomycin was followed by an experiment in which metronidazole‐ampicillin was compared with povidone iodine. Each treatment was given as a single intrauterine infusion. The success of therapy was judged by clinical examination, bacteriological examination before and after treatment and, in the second experiment, by post treatment reproductive performance. Before treatment 45 of the 84 cows in both experiments were infected with a mixture of anaerobic and aerobic bacteria, 23 cows were infected with aerobes alone and significant bacteria were not isolated from 16 cows. Complete bacteriological and clinical cures were achieved in 23 of 32 cows treated with metronidazole‐neomycin, 15 of 32 cows treated with metronidazole‐ampicillin and 1 of 20 cows treated with iodine. When only those cows with mixed anaerobe/aerobe infections were considered, complete cures occurred in 12 of 17 cows treated with metronidazole‐neomycin, and 11 of 16 cows treated with metronidazole‐ampicillin, but none of the 12 cows treated with iodine. Twenty‐two of 29 cows treated with metronidazole‐ampicillin conceived after treatment (mean 51.4 days), while 9 of 18 cows treated with iodine conceived (mean 58.7 days). Statistically, metronidazole‐ampicillin treatment produced significantly better clinical and bacteriological cure rates than iodine treatment (P <0.05), but the differences in reproductive parameters were not significant.
Ataxia due to lymphosarcoma in a young horse
Authors: KANNEGIETER N J , ALLEY M R
Published: March 2008

A 20‐month‐old, Standard‐bred colt was presented with an acute onset of hindlimb ataxia. Clinical and radiographic examination identified a compressive lesion affecting the spinal cord at the level of the 17th to 18th thoracic vertebrae. After euthanasia, post‐mortem examination revealed a tumour in the epidural space, diagnosed histologically as a lymphosarcoma. Neoplastic lymphoid cells were also present in the abdominal lymph nodes and brain. Because of the disseminated nature of lymphosarcoma in the horse, involvement of the central nervous system is likely to be more common than is presently recognised.
Bone sequestration in horses and cattle
Authors: FIRTH E C
Published: March 2008

The site of occurrence of 490 bone sequestra in horses and cattle was investigated. Most sequestra occurred in the proximal half of the third metatarsal bone and the third metacarpal bone. The most common clinical features included swelling, presence of a draining tract, impaired function and delayed wound healing. These diagnostic features, and the preferred time to confirm the diagnosis by radiological examination are discussed. The surgical treatment is relatively simple and the prognosis favourable in most cases. It is suggested that soft tissue injury and the presence of infection are of greater importance than cortical trauma and reduced peripheral cortical circulation in the pathogenesis of sequestration.
Teat burns in dairy cattle – the prognosis and effect of treatment
Authors: MORTON J M , FITZPATRICK D H , MORRIS D C , WHITE M B
Published: March 2008

Twenty cows and 20 uncalved 20 month old heifers with severely burnt teats were studied. Ten of each group received topical treatment with a mixture of lanoline, cetrimide and dimethyl sulphoxide or vitamin A and petroleum jelly, respectively. Prognosis for survival and future normal milking ability was poor in heifers (8 subsequently normal of 20 assessed) but moderate in cows (9 cows with normal and 5 cows with partial machine milking ability of 18 cows fully assessed). Treatment did not significantly increase the rate cf epithelialisation of wounds. Topical treatment had no effect on the prognosis of heifers. However treated cows were more likely than control cows to survive and to show adequate teat function following subsequent calving. Severe clinical mastitis prior to calving, teat distortion and teat canal constriction were common sequelae. Recommendations on the management of heifers and cows with severely burnt teats are made.
Effect of 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 on the calcium and magnesium metabolism of lactating cows
Authors: MOATE P J , SCHNEIDER K M , LEAVER D D , MORRIS D C
Published: March 2008

Administration of 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25(OH)2D3) to lactating dairy cows resulted in increased dietary calcium absorption and elevated concentrations of plasma calcium. Dietary magnesium absorption was unaffected by 1,25(OH)2D3 however, plasma magnesium concentration was depressed. Injections of 1,25(OH)2D3 were effective in elevating plasma calcium concentrations in both normal and hypomagnesaemic cows. This indicates a potential use for 1,25{OH)2D3 to prevent and treat hypocalcaemic cows with or without concurrent hypomagnesaemia.
Monitoring of dairy herds for Brucella abortus infection when prevalence is low
Authors: ROLFE D. C. , SYKES W. E.
Published: March 2008

A total of 2,698 dairy herds were surveyed in 1981–1982 in New South Wales and north eastern Victoria in a review of the methods used to monitor them for the presence of Brucella abortus., The methods used to monitor dairy herds were testing of all breeding cows over 1 year of age using the rose bengal test (RBT) and complement fixation test (CFT), the bulk milk ring test (BMRT), and testing of blood samples collected at abattoirs using the RBT and CFT. The surveyed herds had at least one whole herd test, and BMRT was done at regular intervals in the period of the survey.

Of the 99 (3.7%) herds that reacted to the BMRT, 91 (3.4%) herds had false positive reactions and 8 (0.3%) herds were declared infected on follow‐up herd testing. False‐positive reactions were obtained in 22 herds on more than one occasion. Common causes of false positive reactions to the BMRT were thought to be previous vaccination with Strain 19 and sampling in very early or late lactation.

Of the 98 (3.63%) herds that reacted to the whole herd serological tests, 80 (2.96%) herds had false‐positive reactions and 18 (0.67%) herds were declared infected. Strain 19 vaccination was thought to be an important cause of false‐positive reactions. Fifty‐three (2.0%) herds showed suspicious reactions on abattoir monitoring but none was declared infected on follow‐up testing.

Of the 18 herds with infected or equivocal status, the BMRT identified 8. In a further 6 herds, the infected cattle were not in the milking herd. Four other herds had milkers with high CFT titres which could not be confirmed as infected on culture. In no herds were culture positive RBT or CFT reactors from the milking herd detected without the BMRT being positive. The proportion of false‐positive reactions to the BMRT was high but the BMRT proved very useful in identifying dairy herds infected with B. abortus, when the prevalence of brucellosis was very low. Aust Vet J, 64: 97–100
Foetal and calf wastage in Bos indicus cross beef genotypes
Authors: HOLROYD R. G.
Published: March 2008

The prevalence, stages and causes of foetal and calf wastage were determined in Brahman (1/2 B, 3/4 B) and Sahiwal (1/2 San, 3/4 Sah) and high grade Sahiwal (HGSah) genotypes over a 12‐year period. The mean total loss from pregnancy being first diagnosed to weaning was 13.5% (range 9.4 to 19.0%) and was not influenced by cow age. Across all age groups total losses were significantly lower in 1/2 B (11.8%) and 3/4 B (11.7%) than in 1/2 Sah (16.3%) and 3/4 Sah (19.4%) which were in turn significantly lower than in HG Sah (26.5%). Mean prenatal, perinatal and postnatal losses were 3.5%, 4.4% and 5.6%, respectively. For prenatal losses, 42.4% occurred in early‐, 34.8% in mid‐ and 23.0% in late gestation, the prevalence being influenced only by year effects. Perinatal losses were lowest in 3/4 B (2.9%) and highest in 3/4 Sah (8.3%) with other genotypes intermediate. Postnatal losses were lowest in 1/2 B (4.1 %) and 3/4 B (5.0%), intermediate for 1/2 Sah (7.2%) and 3/4 Sah (6.2%) and highest in HG Sah (15.5%). In Brahmans, important causes of perinatal and postnatal losses were from unknown causes, and in Sahiwals from bottle teats, unknown causes and factors influenced by the cow. Bottle teats were mostly in cows older than 2 years with the majority being in Sahiwals. A high proportion (44%) of the postnatal losses occurred by 14 days after birth.
Cycad (zamia) poisoning in Australia
Authors: HALL W. T. K.
Published: March 2008

The Cycads belong to an ancient family of plants and were the cause of the first well documented plant poisoning in Australia when Captain Cook's men and their pigs were affected by eating them. Subsequent reports particularly by early explorers refer to toxicity of the seeds to man. One reason for this was the evidence that the natives ate them. Subsequent reports and experimental work established the toxicity to sheep and cattle. In sheep and cattle 2 syndromes occur, ataxia and liver damage. In cattle the former is the better known, the spinal cord lesion being mainly a demyelination of the sensory pathways. The liver damage is necrosis and fibrosis.
Chronic nephritis in a horse
Authors: ALDERS R. G. , HUTCHINS D. R.
Published: March 2008

An 11 year old Anglo‐Arabian mare was presented with a five month history of gradual weight loss and inappetence. On physical examination the mare was in fair body condition with no localising signs of illness. Persistently elevated blood urea nitrogen and isosthenuria indicated the presence of primary renal failure. At necropsy both kidneys were shrunken and contracted. Histopathology revealed lesions consistent with end stage renal disease which were characterised by severe and diffuse interstitial fibrosis.
A comparison of nematode control programs for cattle in south western Victoria
Authors: RIFFKIN G. G. , CALLINAN A. P. L.
Published: March 2008

Nematodiasis and its subsequent effect on production in Hereford weaner steers in western Victoria was studied during 1983 and 1984. In the first summer, steers were allocated to 2 replicates of 6 treatments – No treatment (Nil); Morantel slow release bolus in March (M1); Morantel bolus in March and June (M2); pour‐on levamizole in January, May and July (R3); albendazole in January and July (V2) and albendazole in January, May and July, (V3). In 1984, treatment M2 was discontinued to provide extra replicates for Nil and M1. The replicate paddocks were 5 ha and were stocked with 7 and 8 steers in 1983 and 1984, respectively.

Nematode egg counts in faeces, were generally<50 epg, indicating low numbers of adult nematodes. Faecal egg counts were highest in autumn and declined during the year. There was a significant (P = 0.02) effect of treatment on mean faecal egg count. Mean egg counts for treatment groups Nil and M1 were 16 and 10 epg above the overall mean (47 epg); those of the other treatments were 6 to 12 epg below the mean. There were no significant (P = 0.8) differences between treatments in the numbers of nematode larvae on pasture, during the experiment.

At the end of both years of the experiment most nematodes (92%) were early fourth stage larvae of O. ostertagi. There were no consistent differences in nematode counts between treatments. There were no significant (P = 0.33) differences between treatments in bodyweights at any time during the experiment. After adjustment for herbage availability and year, steers in the V2 group had heaviest final liveweights; they were 19 kg heavier than the Nil group and 8 kg heavier than the V3 group. We conclude that cattle producers may not derive an economic benefit from treating weaner cattle with these anthelmintics.
Tunicamycin and corynetoxin poisoning in sheep
Authors: JAGO M V , CULVENOR C C J
Published: March 2008

Quantitative toxicity studies were carried out in sheep using corynetoxin, tunicamycin and toxic annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidurri).

Sheep were very sensitive to these toxins. The lethal dose was about 35 μ.g/kg bodyweight for pure tunicamycin given by subcutaneous injection and 3 to 5 mg/kg for corynetoxin administered orally as slurries of bacterial galls of known corynetoxin content. The total lethal dose was of the same order, whether given as a single dose or as repeated smaller doses, the maximum interval tested being 9 weeks between doses. This finding indicates that a second exposure of animals to toxic rye grass in the one season would present a greater risk than would a first exposure to the same field. It also demonstrates the advisability of the monitoring of pasture levels of gall contamination, as levels below those that produce clinical signs of the disease may still contribute to an accumulating burden of toxicity. Aust Vet J 64: 232–235
Curing experimental Bryophyllum tubiflorum poisoning of cattle with activated carbon, electrolyte replacement solution and antiarrhythmic drugs
Authors: McKENZIE R A , DUNSTER P J
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A slurry of activated carbon (activated charcoal) in electrolyte replacement solution given by stomach tube and antiarrhythmic drugs given parenterally cured 9 of 11 calves dosed 7 to 24 h previously with a lethal amount (20g/kg) of Bryophyllum tubiflorum flower heads. Two of another 4 calves treated 26 to 36 h after dosing with flowers survived. B. tubiflorum toxins are bufadienolides (cardiac glycosides). Activated carbon was effective at a single dose of 5 g/kg. Calves were rehydrated with oral electrolyte replacement solution at 150 ml/kg in divided doses over 24 h. Tachycardia was treated with intravenous lignocaine (200 mg doses) or propranolol (5 mg doses) and atrioventricular block with atropine (0.5 mg/ kg).
A Clostridium botulinum type B vaccine for prevention of shaker foal syndrome
Authors: THOMAS R J , ROSENTHAL D V , ROGERS R J
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A toxoid was prepared from type 6 toxin of Clostridium botulinum by treatment with 0.6% formalin for 6 weeks. The toxoid was adsorbed to aluminium hydroxide and this vaccine was evaluated for safety in guinea pigs, mice and horses, and for immunogenicity in guinea pigs and horses.

Neutralising antitoxin was demonstrated in adult horses receiving two 2 ml subcutaneous doses 6 weeks apart, and in a foal which suckled its vaccinated dam. Another vaccinated mare and the passively immunised foal were protected against subcutaneous injection of 1600 and 2000 mouse lethal doses of toxin per kg respectively.
Intoxication by tremorgenic mycotoxin (penitrem A) in a dog
Authors: HOCKING A D , HOLDS K. , TOBIN N F
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A 1‐year‐old Siberian Husky dog presented with severe muscle tremors after ingestion of a mouldy hamburger bun. Penicillium crustosum and the tremorgenic mycotoxin penitrem A were isolated from the remaining portion of the hamburger bun. When grown in pure culture, the isolate of P. crustosum produced large amounts of penitrem A, along with other penitrem compounds. This is the first reported Australian case of toxicosis by naturally occurring penitrem A.
The use of relative value studies in the determination of veterinary fees
Authors: CLARKE RE
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: This paper discusses the methods which veterinarians in Australia use to calculate their fees and charges. Problems associated with these methods and the tendency to undervalue the professional component of veterinary services are discussed. The paper introduces the concept of a relative value study of veterinary professional services within Australia and recommends the development of a relative value scale and conversion factors, based on appropriate resource cost accounting methodology, as a method to quantify veterinary professional service charges. A relative value scale is a table of “weights” that defines the relative value of procedures or services one to the other. A conversion factor is used to change the relative value unit to a dollar price and thus convert a relative value scale to a fee schedule. The Australian Veterinary Association is suggested as the most appropriate organisation to initiate and co‐ordinate the research necessary for the development of these recommendations on a national basis.
Nervous disease associated with coccidiosis in young cattle
Authors: JUBB TF
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Four cases are described of nervous disease associated with coccidiosis in young cattle. Prodromal nystagmus, ventromedial strabismus, sternal or lateral recumbency with contortions of the head and neck, near normal interictal periods and palpable proctitis were common findings. Differentiation from other nervous disorders in young cattle and the pathogenesis of the nervous signs associated with coccidiosis are discussed. It is suggested that the clinical picture is sufficiently distinctive to allow a diagnosis to be made on clinical grounds alone.
The toxicity of Castanospermum australe seeds for cattle
Authors: McKENZIE RA , REICHMANN KG , DIMMOCK CK , DUNSTER PJ , TWIST JO
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Two calves given a mean of 16.1 g and 16.4 g ripe Casfanospermum australe seeds/kg body weight daily for 13 and 16 days respectively developed haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. The first calf died. The second calf had mild myocardial degeneration and necrosis and mild nephrosis at necropsy. Two calves given a mean of 16.8 g unripe C. australe seeds/kg body weight daily for 18 days remained clinically normal and had mild gastritis at necropsy. The activity of alpha‐glucosidase was reduced in the mononuclear cells of peripheral blood and in skeletal muscle. This was attributed to the presence of the indolizidine alkaloid, castanospermine, in the seeds. The toxin causing the gastroenteritis and other lesions is unknown.
Adverse reaction to procaine penicillin G in horses
Authors: NIELSEN IL , JACOBS KA , HUNTINGTON PJ , CHAPMAN CB , LLOYD KC
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Adverse reactions to intramuscular injections of procaine penicillin G are reported in 11 horses, five of which died. The clinical findings are presented and suggest central nervous involvement in most cases. Post mortem findings in one horse were consistent with anaphylaxis whereas in other cases the clinical findings, duration of treatment, speed of onset and subsequent completion of treatment supports diagnosis of an acute procaine toxicity syndrome.
Abundance and survival of infective larvae of the cattle nematodes Cooperia punctata, Haemonchus placei and Oesophagostomum radiatum from faecal pats in a wet tropical climate
Authors: FABIYI JP , COPEMAN DB , HUTCHINSON GW
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Observations were made on the abundance and survival of Haemonchus placei, Cooperia punctata and Oesophagostomum radiatum infective larvae from cattle faecal pats exposed at various times of the year in north Queensland wet tropics.

Pats exposed in the hot, wet season yielded abundant larvae on herbage. In the dry season, although low numbers of infective larvae were usual, considerable numbers were produced under conditions of heavy dews on dense herbage. Irrespective of season of deposition of pats, the resulting larvae persisted generally for not longer than 10 to 12 weeks, and in large numbers for only 2 to 6 weeks.

The findings suggest that prevention of contamination in the wet season, and in the dry season when light rainfalls are accompanied by heavy dews on dense herbage, will result in low levels of larval infestation on herbage. Rotational grazing in the area is suggested as a means of worm control.
The effect of artificial photoperiod at the end of the breeding season on plasma testosterone concentrations in stallions
Authors: COX JE , REDHEAD PH , JAWADS NMA
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Testosterone concentrations in stallions showed a seasonal trend with peak concentrations in the spring (April and May in Britain) and lowest concentrations in the period from December to February. The effect on this pattern of changing the length of the photoperiod at the end of the normal breeding season (mid‐summer's day) was studied in 2 experiments.

In the first experiment artificial illumination was organised from 21 June to mimic the effect of transfer to a southern hemisphere spring and summer, that is short days becoming longer. The stallions had low concentrations of testosterone in February and high concentrations in April. Concentrations in July, August and September were extremely low with a return to high values in late Novemberlearly December.

In the second experiment, illumination was maintained at the equivalent of a 16 1/2 hour day from 21 June to mid December. These stallions had high testosterone concentrations in April, after which they fell until August, later rising to a maximum in October.

These after results are discussed in relation to transfer of stallions between the northern and southern hemispheres.
Pathological findings in the bulbourethral glands of bulls
Authors: CAMPERO CM , LADDS PW , THOMAS AD
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The bulbourethral glands of 323 Bos indicus or B. indicus crossbred bulls more than 11V2 years old were examined in an abattoir study. Bulbourethral adenitis was diagnosed grossly and confirmed by histological examination in 4 (1.2%). Unilateral chronic interstitial inflammation was seen in 2 cases; one of these was associated with a degenerative‐type seminal vesiculitis. In the others adenitis was bilateral; in one case it was associated with a concretion and foreign (plant) material in the principal duct of the left bulbourethral gland; in the other bilateral case, numerous calculi were present and microscopically, a chronic active and diffuse inflammation was observed. Chemical analysis of the calculi showed calcium oxalate and tricalcium phosphate to be the most important components. Corynebacterium spp was isolated from the lesion with multiple calculi but attempts to isolate Chlamydia spp, Mycoplasma spp and Brucella abortus from the 4 adenitis cases were unsuccessful. Congenital abnormalities such as glandular fusion (2.2%) or unilateral aplasia (0.6%) were also observed. Cysts were the most common finding (19.2%), and duct dilation was frequent (7.1%). The significance of these findings in relation to fertility is considered.
Malignant fibrous histiocytoma in a dog
Authors: THOMAS JB
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A large tumour present on the proximal tabla of a Bull Mastiff dog was diagnosed on histological appearance as a Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma. These tumours, rarely identified in domestic animals, but well recognised in humans, are typically pleomorphic sarcomas with histiocytic and fibroblastic differentiation. Less commonly, one cell type predominates. In this case there was prominent histiocytic differentiation.
Inherited progressive spinal myelinopathy in Murray Grey cattle
Authors: EDWARDS JR , RICHARDS RB , CARRICK MJ
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: In a breeding experiment conducted to determine the mode of inheritance of progressive spinal myelinopathy, semen from a Murray Grey bull which had previously sired affected calves was used to inseminate 120 cows. Female progeny were then inseminated with semen from the same bull. Of the 51 calves born, six (11.8%) had spinal cord lesions consistent with progressive spinal myelinopathy.

From analysis of pedigrees and the results of the breeding experiment it was concluded that the condition was inherited as an autosomal recessive condition in Murray Grey cattle.
Akabane disease in sheep
Authors: HAUGHEY KG , HARTLEY WJ , DELLA‐PORTA AJ , MURRAY MD
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Perinatal lamb mortality, associated with malformations of the CNS due to Akabane viral infection, occurred in 4 of 9 flocks of ewes lambing on 3 farms between 26 May and 14 November, 1976. Cases were restricted to ewes conceiving prior to the second week of March and lambing between 26 May and 19 July. As judged by seroconversion in sentinel flocks on 2 of the farms, field infection with Akabane virus occurred mainly between mid‐February and mid‐April. Malformations of the CNS occurred in 42.5%, 51.2%, 100% and 31.0% of the dead lambs examined in the affected flocks respectively. Prevalence in the 4 affected flocks, expressed as the proportion of ewes lambing which delivered at least one malformed foetus, was 6.1%, 8.4%, 88.9% and 5.7% respectively. Lamb mortality due to malformations of the CNS was 7.1%, 5.5%, 92.3% and 5.7% of lambs born. Age‐specific prevalence was calculated for 3 of the 4 flocks and 2‐year‐old ewes accounted for 71.4% and 76.9% of total cases respectively in 2 flocks, whereas in one flock malformations occurred at equivalent frequencies throughout several older age groups.

Birthweights of affected lambs were usually significantly lighter than those of unaffected lambs of similar sex and birth‐type, and their mean duration of gestation was slightly, and significantly, prolonged. Micrencephaly (88.1% of cases) and hydrocephalus (68.7% of cases) were the outstanding pathological features of the malformations with hydranencephaly, microgyria, porencephaly and attenuation of the spinal cord occurring at much lower frequencies. Other deformities, usually of the musculoskeletal system, commonly accompanied these abnormalities. The mean weights of the brains and spinal cords of affected lambs were 31.3% and 87.7% respectively of those of unaffected lambs. The epidemiological data provide a basis for calculating the cost‐benefits of controlling the disease by vaccination.
Infestation of sheep with the stored product mite Sancassania berlesei (Acaridae)
Authors: BARTON NJ , STEPHENS LR , DOMROW R
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A sheep reared outdoors in Victoria was found to be heavily infested with a stored product mite, Sancassania berlesei (Acaridae), apparently subsequent to an earlier flystrike. Laboratory observation revealed the infestation to be self‐sustaining. Shearing rapidly resolved the infestation but treatment with diazinon was ineffective. The infestation could be transferred to other sheep only in the presence of moisture: once established it caused an extensive skin lesion with considerable fluid loss, apparently contributing to the death of one animal. This lesion was extremely attractive to blowflies. Animals infested with mites showed few signs of irritation.
Incidence of lameness requiring veterinary treatment in dairy cattle in Queensland
Authors: McLENNAN MW
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A survey of the incidence of lesions causing lameness in dairy cattle was conducted by veterinarians in 9 practices in Queensland between November 1984 and July 1985. One hundred and eighty five cases were treated in 83 dairy herds. The average incidence of lameness which required treatment by veterinarians was 2.7 cases per 100 cows per 9 months, with a range of 1.4 to 5.5% in the 9 practices. Foot lesions constituted 83.2% of all lesions; the most common being interdigital necrobacillosis (15%), deep sepsis (8.90/0), white line disease (8.4 per cent), axial groove fissure (8.4%), bruised sole (5.6%) and foreign body in the sole/heel (5.6%). Sixty‐five per cent of foot lesions occurred in the hind feet and 63% of these lesions occurred in the lateral claw, while 37% of foot lesions occurred in abnormally shaped claws. Limb lesions accounted for the remaining 16.8% of lesions, and 50% of these lesions occurred in the hip and stifle, while trauma was the main cause of limb lesions.
Prevalence of bovine veneral disease in the Victoria River District of the Northern Territory: likely economic effects and practicable control measures
Authors: McCOOL C J , TOWNSEND M P , WOLFE S G , SIMPSON M A , OLM T C , JAYAWARDHANA G A , CARNEY J V
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Area prevalences of bovine Campylobacteriosis and Trichomoniasis in the Victoria River District (VRD) of the Northern Territory were determined by a survey of bulls. Eighty‐seven percent of herds were infected with Campylobacteriosis and 65.6 percent were infected with Trichomoniasis. The levels of infection recorded are likely to be causing significant reductions in reproductive rates. Control of Campylobacteriosis is unlikely to be practicable on a district basis, but in some herds it may be possible to implement control measures in select groups subject to good stock control. Trichomoniasis control measures are generally not implementable in the VRD management situation.

Computer modelling suggests that control measures are unlikely to be profitable in commercial herds. There is a need for field invetigations to confirm this.
Comparison of media used for the primary isolation of Mycobacteriurm bovis by veterinary and medical diagnostic laboratories
Authors: CORNER LA , NICOLACOPOULOS C
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Veterinary and medical laboratories engaged in the cultural diagnosis of bovine or human tuberculosis were requested to supply samples of the media that they routinely use for the primary isolation of M. bovis. Fourteen laboratories supplied 7 basic media types; these were Lowenstein‐Jensen, Stonebrink's, modified Middlebrook 7H11 agar, tuberculosis bovine blood agar, egg yolk agar, Gerloff's egg and Herrold's egg yolk.

Two strains of M. bovis were used to test the media, strain AN5, a glycerol‐tolerant laboratory strain and M86/90 a glycerol‐sensitive wildtype strain. AN5 grew well on all media with the exception of Herrold's and strain M86/90 did not grow on media containing glycerol and grew poorly on Herrold's medium.

It is recommended that Lowenstein‐Jensen with pyruvate (but without glycerol), Stonebrink's, modified Middlebrook 7H11 and tuberculosis bovine blood agar should be considered the media of choice for the primary isolation of M. bovis. Egg yolk agar also proved adequate for this purpose in the trial. This medium may be suitable for routine use but to date experience with its use is limited.
Clostridial myocarditis in lambs
Authors: GLASTONBURY JRW , SEARSON JE , LINKS IJ , TUCKETT LM
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Five outbreaks of myocarditis were investigated in young sheep. They occurred during late winter and spring when there was lush growth of pasture following a prolonged period of drought. Clinically the disease was characterised by sudden death and pathological findings were dominated by acute multifocal locally extensive necrotising and haemorrhagic myocarditis. A fluorescent antibody technique was used to demonstrate the presence of Closfridium chauvoei in paraffin embedded sections of myocardium from 4 of the outbreaks.
Infectivity and virulence of Australian strains of Moraxella bovis for the murine and bovine eye in relation to pilus serogroup sub‐unit size and degree of piliation
Authors: LEPPER AWD , POWER BE
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The degree of piliation of 29 haemolytic and 4 non‐haemolytic Australian strains of Moraxella bovis representing 7 different pilus antigen groups was determined. The infectivity and virulence for the eye was measured in steroid‐treated mice and in cattle. Non‐piliated strains failed to infect the murine eye. Most moderately or heavily piliated strains reproducibly produced the highest infectivity and virulence scores in mice when compared with lightly or very lightly piliated strains (p <0.05). Non‐haemolytic, piliated strains were infective and in one instance virulent for mice. Almost similar levels of infectivity and virulence were observed for 7 representative haemolytic strains tested in both cattle and mice.

The relative molecular weight of pilin sub‐units was compared using sodium dodecyl‐sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Three classes of pili, α, β and γ of ascending sub‐unit size were identified among the 7 pilus antigen serogroups. Pilin sub‐unit size bore no relationship to the degree of piliation but most strains that were highly virulent in mice and cattle expressed a and γ sub‐units. Some strains appeared capable of switching from α to β or form β to γ sub‐unit production.
Vaccination against infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis: protective efficacy and antibody response induced by pili of homologous and heterologous strains of Moraxella bovis
Authors: LEPPER AWD
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The protective effect of 2 Moraxella bovis pili vaccines against infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK) experimentally induced by homologous or heterologous strain challenge with virulent, haemolytic M. bovis strain, Dal 2d, was measured in trials using weaned calves aged 3 to 7 months. Purified pili vaccines were prepared from haemolytic strain Dal 2d, (pilus serogroup IV), and haemolytic strain Epp 63, (pilus serogroup 111). Calves were challenged by conjunctival instillation of 1 × 109 colony forming units of virulent M‐bovis strain Dal 2d 14 days after the second of 2 subcutaneous doses of vaccine. Each consisted of 200 pg of pili in alum‐oil adjuvant administered at an interval of 21 days.

In trial 1 the level of protection against challenge with the homologous strain was 46.7% (p < 0.01). Small, rapidly resolving lesions of IBK occurred in some vaccinates compared with a larger proportion of severe lesions that required treatment in non‐vaccinated calves (p < 0.025). In trial 2, the level of protection against IBK after exposure of vaccinates to the homologous Dal 2d strain was 72.7%, but no significant level of protection or reduction in the size and duration of lesions was apparent in similarly challenged calves vaccinated with Epp 63 pili when contrasted with susceptible, non‐vaccinated controls. No marked reduction in the duration of infection with M. bovis Dal 2d following challenge resulted from vaccination with pili of either 01 the serogroups III or IV. Rising homologous serum IgG antibody titres to serogroups III and IV pili were recorded in response to vaccination with each antigen. Serum and lachrymal IgG titres showed significant positive correlation (p < 0.05) and lachrymal IgG and IgA responses to homologous or heterologous serogroup antigens were also positively correlated (p < 0.001). Mean cross‐reactivity of serum IgG, lachrymal IgG and IgA titres was found to be 8%, 9% and 18% respectively. The post‐booster, pre‐challenge IgG antibody titres of trial 1 calves which were vaccinated with Dal 2d pili and which showed some susceptibility to IBK, were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than those of the totallyresistant calves in trial 2 that had been vaccinated with this antigen.