Description

The Veterinary Journal is an international journal of veterinary research which publishes original papers and reviews on all aspects of veterinary science. Contributions reporting investigative work in the scientific disciplines involving veterinary species are particularly welcome. Manuscripts may describe original work in a full paper or a short communication or may form a review of the existing state of knowledge on a particular aspect of veterinary science. Reviews should, in general, be written in support of original investigations. The Journal will reject any paper where there is reason to believe that animals have been subjected to unnecessary pain or distress. Papers are accepted for publication on the understanding that they have not been published and are not being considered for publication elsewhere.

Publisher details

Elsevier

Publications in this journal

• Effective mechanical properties of diaphyseal cortical bone in the canine femur.

  Authors: A Autefage, S Palierne, C Charron, P Swider

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  The effective elastic modulus, yield strength, yield strain, ultimate strength, ultimate strain, strain energy density at yield and strain energy density at ultimate failure of femoral diaphysealThe effective elastic modulus, yield strength, yield strain, ultimate strength, ultimate strain, strain energy density at yield and strain energy density at ultimate failure of femoral diaphyseal cortical bone were investigated on canine femurs. Four femurs representative of the canine population were selected from four statistically-determined clusters based on increasing size and weight comprising the Toy poodle (5kg), Poodle (12kg), German shorthaired pointer (25kg) and Doberman (50kg). The zones of interest were the lateral, medial, cranial, and caudal quadrants of the mid-diaphysis. Effective mechanical properties were measured using quasi-static three-point bending tests on strips. The averages±SD were 15.6±2.6GPa for effective elastic modulus, 174.3±32.1MPa for yield strength, 0.012±0.003 for yield strain, 251.0±49.1MPa for ultimate strength, 0.021±0.005 for ultimate strain, 10.7±4.0Jm(-3)×10(5) for strain energy density at Yield and 33.0±14.1Jm(-3)×10(5) for strain energy density at ultimate failure. Significant differences were found between dogs and the effective elastic modulus increased with breed weight and size (13.9GPa for the Toy poodle to 17.2GPa for the Doberman). The ultimate strength σ(u) and strain energy density at ultimate failure U(u) were significantly lower in the Toy poodle than in the Poodle and German shorthaired pointer indicating that the cortical bone material in the Toy poodle differed from that of the other dogs. Examination of the zones of interest revealed that the cranial quadrant showed the greatest stiffness, whereas strength was highest at the medial site. The caudal cortex was less stiff and strong than the cranial cortex.

• Effect of age and severity of cognitive dysfunction on spontaneous activity in pet dogs - Part 1: Locomotor and exploratory behaviour.

  Authors: B Rosado, A González-Martínez, P Pesini, S García-Belenguer, J Palacio, A Villegas, M-L Suárez, G Santamarina, M Sarasa

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Age-related cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) has been reported in dogs and it is considered a natural model for Alzheimer's disease in humans. Changes in spontaneous activity (including locomotorAge-related cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) has been reported in dogs and it is considered a natural model for Alzheimer's disease in humans. Changes in spontaneous activity (including locomotor and exploratory behaviour) and social responsiveness have been related to the age and cognitive status of kennel-reared Beagle dogs. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of age and severity of CDS on locomotor and exploratory behaviour of privately owned dogs. This is the first part of a two-part report on spontaneous activity in pet dogs. An open-field (OF) test and a curiosity test were administered at baseline and 6months later to young (1-4years, n=9), middle-aged (5-8years, n=9), cognitively unimpaired aged (⩾9years, n=31), and cognitively impaired aged (⩾9years, n=36) animals. Classification of cognitive status was carried out using an owner-based observational questionnaire, and in the cognitively impaired group, the dogs were categorised as having either mild or severe cognitive impairment. Dogs were recorded during sessions in the testing room and the video-recordings were subsequently analysed. The severity of CDS (but not age) influenced locomotion and exploratory behaviour so that the more severe the impairment, the higher the locomotor activity and frequency of corner-directed (aimless) behaviours, and the lower the frequency of door-aimed activities. Curiosity directed toward novel stimuli exhibited an age-dependent decline although severely affected animals displayed more sniffing episodes directed towards the objects. OF activity did not change after 6months. Testing aged pet dogs for spontaneous behaviour might help to better characterise cognitively affected individuals.

• Freezing and thawing of pinniped carcasses results in artefacts that resemble traumatic lesions.

  Authors: W D Roe, B D Gartrell, S A Hunter

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  The objective of this study was to assess whether the freezing and thawing of pinniped carcasses prior to post-mortem examination could create artefacts that resembled lesions caused by trauma.The objective of this study was to assess whether the freezing and thawing of pinniped carcasses prior to post-mortem examination could create artefacts that resembled lesions caused by trauma. Necropsy findings in New Zealand fur seals (Arctocephalus forsteri), captured incidental to commercial fishing, and either chilled (n=5) or frozen (n=5), were compared. Changes in frozen, but not in chilled, carcasses included: pseudo-bruising of subcutis; the accumulation of thick dark red fluid (resembling haemorrhage) in the thoracic cavity, pericardial sac and abdominal cavity; apparent subcapsular renal haemorrhage; pseudo-contusions of the brain; apparent haemorrhage from the nares; and blood-staining of the anterior ocular chamber. The processes of freezing and thawing were strongly associated with subcutaneous pseudo-bruises, the presence of thick, dark red abdominal fluid and renal subcapsular 'haemorrhage' (P=0.004). These artefacts probably develop due to a combination of autolysis and 'freeze-thaw' effects including lysis of cell membranes, fluid shifts into the extracellular space, and disruption of blood vessel walls. The results of the study demonstrate that artefacts resembling traumatic lesions are created during freezing and thawing of pinniped bodies. Such changes must be taken into consideration at post-mortem examination of previously frozen carcasses.

• Diagnostic utility of NT-proBNP and ANP in a canine model of chronic embolic pulmonary hypertension.

  Authors: Yasutomo Hori, Tsuyoshi Uchide, Ryuta Saitoh, Daisuke Thoei, Makiko Uchida, Kazuki Yoshioka, Seishiro Chikazawa, Fumio Hoshi

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  The information needed to diagnose pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in dogs based on N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels is unclear.The information needed to diagnose pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) in dogs based on N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) levels is unclear. In this study, serial changes in plasma NT-proBNP and ANP concentrations were evaluated in association with the development of chronic embolic pulmonary hypertension (CEPH). Six Beagle dogs underwent percutaneous pulmonary artery catheterization. CEPH was induced by the repeated injection of 300μm microspheres into the pulmonary artery via the catheter. Measured peak systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (PAPs) was elevated up to 80mm Hg at 90days by repeated injection of microspheres. Echocardiographic examination showed significant increase in the main pulmonary artery enlargement, right ventricular dilation, transtricuspid late diastolic flow, and ventricular late diastolic myocardial velocity. Plasma concentrations of NT-proBNP and ANP were significantly increased by microsphere-induced severe CEPH, but not by mild CEPH. Measured PAPs correlated weakly with plasma NT-proBNP and ANP concentrations (r=0.63 and 0.69, respectively) and with several echocardiographic variables. Our results indicated that plasma ANP and NT-proBNP responded to severe PAH, but that they were not sensitive for mild PAH.

• Differences in the proteome of high-grade versus low-grade canine cutaneous mast cell tumours.

  Authors: P Schlieben, A Meyer, C Weise, A Bondzio, R Einspanier, A D Gruber, R Klopfleisch

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Cutaneous mast cell tumours (MCTs) are the most common skin tumours in dogs. However, the molecular differences between benign tumours with a good prognosis and highly malignant, invasive andCutaneous mast cell tumours (MCTs) are the most common skin tumours in dogs. However, the molecular differences between benign tumours with a good prognosis and highly malignant, invasive and metastatic tumours with short survival times are for the most part unclear. In the present study the proteome of low-grade MCTs with a good prognosis was compared with that of poor-prognosis high-grade tumours independent of their mutational status of exon 11 of the KIT gene. Using two-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry, 13 proteins with a significant differential expression between the two groups were identified. Four stress response proteins (HSPA9, PDIA3, TCP1A and TCP1E) were significantly up-regulated in high-grade tumours, while proteins mainly associated with cell motility and metastasis had either increased (WDR1, ACTR3, ANXA6) or decreased (ANXA2, ACTB) expression levels. High-grade tumours also had a paradox down-regulation of transferrin, a protein that is usually up-regulated in neoplastic cells. The histologically observable dedifferentiation of high-grade tumours was reflected by decreased tryptase protein expression levels. Results of quantitative real-time RT-PCR analysis indicated that the differences in protein expression levels of most proteins were regulated at the transcript level. Based on these findings, it is hypothesized that high-grade MCT cells have a higher resistance to cellular stress and thus are able to better cope with the adverse environment in highly proliferating tumours independent of increased KIT signalling. It is noteworthy that some of the proteins identified have been proposed as therapeutic targets for human oncology and it will be interesting to evaluate their therapeutic and diagnostic potential for canine MCTs.

• Effect of age and severity of cognitive dysfunction on spontaneous activity in pet dogs - Part 2: Social responsiveness.

  Authors: B Rosado, A González-Martínez, P Pesini, S García-Belenguer, J Palacio, A Villegas, M-L Suárez, G Santamarina, M Sarasa

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Changes in social interactions with owners and other dogs are frequently observed in dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). The aim of this work was to assess the effect of age and severityChanges in social interactions with owners and other dogs are frequently observed in dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). The aim of this work was to assess the effect of age and severity of CDS on social responsiveness. This is the second part of a 2-part report on spontaneous activity in pet dogs. A human interaction test and a mirror test were administered at baseline and 6months later to assess social responses to humans and conspecifics, respectively, to four groups of privately-owned dogs: young (n=9), middle-aged (n=9), cognitively unimpaired aged (n=31), and cognitively impaired aged (n=36). The severity of cognitive impairment was considered in the last group and dogs were categorised as having either mild or severe CDS. The influence of the person and the mirror on locomotion and exploratory behaviour was also studied. Dogs were recorded in a testing room and the video recordings were subsequently analysed. Young dogs displayed more interactions involving physical contact with a person. Young and middle-aged dogs showed more vocalisations in response to social isolation. In contrast, aged animals spent more time in front of the mirror. Changes in social responsiveness associated with severe CDS included decreased response to social isolation and human interaction and increased time in front of the mirror, suggesting a deficit in habituation. Testing of spontaneous activity might help to characterise CDS in aged dogs, a condition increasingly diagnosed in veterinary clinics and a potentially useful natural model of Alzheimer's disease in humans.

• Body condition scoring as a predictor of body fat in horses and ponies.

  Authors: Alexandra H A Dugdale, Dai Grove-White, Gemma C Curtis, Patricia A Harris, Caroline McG Argo

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Body condition scoring systems were originally developed to quantify flesh cover in food animals and are commonly used to evaluate body fat in Equidae. The relationship between concurrent estimatesBody condition scoring systems were originally developed to quantify flesh cover in food animals and are commonly used to evaluate body fat in Equidae. The relationship between concurrent estimates of body fat content (eTBF%, deuterium oxide dilution; range, 2.7-35.6%) and subjective appraisals of body 'fatness' (body condition score, BCS; range, 1.25-9/9), was investigated in 77 mature horses and ponies. Univariate (UVM, r(2)=0.79) and multivariable (MVM, r(2)=0.86) linear regression models described the association, where BCS and eTBF% were explanatory and outcome variables, respectively. Other measures (age, sex, breed, body mass, ultrasound-generated subcutaneous and abdominal retroperitoneal fat depths, withers height, heart and belly circumferences) were considered as potential confounders but only height, belly circumference and retroperitoneal fat depth remained in the final MVM. The association between BCS and eTBF% was logarithmic. Appraisal of the transformed regression (UVM), actual eTBF% values and 95%CIs of the model forecast, suggested that the power of log-transformed BCS as a predictor of eTBF% decreased as BCS increased. The receiver operating characteristic curve for the prediction of horses with an eTBF% of >20%, suggested that the UVM correctly classified 76% of horses using a 'cut-off' of BCS 6.83/9 (sensitivity, 82.5%; specificity, 70.8%). Negative values for eTBF% were obtained for two thin ponies which were excluded from analyses, and caution is advised in the application of deuterium dilution methodologies where perturbed tissue hydration could be predicted. The data suggest that BCS descriptors may warrant further consideration/refinement to establish more clinically-useful, sub-classifications for overweight/obese animals.

• Relationship between sex hormone fluctuations and biomarkers of bone resorption in bovine plasma during the oestrous cycle.

  Authors: Bhuminand Devkota, Kouki Itagaki, Danil Kim, Kouya Sasaki, Takeshi Osawa, Kazuhisa Furuhama, Norio Yamagishi

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  The objective of this study was to determine the potential influence of fluctuations in the sex hormones progesterone and oestradiol-17β (E(2)), on biomarkers of bone resorption (hydroxyproline [HYP]The objective of this study was to determine the potential influence of fluctuations in the sex hormones progesterone and oestradiol-17β (E(2)), on biomarkers of bone resorption (hydroxyproline [HYP] and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase isoform 5b [TRAP5b]) during the oestrous cycle of Holstein cows. Over the course of the study, plasma HYP concentrations did not change and alterations in the concentration of TRAP5b negatively correlated with E(2) levels: enhanced TRAP5b activity correlated with decreased E(2) concentrations below a defined level. This finding enhances the understanding of calcium homeostasis in post-partum dairy cows.

• Changes in dietary macronutrient profile do not appear to affect endogenous urinary oxalate excretion in healthy adult cats.

  Authors: J C Dijcker, E A Hagen-Plantinga, W H Hendriks

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  The progressive increase in calcium oxalate uroliths reported in cats diagnosed with urolithiasis may partly be due to changes in nutrition. Since cats have a predominant mitochondrialThe progressive increase in calcium oxalate uroliths reported in cats diagnosed with urolithiasis may partly be due to changes in nutrition. Since cats have a predominant mitochondrial alanine:glyoxylate aminotransferase 1 (AGT1) location, high carbohydrate intake may induce endogenous oxalate synthesis. This hypothesis was tested by feeding 12 adult, female cats three diets differing in macronutrients, namely, high protein (HP), high carbohydrate (HC) and high fat (HF), using a randomised Latin square design in a 36-day study. In addition to plasma, urine was collected quantitatively using modified litter boxes. A pilot study with four cats, conducted to determine the adaptation time of urinary oxalate (Uox) excretion to a dietary change, indicated a mean (±SEM) adaptation time of 5.9±0.7days, with the urinary oxalate:creatinine (Ox:Cr) ratio increasing from 36.1±3.7 to 81.6±2.3mmol/mol. In the main study, plasma oxalate concentration was significantly lower when feeding the HP compared to the HF (P=0.003) diet, whereas Uox excretion (μmol/kgBW(0.75)/day) and the urinary Ox:Cr ratio were unaffected by diet. The Uox concentration (mmol/L) was significantly lower when feeding the HP compared to the HC (P=0.004) and HF (P=0.001) diets. The results indicate that changes in macronutrient profile may not influence endogenous Uox excretion in cats but high dietary protein did reduce Uox concentration and may therefore help to lower the risk of calcium oxalate formation.

• Quantitative sensory testing: A stimulating look at chronic pain.

  Authors: Dorothy Cimino Brown

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

• The development of clinical tools based on biomechanical research.

  Authors: Lars Roepstorff

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997). 192(2):129-30.

• The distribution of Mycobacterium bovis infection in naturally infected badgers.

  Authors: Leigh A L Corner, D O'Meara, E Costello, S Lesellier, E Gormley

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Populations of Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) with tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis infection) are a significant reservoir of infection for cattle in Ireland and the United Kingdom. In this studyPopulations of Eurasian badgers (Meles meles) with tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis infection) are a significant reservoir of infection for cattle in Ireland and the United Kingdom. In this study the distribution of infection, histological lesions and gross lesions was determined in a sample of 132 culled badgers from naturally-infected wild populations. Badgers were culled when an epidemiological investigation following a tuberculosis breakdown in a cattle herd implicated badgers as the probable source of infection. The definition of tuberculosis infection was based on the isolation of M. bovis from tissues or clinical samples. An accurate diagnosis of infection was achieved by culturing a wide range of lymph nodes (LN) and organ tissues (mean 32.1) and clinical samples (faeces and urine) from each badger. Infection was detected in 57/132 badgers (43.2%). Histological lesions consistent with tuberculosis were seen in 39/57 (68.4%) culture-positive and 7/75 (9.3%) culture-negative animals. Gross lesions were seen in only 30/57 (52.6%) infected badgers, leaving a high proportion (47.4%) of infected animals with latent infection (no grossly visible lesions). The most frequently infected tissues were the lungs and axillary LN, followed by the deep cervical LN, parotid LN and tracheobronchial LN. The data support the hypotheses that in badgers there are only two significant routes of infection, namely, the lower respiratory tract and bite wounds, and that badgers are very susceptible to infection but resistant to the development and progression of the disease. At all levels of disease severity, infection was found in widely dispersed anatomical locations suggesting that there is early dissemination of infection in the period preceding the development of active immunity.

• Quantitative real-time PCR for detection of the neurotoxin gene of Clostridium botulinum type B in equine and bovine samples.

  Authors: Amy L Johnson, Raymond W Sweeney, Susan C McAdams, Robert H Whitlock

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Clostridium botulinum type B is estimated to cause more than 85% of cases of equine botulism in the United States, as well as many outbreaks in cattle. In this study, a quantitative real-timeClostridium botulinum type B is estimated to cause more than 85% of cases of equine botulism in the United States, as well as many outbreaks in cattle. In this study, a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for detection of the neurotoxin gene of C. botulinum type B was compared to the mouse bioassay using 45 positive and 43 negative samples of equine, bovine or associated environmental origin. The sensitivity of the qPCR assay was 96%, whereas the sensitivity of the mouse bioassay was 84%. The specificity of the qPCR assay was 95% and the specificity of the mouse bioassay was 100%.

• Acepromazine pharmacokinetics: A forensic perspective.

  Authors: Fiona I Schneiders, Glenys K Noble, Raymond C Boston, Anthony J Dunstan, Martin N Sillence, Andrew R McKinney

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Acepromazine (ACP) is a useful therapeutic drug, but is a prohibited substance in competition horses. The illicit use of ACP is difficult to detect due to its rapid metabolism, so this studyAcepromazine (ACP) is a useful therapeutic drug, but is a prohibited substance in competition horses. The illicit use of ACP is difficult to detect due to its rapid metabolism, so this study investigated the ACP metabolite 2-(1-hydroxyethyl)promazine sulphoxide (HEPS) as a potential forensic marker. Acepromazine maleate, equivalent to 30mg of ACP, was given IV to 12 racing-bred geldings. Blood and urine were collected for 7days post-administration and analysed for ACP and HEPS by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Acepromazine was quantifiable in plasma for up to 3h with little reaching the urine unmodified. Similar to previous studies, there was wide variation in the distribution and metabolism of ACP. The metabolite HEPS was quantifiable for up to 24h in plasma and 144h in urine. The metabolism of ACP to HEPS was fast and erratic, so the early phase of the HEPS emergence could not be modelled directly, but was assumed to be similar to the rate of disappearance of ACP. However, the relationship between peak plasma HEPS and the y-intercept of the kinetic model was strong (P=0.001, r(2)=0.72), allowing accurate determination of the formation pharmacokinetics of HEPS. Due to its rapid metabolism, testing of forensic samples for the parent drug is redundant with IV administration. The relatively long half-life of HEPS and its stable behaviour beyond the initial phase make it a valuable indicator of ACP use, and by determining the urine-to-plasma concentration ratios for HEPS, the approximate dose of ACP administration may be estimated.

• The use of cortisol for the objective assessment of stress in animals: Pros and cons.

  Authors: Kelsey A Hart

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

• Epidemiological factors associated with the exposure of cattle to Coxiella burnetii in the Madrid region of Spain.

  Authors: J Alvarez, A Perez, F O Mardones, M Pérez-Sancho, T García-Seco, E Pagés, F Mirat, R Díaz, J Carpintero, L Domínguez

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Domestic ruminants are considered to be the major source of Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever. Even though Q fever is considered to be present worldwide, its distribution in manyDomestic ruminants are considered to be the major source of Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever. Even though Q fever is considered to be present worldwide, its distribution in many areas and countries remains unknown. Here, a serological assay was used to estimate the seroprevalence of C. burnetii in cattle in the Madrid region of Spain, to assess its spatial distribution, and to identify risk factors associated with positive results. Ten animals from each of 110 herds (n=1100) were randomly selected and analyzed using an ELISA test. In addition, epidemiological information, at both the herd and individual level, was collected. Variables for which an association with test results was detected in a bivariate analysis were included as predictors (main effects) in a multivariable logistic regression model. Herd and individual seroprevalences were 30% (95% CI=22.2-39.1) and 6.76% (95% CI=5.42-8.41), respectively, and a strong spatial dependence was identified at the first neighbour level using the Cuzick-Edwards test. Production type (dairy >beef >bullfighting) and age of animals (old vs. young) were the only variables significantly associated (P<0.05) with positive serological results at the herd and individual levels, respectively. These results indicate that cattle are exposed to C. burnetii in the Madrid region The high herd seroprevalence found in dairy herds (75%) indicates a higher risk of infection (probably for management reasons) whereas no C. burnetii positive bullfighting herds were identified.

• Characterisation of pregnancy losses after embryo transfer by measuring plasma progesterone and bovine pregnancy-associated glycoprotein-1 concentrations.

  Authors: S P Breukelman, Z Perényi, M A M Taverne, H Jonker, G C van der Weijden, P L A M Vos, L de Ruigh, S J Dieleman, J F Beckers, O Szenci

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  The aim of this analysis was to determine whether pregnancy loss (PL) after embryo transfer (ET) in cattle was related to maternal progesterone (P4) concentrations during and shortly after ET, andThe aim of this analysis was to determine whether pregnancy loss (PL) after embryo transfer (ET) in cattle was related to maternal progesterone (P4) concentrations during and shortly after ET, and maternal bovine pregnancy-associated glycoprotein-1 (bPAG-1) concentrations in plasma at days 25-35 of gestation. Embryos (n=260) were produced either in vivo after superovulation (n=115), or in vitro from oocytes (obtained with ovum pick-up) in co-culture (n=44) or cultured in a synthetic medium (n=101). Overall, PL was 56.9% (148) and no significant differences occurred in calving rate among the three embryo production groups. There was no difference in P4 concentrations on days 7-14 of gestation in the three groups, nor between ongoing and interrupted pregnancies. Between days 25 and 35 of pregnancy, bPAG-1 concentrations were unaffected by embryo production, but in cattle that had PL between days 26 and 120, four bPAG-1 profiles could be detected. Between days 25 and 32, bPAG-1 concentrations were influenced by PL, and concentrations were significantly lower in animals in which PL occurred between days 26 and 120 than in those animals that aborted later or calved at term. Early P4 concentrations suggested that maternal luteal factors were not responsible for PL which appeared to be caused by impaired conceptus development (regardless of embryo type) as reflected by low maternal bPAG-1 concentrations prior to embryonic death.

• Differences in attitudes of farmers and veterinarians towards pain in dairy cows.

  Authors: Peter T Thomsen, Inger Anneberg, Mette S Herskin

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Attitudes towards pain and the use of analgesics in dairy cows were evaluated based on a questionnaire answered by 137 Danish veterinarians and 189 Danish dairy farmers. Respondents were asked toAttitudes towards pain and the use of analgesics in dairy cows were evaluated based on a questionnaire answered by 137 Danish veterinarians and 189 Danish dairy farmers. Respondents were asked to score the perceived pain associated with a number of diseases in dairy cows on a scale from 1 (no pain) to 10 (very painful) assuming that no analgesics were used. Additionally, they were asked whether they agreed or disagreed with a number of statements regarding pain and use of analgesics in cows. A large variability in pain scores for individual diseases was found among both farmers and veterinarians. The same disease was scored as 'very painful' by some respondents and as 'not painful' by others; however, farmers and veterinarians generally agreed which diseases were painful and which were not. Farmers considered most of the disease conditions to be slightly more painful than veterinarians but were less likely to use analgesics.

• A sensitive and kinetically defined radiochemical assay for canine and human serum thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) to monitor canine malignant lymphoma.

  Authors: H Sharif, H von Euler, S Westberg, E He, L Wang, S Eriksson

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Thymidine kinase 1 (TK1) is a cell cycle regulated enzyme with maximum expression during the S phase. Serum TK1 (S-TK1) is a unique biomarker for cell proliferation. Here, an optimizedThymidine kinase 1 (TK1) is a cell cycle regulated enzyme with maximum expression during the S phase. Serum TK1 (S-TK1) is a unique biomarker for cell proliferation. Here, an optimized [(3)H]-thymidine (dThd) phosphorylation assay is described, which is as sensitive as the commercially available TK-REA and TK-Liaison assays for measurement of S-TK1 activity in dogs and humans. Serum samples from dogs (35 healthy, 32 with lymphoma, 2 with leukemia, and 35 with solid tumors) and humans (18 healthy, 9 with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, 10 with myelodysplastic syndrome) were analyzed using the [(3)H]-dThd assay. Mean S-TK1 activities were 1.11±0.46pmol/min/mL in healthy dogs and 1.15±0.32pmol/min/mL in healthy humans. S-TK1 activities in dogs with hematological malignancies were 24.2±47.9pmol/min/mL, and the receiver operating characteristic curve showed an area under the curve of 0.88. With a cut-off value of 1.9pmol/min/mL (mean value ±2 SD), the sensitivity was 0.94 and the specificity was 0.68. Very similar results were obtained with human samples (healthy and lymphoma cases). S-TK1 activities measured during chemotherapy of six dogs with lymphoma were drastically reduced. In one case, S-TK1 activity increased prior to relapse. S-TK1 levels in dogs with solid tumors did not differ from the healthy group. S-TK1 activities correlated with those determined with the TK-REA and TK-Liaison assays (r=0.92 and r=0.96, respectively). In conclusion, this optimized [(3)H]-dThd assay is fast, sensitive and economical for measuring S-TK1 activity and should increase its clinical use as biomarker.

• Prevalence of and risk factors associated with viral and bacterial pathogens in farmed European wild boar.

  Authors: Outi Hälli, Eve Ala-Kurikka, Tiina Nokireki, Teresa Skrzypczak, Mirja Raunio-Saarnisto, Olli A T Peltoniemi, Mari Heinonen

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  The aim of this study was to estimate in farmed European wild boars the prevalence of and risk factors associated with a range of common porcine viral and bacterial infections, namely, porcineThe aim of this study was to estimate in farmed European wild boars the prevalence of and risk factors associated with a range of common porcine viral and bacterial infections, namely, porcine parvovirus (PPV), porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), swine influenza virus (SIV), Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV), classical swine fever virus (CSFV), swine vesicular disease virus (SVDV), coronavirus causing transmissible gastroenteritis (TGEV), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, Lawsonia intracellularis, Brucella spp., and Leptospira spp. A sampling frame was compiled based on a national record of wild boar farmers, and 32 farms were surveyed. Serological screening was carried out on 303 samples from animals slaughtered between 2005 and 2008, and random-effect logistic regression models were developed for pathogens with a 'non-zero' prevalence. The apparent animal prevalence for PPV, PCV2, and L. intracellularis was 46.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 41-52%), 51.1% (95% CI 45-57%) and 59.2% (95% CI 54-65%), respectively. Apparent farm seroprevalence rates for PPV, PCV2 and Lawsonia intracellularis were 56.3% (95% CI, 39-73%), 21.9% (95% CI, 8-36%) and 78.1% (95% CI, 64-92%), respectively. No antibodies were detected against SIV, ADV, CSFV, SVDV, TGEV, PRSSV, Leptospira spp., Brucella spp., or M. hyopneumoniae. Increasing herd size, proximity to dense populations of domestic swine and later sampling times within the survey period were found to be risk factors. Overall, the seroprevalence of these pathogens in farmed wild boar was similar to that in the farmed domestic pig population in Finland. However, it is possible that the rearing of wild boars in fenced estates may predispose them to particular infections, as reflected in higher antibody titres.

• Canine inflammatory bowel disease: Does innate immunity fail to discriminate between friend and foe?

  Authors: Brian Catchpole, Karin Allenspach

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

• Protection and antibody isotype responses against Fasciola hepatica with specific antibody to pIII-displayed peptide mimotopes of cathepsin L1 in sheep.

  Authors: Abel Villa-Mancera, Maximino Méndez-Mendoza

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Fluke burdens, liver fluke size and biomass, fecal eggs counts, serum levels of hepatic enzymes and immune response were assessed in sheep immunized with peptide mimotopes of cathepsin L1 andFluke burdens, liver fluke size and biomass, fecal eggs counts, serum levels of hepatic enzymes and immune response were assessed in sheep immunized with peptide mimotopes of cathepsin L1 and challenged with Fasciola hepatica metacercariae. Twenty sheep were randomly allocated to four groups of five animals each; groups 1 and 2 were immunized at weeks 0 and 2 with mimotopes YVYRWVEAECVA and FSPAYLRDAALK, respectively; group 3 was immunized with wild-type M13KE phage and the control group received phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). All groups were challenged with 300 metacercariae at week 6 and slaughtered 16weeks later. Groups 1 and 2 showed a reduction in fluke burden of 51.7% and 35.9%, respectively, when compared to the control group, but only the former was significant at the 5% level. Vaccinated animals showed a significant reduction in fluke length and width, wet weights and egg output. A significant diminution in the total biomass of parasites recovered was also observed in group 1. Levels of anti-phage total IgG increased rapidly within 2weeks of the first immunization and were always significantly higher in groups 1 and 2 than in the infected control group. The fluke burden in group 1 was significantly correlated with IgG1 and total IgG. The vaccinated sheep with phage clones produced significantly high titres of IgG1 and IgG2 antibodies indicating a mixed Th1/Th2 response.

• Capture-related myopathy in marine mammals and exertional rhabdomyolysis in horses: A possible link?

  Authors: Wendi Roe, T R Spraker

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

• An assessment of the impact of rumenocentesis on pain and stress in cattle and the effect of local anaesthesia.

  Authors: Marie-Madeleine Mialon, Véronique Deiss, Stéphane Andanson, Frédéric Anglard, Michel Doreau, Isabelle Veissier

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  Rumenocentesis is commonly used to collect rumen fluid to screen for acidosis. This study was designed to investigate whether rumenocentesis induced pain and stress and, if so, whether localRumenocentesis is commonly used to collect rumen fluid to screen for acidosis. This study was designed to investigate whether rumenocentesis induced pain and stress and, if so, whether local anaesthesia could limit this. Twenty-four dairy cows were assigned to one of three treatments: (1) rumenocentesis with local anaesthesia (AR); (2) rumenocentesis without local anaesthesia (R); and (3) local anaesthesia only (A). Treatments were performed in a restraining cage. The cows were placed in the cage on three consecutive days and anaesthesia and/or rumenocentesis was performed on the second day. Blood samples for cortisol determination and heart rate were recorded from 0.25h before treatment until 4h after. Behaviour was noted while the cows were caged. Feed intake and milk production were measured the week before treatment, on the day of treatment, and the day after. With all three treatments, cortisol concentrations and heart rate were increased while cows were in the cage. Cortisol, cardiac and behavioural responses were not significantly higher in the R and AR treatments than the A group. Cortisol concentrations and heart rate did not change between days. Feed intake and milk production were unaffected by the treatments. It was concluded that rumenocentesis does not appear more stressful than local anaesthesia or handling.

• Arthroscopic approaches to the fetlock joint of adult cattle: A cadaver study.

  Authors: Martin Blaser, Alberto Bertagnoli, Marta Räber, Karl Nuss, Mehdi Rasekh, Adrian Steiner

  Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997).

  The objective of the present study was to describe the arthroscopic anatomy of the bovine fetlock joint using one palmar/plantar and three dorsal joint approaches. A comparative anatomic,The objective of the present study was to describe the arthroscopic anatomy of the bovine fetlock joint using one palmar/plantar and three dorsal joint approaches. A comparative anatomic, ultrasonographic and arthroscopic study using 20 cadaveric feet from 13 non-lame adult dairy cows was performed. Arthroscopy was accomplished using a rigid arthroscope to view the synovial cavities with their synovial villi and parts of the following structures: the distal ends of the metacarpal/metatarsal III/IV bones with their trochleae and sagittal ridges, synovial grooves, the articular surfaces of the proximal sesamoid bones, the proximal aspects of the first phalanges, the lateral and medial collateral ligaments, the suspensory ligament and the interdigital ligaments as parts of the interosseus muscle, the cruciate sesamoidean ligaments, the communication site between the lateral and medial pouch in the palmar/plantar area, and dorsally the septum between the lateral and the medial pouch. The technique allowed a good overall view of most relevant structures in the sound cadaver joint. Further investigations are warranted to evaluate the diagnostic, therapeutic and prognostic applications of these techniques in the treatment of septic arthritis.

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