bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HAEMATOLOGY OF THE RACEHORSE: A Recent Study of Thoroughbreds in Victoria
Authors: STEWART G. A. , RIDDLE C. A. , SALMON P. W.
Published: March 2008

ab>The study was based on 216 blood samples collected from 136 Thoroughbred racehorses in 17 stables. Lower variability in the population studied and lower means than in previous studies were attributed in part to measures taken to reduce excitement of the horses during blood collection. The demeanour of the animals during collection was assessed subjectively as placid, timid, apprehensive or excited. The five horses which became excited had significantly higher RBC, Hb, PCV, WBC, total eosinophil count, serum total protein and probably lower ESR. Timid and apprehensive horses did not show these responses.

Because of the location of eight stables, samples from them were stored overnight at 4°C before analysis. These samples had higher mean MCV, PCV, MCH, and serum total protein and lower mean MCHC. The likelihood of this arising from swelling and perhaps rupture of some erythrocytes during transportation and storage was discussed.

Serum total protein estimates were within the range determined from other reports from horses of various breeds. However albumin and the A/G ratio determined by electrophoresis were higher, but comparable with two other reports from Thoroughbreds. In comparative studies on the estimation of A/G ratios it appeared that equine serum albumin determination was higher using the bromcresol green reagent than by electrophoresis.

After eliminating 14 cases with abnormalities of the total and/or differential leucocyte count, parameters were calculated from 202 samples for the definition of normal ranges. The absence of skewness and kurtosis indicated that the individual estimates of RBC, Hb, PCV, WBC, MCV and MCH followed the normal distribution and that the means and standard deviations were appropriate for defining normal ranges. With only ESR and TEC were the coefficients of variation, skewness and kurtosis so great as to cast doubt on the practical use of these estimates.
AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF FACTORS INFLUENCING THE INCREASE IN TAENIA OVIS PREVALENCE DURING THE NEW ZEALAND ECHINOCOCCUS GRANULOSUS CONTROL PROGRAM
Authors: BURRIDGE M. J. , SCHWABE C. W.
Published: March 2008

There was an 8‐fold increase in the national prevalence of Taenia ovis in dogs during the first decade of the New Zealand hydatid disease control program. The temporal patterns in the prevalence of T. ovis were similar in both rural working dogs and urban pet dogs, with the highest prevalence found in the sheep farming areas. The dramatic increase in the prevalence of T. ovis was a reflection of the change in source of food for many working dogs, from the traditional raw viscera to carcase meat of sheep, a change necessitated by hydatid disease control. Other factors influencing the rise in prevalence of T. ovis in rural dogs were investigated using stepwise multiple regression techniques. The results of the regression analyses suggested that the rate of increase in the prevalence of T. ovis was influenced by 4 major factors: Taenia hydatigena variables (initial prevalence and rate of progress in control), an ethnic variable (Maori proportion in local population), canine variables (numbers of dogs per farm and per owner), and animal husbandry variables (pasture type, sheep density and numbers of sheep per farm). The results were discussed in the light of present knowledge of the epidemiology and immunology of the taeniid cestodes.
SEMEN COLLECTION AND EVALUATION IN THE RAM: The Effect of Method of Stimulation on Response to Electroejaculation
Authors: CAMERON R. D. A.
Published: March 2008

Nine different methods of electrical stimulation with a bi‐polar rectal probe, were used on 5 rams. The quantity and quality of semen collected, the time taken to produce ejaculation and the maximum voltage required were compared.

Semen of good quality was collected by applying a stimulus every 7 seconds for a period of 3 seconds commencing at 1 volt and increasing by 1 volt at a time. A mean maximum voltage of 5.1 volts produced ejaculation. Electrical stimulation, using a voltage rise of 2 volts applied at 5 sec intervals frequently produced smaller volumes of semen, a greater number of collection failures, and severe physical stress to the rams.
THE INFLUENCE OF LIGHT INFESTATIONS OF LINOGNATHUS VITULI ON THE GROWTH OF YOUNG CATTLE
Authors: Cummins L.J. , Tweedle N.E.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Groups of Hereford weaners carrying naturally acquired infestations of L. vituli were allocated to a factorial experiment to examine the effect of lice treatment, sex and nutrition on growth rate during winter and early spring. Plane of ntrition was the only factor influencing growth rate over this period. In untreated groups of cattle, the plane of nutrition influenced the lice score but lice score did not influence growth rate.
CONTROL OF OVINE LUPINOSIS: EXPERIMENTS ON THE MAKING OF LUPIN HAY
Authors: Allen J. G. , Wood P. McR. , O'Donnell F. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Lupin hay was prepared at 2 locations and conserved in fodder rolls and bales until late summer. At this time it was found that the lupin hay had lower levels of infection with P. leptostromiformis and had developed virtually no toxicity, when compared with adjacent normal lupin stubble which was very heavily infected with Phomopsis and very toxic. No additional advantage was gained by spraying cut lupins with formalin before rolling or bailing.

It is suggested that the preparation of lupin hay as described provides farmers who do not harvest their lupins for seed with a way of utilising lupin crops for summer feed, while significantly reducing the risk of lupinosis in stock.
EVALUATION OF A PREGNANT MARES' SERUM AND HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN MIXTURE FOR ALLEVIATING SUMMER INFERTILITY IN SOWS
Authors: Webster W. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A controlled on‐farm trial was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a commercial gonadotrophin hormone mixture at overcoming a seasonal decrease in fertility in pigs in a sub‐tropical environment (summer infertility). The average weaning to oestrus interval of the untreated sows was more than double that of the treated sows and this difference was highly significant.

However, fewer of the treated sows farrowed by they produced smaller litters. The improvement in fertility in the treated group achieved by reducing the weaning to oestrus interval was more than cancelled out by an overall reduction in the number of weaners produced.
IMMUNOGLOBULINS IN BLOOD SERUM OF FOETAL PIGS
Authors: Chaniago T. D. , Watson D. L. , Owen R. A. , Johnson R. H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A total of 1,147 samples of blood serum, collected from porcine foetuses, were examined for the presence of immunoglobulin. The foetuses, from 182 sows, were sampled at abattoirs in Queensland during 1975. For detection and measurement of immunoglobulins, rabbit anti‐pig serum and monospecific anti‐pig IgG, anti‐pig IgM and anti‐pig IgA were employed in immunoelectrophoresis, double diffusion and single radial immuno‐diffusion assays. Twenty‐four foetuses (from 7 litters) had detectable IgG or IgM. None of the samples were positive for IgA. Two of the serums (from siblings) had high antibody titres to porcine parvovirus but in the remainder of the immunoglobulin‐positive serums no antibody activity was detected.
THE ISOLATION AND CHARACTERISATION OF A NEWCASTLE DISEASE VIRUS FROM AN EXOTIC PARROT
Authors: Eaves F. W. , GRIMES T. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A Newcastle disease virus was isolated from a salmon‐crested cockatoo (Cacatua moluccensis) illegally introduced into Australia. Viral‐characterisation and chickentransmission studies indicated that the isolate, G5320/1, was a lentogenic pathotype. It caused a severe respiratory disease in chickens exposed oronasally at 1‐day old and in chickens housed at 1 day of age with chickens infected with Newcastle disease virus. No harmful effects were detected in 5‐week old chickens inoculated intravenously or oranasally with the virus.
EFFECTIVE SEDATION OF RABBITS, GUINEA PIGS, RATS AND MICE WITH A MIXTURE OF FENTANYL AND DROPERIDOL
Authors: Walden N. B.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A minimum effective dose rate for Innovar‐vet(R) was established for producing sedation of rabbits, guinea pigs, rats and mice. The level of sedation permitted a minimum of restraint and abolished painreactions. No special precautions were necessary and administration was by simple intra‐muscular injection. Recovery occurred within 1–2 hours and was uneventful and without excitement. A single operator was able to carry out bleeding safely, and would be able to carry out other minor procedures with minimal stress to the animal.
SODIUM CHLORIDE POISONING IN CATTLE
Authors: Trueman K. F. , Clague D. C.
Published: March 2008

Consumption of a sodium chloride based supplement followed by food and water restriction in yards for over 30 hours, resulted in nervous disorders in 5 of 60 three‐year‐old steers within hours of being released into a paddock. Clinical signs were associated with polioencephalomalacis which was confirmed in 2 of 3 affected steers by microscopic examination of brains. Oedema of the corpus striatum, thalamus and midbrain was observed in 2 animals, and vascular necrosis with neutrophil invasion into the vessel walls was seen in the cerebrum of one steer. Consideration of the history, clinical signs and necropsy findings resulted in a diagnosis of indirect salt piosoning. The affected animals had the lower body weights in the group.
ISOLATIONS OF AKABANE VIRUS FROM SENTINEL CATTLE AND CULICOIDES BREVITARSIS
Authors: St George T. D. , Standfast H. A. , Cybinski D. H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A total of 14 isolations of Akabane virus were made from the blood of five cattle during sub‐clinical infection. The serial isolation of this virus from four of these animals suggests a viraemia of at least 3 or 4 days. Neutralising antibody to Akabane virus in the serum of infected calves reached an initial peak titre of 32 to 256 four to five days after the viraemia but later rose further to a range of 64 to 512. Three isolations of Akabane virus were made from Culicoides brevitarsis collected nearby in the same period. C. brevitarsis was the dominant haematophagous midge present during that time. These findings strengthen the case for C. brevitarsis to be considered as a vector of Akabane virus.
EFFECTIVENESS OF BROAD SPECTRUM ANTHELMINTICS AGAINST SELECTED STRAINS OF TRICHOSTRONGYLUS COLUBRIFORMIS
Authors: LeJambre L. F. , Southcott W. H. , Dash K. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A field population of Trichostrongylus colubriformis was divided into 4 lines for exposure to selection in the laboratory. The first line was selected with 50 mg/kg thiabendazole, the second with 4 mg/kg morantel tartrate, the third with 50 mg/kg thiabendazole followed by 4 mg/kg morantel tartrate and the fourth line was not selected for drug resistance. Following at least 9 generations of selection there was no difference in LD50 or LD95 between the unselected and single selected strains of worms. The strain selected by50both thiabendazole and morantel tartrate had a significantly higher LD50 against thiabendazole, morantel tartrate and levamisole than did the other three strains. The single selected strains had LD95's of 172, 21.5 and 2.3 mg/kg for thiabendazole, morantel tartrate and levamisole respectively, compared with corresponding values of 111, 17.3 and 2.4 in the unselected strain and 124, 15.5 and 3.0 in the double selected strain. The estimated efficiency of the recommended dose of each anthelmintic against the unselected field strain was:—thiabendazole (44 mg/kg) 50% efficient, morantel tartrate (8.8 mg/kg) 76% efficient and levamisole (7.0 mg/kg) 99.9% efficient.
THE TOXICITY AND EFFICIENCY OF ARECOLINE HYDROBROMIDE IN THE TASMANIAN HYDATID CONTROL PROGRAM
Authors: Gregory G. G. , McConnell J. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Results on the efficiency and toxicity of arecoline hydrobromide during the first 11 years of the hydatid limitation program in Tasmania are presented.

A satisfactory mucous purge was obtained from about 80% of dogs when arecoline was used at 3.25 mg/kg and from about 75% when the dose rate was reduced to 1.62 mg/kg of body weight.

Arecoline is considered to have a low efficiency in detecting tapeworm infection in individual dogs, but is valuable as a diagnostic aid in groups of dogs.

Toxicity was seen as acute cardiac collapse in about 5 dogs per 1000 dosed. Deaths followed in 1 dog in about 9,500.
PATHOGENICITY FOR CATTLE OF ATYPICAL MYCOBACTERIA ISOLATED FROM FERAL PIGS AND CATTLE AND THE CORRELATION OF LESIONS WITH TUBERCULIN SENSITIVITY
Authors: Corner L. A. , Pearson Catherine W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Two experiments involving the inoculation of cattle with atypical mycobacteria are described. In the first experiment groups of 5 cattle were inoculated either subcutaneously or into a mesenteric lymph node with a strain of M. scrofulaceum or M. intracellulare. Four weeks and 10 weeks after inoculation the cattle were tuberculin tested with bovine PPD, avian PPD and homologous PPDs. The pathological changes observed were similar within each group of cattle inoculated with the same strain of mycobacteria. A significant interaction was demonstrated between the strain and the route of inoculation.

In the second experiment 17 cattle were similarly inoculated by either of the two routes with 1 of 6 strains of M. intracellulare, a strain of M. scrofulaceum or a strain of Runyon Group IV, all of which had been isolated from feral pigs, or a strain of M. intracellulare of bovine origin. Tuberculin tests were carried out after 4 weeks and 10 weeks. Only the isolate from a bovine lymph node produced a significant level of sensitivity to bovine PPD. Cultural isolation of the mycobacteria from autopsy material was not correlated with the presence of macroscopic lesions nor with sensitivity to bovine PPD.

The response to bovine PPD of cattle infected with these atypical mycobacteria decreased between 48 h and 96 h after injection of the tuberculins. As the maximum difference in the response to bovine and avian tuberculins occurs at 72 h a comparative tuberculin test should be read at this time to eliminate non‐specific reactors.
TOADFISH POISONING (TETRODOTOXIN) IN THE CAT
Authors: Atwell R. B. , Stutchbury G. B.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Two cases of tetrodotoxin (toadfish) poisoning in the cat are reported. The pharmacological and physiological actions of the toxin and treatment of this intoxication are discussed.
A SURVEY OF ANTIBODY TO AINO VIRUS IN CATTLE AND OTHER SPECIES IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Cybinski D. H. , George T. D. St
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A serological survey of healthy cattle in Australia showed that antibodies to Aino virus were present in serums from cattle in northern Australia and down the east coast as far as central New South Wales in 1975, 1976 and 1977, but occurred with a lower frequency than antibodies to Akabane virus. in contrast to the findings with Akabane virus, no neutralising antibodies to Aino virus were detected in serums from camels, dogs or horses. Antibodies to both viruses were detected in buffaloes and sheep, but not in humans or any of the Australian indigenous species so far tested. All positive serums originated from within the known range of Culicoides brevitarsis.
RESPONSE OF CATTLE TO INOCULATION WITH ATYPICAL MYCOBACTERIA OF BOVINE ORIGIN
Authors: Corner L.A. , Pearson Catherine W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Ten strains of atypical mycobacteria originally isolated from cattle were inoculated into cattle. Each strain was injected subcutaneously into one animal and into a mesenteric lymph node of another. Four weeks and 10 weeks after inoculation the cattle were tuberculin tested with bovine PPD, avian PPD and the appropriate homologous PPD. Three strains produced a significant level of sensitivity to bovine PPD at the 4‐week test but by the 10‐week test no animal gave a significant response. The sensitivity to all tuberculins was less at the 10‐week test than at the 4‐week test. At both tests the response to avian PPD was equal to or exceeded that to bovine PPD. Of 4 strains originally from cattle sensitive to mammalian tuberculin only 2 produced sensitivity of bovine PPD in this experiment. Cultural isolation of mycobacteria from necropsy material was correlated neither with sensitivity to bovine PPD nor with the presence of lesions.
PERINATAL FOAL MORTALITY ASSOCIATED WITH A HERPESVIRUS
Authors: Dixon R. J. , Hartley W. J. , Hutchins D. R. , Lepherd E. E. , Feilen Caroline , Jones R. F. , Love Daria N. , Sabine Margaret , Wells Anne L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY An outbreak of perinatal foal mortality associated with a herpesvirus is described. Twenty two foals either were still‐born, or died soon after birth, or were weak and soon developed severe respiratory signs, or were normal at birth and developed respiratory symptoms 18 to 24 hours later. Elevated temperatures, heart and respiratory rates were constant features. The animals were severely leucopaenic, and showed an absolute neutropaenia. At autopsy the lungs were enlarged, and showed varying degrees of aeration and moderate to severe oedema and congestion. Histopathology showed an acute focal necrotising bronchiolitis with the presence of intranuclear eosinophilic inclusion bodies. Herpesvirus was recovered from 9 foals in cell culture and identified by electron microscopy.
A HEALTH PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL DAIRY HERDS
Authors: Cannon R. M. , Morris R. S. , Williamson N. B. , Cannon C. M. , Blood D. C.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The development of a computerised data handling and analysis system to aid the operation of a health and management program for commercial dairy herds is described. The aims for the system are outlined, and the development of the system over a period of 8 years to meet these aims is described. The documentation used in the current system is described in relation to the various procedures involved in the operation of the dairy herd health program. Two features which make this system unique are its use for the selection of problem and high risk cows for examination and treatment, and the provision of analyses of recent performance in a number of facets of health and production, which aid in the identification of emerging problems.

It is considered that future improvements in the system will be in the areas of milk production recording and calf rearing and disease recording.
A HEALTH PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL DAIRY HERDS
Authors: Morris R. S. , Williamson N. B. , Blood D. C. , Cannon R. M. , Cannon C. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A health program service was implemented on 9 farms, for periods ranging up to 7 years. Reproductive performance was substantially improved, when performance indicators were compared with values for the herds prior to commencement of the service. On average, the mean calving to conception intervals for the herds were reduced by 24 days over their periods of participation in the program, from an initial value of 119 days. The intercalving interval was reduced by an average of 27 days.

This improvement was associated with a reduction in the mean dry period length of 20 days, from an initial value of 117 days. There was a tendency for the lactation lengths to be reduced to an undesirable extent due to slow adaptation by management to the improvement in reproductive performance, but the problem was corrected late in the study.

The improvement in performance was attributed to improved oestrus detection, correction of temporary nutritional deficiencies, and prompt treatment of genital tract disorders in individual animals. Results for a range of performance indicators related to reproductive function are reported in detail.
OSSIFYING AMELOBLASTOMA IN A HORSE
Authors: Summers P.M. , Wells K. E. , Adkins K. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The features of an ossifying ameloblastoma in a 5‐year‐old gelding are described. The tumour developed in the angle of the right mandible and microscopically consisted of multiple follicles and islands of epithelial tissue adjacent to which were trabeculae of bone, osteoid and compact collagenous tissue.
THE BLOWFLY STRIKE PROBLEM OF SHEEP IN NEW SOUTH WALES
Authors: Watts J. E. , Murray M. D. , Graham N. P. H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A field survey was undertaken between 1972–76 to reappraise the nature of the blowfly problem in New South Wales. For 2 years, 1972–1974, some 80,000 sheep were kept under observation and 12,481 strikes were reported, most due to Lucilia cuprina.

Breech strike was still the basic problem but tail strike associated with scouring had become an important component where pastures have been improved. Breech strike was controlled at minimal cost by managerial practices such as docking tails the correct length—second joint‐space palpable ventrally (midway down the vulval orifice in ewes) for radically mulesed lambs and the third joint‐space (tip of vulva in ewes) for all other lambs‐mulesing at lamb marking, mid‐season crutching, determining the cause of scouring and applying the appropriate preventative or remedial measures. Thus the use of insecticides could be reserved for the control of body strike in young sheep in the odd wet years and poll strike in horned rams.

Major outbreaks of body strike occurred in 1973/74. Body strike worried graziers most because of its unpredictability, sudden onset and scale, and only failing insecticides were available for control.
EFFECT OF DISRUPTION OF THE SEBACEOUS LAYER OF THE SHEEP'S SKIN ON THE INCIDENCE OF FLEECE‐ROT
Authors: James P. J. , Warren G. H.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY It was postulated that integrity of the sebaceous layer on the skin is important in maintaining resistance to fleece‐rot. This hypothesis was tested in an experiment of a 2 times 2 factorial design in which sebaceous layer disruption and wetting were the 2 treatments.

The sebaceous layer was disrupted by applying a light petroleum solvent to the skin of the sheep.

Fleece‐rot occurred in all sheep (20) that were both wetted and had the sebaceous layer disrupted while 9/19 of those wetted but without the sebaceous layer disrupted developed fleece‐rot. The fleece‐rot lesions observed were more severe in sheep in the disrupted wetted treatments than in the intact wetted treatment.

Interpretation of these differences was complicated by a possible reaction of the skin to the solvent used. The differences were not due to an effect of treatment on fleece wettability.

No fleece‐rot developed in the sheep not wetted and application of the solvent alone did not induce fleece‐rot.
TRACHEITIS IN SHEEP AFTER ORAL ADMINISTRATION OF A MINERAL SUPPLEMENT
Authors: Pritchard D. H. , Rahaley R. S. , Napthine D. V.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Outbreaks of illness and deaths in sheep after the concurrent administration of a cobalt, copper and zinc mineral supplement and laevamisole are described. Clinical illness was characterised by profound dyspnoea and inability to exercise. The consistent postmortem finding was severe, necrotising tracheitis with partial occlusion of the airway. This lesion was reproduced experimentally by intratracheal administration of the mineral supplement dissolved in one particular formulation of laevamisole but not in water or another preparation of laevamisole. Further experiments revealed that combined zinc sulphate and copper sulphate dissolved in the particular formulation of laevamisole would produce the tracheal lesions.
THE INCIDENCE OF THIABENDAZOLE RESISTANCE IN FIELD POPULATIONS OF HAEMONCHUS CONTORTUS ON THE NORTHERN TABLELANDS OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Authors: Webb R. F. , Mccully C. H. , Clarke F. L. , Greentree P. , Honey P.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A survey was undertaken to assess the incidence of thiabendazole resistance in field populations of H. contortus in sheep flocks on 40 farms distributed throughout the sheep grazing area of the northern tablelands of New South Wales. Treatment with thiabendazole at 66 mg/kg reduced H. contortus ova output by 96–100% in 18 flocks while in the remaining 22 there was a range of responses down to levels where the anthelmintic was without apparent effect.

Factors which may contribute to the high incidence of anthelmintic resistance are discussed and the possibility of widespread resistance occurring in other sheep raising areas is considered.
RESPONSE OF CATTLE TO INOCULATION WITH ATYPICAL MYCOBACTERIA ISOLATED FROM SOIL
Authors: Corner L. A. , Pearson Catherine W.
Published: March 2008

Nine strains of atypical mycobacteria and a strain of the rhodochrous taxon, originally isolated from soil samples collected on the subcoastal plains of the Northern Territory, were inoculated into cattle. Each strain was injected subcutaneously into one animal and into a mesenteric lymph node of another. At 4 and 10 weeks after inoculation, the cattle were tuberculin tested with bovine PPD tuberculin, avian PPD tuberculin and the appropriate homologous PPD tuberculin. Six strains induced a significant level of sensitivity to bovine PPD at the 4‐week test, but only one animal gave a similar response at the 10‐week test. In general, the level of sensitivity to all tuberculins declined between the 4‐week and 10‐week tests. At both tests the response to avian PPD was equal to, or exceeded, that to bovine PPD. The inoculation of each of the 10 strains resulted in the production of tuberculous granulomas at the subcutaneous sites and similar lesions were produced at the mesenteric lymph node site in response to 2 strains. Mycobacteria were re‐isolated from 11 cattle and represented 7 strains. The significance of the soil as a reservoir of atypical mycobacteria and other organisms capable of inducing sensitivity to bovine PPD is discussed.
IMMUNITY IN CATTLE TO BABESIA BOVIS AFTER SINGLE INFECTIONS WITH PARASITES OF VARIOUS ORIGIN
Authors: Mahoney D. F. , Wright I. G. , Goodger B. V.
Published: March 2008

Sixty calves, 3 to 6 months old, were vaccinated once against Babesia bovis in groups of 10, by the following methods: (a) tick infestation; (b) inoculation of virulent parasites obtained from the tick‐infested animals immediately after infection; (c) inoculation of the parasites used in (b) attenuated by passage through splenectomised calves; (d) inoculation of commercially‐available, living, attenuated vaccine; (e) inoculation of virulent parasites obtained from the tick‐infested animals in (a) one year after infection; (f) inoculation of the parasites used in (e) attenuated by passage. All vaccinated animals were maintained tick‐free and were strongly immune to challenge with a heterologous strain of B. bovis approximately 4 years after vaccination. There was no difference in immunogenicity between any of the B. bovis populations.
OBSERVATIONS ON SALMONELLA INFECTIONS OF BIRDS
Authors: Grimes T. M.
Published: March 2008

During the period 1961 to 1976, 29 species of Salmonella other than Salmonella pullorum were isolated from 180 accessions of birds examined at the Animal Research Institute, Yeerongpilly. These birds were submitted to the laboratory from flocks with disease or production problems. S. typhimurium was the most frequently isolated serotype being obtained from 63% of accessions. Outbreaks of systemic salmonellosis occurred most frequently in young birds and although pathological changes were most commonly observed in visceral organs they were also seen in eyes, joints and the brain. Diseases other than salmonellosis were identified in many accessions of birds with systemic or enteric salmonella infections.
CROFTON WEED (EUPATORIUM ADENOPHORUM) TOXICITY IN HORSES
Authors: O'Sullivan B. M.
Published: March 2008

The clinical signs and pathology of 6 field cases of a respiratory disease of horses which occurs in the coastal hinterland of south‐eastern Queensland are described. The condition has occurred for many years and has been thought to have been associated with ingestion of Crofton weed (Eupatorium adenophorum). Coughing, rapid heaving respiration, decreased exercise tolerance and loss of condition were seen in affected horses. in longstanding cases fibrosis, alveolar lining cell proliferation, oedema, neutrophil infiltration and abscessation were seen. In some cases vascular thrombosis and ***infarction occur in the lungs.

Similar signs and lesions occurred in one horse fed E. adenophorum for 8 months and early lesions in another fed the flowering stage of the plant for about 6 weeks. Lesions also developed in 2 rabbits experimentally fed the plant, but not in sheep or rats.
COMPARISON OF THE EFFICIENCY OF TWO DOSES OF BOVINE PPD TUBERCULIN IN SINGLE CAUDAL FOLD TESTS ON AUSTRALIAN CATTLE
Authors: Lepper A.W.D. , Carpenter M.T. , Williams O.J. , Scanlant W.A. , McEwan Denise R. , Andrews L.G. , Thomas T.R. , Corner L.A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The sensitivity and specificity of 0.2 mg and 0.4 mg doses of bovine PPD tuberculin were compared in Northern Territory beef cattle from tuberculous herds and herds with a prevalence of tuberculosis of less than 0.1%. Reactions were interpreted subjectively by observation and palpation, and were also measured to the nearest mm with calipers at 24 h, 48 h, 72 h and 96 h after injection of tuberculin. All cattle were examined post mortem for the presence of macroscopic and microscopic tuberculous lesions. The apparent specificity of caudal fold tests with 0.2 mg and 0.4 mg doses was determined in cattle in Victoria from tuberculosis‐free dairy and beef herds. Victorian cattle reacting to the caudal fold tests were subjected to a comparative intradermal test with 0.1 mg bovine PPD and 2,500 IU avian PPD not less than 42 days later.

Tests with the 0.2 mg dose achieved the highest level of sensitivity of 95.6% at 48 h, 72 h and 96 h, while in tests with 0.4 mg the maximum reached was 94.7% at 72 h. The specificity of tests in Northern Territory cattle ranged from 85.0% to 88.3% with the 0.2 mg dose and from 80.6% to 82.3% with the 0.4 mg dose. The highest specificity was achieved with both doses at 96 h. The apparent specificity of 0.2 and 0.4 mg doses of bovine PPD in tuberculosis‐free herds in Victoria was high, a false‐positive reactor rate of only 0.6% occurring with caudal fold tests. All false‐positive reactions were shown to be non‐specific or due to previous experimental sensitisation.
TREATMENT OF OVINE ANNUAL RYEGRASS TOXICITY WITH CHLORDIAZEPOXIDE
Authors: Richards I. S. , Petterson D. S. , Purcell D. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The results of pen trials indicate that sheep affected by annual ryegrass toxicity can be treated successfully with chlordiazepoxide. In the first experiment, 87% of chlordiazepoxide‐treated animals survived a lethal dose of toxic ryegrass. In the second experiment, 90% of chlordiazepoxide treated animals survived compared with a 10% recovery of control animals.
EFFECTIVENESS OF ANTHELMINTIC TREATMENTS AGAINST LEVAMISOLE‐RESISTANT OSTERTAGIA
Authors: Jambre L. F. Le
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Adult worms from a population of Ostertagia consisting of 88%O. circumcincta and 12%O. trifurcata were found to survive a double drench (14 mg/kg) of levamisole. An anthelmintic assay on this population found that against levamisole the LD50 was 11.95 mg/kg and the LD99 was 67.75 mg/kg. Three benzimidazoles were also tested against this population and the LD50 and LD99 were respectively thiabendazole 11.8 and 144.9 mg/kg, oxfendazole 0.17 and 6.10 mg/kg and albendazole 0.08 and 2.55 mg/kg. The percentage of worms killed by the recommended dose rate was levamisole 24%; thiabendazole 91%; oxfendazole 99% and albendazole 99%.
BIOLOGY AND SPECIATION OF ECHINOCOCCUS GRANULOSUS†
Authors: Thompson R. C. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The biology of Echinococcus granulosus is reviewed and attention given to recent advances in our understanding of this parasite. In particular, studies on the parasite within the definitive host, an area which has been neglected in the past, have demonstrated our lack of knowledge concerning the cytodifferentiation of the adult cestode during its development, and events which take place at the host‐parasite interface. An important aspect of the biology of the parasite is the nature of its reproductive mechanism which involves both sexual and asexual multiplication. Such a reproductive pattern is considered to be the major factor responsible for the appearance of subspecific variants of E. granulosus adapted both to domestic and wild animal life cycles.

The speciation pattern that exists within the species E. granulosus is extremely complex. Numerous subspecific variants have been described and attempts to unravel the situation taxonomically have resulted in controversy. Criteria used in the recognition of specific and subspecific varieties have all too often over emphasised morphological details, while the presence of biological differences between varieties or strains has been neglected. Recently, however, comparative studies on various strains have demonstrated the value of considering epidemiological, developmental and biochemical criteria. The significance of these criteria beyond pure taxonomic considerations is becoming increasingly evident, and future studies may help to explain differences in reproductive potential and host specificity.

In Australia, hydatid disease is of considerable economic and public health significance, yet there has been little work undertaken on the speciation of the parasite. The potential for the existence of speciation differences within Australia is greater than in some other countries, since geographical separation may act as a factor in the selection of subspecific strains. Of particular importance is whether the existence of wild‐animal cycles is dependent upon the maintenance of domestic life cycles in Australia.
HYDATIDOSIS CONTROL — A GLOBAL VIEW
Authors: Gemmell M. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A brief review has been made of some of the important advances in knowledge that have occurred in research on and control of hydatidosis (Echinococcus spp.) during the past 20 years. Included among the subjects reviewed are new information on the geographical distribution, host‐parasite relationships, socio‐cultural factors and the dynamics of transmission. A description has also been given of the factors found to be important in the setting up of control programs. These include structure, functions, priorities, surveillance and education in veterinary public health. Current options for methods of control have been described and the problems to be resolved following the change in method from ‘arecoline surveillance’ with its educational component to mass dog‐treatment programs have been discussed.
ANTHELMINTIC EFFICIENCY OF OXFENDAZOLE, FENBENDAZOLE AND LEVAMISOLE AGAINST NATURALLY ACQUIRED INFECTIONS OF OSTERTAGIA OSTERTAGI AND TRICHOSTRONGYLUS AXEI IN CATTLE
Authors: Anderson N. , Lord V.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The anthelmintic efficiencies of oxfendazole, fenbendazole and levamisole, each at 4 dose rates spanning the manufacturers' recommended dosages were compared in beef cattle with naturally acquired infections of Ostertagia ostertagiand Trichostrongylus axei.

In 8 of the 9 cases tested there was no significant increase in anthelmintic efficiency due to increased dose rates of any of the drugs. Percentage efficiencies and their standard errors, calculated from mean worm counts of pooled data for adult worms, developing 4th stage and early 4th stage larvae ofO. ostertagi, were respectively, 86.9 ± 4.2, 77.4 ± 6.1, 74.5 ± 7.3 for oxfendazole, 93.7 ± 2.0, 80.7 ± 6.8, 59.6 ± 13.9 for fenbendazole and 69.7 ± 6.9, 39.4 ‐ 14.8, 31.2 ± 22.6 for levamisole.

Counts of O. ostertagi from cattle treated with oxfendazole and fenbendazole were not significantly different, but both were significantly lower than those from cattle given levamisole. Efficiency against T. axei exceeded 99% for all drugs.

Practical implications for therapy and preventative control of ostertagiasis are discussed.
OBSERVATIONS ON SINGLE BRUCELLOSIS REACTORS IN LARGE HERDS
Authors: Trueman K. F. , Thomas Annette D. , Spinks G. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Over a 3 year period specimens were collected from single reacting cattle to the complement fixation test for brucellosis from large herds in north Queensland. Twenty‐four such reactors were destroyed for culture, and Brucella abortus was isolated on 3 occasions. The existence of such low levels of Br. abortus in large herds should not be overlooked in the eradication campaign.

Explanations were found for 17 of the single reactors, and included introduction of cattle to the herd, exposure to adjoining infected herds or vaccination with Strain 19.
AN OESOPHAGEAL DIVERTICULUM IN A DOG
Authors: Hill F.W.G. , Christie B.A. , Reynolds W.T. , Lavelle R.B.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: An 11‐month‐old male Miniature Poodle was found to regurgitate small volumes of fluid and food particles due to a diverticulum in the thoracic oesophagus. The diverticulum was removed surgically. Histologically the wall contained extensive scar tissue. Longterm recovery was uneventful and 5 months after surgery the dog is in good health.
HYPOGAMMAGLOBULINAEMIA IN FOALS: PREVALENCE ON VICTORIAN STUDS AND SIMPLE METHODS FOR DETECTION AND CORRECTION IN THE FIELD
Authors: Pemberton D. H. , Thomas K. W. , Terry M. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The prevalence of hypogammaglobulinaemia in 82 young foals was determined. Twelve foals were considered clinically abnormal at birth and ten died within two weeks. All of these foals were hypogammaglobulinaemic. Seven (10%) of the other 70 apparently normal foals were hypogammaglobulinaemic despite having suckled normally. Three of these foals developed significant disease and one died at one month of age.

Rapid detection of foals with low serum immunoglobulin levels was achieved by adapting the zinc sulphate turbidity test to partially evacuated blood collection tubes. This permitted the test to be conducted on the stud or in the veterinarian' own laboratory.

Plasma concentrated twofold by a freeze thaw technique was administered intravenously to supplement the immunoglobulin levels of two colostrum deprived foals. The simplicity of the concentration procedure eliminated the need for laboratory preparation of equine immunoglobulin.
THE EFFECT OF VARIATIONS IN THE INTERVAL BETWEEN CALVING AND FIRST SERVICE ON THE REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF NORMAL DAIRY COWS
Authors: Williamson N. B. , Quinton F. W. , Anderson G. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Reproductive records from 8 commercial dairy herds in a herd health scheme were examined to determine the effect of the calving to first service interval on breeding performance. A reduction in the first service conception rate was observed in cows bred within 60 days of calving. Early breeding did not appear to have any adverse effect on subsequent reproductive performance.

A linear relationship between days to first service and intercalving interval was demonstrated. A 1‐day reduction in the interval to first service reduced the intercalving interval by 0.86 of a day. This paper shows that a reduction in calving to service intervals to achieve annual calving produces high economic gains.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CERTAIN SKIN CHARACTERS OF SHEEP IN RESISTANCE AND SUSCEPTIBILITY TO FLEECE‐ROT AND BODY STRIKE
Authors: Watts J. E. , Nay T. , Merritt G. C. , Coyll J. R. , Griffiths D. A. , Dennis J. A.
Published: March 2008

Micro‐anatomical differences in skin structure associated with resistance and susceptibility of sheep to fleece‐rot and body strike were identified, and found to be of similar magnitude in 2 genetically divergent flocks of medium‐woolled Merino ewes. Susceptible sheep were characterised by smaller follicle groups, resulting in higher densities of follicle populations with greater concentrations of the primary follicles (and sudoriferous glands) than in the resistant sheep. From these smaller follicle groups of susceptible sheep, thicker wool fibres grew than were found in the resistant sheep.

The significance of these findings is discussed in relation to the pathogenesis of fleece‐rot and body strike of sheep, and the value of the measured skin characters as a method for identifying resistant sheep.
RETINAL DEGENERATION IN GREYHOUNDS
Authors: Slatter D. H. , Blogg J. R. , Constable I. J.
Published: March 2008

Retinal degeneration in 10 Greyhounds with clinical and ophthalmoscopic features is described, including results of electroretinography and fluorescein angiography for one affected dog. Clinical and histologic features differed from other kinds of retinal degeneration in dogs.
EVALUATION OF PROCEDURES FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OF BRUCELLA OVIS INFECTION IN RAMS
Authors: Webb R. F. , Quinn C. A. , Cockram F. A. , Husband A. J.
Published: March 2008

Procedures for the diagnosis of Br. ovis infection in rams were evaluated by examining 10 rams artificially infected by preputial inoculation. Observations were undertaken at weekly intervals for 1 year to follow changes in clinical, bacteriological and serological findings. Clinical lesions were detected in 1 ram 3 weeks after inoculation and in all rams by 8 weeks; lesions were undetectable in 3 rams at the completion of the trial. The presence of inflammatory cells in semen samples was the earliest indication of infection being demonstrated in 2 rams at 2 weeks and in all rams by 8 weeks; subsequently 86% of samples were positive. Br. ovis was detected in semen smears from 3 rams at 4 weeks but only once in all rams (at 27 weeks); overall 52% of semen smears were positive from 4 weeks onwards. Br. ovis was cultured from semen of 5 rams after 4 weeks and from all rams at 5 weeks; thereafter 97% of samples were positive. All rams developed significant titres to the CFT between 2 and 9 weeks; thereafter the CFT was a reliable indication of infection in 6 rams, highly suggestive in 3 and unreliable in one. By 8–10 weeks all rams developed significant titres to the IHA which were then maintained in all rams for the remainder of the trial.
AFLATOXIN CONTAMINATION OF AUSTRALIAN ANIMAL FEEDS AND SUSPECTED CASES OF MYCOTOXICOSIS
Authors: Bryden W. L. , Lloyd A. B. , Cumming R. B.
Published: March 2008

Aflatoxin B1 was detected in 23 of 55 Australian feedstuffs known to be either water damaged or visibly mouldy. The highest contamination was 0.7 mg/kg of feed and the mean concentration 0.14 mg/kg. Of 36 feedstuffs purchased from local manufacturers, only a peanut meal contained aflatoxin B1 (0.5 mg/kg).

Eleven feedstuffs were associated with field outbreaks of animal disease and 7 of these contained aflatoxin. However, the level of aflatoxin contamination was insufficient to account for the described disease symptoms.
MELIOIDOSIS IN A GALAH (CACATUA ROSEICAPILLA)
Authors: Thomas A. D. , Norton J. H. , Pott B. W.
Published: March 2008

A second case of a natural infection of melioidosis in a native bird is described. Pseudomonas pseudomallei was isolated in pure culture from the liver, spleen and intestinal contents of a galah (Cacatua roseicapilla). The case was characterised by focal granuloma formation, often associated with necrosis, in the brain, lungs, liver, spleen and kidneys.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF EXPERIMENTAL ANAPLASMOSIS IN BOS INDICUS AND BOS TAURUS CATTLE
Authors: Otim C. , Wilson A. J. , Campbell R. S. F.
Published: March 2008

Comparative studies were carried out on the susceptibility of 8 Bos taurus and 10 predominantly Bos indicus cross cows aged 48 months to Anaplasma marginale infection. Measurements were carried out on bodyweight, parasitaemia, haematological factors, humoral antibody response and serum transaminase levels. Except for minor differences in reaction Bos indicus and Bos taurus animals were equally susceptible to infection with the strain of A. marginale employed. Such differences observed were not significant.
PERITONITIS IN HORSES ASSOCIATED WITH ACTINOBACILLUS EQUULI
Authors: Gay C. C. , Lording P. M.
Published: March 2008

Actinobacillus equuli was the cause of peritonitis in 5 horses. In 3 the onset was sudden with intestinal stasis and acute abdominal pain as predominant findings. Two others presented with chronic disease and weight loss. Characteristically the peritoneal fluid had a high nucleated cell count with non‐degenerate neutrophils as the predominant cell type. Four horses were treated and recovered.
ASSESSMENT OF VAGINAL IMPEDANCE MEASUREMENTS AS AN INDICATOR OF OESTRUS IN CATTLE
Authors: Carter P. D. , Dufty J. H.
Published: March 2008

A study was made in cattle of the variation of vaginal impedance with respect to the placement of probe, time after insertion, and stages of the oestrous cycle. Impedance values were lowest and least variable when determined in the ventral sector of the vaginal fornix. Allowing the probe time to warm up improved results.

Vaginal impedance declined by approximately 30% during pro‐oestrus, oestrus and metoestrus when compared with dioestrus. The time at which the lowest values were reached varied between animals, in 2 cases being a day before oestrus, in another 2 on the day of oestrus, and for 1, the day after oestrus. The method described was not suitable for determining the peak of behavioural oestrus.
FASCIOLIASIS IN DAIRY COWS ON IRRIGATED PASTURE
Authors: McCausland I. , Vandegraaff R. , Nugent L.
Published: March 2008

The prevalence and severity of fascioliasis was studied in 87 dairy cows from 36 irrigated farms in Victoria. Evidence of Fasciola hepatica infection was found in 85 (98%) cows representing all but one of the herds. The mean fluke burden (7 ± 6) in cows treated with anthelmintics at drying off was lower (p < 0.05) than in untreated cows (24 ± 7). Haemoglobin levels in untreated cows (9.6 ± 0.4) were higher (p < 0.05) than values obtained from treated animals (8.2 ± 0.3). Severity of bile duct wall thickness and hepatic fibrosis was similar in both groups. None of the measured parameters was affected by the age of the cow. Although fascioliasis was prevalent in these cattle the level of infection was low.
TOXIC EFFECTS OF LARGE AMOUNTS OF DL‐METHIONINE INFUSED INTO THE RUMEN OF SHEEP
Authors: Doyle P. T. , Adams N. R.
Published: March 2008

Four Merino wethers were fed ad libitum on a roughage diet comprised of equal parts of chopped lucerne hay and oaten chaff. The sheep received continuous infusions of DL‐methionine into the rumen; the daily dose increasing from 0 g (control treatment) up to 30 g in 3 g amounts at weekly intervals.

Dry matter intake (DMI) fell below the control level when 24 g/day of more of the amino acid was infused, while plasma free methionine levels increased substantially when 30 g/day was given.

There was no effect of DL‐methionine supplementation on the bodyweight of the animals. However, when 30 g/day of DL‐methionine was infused one animal died and the acute condition of 2 others necessitated their slaughter. Significant lesions included acute nephrosis and haemolytic anaemia, with milder changes in the liver and pancreas.

This report indicates that sheep are unlikely to show the kind of chronic methionine toxicity seen in other species.
INEXPENSIVE TECHNIQUES FOR THE PRODUCTION AND MAINTENANCE OF GNOTOBIOTIC PIGLETS, CALVES AND LAMBS
Authors: Makin T. J. , Tzipori S.
Published: March 2008

An inexpensive system was developed for the routine derivation and maintenance of gnotobiotic piglets, calves and lambs. Isolator chambers to house these animals were welded in the laboratory from flexible, clear polyvinylchloride film. The isolators consisted of either a simple, closed cylindrical chamber, or for the larger animals, a fibreglass‐reinforced plastic (FRP) tub surmounted by a flexible film canopy. The isolators were adaptable for a variety of purposes and most components were interchangeable between isolators. The assembled isolators were sterilised with peracetic acid.

Over 300 gnotobiotic piglets, 29 gnotobiotic calves and 18 gnotobiotic or specific pathogen free lambs have been reared successfully by these techniques. Six colostrum deprived foals and a litter of conventional puppies have been successfully maintained in microbial isolation in these isolators. The FRP tub base isolators also proved suitable for housing gnotobiotic weaner piglets. No viral or bacterial cross contamination was detected between isolators housing experimentally infected animals.