bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary Ultrasonographic Abnormalities Associated with Naturally Occurring Equine Influenza Virus Infection in Standardbred Racehorses
Authors: Gross Diane K. , Morley Paul S. , Hinchcliff Kenneth W. , Reichle Jean K. , Slemons Richard D.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this investigation was to determine if naturally occurring acute infectious upper respiratory disease (IRD) caused by equine influenza virus is associated with ultrasonographically detectable pleural and pulmonary abnormalities in horses. Standardbred racehorses were evaluated for signs of IRD, defined as acute coughing or mucopurulent nasal discharge. For every horse with IRD (n=16), 1 or 2 horses with no signs of IRD and the same owner or trainer (n=30) were included. Thoracic ultrasonography was performed within 5–10 days of the onset of clinical disease in horses with IRD. Horses without IRD were examined at the same time as the horses with IRD with which they were enrolled. The rank of the ultrasound scores of horses with IRD was compared to that of horses without IRD. Equine influenza virus was identified as the primary etiologic agent associated with IRD in this study. Mild lung consolidation and peripheral pulmonary irregularities were found in 11 (69%) of 16 of the horses with IRD and 11 (37%) of 30 of control horses. Lung consolidation (median score=1) and peripheral irregularities scores (median score=1) were greater in horses with IRD compared to horses without IRD (median score=0;P <.05). Pleural effusion was not observed. Equine influenza virus infection can result in abnormalities of the equine lower respiratory tract. Despite the mild nature of IRD observed in this study, lung consolidation and peripheral pulmonary irregularities were more commonly observed in horses with clinical signs of IRD. Further work is needed to determine the clinical significance of these ultrasonographic abnormalities.
D‐Lactate Production and Excretion in Diarrheic Calves
Authors: Ewaschuk Julia B. , Naylor Jonathan M. , Palmer Randi , Whiting Susan J. , Zello Gordon A.
Published: March 2010

The origin of D‐lactate, the most important acid contributing to metabolic acidosis in the diarrheic calf, is unknown. We hypothesized that because D‐lactate is produced only by microbes, gastrointestinal fermentation is the source. The objective of this study was to determine whether D‐lactate production occurs in the rumen, colon, or both, and to measure D‐ and L‐lactate concentrations in urine. Fecal, rumen, blood, and urine samples were obtained from 16 diarrheic and 11 healthy calves. Serum electrolyte concentrations were measured in both groups, and blood gas analyses were performed for diarrheic calves. All samples were analyzed for D‐ and L‐lactate by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Diarrheic calves were generally hyperkalemic with high serum anion gap, depressed serum bicarbonate, and low blood pH. L‐lactate was markedly higher in rumen contents (22.7 mmol/ L [median]) and feces (8.6 mmol/L) of diarrheic calves than healthy calves (0.5 mmol/L and 5.1 mmol/L, respectively), but not different in serum or urine. Rumen, fecal, serum, and urine D‐lactate concentrations were all significantly higher (P< .05) in diarrheic calves (17.0, 25.4, 13.9, and 19.2 mmol/L, respectively) than in healthy calves (0.5, 9.1, 1.4, and 0.5 mmol/L, respectively). Higher D‐lactate concentrations in the rumen and feces of diarrheic calves suggests these sites as the source of D‐lactate in blood and urine.
Evaluation of Serum Feline Pancreatic Lipase Immunoreactivity and Helical Computed Tomography versus Conventional Testing for the Diagnosis of Feline Pancreatitis
Authors: Forman M.A. , Marks S.L. , de Cock H.E.V. , Hergesell E.J. , Wisner E.R. , Baker T.W. , Kass P.H. , Steiner J.M. , Williams D.A.
Published: March 2010

Serum feline trypsinogen‐like immunoreactivity (fTLI) concentrations and abdominal ultrasound have facilitated the noninvasive diagnosis of pancreatitis in cats, but low sensitivities (33% and 20–35%, respectively) have been reported. A radioimmunoassay has been validated to measure feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (fPLI), but the assay's sensitivity and specificity have not been established. In human beings, the sensitivity of computed tomography (CT) is high (75–90%), but in a study of 10 cats, only 2 had CT changes suggestive of pancreatitis. We prospectively evaluated these diagnostic tests in cats with and without pancreatitis. In all cats, serum was obtained for fTLI and fPLI concentrations, and pancreatic ultrasound images and biopsies were acquired. Serum fPLI concentrations (P<.0001) and ultrasound findings (P= .0073) were significantly different between healthy cats and cats with pancreatitis. Serum fTLI concentrations (P= .15) and CT measurements (P= .18) were not significantly different between the groups. The sensitivity of fTLI in cats with moderate to severe pancreatitis was 80%, and the specificity in healthy cats was 75%. Feline PLI concentrations were both sensitive in cats with moderate to severe pancreatitis (100%) and specific in the healthy cats (100%). Abdominal ultrasound was both sensitive in cats with moderate to severe pancreatitis (80%) and specific in healthy cats (88%). The high sensitivities of fPLI and abdominal ultrasound suggest that these tests should play an important role in the noninvasive diagnosis of feline pancreatitis. As suggested by a previous study, pancreatic CT is not a useful diagnostic test for feline pancreatitis.
Immune Cell Populations in the Duodenal Mucosa of Cats with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Waly Nashwa E. , Stokes Christopher R. , Gruffydd‐Jones Timothy J. , Day Michael J.
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to characterize the phenotype of leukocytes infiltrating the duodenal mucosa of cats with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by using immunohistochemistry and computer‐aided morphometry to assess whether immunologic markers would aid in characterization of IBD. Frozen and formalin‐fixed duodenal biopsies were collected from cats referred for investigation of chronic vomiting, diarrhea, or both (n = 34). Reference ranges were previously established by using duodenal samples from healthy cats (n = 16). No significant difference was found in the number of immunoglobulin G+ (IgG+) or IgA+ in either the villous lamina propria or the crypt lamina propria between cats with IBD and control cats. T cells (CD3+) increased in number from crypt to the tip of the villi in biopsies from both diseased (mean ± SD for each group was 18.8±6.6 and 17.7±4.2 cells/10,000μm2in cryptal areas to 25.2±9.5 and 29.1±13.3 cells/10,000μm2in villous areas) and healthy animals (17.9±3.9 cells/10,000μm2in cryptal areas to 24.1±9.3 cells/10,000μm2in villous areas) and no significant difference was found between diseased and control cats. By contrast, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II expression by leukocytes with dendritic cell or macrophage morphology in the lamina propria was significantly greater in cats with IBD (13.3±4.2 cells/10,000μm2in cryptal area;P= .016) than in healthy cats (11.9±3.0 cells/10,000μm2) and MHC class II expression by enterocytes also was more pronounced in these cats showing an overall intensity of expression of 7.1±4.0 cells/10,000μm2in cats with IBD as opposed to 0.0±0.0 cells/10,000μm2to 0.3±0.7 cells/10,000μm2in healthy cats. These findings suggest that a subtle immunologic dysregulation occurs in spontaneously arising feline IBD.
Plasma Endothelin‐1 Immunoreactivity in Normal Dogs and Dogs with Acquired Heart Disease
Authors: Prošek Robert , Sisson D. David , Oyama Mark A. , Biondo AIexander W. , Solter Philip F.
Published: March 2010

We sought to measure plasma endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) concentrations in normal dogs and to compare them with those measured in dogs with acquired heart disease with or without pulmonary edema. A sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit was validated and used to measure ET‐1 immunoreactivity in plasma samples obtained from 32 normal dogs and 46 dogs with either dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM, n = 27) or degenerative valvular disease (CDVD, n = 19) with (n = 30) or without (n = 16) overt congestive heart failure (CHF). Plasma ET‐1 concentrations (geometric mean, 95% confidence interval of geometric mean) were 1.17 (1.04‐1.32) fmol/mL in the 32 normal control dogs, 1.25 (0.981‐1.60) fmol/mL in 16 dogs with DCM (n = 9) or CDVD (n = 7) without CHF, and 2.51 (2.10‐3.01) fmol/mL in 30 dogs with DCM (n = 18) and CDVD (n = 12) with CHF. Plasma immunoreactivity of ET‐1 was significantly higher in dogs with CHF in comparison with normal dogs (P < .001) and dogs with heart disease without CHF (P < .001). No significant difference was found between normal dogs and dogs with heart disease but without CHF (P < .05). Significant correlations were between plasma ET‐1 concentrations and left atrial: aortic ratio (P < .0001, r2= .39), left ventricular internal dimension at end‐diastole indexed to aortic diameter (P <.0001, r2= .30) or body surface area (BSA) (P= .0071, r2= .10), and left ventricular internal dimension at end‐systole indexed to aortic diameter (P= .0003, r2= .17) or BSA (P= .0008, r2= .15).
Cyclooxygenase‐2 Expression in Canine Appendicular Osteosarcomas
Authors: Mullins Marie N. , Lana Susan E. , Dernell William S. , Ogilvie Gregory K. , Withrow Stephen J. , Ehrhart E.J.
Published: March 2010

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone tumor in dogs and it has a high mortality rate from distant metastatic disease. Targeted adjuvant therapies are needed to prolong currently achievable survival times. The role of cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) in carcinogenesis has been attributed to the production of prostaglandins and involvement in apoptosis, immune surveillance, and angiogenesis. COX‐2 is up‐regulated in a number of different human and animal epithelial tumors, but data about its function in mesenchymal tumors is lacking. The purpose of this study was to evaluate COX‐2 expression in canine appendicular osteosarcomas and to identify if a relationship exists between the intensity of COX‐2 expression and clinicopathologic outcome. Of 44 osteosarcomas analyzed, 34 (77.3%) were positive for COX‐2 expression. Most of the positive cases (88%) had poor to moderate COX‐2 staining. Dogs that had strong COX‐2 expression had significantly decreased overall survival time (P= .0107). The median survival times for dogs with negative (n = 10), poor (n = 19), moderate (n = 11), and strong (n = 4) expression were 423, 399, 370, and 86 days, respectively. Additional studies are warranted to further evaluate COX‐2 in osteosarcoma for its prognostic value and as a target for adjuvant therapy.
Immunoglobulin M‐Capture Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay Testing of Cerebrospinal Fluid and Serum from Horses Exposed to West Nile Virus by Vaccination or Natural Infection
Authors: Porter Michael B. , Long Maureen , Gosche David G. , II Harold M. Schott , Hines Melissa T. , Rossano Mary , Sellon Debra C.
Published: March 2010

The West Nile (WN) virus, present in the United States since 1999, is a cause of encephalomyelitis in birds, alligators, humans, and horses. No data exist regarding detection of anti‐WN virus immunoglobins in equine cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The aims of this study were to evaluate the blood‐brain barrier (BBB) in WN virus‐infected (WNE) horses, to compare diagnostic testing in serum and CSF, and to describe the immunoglobulin M (IgM) response in serum and CSF of vaccinated horses. CSF was collected from the lumbosacral (LS) space (n = 13) or the allanto‐occipital (AO) space (n = 14) of WNE horses. The albumin quotient (AQ) and IgG index were calculated, and the IgM‐capture‐enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (MAC‐ELISA) was used to detect anti‐WN virus IgM in serum and CSF. CSF collected from the LS site had a higher (P< .02) IgG index compared to the AO site (0.34±0.04 versus 0.22±0.04 [mean ± SE], respectively). The mean AQ, irrespective of collection site, did not exceed reference values. There was 100% agreement between CSF and serum testing for IgM by MAC‐ELISA testing. However, the positive to negative antigen ratios were higher (P< .001) in CSF (34.5) versus serum (8.5), indicating lower nonspecific reactivity in CSF samples. Horses vaccinated against WN virus did not develop an IgM response at 1:400 mg/dL in serum; however, a few horses developed a weak IgM response in serum but not in CSF. In conclusion, MAC‐ELISA testing of serum and CSF were equivocal. Also, examination of CSF data from WNE horses suggests a normal BBB integrity and increased intrathecal production of antibodies.
Effect of Type of Dietary Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplement (Corn Oil or Fish Oil) on Immune Responses in Healthy Horses
Authors: Hall Jean A. , van Saun Robert J. , Tornquist Susan J. , Gradin Joseph L. , Pearson Erwin G. , Wander Rosemary C.
Published: March 2010

The objective of this study was to compare effects of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation (corn oil or fish oil) on selected immune responses in normal horses. Two groups of horses (n = 5) were randomly assigned a dietary supplement with either 3.0% corn oil or fish oil for a period of 14 weeks. Plasma fatty acid profiles were monitored to ensure uptake of dietary fatty acids. Cell‐mediated immunity was assessed by a delayed‐type hypersensitivity (DTH) skin test to keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH), and humoral immunity was assessed by measuring antibody titers to KLH. Production of prostaglandin E2(PGE2), expression of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and phagocytosis of latex beads by bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cells were also assessed. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated BALF cells from horses fed corn oil showed a higher production of PGE2compared with those from horses fed fish oil at 6 and 12 weeks. Production of TNF‐α by LPS‐stimulated BALF cells was higher in both groups of horses at 6, 8, and 12 weeks compared with pretrial values, and phagocytic activity of BALF cells was higher at 8 and 12 weeks, however, there were no differences between the 2 groups of horses. The DTH skin test and antibody titers to KLH revealed no differences between horses fed corn or fish oil. Based on these studies, dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids modulate the inflammatory response of horses. Both fatty acid supplements increased production of the proinflammatory cytokine TNF‐α, whereas only corn oil increased production of the proinflammatory eicosanoid PGE2by LPS‐stimulated BALF cells. It is possible that fish oil, because it did not increase production of PGE2, could have value in the treatment of equine recurrent airway obstruction or other equine inflammatory diseases.
Cor Triatriatum Sinister and Persistent Left Cranial Vena Cava in a Kitten
Authors: Heaney AIlison M. , Bulmer Barret J.
Published: March 2010

An approximately 8‐week‐old, 0.61 kg, male Bengal kitten was evaluated by the referring veterinarian for a 5‐day history of sneezing, lethargy, anorexia, coughing, and dyspnea. Thoracic radiographs revealed cardiomegaly with left atrial enlargement, a patchy distribution of pulmonary edema, and loss of abdominal detail.
Transcatheter Closure of Congenital Ventricular Septal Defects in 3 Dogs with a Detachable Coil
Authors: Fujii Yoko , Fukuda Takuya , Machida Noboru , Yamane Tsuyoshi , Wakao Yoshito
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of transcatheter closure in dogs with a congenital perimembranous ventricular septal defect (VSD) by using a detachable coil. No dogs showed any symptoms, and results of chest X‐rays and ECGs were normal. The diameters of VSD ranged from 2 to 4 mm on echocardiogram. The defect was 2‐2.5 mm from the aortic valve. A detachable coil (size 5 mm with 5 loops) designed for patent ductus arteriosus was delivered via the transarterial route. The device was successfully employed in all dogs. A minimal residual shunt was observed in all dogs even though Qp/Qs decreased. Hemolysis and a rate‐dependent right‐bundle branch block were observed in 1 dog, but there was no clinical significance. No major complication was noted. Pathologic examination after 1 year revealed that the coils were covered with tissue without significant damage to the His‐Purkinje conduction system. In conclusion, transcatheter closure of a small perimembranous VSD with a detachable coil can be achieved without major complications or significant pathologic damage at the lesion site.
Use of Kit Internal Tandem Duplications to Establish Mast Cell Tumor Clonality in 2 Dogs
Authors: Zavodovskaya Regina , Chien May B. , London Cheryl A.
Published: March 2010

Mast cell tumor (MCT) is one of the most common tumors of dogs. Some affected dogs develop multiple cutaneous tumors in various locations over months to years. In these cases, it is not clear whether the tumors have arisen de novo, or if each tumor represents a recurrence of the previously excised original tumor (ie, distant metastasis). We used the presence of an internal tandem duplication (ITD) in c‐kit to demonstrate that in 2 dogs with recurrent cutaneous MCT that had developed over 1–2 years, each recurrent MCT tumor possessed an identical ITD when compared to the original MCT, indicating that the multiple tumors were clonal in origin. This study demonstrates that similar to the situation in humans, specific somatic mutations identified in oncogenes found in canine neoplasms can be used to provide evidence of tumor clonality.
Quantitative Analysis of Inflammatory and Immune Responses in Dogs with Gastritis and Their Relationship toHelicobacterspp. Infection
Authors: Wiinberg Bo , Spohr Anette , Dietz Hans Henrik , Egelund Thomas , Greiter‐Wilke Andrea , McDonough Sean P. , Olsen John , Priestnall Simon , Chang Yung Fu , Simpson Kenneth W.
Published: March 2010

The present study sought to quantitatively examine mucosal inflammatory and immune responses in dogs with gastritis and the relationship of these responses to infection withHelicobacter.Gastric biopsies from 30 dogs were evaluated for B‐ and T‐lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, macrophages, and mast cells. Mucosal atrophy, fibrosis, cellularity, and severity of gastritis were graded qualitatively. Messenger‐RNA (mRNA) for actin, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐4, IL‐8, and IL‐10, transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β), and interferon gamma (IFN‐γ) was quantified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The presence ofHelicobacterspp. was determined by urease activity, histology, PCR, and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. mRNA for IL‐1β, IL‐8, IL‐10, TGF‐β, and IFN‐γ was detected in most dogs. IL‐4 mRNA was detected in only 1 dog. Correlations were observed for IL‐1β versus IL‐8 and IL‐10; IL‐8 versus IL‐10, IFN‐γ, and TGF‐β; and IL‐10 versus IFN‐γ. Mucosal pathology was related to cytokine mRNA expression (neutrophils to IL‐8 and IFN‐γ, macrophages and lymphocytes to IFN‐γ, and fibrosis to IL‐1β). Gastritis was categorized as lymphoplasmacytic in all dogs, and its histologic severity correlated with atrophy, infiltration with lymphocytes and macrophages, and expression of IL‐10 and IFN‐γ. Of the dogs examined, 76.7% were infected withHelicobacterspp. Infection was associated with increased expression of TGF‐β and fibrosis. Circulating anti‐Helicobacterimmunoglobulin G titers were higher in uninfected than infected dogs. We conclude that lymphoplasmacytic gastritis in dogs is characterized by concurrent activation of proinflammatory and immunomodulatory cytokines, with increased mRNA expression related to mucosal pathology. No significant associations betweenHelicobacterinfection and proinflammatory cytokine expression, severity of gastritis, or differences in the pathogenicity of differentHelicobacterspp. were found.
Comparison of Ultrasonography, Computed Tomography, and Single‐Photon Emission Computed Tomography for the Detection and Localization of Canine Insulinoma
Authors: Robbena Joris H. , Pollak Yvonne W.E.A. , Kirpensteijn Jolle , Boroffka Susanne A.E.B. , van den Ingh Ted S.G.A.M. , Teske Erik , Voorhout George
Published: March 2010

Accurate preoperative detection, localization, and staging of the primary tumor and metastases are essential for the selection of appropriate candidates for surgery. In dogs with insulinoma, preoperative assessment usually is performed with transabdominal ultrasonography (US). There are no reports on the use of computed tomography (CT) for this purpose. The preoperative use of somatostatin receptor scintigraphy (SRS) recently has been advocated for the identification of insulinoma and gastrinoma in dogs, but its accuracy remains to be established. In this report US, CT, and single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with [111In‐DTPA‐D‐Phe1]‐octreotide (a specific form of SRS) were compared for their effectiveness in detecting and localizing primary and metastatic insulinoma in dogs. Findings at surgery or postmortem examination served as control. Of 14 primary insulinomas, 5, 10, and 6 were correctly identified by US, CT, and SPECT, respectively. No lymph node metastases were detected by US or SPECT. CT identified 2 of 5 lymph node metastases but also identified 28 false‐positive lesions. Two of 4 livers were found to be positive for metastases by 1 of the imaging techniques. US can be used for the initial evaluation of dogs with hypoglycemia. Although CT identifies most primary tumors, intraoperative inspection and palpation of the pancreas is still superior. SPECT appears as effective as US and CT in detecting insulinomas. Future developments in preoperative imaging techniques might improve current methods of canine insulinoma detection.
Bone Marrow‐Derived Dendritic Cell Vaccination of Dogs with Naturally Occurring Melanoma by Using Human gp100 Antigen
Authors: Gyorffy Steve , Rodriguez‐Lecompte Juan Carlos , Woods J. Paul , Foley Ronan , Kruth Stephen , Liaw Patricia C.Y. , Gauldie Jack
Published: March 2010

Canine malignant melanoma (CMM) is a common and aggressive form of cancer in dogs. Established therapeutic approaches such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy (RT) have not proven curative. As a coadjuvant of RT and to enhance the antimelanoma immune response, we characterized dendritic cells (DCs) from the bone marrow (BM) of dogs with CMM, ex vivo, for use in therapeutic vaccines. BM mononuclear cells from 3 dogs with melanoma and from 1 healthy dog were cultured for 12 days in media supplemented with recombinant human granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor, stem cell factor, tumor necrosis factor, and Flt‐3 ligand. On day 11, DCs were transduced with an adenovirus vector encoding a xenoantigen, human melanoma antigen gp100. Each dog received 3 subcutaneous vaccinations over a 4‐month period. Phenotypic analysis of the expanded DC population demonstrated expression of CD11c/CD18 and major histocompatibility complex class II surface markers, and ultrastructural features characteristic of DCs were observed on electron microscopy. On functional analysis, these DCs were able to stimulate allo‐reactivity and capture and express gp100. One dog demonstrated antigen‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity in peripheral blood lymphocytes. This dog has displayed no clinical signs, either locally or systemically, of recurrent melanoma 48 months after initial DC injection. However, another dog, which was CTL negative, relapsed 22 months after vaccination. Ex vivo DC expansion is feasible for immunotherapy of spontaneous cancers in outbred dogs.
Clinical Evaluation of Gemcitabine in Dogs with Spontaneously Occurring Malignancies
Authors: Kosarek Carrie E. , Kisseberth William C. , Gallant Stacey L. , Couto C. Guillermo
Published: March 2010

We conducted a clinical evaluation of gemcitabine in 19 dogs with spontaneously occurring malignancies. The principal objectives of this study were to characterize toxicity and seek preliminary evidence of antitumor activity of gemcitabine administered every 2 weeks (biweekly) as a 30‐minute IV infusion. A total of 64 doses, ranging from 300 mg/m2to 675 mg/m2, were administered during the initial 8‐week evaluation period, and an additional 131 doses were administered during the extended evaluation period. The total cumulative dose for the 10 dogs receiving gemcitabine in the extended evaluation period ranged from 1,500 mg/m2to 24,300 mg/m2. Clinical evidence of toxicity was minimal. Cumulative myelosuppression was not apparent. Unexplained retinal hemorrhages occurred in 1 dog. No complete or partial remissions were observed during the initial evaluation period; however, objective responses were observed in 2 dogs during the extended evaluation period. Gemcitabine is a promising new chemotherapeutic agent that can be used safely in dogs with cancer. Biweekly administration of doses of 675 mg/m2IV results in minimal and acceptable toxicity.
Effect of Airway Disease on Blood Gas Exchange in Racehorses
Authors: Sánchez A. , Couëtil L.L. , Ward M.P. , Clark S.P.
Published: March 2010

Inflammatory Airway Disease (IAD), exercise‐induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH), and upper airway obstruction (UAO) are common respiratory tract diseases that can decrease performance. The purpose of this retrospective study was to compare bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytology and arterial blood gas analysis during a treadmill test by poorly performing racehorses presented to Purdue University. One hundred thirty‐two horses with a history of poor performance were included in this study. Ten horses with no history or diagnosis of EIPH, IAD, or UAO served as controls. Horses were evaluated by rhinolaryngoscopy for upper airway abnormalities and underwent a standardized treadmill test, and samples were collected for blood gas analysis. Horses with IAD or EIPH had a more severe exercise‐induced hypoxemia, (mean ± SD; 84.8 ± 1.5 and 86.0 ± 1.7 mm Hg average PaO2, respectively), than horses in the control group (92.8 ± 2.1 mm Hg). The average PaO2of horses with only UAO (88.3 ± 3.3 mm Hg) was not significantly different from control horses. Gas exchanges were the most severely impaired in horses affected with both EIPH and UAO because they exhibited the lowest PaO2and highest PaCO2values (66.5 ± 15.2 and 52.2 ± 6.3 mm Hg, respectively).
Measurement of Serum IgG in Foals by Radial Immunodiffusion and Automated Turbidimetric Immunoassay
Authors: Davis Deborah G. , Schaefer Deanna M.W. , Hinchcliff Kenneth W. , Wellman Maxey L. , Willet V. Ellen , Fletcher Jana M.
Published: March 2010

Hypogammaglobulinemia as a result of failure of transfer of passive immunity (FTPI) is an important risk factor for infectious disease in neonatal foals. The current gold standard for determining serum immunoglobulin concentrations is radial immunodiffusion (RID). The purpose of this study was to compare immunoglobulin concentrations measured by RID with those determined by an automated turbidimetric immunoassay (TIA), which has a much shorter turnaround time. Immunoglobulin concentrations were measured by both RID and TIA in serum collected from 84 neonatal foals. Sixty‐seven foals had results within the linear range for both assays. Sensitivity and specificity of TIA for diagnosis of FTPI with IgG ≤ 800 mg/dL were 0.81 (95% CI 0.70‐0.88) and 0.86 (95% CI 0.76‐0.93) and with IgG ≤ 400 mg/dL were 0.63 (95% CI 0.35‐0.86) and 0.92 (95% CI 0.87‐0.95), respectively. A significant linear relationship was found between IgG concentrations determined by TIA and RID (TIA = 0.9511RID + 8.4354;R2= .59,P< .0001). The coefficients of variation for between‐run and within‐run precision for the TIA were 2.5 and 3%, respectively. Storage of samples from 10 foals at ‐20°C for 10–12 months resulted in a reduction in TIA‐measured serum IgG concentration of ‐17.6% (SD = 3.7%), indicating that long‐term storage of samples at ‐20°C should be avoided. The results of this study indicate that measurement of serum IgG by TIA can be used to evaluate foals for FTPI.
Effect of Suckling Cow's Milk or Milk Replacer on Abomasal Luminal pH in Dairy Calves
Authors: Constable Peter D. , Ahmed Ahmed F. , Misk Nabil A.
Published: March 2010

Abomasal ulceration occurs commonly in suckling calves, and the cause for the high prevalence of abomasal ulceration is unknown. We hypothesized that diet may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of abomasal ulceration. Six male dairy calves with an abomasal body cannula suckled fresh Holstein cow's milk, all milk‐protein milk replacer, or combined milk‐ and soy‐protein milk replacer twice daily at 12% of body weight/d. Abomasal luminal pH was measured every second for 24 hours by using a miniature glass pH electrode. Mean 24‐hour abomasal luminal pH for all milk‐protein milk replacer (3.22) and combined milk‐ and soy‐protein milk replacer (3.27) were similar but significantly (P< .05) higher than that for cow's milk (2.77; standard error = 0.08). Both milk‐replacer formulations failed to clot after the addition of chymosin, whereas cow's milk clotted within 2 minutes. The in vitro titration curve of cow's milk and all milk‐protein milk replacer were similar, but different to that of combined milk‐ and soy‐protein milk replacer. The osmolalities of all milk‐protein milk replacer (375 mOsm/kg) and combined milk‐ and soy‐protein milk replacer (410 mOsm/kg) were greater than that of cow's milk (278 mOsm/kg). The slightly lower mean abomasal luminal pH in calves suckling cow's milk, compared to milk replacer, was probably due to clotting of cow's milk, with extrusion of low pH whey, and a slower rate of abomasal emptying caused by the hyperosmolality of milk replacer. Examination of our results suggests that suckling cow's milk may increase the prevalence of abomasal ulceration by decreasing mean luminal pH, although this remains to be determined.
Canine and Feline Blood Donor Screening for Infectious Disease
Authors: Wardrop K. Jane , Reine Nyssa , Birkenheuer Adam , Hale Anne , Hohenhaus Ann , Crawford Cynda , Lappin Michael R.
Published: March 2010

Consensus Statements of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) provide veterinarians with guidelines regarding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, or treatment of animal diseases. The foundation of the Consensus Statement is evidence‐based medicine, but if such evidence is conflicting or lacking, the panel provides interpretive recommendations on the basis of their collective expertise. The Consensus Statement is intended to be a guide for veterinarians, but it is not a statement of standard of care or a substitute for clinical judgment. Topics of statements and panel members to draft the statements are selected by the Board of Regents with input from the general membership. A draft prepared and input from Diplomates is solicited at the Forum and via the ACVIM Web site and incorporated in a final version. This Consensus Statement was approved by the Board of Regents of the ACVIM before publication.
Ultrasonographic Evaluation of the Thyroid Gland in Healthy, Hypothyroid, and Euthyroid Golden Retrievers with Nonthyroidal Illness
Authors: Brömel Catharina , Pollard Rachel E. , Kass Philip H. , Samii Valerie F. , Davidson Autumn P. , Nelson Richard W.
Published: March 2010

Ultrasound evaluation of the thyroid gland was performed in healthy, hypothyroid, and euthyroid Golden Retriever dogs with nonthyroidal illness (NTI) to determine the diagnostic usefulness of ultrasound for differentiating between euthyroid and hypothyroid dogs. Thirty‐six healthy, 11 hypothyroid, and 35 euthyroid dogs with NTI were evaluated. Each thyroid lobe was examined ultrasonographically for size, shape, echogenicity, and homogeneity. Thyroid lobe volume was estimated by using the equation for an ellipsoid: π/6(length × height × width). No differences were found between healthy dogs and euthyroid dogs with NTI. In the majority of euthyroid dogs, the thyroid lobes were fusiform and triangular in shape in longitudinal and transverse planes, respectively. The thyroid capsule appeared smooth. The thyroid parenchyma had a homogeneous echogenic pattern and usually was hyperechoic or isoechoic compared with the surrounding musculature. Ultrasound findings in hypothyroid dogs were more variable, including a greater frequency of round to oval‐shaped thyroid lobes in the transverse imaging plane (P< .05), hypoechogenicity of the thyroid parenchyma compared with surrounding musculature (P< .001), and a decrease in the size and volume of the thyroid lobes and total volume of the thyroid gland (P< .05) compared with euthyroid dogs. Other findings in hypothyroid dogs included an irregular surface to the thyroid capsule, a heterogeneous pattern to the thyroid parenchyma, and differences in the echogenic pattern between the left and right thyroid lobes. Results suggest that determination of thyroid size and volume by ultrasound may be a useful adjunctive test for differentiating between hypothyroid and euthyroid dogs with NTI.
Experimental Determination of Net Protein Charge andAtotandKaof Nonvolatile Buffers in Canine Plasma
Authors: Constable Peter D. , Stämpfli Henry R.
Published: March 2010

Acid‐base abnormalities frequently are present in sick dogs. The mechanism for an acid‐base disturbance can be determined with the simplified strong ion approach, which requires accurate values for the total concentration of plasma nonvolatile buffers (Atot) and the effective dissociation constant for plasma weak acids (Ka). The aims of this study were to experimentally determineAtotandKavalues for canine plasma. Plasma was harvested from 10 healthy dogs; the concentrations of quantitatively important strong ions (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl‐, L‐lactate) and nonvolatile buffer ions (total protein, albumin, phosphate) were determined; and the plasma was tonometered with CO2at 37°C. Strong ion difference (SID) was calculated from the measured strong ion concentrations, and nonlinear regression was used to estimate values forAtotandKa, which were validated with data from an in vitro and in vivo study. Mean (±SD) values for canine plasma wereAtot= (17.4 ± 8.6) mM (equivalent to 0.273 mmol/g of total protein or 0.469 mmol/g of albumin);Ka= (0.17±0.11) × 10‐7; pKa= 7.77. The calculated SID for normal canine plasma (pH = 7.40; PCO2= 37 mm Hg; [total protein] = 64 g/L) was 27 mEq/L. The net protein charge for normal canine plasma was 0.25 mEq/g of total protein or 0.42 mEq/g of albumin. Application of the experimentally determined values forAtot,Ka, and net protein charge should improve understanding of the mechanism for complex acid‐base disturbances in dogs.
Dogs with Heart Diseases Causing Turbulent High‐Velocity Blood Flow Have Changes in Platelet Function and von Willebrand Factor Multimer Distribution
Authors: Tarnow Inge , Kristensen Annemarie T. , Olsen Lisbeth H. , Falk Torkel , Haubro Lotte , Pedersen Lotte G. , Pedersen Henrik D.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this prospective study was to investigate platelet function using in vitro tests based on both high and low shear rates and von Willebrand factor (vWf) multimeric composition in dogs with cardiac disease and turbulent high‐velocity blood flow. Client‐owned asymptomatic, untreated dogs were divided into 4 groups: 14 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (Cavaliers) with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) and no or minimal mitral regurgitation (MR), 17 Cavaliers with MVP and moderate to severe MR, 14 control dogs, and 10 dogs with subaortic stenosis (SAS). Clinical examinations and echocardiography were performed in all dogs. PFA100 closure times (the ability of platelets to occlude a hole in a membrane at high shear rates), platelet activation markers (plasma thromboxane B2 concentration, platelet surface P‐selectin expression), platelet aggregation (in whole blood and platelet‐rich plasma with 3 different agonists), and vWf multimers were analyzed. Cavaliers with moderate to severe MR and dogs with SAS had longer closure times and a lower percentage of the largest vWf multimers than did controls. Maximal aggregation responses were unchanged in dogs with SAS but enhanced in Cavaliers with MVP (regardless of MR status) compared with control dogs. No significant difference in platelet activation markers was found among groups. The data suggest that a form of platelet dysfunction detected at high shear rates was present in dogs with MR and SAS, possibly associated with a qualitative vWf defect. Aggregation results suggest increased platelet reactivity in Cavaliers, but the platelets did not appear to circulate in a preactivated state in either disease.
Antioxidant Status and Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress in Dogs with Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Freeman Lisa M. , Rush John E. , Milbury Paul E. , Blumberg Jeffrey B.
Published: March 2010

Alterations in antioxidant status and oxidative stress have been documented in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). The purpose of this study was to more broadly assess this relationship in dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF). Malondialdehyde (MDA), 8‐F2α‐isoprostane, protein carbonyls, reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione, vitamins A, C, and E, and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) were measured from a single venous blood sample from dogs with CHF secondary to DCM or chronic valvular disease (CVD) and in healthy controls. Nineteen dogs with CHF (14 CVD and 5 DCM) and 12 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Concentrations of 8‐F2α‐isoprostane (CHF: 44.6 pg/mL [range, 27.1–98.0 pg/mL], controls: 25.3 pg/ mL [range, 11.1–80.4 pg/mL]) but not MDA (CHF: 4.11 μM [range, 1.89–6.39 μM], controls: 3.88 μM [range, 2.14‐4.72 μM]) or protein carbonyls (0.69 nmol/mg protein [range, 0.37‐1.67 nmol/mg protein], controls: 0.80 nmol/mg protein [range, 0.40‐1.14 nmol/mg protein]) were significantly higher in the dogs with CHF than in the controls. Vitamin E concentration (CHF: 2,215 μg/ dL [range, 916–3,499 μg/dL], controls: 2,820 |xg/dL [range, 1,738‐3,775 μg/dL]) and GSH:GSSG (CHF: 12.0 [range, 3.69‐30.1], controls: 22.7 [range, 12.5–227]) were significantly lower, whereas ORAC (CHF: 824 μmol Trolox equivalent/L [range, 304–984], controls: 497 μmol Trolox equivalent/L [range, 258–759]) and vitamin C (CHF: 0.90 mg/dL [range, 0.55‐2.02 mg/dL], controls: 0.72 mg/dL [range, 0.43‐0.85 mg/dL]) concentrations were higher in dogs with CHF than in controls. Vitamin A concentrations were not different between dogs with CHF and controls. No differences in any of the parameters were detected between dogs with DCM versus those with CVD. Some antioxidant defenses are decreased in dogs with CHF, and some biomarkers of oxidative stress are increased in dogs with CHF. The effect of dietary interventions to correct this imbalance in antioxidant defenses warrants further study.
Quantitative Echocardiographic Evaluation of Mitral Endocardiosis in Dogs Using Ratio Indices
Authors: Brown Donald J. , Rush John E. , MacGregor John , Ross James N. , Brewer Barbara , Rand William M.
Published: March 2010

This study compares M‐mode echocardiographic ratio indices (ERIs) in dogs with mitral regurgitation due to chronic valvular disease (CVD/MR) for their ability to discriminate and quantify associated echocardiographic changes. Weight‐based M‐mode ERIs were determined retrospectively for 2 groups of dogs, normal (n = 47) and CVD/MR (n = 176). The CVD/MR group was further subdivided into those with (CVD/MR B, n = 74) and without (CVD/MR A, n = 102) left‐sided congestive heart failure (LCHF). ERIs were compared descriptively (summary statistics) and also by receiver‐operator characteristic curve areas (ROCAs) for their ability to discriminate between groups. Univariate logistic regression (LR) models were used to estimate the odds ratio for each ERI as a predictor of the CVD/MR condition as well as to predict LCHF within the CVD/MR group. A novel ERI (wΔA), designed to express body size‐normalized short‐axis stroke area, was sensitive (90%) and specific (98%) to discriminate between normal and CVD/MR at a cutoff value of 1.8 standard deviations (wΔA = 2.1). Prediction of LCHF within the CVD/MR group was more problematic, but an ERI expressing left atrial size (wLA) showed 76% sensitivity and 81% specificity at a cutoff value of 5.2 standard deviations (wLA = 1.55). Ours was a descriptive study of echocardiographic patterns of pathology associated with CVD/MR and determined which ERIs are sensitive and specific for CVD/MR and for LCHF. ERIs normalize echocardiographic data for body size in dogs and are well‐suited to quantitative descriptions and analysis.
Polymerase Chain Reaction Screening for DNA Viruses in Paraffin‐Embedded Brains from Dogs with Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis, Necrotizing Leukoencephalitis, and Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis
Authors: Schatzberg Scott J. , Haley Nicholas J. , Barr Stephen C. , de Lahunta Alexander , Sharp Nicholas J.H.
Published: March 2010

The objective of this investigation was to determine whether or not herpesvirus (herpes‐), adenovirus (adeno‐), or canine parvovirus DNA is present in the brains of dogs with necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME), necrotizing leukoencephalitis (NLE), and granulomatous meningoencephalitis (GME). Paraffin‐embedded brain specimens from 12 histopathologically confirmed dogs with NME, 3 with NLE, and 7 with GME were screened for viral DNA with degenerate herpes‐ and adenovirus polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and a canine parvovirus‐specific PCR. Positive‐control specimens included genomic viral DNA and paraffin‐embedded tissues from dogs with confirmed herpes‐, adeno‐, or canine parvovirus infections. Herpes‐, adeno‐, or canine parvovirus DNA was amplified by PCR from the corresponding positive‐control specimens. Negative controls included 7 dogs with various brain disorders and produced no viral amplicons. The 22 dogs with NME, NLE, and GME were negative for viral DNA. Additional studies testing for other viruses or inherited genetic mutations are warranted to gain insight into the etiologies of NME, NLE, and GME. We discuss potential etiologies and provide a clinical and histopathologic overview of these common canine encephalitides.
Association between Ovarihysterectomy and Feline Mammary Carcinoma
Authors: Overley Beth , Shofer Frances S. , Goldschmidt Michael H. , Sherer Dave , Sorenmo Karin U.
Published: March 2010

The etiopathogenesis of feline mammary carcinoma is not well understood. Although putative, risk factors include breed, reproductive status, and regular exposure to progestins. An association between age at ovarihysterectomy (OHE) and mammary carcinoma development has not been established. Therefore, a case‐control study was performed to determine the effects of OHE age, breed, progestin exposure, and parity on feline mammary carcinoma development. Cases were female cats diagnosed with mammary carcinoma by histological examination of mammary tissue. Controls were female cats not diagnosed with mammary tumors selected from the same biopsy service population. Controls were frequency matched to cases by age and year of diagnosis. Questionnaires were sent to veterinarians for 308 cases and 400 controls. The overall questionnaire response rate was 58%. Intact cats were significantly overrepresented (odds ratio [OR] 2.7, confidence interval [CI] = 1.4–5.3,P< .001) in the mammary carcinoma population. Cats spayed prior to 6 months of age had a 91% reduction in the risk of mammary carcinoma development compared with intact cats (OR 0.9, CI = 0.03‐0.24). Those spayed prior to 1 year had an 86% reduction in risk (OR 0.14, CI = 0.06‐0.34). Parity did not affect feline mammary carcinoma development, and too few cats had progestin exposure to determine association with mammary carcinoma. Results indicate that cats spayed before 1 year of age are at significantly decreased risk of feline mammary carcinoma development.
Hemangiosarcoma in 11 Young Horses
Authors: Johns Imogen , Stephen Jennifer O. , Del Piero Fabio , Richardson Dean W. , Wilkins Pamela A.
Published: March 2010

Hemangiosarcoma is a rare neoplasm of horses and hemangiosarcoma in young horses might behave differently than in mature horses. The purpose of this study was to identify the characteristics of hemangiosarcoma occurring in horses ≤ 3 years of age. Medical records from 1982 to 2004 were searched for horses ≤ 3 years of age with a histopathologic diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma. Eleven records were identified. Thoroughbred and Thoroughbred crosses predominated. Age ranged from 9 days to 3 years. All horses presented with cutaneous or leg swellings or joint effusion. Physical examination findings included tachycardia, fever, and depression. Laboratory abnormalities included anemia (5/11), hyperfibrinogenemia (4/11), hypofibrinogenemia (3/11), thrombocytopenia (2/11), and neutrophilic leukocytosis (1/11). Ultrasonographic and radiographic evaluation was not diagnostic in any case. Antemortem histopathologic diagnosis was obtained in 10 cases. Six of 11 horses were euthanized. Surgical resection was performed in 5 horses, 2 of which were later euthanized. Diagnosis was confirmed histologically at postmortem examination in all euthanized horses. Two cases resolved spontaneously. Early histopathologic diagnosis may allow cure if the mass is localized and amenable to surgical resection. In cases where the horse is medically stable, and masses are not interfering with quality of life, a period of observation may be warranted.
Use of a Quantitative Strong Ion Approach to Determine the Mechanism for Acid—Base Abnormalities in Sick Calves with or without Diarrhea
Authors: Constable Peter D. , Stämpfli Henry R. , Navetat Hérve , Berchtold Joachim , Schelcher François
Published: March 2010

Acid‐base abnormalities are frequently present in sick calves. The mechanism for an acid‐base disturbance can be characterized using the strong ion approach, which requires accurate values for the total concentration of plasma nonvolatile buffers (Atot) and the effective dissociation constant for plasma weak acids (Ka). The aims of this study were to experimentally determineAtot,Ka, and net protein charge values for calf plasma and to apply these values quantitatively to data from sick calves to determine underlying mechanisms for the observed acid‐base disturbance. Plasma was harvested from 9 healthy Holstein‐Friesian calves and concentrations of quantitatively important strong ions (Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl‐, L‐lactate) and nonvolatile buffer ions (total protein, albumin, phosphate) were determined. Plasma was tonometered with CO2at 37°C, and plasma PCO2and pH measured over a range of 15–159 mm Hg and 6.93‐7.79, respectively. Strong ion difference (SID) was calculated from the measured strong ion concentrations, and nonlinear regression was used to estimate values forAtotandKafrom the measured pH and PCO2and calculated SID. The estimatedAtotandKavalues were then validated using data from 2 in vivo studies. Mean (± SD) values for calf plasma wereAtot= 0.343 mmol/g of total protein or 0.622 mmol/g of albumin;Ka= (0.84 ± 0.41) × 10‐7;pKa= 7.08. The net protein charge of calf plasma was 10.5 mEq/L, equivalent to 0.19 mEq/g of total protein or 0.34 mEq/g of albumin. Application of the strong ion approach to acid‐base disturbances in 231 sick calves with or without diarrhea indicated that acidemia was due predominantly to a strong ion acidosis in response to hyponatremia accompanied by normochloremia or hyperchloremia and the presence of unidentified strong anions. These results confirm current recommendations that treatment of acidemia in sick calves with or without diarrhea should focus on intravenous or PO administration of a fluid containing sodium and a high effective SID.