bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An immunodiffusion method for the identification of the species of origin of meat samples
Authors: SWART K. S. , WILKS C. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The agar gel diffusion method employing suitable antiserums has been used as a convenient method for identifying species of origin of meat samples. The method can detect contamination of one species by another species at a level of between 5 to 20% depending on the sensitivity of the particular antiserum used and the species being tested, and provides a result within 24 hours.
Studies on a vaccine against infectious bursal disease
Authors: REECE R. L. , GOULD J. A. , HINDMARSH M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY An infectious bursal disease vaccine, registered for use in breeder flocks, was studied for efficacy on the day‐old offspring of vaccinated hens and for virulence in susceptible day‐old and 6‐week‐old chickens. When given to susceptible day‐old chicks and 6‐week‐old cockerels, the vaccine was found to induce atrophy and pathology of the bursa of Fabricius similar to that observed in field infections. Chicks vaccinated at day‐old had markedly lowered titres in the haemagglutination inhibition test to Newcastle disease virus, when this was given 2 weeks later, but the response of the 6‐week‐old cockerel was similar to that of control birds. Maternal antibody induced by the vaccine protected chicks against infection at day‐old.
Haemobartonellosis in a dog
Authors: MIDDLETON D. J. , MOORE A. S. , MEDHURST C. L.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Haemobartonella canis was identified in the peripheral blood of a splenectomised dog with a regenerative anaemia. Treatment with tetracycline and prednisolone led to remission of the parasitaemia and increase in the packed cell volume. Mild parasitaemia was again observed when the dog was clinically normal.
A survey of granulomatous and neoplastic diseases of equine skin in north Queensland
Authors: MILLER S. I. , CAMPBELL R. S. F.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A survey of granulomatous and neoplastic diseases of the skin of horses of tropical north Queensland was carried out during the period 1970–1980. Of 338 horses affected, 46.4% suffered from equine fibrosarcoma (sarcoid), 30.2% from phycomycosis, 7.4% from squamous cell carcinoma, 6.8% from other tumours, 4.7% from cutaneous habronemiasis and 4.4% from exuberant granulation tissue.

Most specimens were submitted during the first half of the year after the wet monsoonal season and significantly more diseases originated during the first quarter. There were minor variations with breed, age and sex susceptibility between each disease group. Most lesions were found on the legs and head although other parts of the body were also affected. The size and anatomical distribution of lesions varied with each disease.

When the results of this survey were compared with reports from southern Queensland as well as from Florida and the United Kingdom, major differences between localities were observed. Some reasons for these differences are discussed.
Serological survey of the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in rams in sheep flocks in New South Wales
Authors: PLANT J. W. , FREEMAN P. , SAUNDERS E.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Serum samples from 5724 rams on 534 farms in New South Wales were tested in the indirect fluorescent antibody test for toxoplasmosis. Nine per cent of rams had titres of 64 or higher and 41% of flocks had either one or more rams with a titre of 64 or higher. There were significant differences in the geographical distribution of infected flocks, ranging from 57.8% of flocks infected on the tablelands to 41% on the slopes and 22.4% on the plains. There were significantly more infected commercial flocks (47.5%) than stud flocks (32.9%). The results indicated that the prevalence of infection was influenced by management, with a higher prevalence of infection in flocks kept under an intensive or semi‐intensive system of management.
Bovine nasal granuloma: nasal eosinophilia
Authors: CARBONELL P. L. , MULLER H. K.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A prospective study of nasal eosinophil counts was made in Jersey and Friesian dairy cattle at Leongatha, and of Hereford, Aberdeen Angus and Shorthorn cattle at Kilmore, Victoria. Mean nasal eosinophil counts in subgroups of cattle were found to correlate with the known susceptability, of Jerseys and Friesians to develop bovine nasal granuloma, and to reflect the known seasonal activity of the disease, thus confirming the validity of nasal eosinophil counts as an index of clinical activity of nasal granuloma. Peaks in mean nasal eosinophil counts in cattle which developed lesions of bovine nasal granuloma during study correlated with periods of warm moist environmental conditions. This finding suggests microbial spores may be the allergen(s) in bovine nasal granuloma, and indicates that the allergen(s) might be identified by simultaneously monitoring the pasture particle content and assessing nasal eosinophilia in cattle with the disease. The detection of nasal eosinophila in some cattle by 6 to 9 months of age also suggests early sensitisation to allergen(s); if the allergen(s) were identified they might be used to detect cattle prone to nasal granuloma at this early age. Early detection of predisposed animals would open the possibility of control of the disease by genetic selection.
Serological studies of babesiosis and anaplasmosis of cattle
Authors: KUDAMBA C. , CAMPBELL R. S. F. , PAULL N. I. , HOLROYD R. G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Bos indicus‐crossbred calves exposed to natural Babesia bovis infection in wet and dry tropical environments in northern Queensland were tested for antibodies using the indirect haemagglutination (IHA) test. There was evidence of maternal antibodies suggesting endemicity of B. bovis in the 2 environments. Within one year 35.3 to 94.6% of the calves had acquired B. bovis infection. The highest titres and most rapid conversion rates were observed just after the wet season when the tick population was at its peak. Clinical disease was not observed.
CGA‐72662—A new sheep blowfly insecticide
Authors: HART R. J. , CAVEY W. A. , RYAN K. J. , STRONG M. B. , MOORE B. , THOMAS P. L. , BORAY J. C. , von ORELLI M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The efficiency of 2‐cyclopropylamino‐4, 6‐diamino‐s‐triazine CGA‐72662 (proposed common name: cyromazine) for the control of blowfly strike was tested in fly cage and field trials on sheep. The safety to sheep and physico‐chemical properties of the compound as they relate to blowfly control were also assessed.
Pyruvate kinase deficiency anaemia in a Basenji dog
Authors: BURMAN S. L. , FERRARA L. , MEDHURST C. L. , WATSON A. D. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Pyruvate kinase deficiency anaemia was suspected in an 18‐month‐old male Basenji dog after other known causes of canine haemolytic anaemia had been excluded. Anaemia of moderate severity (packed cell volumes 0.20 to 0.26 1/1) and reticulocytosis (uncorrected reticulocyte counts 8 to 43%) persisted during 5 months' observation, and biopsies showed development of bone marrow fibrosis and sclerosis. The diagnosis of pyruvate kinase deficiency anaemia was presumptive because erythrocyte pyruvate kinase concentrations in the affected dog were inconclusive and related animals were not available for enzyme assay. However, the gene for pyruvate kinase deficiency is known to occur among Basenji dogs in Australia.
Oxalate poisoning in a koala (Phascolarctos cinereus)
Authors: CANFIELD P. J. , DICKENS R. K.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A case of suspected acute oxalate poisoning is reported in an aged male koala. The animal had extensive renal oxalosis and a haemorrhagic bladder wall when autopsied. The source of the oxalate was not detected.
A study of cattle infected with Brucella abortus and which showed aberrant serological reactions
Authors: SUTHERLAND S. S. , Le CRAS D. V. , ROBERTSON A. G.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Sixty cows, 48 of which had been vaccinated with live Brucella abortus strain 19 (S19) or with killed B. abortus strain 45/20 (S45/20) and 12 of which were unvaccinated animals, were challenged with B. abortus strain 544. Ten of the 27 cattle found to be infected after challenge showed aberrant serological reactions to the Rose Bengal Plate test, serum agglutination test and/or complement fixation test. These 10 cattle were all previously vaccinated with S19 or S45/20. It was concluded that infection in cattle vaccinated with S19 or S45/20 may be more difficult to detect than infection in animals that have no history of vaccination.
Hypotension in the horse induced by acepromazine maleate
Authors: PARRY B. W. , ANDERSON G. A. , GAY C. C.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The hypotensive effect of acepromazine maleate was related to both the dose and route of administration. The degree and duration of hypotension varied between individual horses. In general, intravenous administration produced a more rapid maximum effect than intramuscular injection and the larger the dose the longer blood pressure remained at low levels. Average systolic pressure (of 6 horses) remained significantly below control values for more than 6 h after an intramuscular injection of 0.05 mg acepromazine maleate/kg body weight.
Copper storage disease with intravascular haemolysis in a Bedlington terrier
Authors: WATSON A. D. J. , MIDDLETON D. J. , ILKIW J. E.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A 5‐year‐old male Bedlington terrier was found to have haemogloblnuria from intravascular haemolysis. The owners reported also recent vomiting, occasional diarrhoea, reduced activity and increased drinking and urination. A diagnosis of inherited copper storage disease, as previously described in this breed, was established by demonstrating characteristic light and electron microscopic changes and copper content of 7, 717 pg/g in biopsied liver. Treatment by chelation with d‐penicillamine and a low copper diet was instituted and the dog remains well 10 months later. Intravascular haemolysis is rare in dogs and an uncommon finding in Bedlington terriers with copper storage disease.
The economics of cattle tick control in dry tropical Australia
Authors: SING N. C. , JOHNSTON L. A. Y. , LEATCH G.
Published: March 2008

The economics of strategic dipping compared to nil treatment of cattle ticks (Boophilus microplus) on Droughtmaster cattle was assessed using a partial budget analysis. The analysis was based on reported experimental data which showed a bodyweight gain advantage from strategic dipping of 45 kg/head for growing cattle and 35 kg/head for breeding cows. Costs of dipping were calculated using 3 acaricide costs, that is 5.9¢, 20.9¢ and 62.7¢ per head and allowances were made for mustering, maintenance of facilities and annual cost of asset purchase under an intensive farm management system similar to the reported experimental conditions. The net gain of benefits over costs per annum for each acaricide cost was $927, $810 and $483 per 100 breeders and their progeny. Breakeven beef prices at which it was worth dipping were found to be 61¢, 69¢ and 94¢ per kg dressed weight depending on the cost of acaricide used for dipping. All prices and costs are expressed in 1981 dollars of purchasing power.
The efficacy of some acarieides against screw‐worm fly larvae
Authors: SPRADBERY J. P. , TOZER R. S. , POUND A. A.
Published: March 2008

Thirteen acarieides used for control of cattle tick in Queensland were evaluated for their potential in the chemical control of the screw‐worm fly, Chrysomya bezziana. Laboratory evaluations and in vivo tests using artificially infested cattle were made in Papua New Guinea. Most of the acarieides caused some mortality of screw‐worm larvae in infested cattle and in laboratory tests. Acarieides of the organophosphorous, carbamate and organophosphorous/synthetic pyrethroid groups showed reasonable activity against screw‐worm fly, but the amidines were less effective.
The effect of Tritrichomonas foetus infection on calving rates in beef cattle
Authors: CLARK B. L. , DUFTY J. H. , PARSONSON I. M.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY The effect of Tritrichomonas foetus var. brisbane infection on calf production by Hereford cows was determined. The mean number of calves produced by cows that were kept continuously with bulls infected with T. foetus for 3 years was 17.6% less than the mean number produced by cows kept with a non‐infected bull. Losses in production due to trichomoniasis occurred each year, but were greatest in the first 2 years in cows experiencing infection for the first time.
Factors predisposing dairy and beef cows to grass tetany
Authors: HARRIS D. J. , LAMBELL R. G. , OLIVER C. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY In a study of dairy and beef herds on 120 farms in south‐western Victoria, losses attributed to grass tetany were shown to have been an important cause of economic loss during the cooler months of 1980.

Thin dairy cows had a higher incidence of suspected grass tetany than dairy cows in moderate body condition, and both thin and fat beef cows had a higher incidence than beef cows in moderate body condition. A lower incidence was found among dairy cows when the available pasture or hay contained a high percentage of clover, when cows in moderate body condition had been grazed on pastures topdressed with low rates of potassium fertilisers, and when cows had been rotated onto fresh pasture at least daily rather than at 2 or 3 day intervals. The incidence among dairy cows was also associated with the length of available pasture, the correlation being positive for cows of moderate body condition, but negative for thin cows. Possible reasons for the associations are discussed.

Only a small proportion of farmers adopted measures to prevent grass tetany, and those who did often applied them inefficiently. Practicable control measures are suggested on the basis of the survey results. Aust. vet. J. 60: 230–234
Idiopathic neurogenic diabetes insipidus in a cat
Authors: COURT M. H. , WATSON A. D. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A 5‐year‐old, domestic long‐haired cat was presented for examination because of polydipsia, polyuria and inappropriate urination of 3 months' duration. Neurogenic diabetes insipidus was diagnosed, based on hyposthenuria with failure to concentrate urine in response to water deprivation and positive response to antidiuretic hormone administration. Treatment with hydrochlorothiazide or chlorpropamide orally gave inadequate antidiuresis, but response to injections of vasopressin tannate in oil was sufficient for satisfactory management.
Comparison of different antigenic preparations for the detection of ovine serum antibodies against Brucella ovis by ELISA
Authors: CHIN J. C.
Published: March 2008

An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay has been developed for the detection of antibodies against Brucella ovis using serum from control rams (Con‐S), naturally infected rams (Inf‐S), rams inoculated intravenously with B. ovis(IV‐S) and rams vaccinated intramuscularly (IM‐S). The serum was titrated by serial double dilutions from 1/25 to 1/25,600 against whole bacteria, B. ovis lipopolysaccharide and a detergent‐extracted component of the outer membrane complex of B. ovis as antigens immobilised on microtitre plates. Sheep antibodies bound to antigen were assayed with rabbit anti‐sheep gammaglobulin and alkaline phosphatase conjugated protein A. A high level of antibody activity against intact B. ovis cells was detected in Inf‐S and IM‐S. When lipopolysaccharide was the immobilised antigen, only IM‐S yielded significant antibody activity. The component from detergent extracts of the outer membrane complex of B. ovis reacted best with serum (up to 1/6,400) from field‐infected rams, while serum from vaccinated and intravenously inoculated rams registered significant titres up to a serum dilution of 1/800 and 1/200 respectively. These results indicate that ELISA is a very sensitive test but its value as a serodiagnostic procedure is dependent upon the choice of antigen used in the assay.
Johne's disease in sheep
Authors: SEAMAN J. T. , THOMPSON D. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Johne's disease was identified in sheep flocks on 6 farms in one area of the central tablelands of New South Wales. The sources of infection were not determined and no common source of all infections was identified. The disease was not diagnosed in cattle that were run on 4 of the farms.
Cestrum parqui (green cestrum) poisoning in cattle
Authors: McLENNAN M. W. , KELLY W. R.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Naturally occurring cases of poisoning of cattle by Cestrum parqui were characterised by ataxia, depression, recumbency, convulsions and death. Three cattle were dosed experimentally by intrarumenal administration of fresh plant material. One calf died 48 h after receiving 30 g (wet weight) of plant /kg body weight. Doses of 11 and 17 g/kg caused only mild intoxication, with dullness and anorexia lasting 2 days. In natural and experimental cases the main lesion was hepatic periacinar necrosis. Elevated levels of plasma aspartate transaminase and prolonged prothrombin times were demonstrated in experimental cases. Haemorrhage beneath the serosa and into the intestinal lumen occurred in field cases, but not in the experimental. It is concluded that C. parqui poisoning in cattle is a primary hepatotoxicity.
Eperythrozoon ovis and copper poisoning as causes of jaundice in lamb carcases
Authors: ARCHER J. F. , LITTLEJOHNS I. R.
Published: March 2008

A total of 126 lamb carcases, of which 80 were jaundiced and 46 were grossly normal at routine meat inspection, were examined. Two specific diseases were demonstrated to be associated with jaundiced carcases. Eperythrozoon infection was demonstrated in 65% of jaundiced, and 12% of non‐jaundiced carcases from jaundice‐affected lots, but not in 5 normal carcases from unaffected killing lots. Copper poisoning was demonstrated in 2 of the jaundiced carcases. Infection with Eperythrozoon ovis was therefore the condition most commonly associated with, and presumably the major cause of jaundice in these lamb carcases. Copper poisoning was a less common cause of jaundice.
Viruses and virus‐like particles in the faeces of dogs with and without diarrhoea
Authors: MARSHALL J. A. , HEALEY D. S. , STUDDERT M. J. , SCOTT P. C. , KENNETT M. L. , WARD B. K. , GUST I. D.
Published: March 2008

Negative staining electron microscopy was used to identify viruses in 157 normal and 29 diarrhoeal faecal samples collected from 156 dogs admitted to an animal shelter during an 8 month period (March to October) in 1982. Seven distinct viral types were detected: 21–26 nm parvovirus‐like particles, 28–31 nm astrovirus‐like particles, a previously undescribed 34–35 nm ‘round’ virus particle, coronavirus, coronavirus‐like particles (CVLP), rotavirus and papova‐like virus. Parvovirus‐like particles alone were detected in 14 diarrhoeal and 50 normal faeces, astrovirus‐like particles in 3 normal faeces, “round” viruses in 4 normal faeces, coronavirus in 2 diarhoeal and 5 normal faeces, CVLP in one diarrhoeal and one normal faeces, rotavirus in 2 normal faeces, papova‐like virus in one normal faeces, both parvovirus‐like particles and coronavirus in 2 diarrhoeal and 2 normal faeces, parvovirus‐like particles and rotavirus in one normal faeces and parvovirus‐like and papova‐like virus in one normal faeces. The significance of these findings in canine and human disease is discussed.
Duration of excretion of virulent Newcastle disease virus following challenge of chickens with different titres of serum antibody to the virus
Authors: WESTBURY H. A. , PARSONS G. , ALLAN W. H.
Published: March 2008

Virulent Newcastle disease virus (NDV) was isolated from susceptible and immune chickens following intra‐ocular challenge with the Essex 70 strain.

Challenge virus was isolated from the trachea and cloaca of susceptible birds until they died 7 to 9 days after challenge. This virus was isolated from immunised chickens for up to 14 days after challenge. The duration of excretion was influenced by the pre‐challenge serum antibody titre to NDV. It persisted longest in chickens with titres of 23 to 27 and decreased in length and frequency from chickens with titres in the range 23 to 212. Chickens with pre‐challenge titres of 23 to 25 developed 2 to 3 fold increases in post‐challenge titres, whereas those with higher pre‐challenge titres had smaller proportional increases in titre. Excretion of virulent virus from immunised birds should be considered in the development of Newcastle disease control programs. Aust. vet. J.61: 44–46
Observations on the use of glyceryl guaiacolate as an adjunct to general anaesthesia in horses
Authors: KALHORO A. B. , REX M. A. E.
Published: March 2008

Twenty‐one horses undergoing clinical surgery and diagnostic procedures received 15% glyceryl guaiacolate followed by a rapid intravenous injection of a thiobarbiturate for induction of anaesthesia. Premedication was with atropine and acepromazine. Induction was smooth and free from problems apart from transient apnoea in some horses. Maintenance of anaesthesia was with oxygen and halothane administered by means of a closed circle system with soda‐lime absorber and with the vaporiser out of circuit. During the period immediately following induction, the heart rate increased and the respiratory rate fell. Blood gas estimations were carried out on 6 horses during anaesthesia. These horses showed respiratory acidosis. Arterial blood oxygen tension values were above those reported in conscious horses. Use of glyceryl guaiacolate in this way provides a safe induction and enables transition to a stable maintenance period which is followed by a quiet and uneventful recovery.
Primary polycythaemia in a dog
Authors: WATSON A. D. J. , YEATS J. A.
Published: March 2008

A 7‐year‐old, crossbred, desexed bitch had a fluctuating illness of more than 6 months duration, with signs of inappetence, reduced exercise tolerance, restlessness, panting, black diarrhoea, and red eyes and ears. Haematological examination disclosed persistent polycythaemia, reticulocytosis, normoblastaemia, and normal total plasma protein concentration when not dehydrated. Splenomegaly was present, but there was no evidence of significant pulmonary, cardiac or renal disease on physical, radiographic or electrocardiographic examination. Further investigations revealed normal arterial Po2 and oxygen saturation, and increased total erythrocyte volume. Primary polycythaemia was diagnosed. The dog was rendered anaemic by bleeding, then treated with a single injection of radioactive phosphorus. The patient has had no recurrence of signs and remains well 50 months later.
Effects of feeding lupin seed naturally infected with Phomopsis leptostromiformis to sheep and pigs
Authors: ALLEN J. G. , DOLLING M. J. , ELLIS T. M. , MASTERS H. G. , PAYNE H. G. , SMITH G. , WOOD P. McR.
Published: March 2008

Lupin seed, 10% of which was naturally infected with Phomopsis leptostromiformis was obtained from 2 different sources and stored either conventionally, or in a warm and humid environment, for 45 weeks. Only very low levels of toxicity were apparent during the storage period and in the warm, humid environment the level of infection of P. leptostromiformis was gradually reduced and eventually eliminated.

The 2 batches of infected seed, and non‐infected lupin seed, were fed to sheep as sole rations for 40 weeks, or as part of feedlot rations for 10 weeks, and to baconer pigs as part of grower and finisher rations for 16 weeks. In the 40‐week feeding trial mild lupinosis developed in sheep fed from one batch of infected seed, but there was no evidence of lupinosis in sheep fed the feedlot rations, or pigs fed the grower and finisher rations.

It is suggested that lupin seed with levels of Phomopsis‐infection of up to 10% could be safely fed to sheep and pigs under commercial conditions.
Gastric retention associated with a pyloric mass in two horses
Authors: McGILL C. A. , BOLTON J. R.
Published: March 2008

Partial pyloric obstruction causing gastric retention is described in 2 young female horses. Gastric retention was confirmed by contrast radiography of the upper gastrointestinal tract. In both horses a large mass was palpated in the wall of the pyloric antrum at exploratory laparotomy. Post‐mortem examination of the first case confirmed that this mass was associated with chronic gastric ulceration. Gastric ulceration was not confirmed in the second case but this horse recovered after the pylorus and duodenum were bypassed by gastro‐jejunostomy.
The effect of Escherichia coli endotoxin and culture filtrate on the lactating bovine mammary gland
Authors: FROST A. J. , BROOKER B. E. , HILL A. W.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The pathogenesis of conform mastitis was studied by observing pathological changes in lactating glands after infusion of either endotoxin or the sterile culture filtrate (CCF) of the medium in which Escherichia coli strain B117 had been grown. Both infusions produced a rapid and intense inflammatory response by 4 h with a marked increase of serum proteins in the milk. Before dispersing into the milk, neutrophils were attached to the ductular epithelium; highest cell counts in the milk were recorded when the tissue reaction had waned. Oedema of the ductular epithelium occurred, particularly where neutrophils were actively migrating. The infusion of CCF produced, in addition to inflammation, degeneration and necrosis of ductular cells. The smallest lesions healed very rapidly. There was evidence of differing cell susceptibility to the necrotising toxin as well as uneven distribution over the epithelial surface. All changes observed were confined to the regions of the teat and lactiferous sinuses with little effect on the secreting tissue. The role of the necrotising toxin in the natural disease remains undetermined.
The resistance to chemotherapeutic agents of Escherichia coli from domestic dogs and cats
Authors: MOSS S. , FROST A. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The prevalence of antibiotic resistant Escherichia coli in the rectal flora of 168 healthy dogs and 93 cats in the Brisbane area was investigated. Rectal swabs were plated on MacConkey agar with and without antibiotics, and 690 isolates confirmed as faecal E. coli were tested for resistance to tetracycline, streptomycin, chloramphenicol, ampicillin, neomycin, furazolidone and sulphanilamide. Resistant isolates were obtained from 101 (60%) of the dogs and 24 (26%) of the cats sampled. A high percentage of the isolates was resistant to tetracycline, streptomycin, ampicillin and sulphanilamide. Multiple resistance to 3 or more of the drugs was exhibited by the majority of isolates and a total of 31 different multiple resistance patterns was demonstrated. Of the 50 strains tested for transfer of resistance, 30 (60%) transferred some or all of their resistance determinants to an E. coli K12F‐ recipient.
Anthelmintic resistance and sheep management practices in south western Victoria
Authors: RIFFKIN G. G. , CALLINAN A. P. L. , FREEMANTLE A. M. , WESTCOTT J. M. , NAPTHINE D. V. , O'CONNOR A. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Twenty‐eight farms in 7 shires in south western Victoria were selected and tested for presence of benzimidazole‐resistant nematodes between November 1979 and June 1981. Mean faecal egg counts of sheep were <100 strongyloid eggs/g on 11 farms. Faecal egg count reduction tests were conducted on the remaining 17 farms and thiabendazole was <90% efficient in reducing egg counts in sheep from 5 (29%) of these farms. Thiabendazole‐resistant Teladorsagia circumcincta were identified at necropsy of experimentally infected treated sheep.

In further studies a survey of 104 farms was conducted in the Mount Rouse and Dundas shires of western Victoria in 1981 and 1982 respectively to determine the prevalence of anthelmintic resistance in these shires.

Mean faecal egg counts among weaner sheep in the winter‐spring of both years were <100 eggs/g which indicated low levels of parasitic nematode populations. A faecal egg count reduction test was conducted on 10 farms and thiabendazole was <90% efficient on 3; levamisole was >90% efficient in all 10 tests.

Most of the surveyed farms carried Merino or Merino crossbred sheep at 10 to 15 dry sheep equivalents per ha and weaners were treated with anthelmintics 3 to 6 times per year. Management procedures based mainly on anthelmintic therapy were effective in controlling nematode populations in weaner sheep, although many producers alternated between different groups of anthelmintics within the same year contrary to current recommendations for long‐term preservation of anthelmintic efficacy. It was concluded that anthelmintic resistance was not of practical importance to the majority of sheep producers in the region.
Serological classification of Australian isolates of Haemophilus paragallinarum
Authors: THORNTON A. M. , BLACKALL P. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Thirty‐nine Australian isolates of Haemophilus paragallinarum were compared serologically with 3 reference serotype strains of H. paragallinarum using a plate agglutination test. Twenty‐eight of the isolates were serotype C., 5 were serotype A, while the remaining 6 isolates could not be assigned to a serotype.
Immunogenic properties of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae administered separately and in combination to lactating cows
Authors: OPDEBEECK J. P. , NORCROSS N. L.
Published: March 2008

Composite bacterins of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus agalactiae, or either bacterin alone, were administered systemically to groups of lactating cows. The response to each bacterin was unaffected by the simultaneous administration of the antigens when assessed by comparing the antibody levels in milk by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. There was no evidence of cross reactivity of the antigens studied, nor immunopotentiation by either bacteria.
Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia in dogs
Authors: MILLS J. N. , DAY M. J. , SHAW S. E. , PENHALE W. J.
Published: March 2008

The clinical, haematological and immunological findings in 24 dogs with Coombs' positive haemolytic anaemia are described; 33% were Old English Sheepdogs. Dogs with intravascular haemolysis had a shorter history of illnesses, more severe clinical signs including vomiting, jaundice and fever, and had a poor survival rate compared to dogs with extravascular haemolysis. The anaemia was severe and regenerative in 18 dogs, and was characterised by spherocytosis and microscopic red cell agglutination, with leukocytosis.

Serum IgG levels were elevated in 20 dogs, and changes in IgM, IgA, C3 and C4 were found. Antinuclear antibody was also demonstrated in 13 dogs, of which 7 were Old English Sheepdogs. It is suggested that a distinct multisystem autoimmune syndrome exists within the local Old English Sheepdog population.
Pregnancy rate of cows given synthetic gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone at the time of service
Authors: ANDERSON G. A. , MALMO J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A trial involving 25 herds was conducted in the Maffra area of Victoria to study pregnancy rates after injection of synthetic Gn‐RH at service. Of 3502 cows having a first service, 674 cows were injected by the farmer at first service with a single intramuscular injection of 250μg of synthetic Gn‐RH, while the remaining 2828 cows acted as untreated controls. First service pregnancy rates were 58.8% in the group treated with Gn‐RH and 54.1% in the untreated group, a 4.7% increase or an odds ratio of 1.21 (P<0.05). However, adjustment for the potentially confounding variables calving to first service interval and herd reduced the odds ratio to 1.07 (P>0.4). Treatment with Gn‐RH at second or third service did not alter pregnancy rate to that service compared to untreated services. There was no interaction of treatment with Gn‐RH at first service with calving to service interval. It is concluded that injection of 250 μg of synthetic Gn‐RH at the time of service does not increase pregnancy rate to that service.
Echinococcus granulosus in farm dogs and dingoes in south eastern Queensland
Authors: BALDOCK F. C. , THOMPSON R. C. A. , KUMARATILAKE L. M. , SHIELD J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Twenty‐nine farms with a prevalence of >20% of hydatidosis in cattle were visited in south eastern Queensland between August and December 1982. All farms carried beef cattle but none sheep. Twenty‐four had dingoes and wallabies but only 8 had feral pigs. On 17 farms either macropods were killed for dog food or dogs were suspected of hunting macropods or scavenging their carcases. Purge samples were collected from 45 dogs from 23 of the 29 farms visited. The Australian sylvatic strain of Echinococcus granulosus was found in low numbers in purged intestinal content from one dog from each of 2 farms. Also, 50 intestinal tracts from dingoes from southern Queensland were examined between October 1981 and November 1983. The sylvatic strain of E. granulosus was found in 36 dingoes, the Australian mainland domestic strain in 4, and a further 5 dingoes were infected but the strain was not identified. This work indicates that domestic dogs are probably not important definitive hosts for E. granulosus in south eastern Queensland but could be an occasional source of infection for man. Dingoes are the major definitive host and worm numbers can be very high. Small foci of the domestic strain of E. granulosus may be maintained in a cycle involving dingoes, macropods and possibly feral pigs in cattle raising areas of coastal Queensland.
Deaths in Australian freshwater fishes associated with Chilodonella hexasticha infection
Authors: LANGDON J. S. , GUDKOVS N. , HUMPHREY J. D. , SAXON E. C.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: The cause of the deaths of bony bream and other native fish in the Finke River near Alice Springs in winter 1984 was infection with the protozoan ciliate Chilodonella hexasticha. The parasites induced severe generalised epithelial hyperplasia in the gills, which would have compromised respiratory exchange and killed the fish through hypoxaemia. It is suggested that similar winter epizootics of ectoparasites have contributed to previous deaths of fish observed in the Finke River, in association with dry season conditions of low water temperatures and flow rates.
Fucosidosis in an English Springer Spaniel presenting as a malabsorption syndrome
Authors: FRIEND S. C. E. , BARR S. C. , EMBURY D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A case of α‐fucosidosis in a 2‐year‐old male English Springer Spaniel presented as a malabsorption syndrome without any clinical neurological abnormalities. The dog had a history of chronic weight loss, diarrhoea, mild anaemia, hypoproteinemia and reduced jejunal absorption of D‐xylose. A diagnosis of fucosidosis with intestinal malabsorption was based on these findings, markedly reduced plasma fucosidase levels and the diffuse infiltration of the lamina propria and submucosa of the stomach, small intestine, Peyer's patches and mesenteric lymph nodes by macrophages with finely vacuolated cytoplasm. Cytoplasmic vacuolation was also a feature of cells of the pancreas, thryroid, parathyroid and adenohypophysis and the epithelia lining respiratory airways and the urogenital tract. Neurons of the autonomic plexuses of the gastrointestinal tract and the urinary bladder as well as those of the brain, spinal cord, spinal ganglia and retina were also vacuolated. The profound decrease in α‐fucosidase activity in the brain, liver and kidney was accompanied by a marked increase in 6 other lysosomal enzymes, especially β‐n‐acetyl glucosaminidase.
Specific antibody responses to Taenia hydatigena, Taenia pisiformis and Echinococcus granulosus infection in dogs
Authors: JENKINS D. J. , RICKARD M. D.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Groups of dogs reared free of both nematodes and cestodes were infected with Taenia hydatigena, Taenia pisiformis or Echinococcus granulosus. After infections with the Taenia spp became patent, dogs were purged to remove the worms. They were later reinfected and the second infections again removed by purging after patency. A group of 3 uninfected worm free dogs was kept as age‐matched controls. The dogs were bled at intervals of 5 days and their serums tested for antibodies using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with excretory/secretary (ES) antigens collected during in vitro incubation of evaginated scoleces (scolex ES antigen) and oncosphere antigens. Antibodies to scolex ES antigen were detected by 3 weeks after infection with each cestode species whereas antibodies to oncosphere antigen were not detected until about one week after eggs were found in the faeces of the infected dogs. Antibody responses to both oncosphere and scolex ES antigens decreased rapidly following removal of the worms by purging. Uninfected control dogs were invariably negative to both oncospheral and scolex ES antigens. There were cross‐reactions between the serums from dogs infected with T. pisiformis and T. hydatigena when tested with scolex ES antigens, but oncospheral antigens showed a high degree of species specificity. Scolex ES antigens from E. granulosus were compared with those prepared from T. hydatigena and T. pisiformis for their ability to discriminate between antibodies in serums collected from dogs 31 and 32 days after infection with 100,000 protoscoleces of E. granulosus or dogs infected with Taenia spp. Excellent serological discrimination was achieved with no cross‐reactivity detected between E. granulosus scolex ES antigen and serums from T. hydatigena or T. pisiformis infected dogs, or between the Taenia spp scolex ES antigens and serums from E. granulosus infected dogs.
A survey of ovine dermatophilosis in Western Australia
Authors: EDWARDS J. R. , GARDNER J. J. , NORRIS R. T. , LOVE R. A. , SPICER P. , BRYANT R. , GWYNN R. V. R. , HAWKINS C. D. , SWAN R. A.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: A random sample of 200 Merino sheep owners was interviewed by telephone during April 1983 and asked questions relating to the prevalence of ovine dermatophilosis in their flocks, methods used for prevention and treatment of dermatophilosis, management strategies employed and the location and annual rainfall of each farm. The response rate was 99.5%.

During the previous 12 months 62.3% of farmers had observed dermatophilosis in their flocks. The prevalence within flocks was highest in hoggets (mean 2.2%, range 0 to 75%) followed by lambs (mean 0.8%, range 0 to 25%), ewes (mean 0.6%, range 0 to 20%) and wethers (0.2%, range 0 to 20%). The mean weight of wool identified as affected by dermatophilosis was 58 kg (range 0 to 882 kg).

Preventive measures were used on 57% of farms and the most common methods were changes in dipping practice (23.6%) and culling of affected sheep (21%). An average of 13.7 sheep per farm were culled for dermatophilosis and of these, 82% were sold and the remainder (18%) were killed on the farm. Antibiotics, of which most were combinations of penicillin and streptomycin were used to treat dermatophilosis on 8.5% of farms and treatments other than antibiotics were used on 10% of farms.

The prevalence of dermatophilosis and its relationship to various environmental and management factors varied with the age and sex of sheep. Discriminant analysis indicated that of the factors studied, average annual rainfall, month of lambing, average fibre diameter and the month ewes were shorn were related to the prevalence of dermatophilosis in lambs. In hoggets the factors related to prevalence were average fibre diameter, average annual rainfall, frequency of jetting lambs, month of lambing, total number of sheep and area of farm. Ausf. vet. J. 62: 361–365
Use of an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in a bovine brucellosis eradication program
Authors: LEE C. CARGILL K. , CLARKE I.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed and was compared wih the complement fixation test (CFT) in a bovine brucellosis eradication program. The ELISA detected significantly more reactors than the CFT in both strain 19 vaccinated infected herds (1.79% versus 1.14%) and non‐vaccinated infected herds (4.2% versus 3.59%) but not in either vaccinated or non‐vaccinated brucella‐free herds. The specificity for both tests in brucella‐free herds was greater than 0.998. The specificity and sensitivity of the ELISA were compared with those of 3 other tests (the Rose Bengal test; the indirect haemolysis test [IHLT] and the CFT) on serum from 151 animals cultured at slaughter. The calculated specificity of the ELSA in this infected group was lower than for both the CFT and the IHLT (0.58 versus 0.67 versus 0.75). The sensitivity however was much greater (1.0 versus 0.73 versus 0.71). The value of the ELSA when used in an eradication program is discussed.
Experimental infection of goats with Brucella ovis
Authors: BURGESS G. W. , SPENCER T. L. , NORRIS M. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Six goats were inoculated with Brucella ovis. Two goats were inoculated with infected semen by the intratesticular route and 2 each by installation of the semen on to the nasal or preputial epithelium. All goats produced antibody responses as measured by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) procedure and the serums of 5 goats reacted in complement fixation tests for B. ovis. The 2 goats inoculated by the intratesticular route and one receiving B. ovis instilled intranasally subsequently excreted B. ovis in their semen. The possibility of natural transmission is discussed. Aust. vet. J. 62: 262–264
An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for detection of Brucella abortus in cattle using monoclonal antibodies
Authors: SUTHERLAND S.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: One group of 24 cattle was vaccinated with the usual calfhood dose of B. abortus strain 19 and a further 27 cattle were similarly vaccinated but as adults. Twenty four cattle (12 from each group) and a control group of 12 cattle were subsequently challenged with B. abortus strain 544. Two monoclonal antibodies (MA (A) and MA (B)) conjugated to horseradish peroxidase were used independently in a competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to test the serums. After vaccination with B. abortus strain 19, the performance of the monoclonal antibodies was in general agreement with the CFT as fewer calfhood vaccinates were positive 12 weeks after vaccination to the ELISA with MA (A) and MA (B) than adult vaccinates. After challenge, MA (A) and MA (B) ELSA tests detected the infected cattle earlier than the CFT, but more positive reactions occurred in the cattle that proved uninfected at slaughter. Aust. vet. J. 62: 264–268
Epidemiological features of snail and slug bait poisoning in dogs and cats
Authors: STUDDERT V. P.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY: Snail and slug baits were the most common cause of poisoning in dogs and cats in a survey of 34 veterinary practices. During a 7‐month period, 280 dogs and 12 cats were poisoned by metaldehyde (57%) or methiocarb (43%) containing baits with case fatality rates of 8.1% and 9.1% in dogs and 16.7% and 50% in cats, respectively. The ages of poisoned dogs ranged from 2 months to 17 years and cats from 3 months to 5 years. There was no decrease in frequency of poisoning or case fatality rate demonstrated with increasing body size in dogs.

Poisoning was most frequent in the month of October. Baits were eaten off the ground or obtained from storage areas, often despite a variety of preventive measures. It is suggested that these products should be reformulated to make them less attractive to domestic pets. Aust. vet. J. 62: 269–271
Relationship between the resistance of cattle to Haemaphysalis longicornis and to Boophilus microplus
Authors: WAGLAND‘ B. M. , SUTHERST R. W. , ROBERTS J.A.
Published: March 2008

Summary: Cattle that had been exposed to Haemaphysalis longicornis were as susceptible to Boophilus microplus as cattle that had never been exposed to either species of tick. Cattle with acquired resistance to both species ranked consistently for levels of resistance to each when infested separately. Concurrent infestation with H. longicornis had no effect on ranking for resistance to B. microplus. The coefficient of concordance between the rankings of individuals on their levels of resistance to both species of tick was positive, but was not statistically significant. We conclude that the tick antigens that stimulate host resistance are species‐specific and do not cross protect. The apparent correlation in rankings for resistance to the 2 species may be a consequence of either an individual's immunological responsiveness to tick antigens or to non‐specific host factors which determine levels of resistance. The apparent correlation suggests that co‐selection for resistance to different tick species is practicable.
The efficacy of ivermectin against larvae of the screw‐worm fly (Chrysomya bezziana)
Authors: SPRADBERY J. P. , TOZER R. S. , DREWETT N. , LINDSEY M. J.
Published: March 2008

Summary: An in vitro technique for screening systemic insecticides against larvae of the screw‐worm fly, Chrysomya bezziana is described. Susceptibilities of screw‐worm larvae of different ages to ivermectin (MK‐933) were determined. Based on 24 h larval mortality, the LD50 of 1‐,2‐,3‐,4‐ and 5‐day larvae was 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.2 and 0.4 ppm of ivermectin. LD50 based on adult emergence following treatment of 4‐ and 5‐day larvae was 0.02 and 0.05 ppm. The LD99,9 for 4‐day larvae based on 24 h larval mortality and adult emergence was 11.0 and 0.15 ppm respectively and for 5‐day larvae, was 44.3 and 0.4 ppm respectively. Pen and field trials with cattle infested with screw‐worm fly demonstrated the potential of ivermectin as a systemic insecticide. Dosages of 50, 100 and 200 μg/kg, of ivermectin administered subcutaneously to experimentally infested cattle gave complete control for 6, 12 and 14 days respectively. Ivermectin at 200 pg/kg caused 100% mortality of screw‐worm larvae up to 2 days old at the time of treatment with 70, 64 and 21% mortality of 3‐, 4‐ and 5‐day old larvae at the time of treatment. The residual protection from a single dose of 200 μg/kg was 16 to 20 days. When bull calves were treated with ivermectin at a dose of 200 μg/kg at the time of castration and branding, none of the 77 treated animals sustained a screw‐worm strike in the scrota1 area compared with 47 strikes (44%) in the 106 control cattle.
The prevalence of anthelmintic resistance in sheep nematodes on the central tablelands of New South Wales
Authors: WEBB R. F. , OTTAWAY S. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY A survey was undertaken to assess the prevalence of anthelmintic resistance in sheep nematode populations on 40 commercial farms distributed throughout the central tablelands of New South Wales. Representatives of the 2 major groups of broad spectrum anthelmintics with different modes of action (thiabendazole and levamisole) were used at the manufacturer's recommended dose rates. Efficacy was assessed on the basis of the reduction in faecal strongyle egg counts 7 days after treatment. An efficacy of less than 90% using both anthelmintics was obtained on 4 farms. Thiabendazole had an efficacy of less than 90% on a further 21 farms and levamisole had an efficacy of less than 90% on an additional 4 farms. There was no evidence of anthelmintic resistance on 8 farms, while the remaining 3 had insignificant parasite burdens. Based on larval cultures from faeces, Ostertagia and Trichostrongylus were the most significant species in resistant populations. Haemonchus burdens were sporadic and levels of resistance relatively low. Nematodirus burdens were widespread but no evidence of resistance was detected.
An outbreak of sarcocystosis in dairy cattle
Authors: CARRIGAN M. J.
Published: March 2008

SUMMARY Sixteen of 32 Friesian calves, 8 to 10 weeks old, died over 4 weeks. The calves were housed in pens previously used by dogs. Clinical signs included anorexia, pale mucous membranes, rapid weight loss, coughing and palpably enlarged superficial lymph nodes. At necropsy, calves were emaciated and had generalised enlargement of lymph nodes, pale mottling of skeletal muscles, excess peritoneal, thoracic and pericardial fluid and subpleural and subepicardial haemorrhages. Histologically there was a lymphadenitis, myositis, myocarditis, glomerulonephritis, interstitial pneumonitis and encephalitis. Schizonts of a sporozoan parasite, presumably Sarcocystis cruzi were found in the endothelial cells of blood vessels in many organs.