bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of the Roter interaction analysis system to analyze veterinarian-client-patient communication in companion animal practice
Authors: Shaw Jane R. , Adams Cindy L. , Bonnett Brenda N. , Larson Susan , Roter Debra L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To identify specific components of veterinarian- client-patient communication during clinical appointments in companion animal practice.

Design—Cross-sectional descriptive study.

Sample Population—A random sample of 50 companion animal practitioners in southern Ontario and a convenience sample of 300 clients and their pets.

Procedure—For each practitioner, 6 clinical appointments (3 wellness appointments and 3 appointments related to a health problem) were videotaped, and the Roter interaction analysis system (RIAS) was used to analyze the resulting 300 videotapes. Statements made during each appointment were classified by means of a communication framework reflecting the 4 essential tasks of the appointment (ie, data gathering, education and counseling, relationship building, and activation and partnership).

Results—57% of the veterinarians contacted (50/87) and 99% of the clients contacted agreed to participate in the study. Mean duration of the appointments was 13 minutes. Typically, veterinarians contributed 62% of the total conversation and clients contributed 38%. Fifty-four percent of the veterinarian interaction was with the client, and 8% was with the pet. Data gathering constituted 9% of the veterinarian-to-client communication and was primarily accomplished through closed-ended questioning; 48% of veterinarian-to-client communication involved client education and counseling, 30% involved relationship building, and 7% involved activation and partnership (the remaining 6% constituted orientation).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the RIAS was a reliable method of assessing the structure, process, and content of veterinarianclient-patient communication and that some veterinarians do not use all the tools needed for effective communication. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:222–229)
Use of the caudolateral curvilinear osteophyte as an early marker for future development of osteoarthritis associated with hip dysplasia in dogs
Authors: Powers Michelle Y. , Biery Daryl N. , Lawler Dennis F. , Evans Richard H. , Shofer Frances S. , Mayhew Philipp , Gregor Thomas P. , Kealy Richard D. , Smith Gail K.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the relationship between the caudolateral curvilinear osteophyte (CCO) and osteoarthritis associated with hip dysplasia in dogs.

Design—Longitudinal cohort study.

Animals—48 Labrador Retrievers from 7 litters.

Procedure—In each of 24 sex- and size-matched pairs fed the same diet, a restricted-fed dog was fed 25% less than a control dog for life. The dogs' hips were evaluated in the standard ventrodorsal hip-extended radiographic projection at 16, 30, and 52 weeks of age and then yearly for life. Histologic examination of hip joint tissues was performed on 45 dogs.

Results—Median age at death was 11.2 years. Adjusting for feeding group, dogs with a CCO were 3.7 times as likely to develop radiographic signs of osteoarthritis than those without a CCO. Stratified by diet, 100% of the control dogs with a CCO developed radiographic signs of osteoarthritis and 55% of restricted-fed dogs with a CCO developed radiographic signs of osteoarthritis. The CCO was the first radiographic change seen in 22 of 29 (76%) dogs with osteoarthritis. Overall, 35 of 37 (95%) dogs with a CCO had histopathologic lesions of osteoarthritis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate a relationship between a CCO on the femoral neck and subsequent development of radiographic signs of osteoarthritis in Labrador Retrievers evaluated over their life span. A CCO is an important early radiographic indication of osteoarthritis associated with canine hip dysplasia. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:233–237)
Evaluation of complications and prognostic factors associated with administration of total parenteral nutrition in cats: 75 cases (1994–2001)
Authors: Pyle Sally C. , Marks Stanley L. , Kass Philip H.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine frequency and types of complications, prognostic factors, and primary diseases affecting clinical outcome associated with administration of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) in cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—75 cats that received TPN for ≥ 12 hours.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed, and information was obtained on signalment, history, problems at initial evaluation, physical examination findings, weight and changes in weight while receiving TPN, duration in the hospital before initiation of TPN, the type of TPN catheter used, duration of TPN administration, and final diagnosis. Laboratory results obtained immediately prior to TPN and at 24 and 96 hours following initiation of TPN administration were compared.

Results—Reports of weight loss at initial evaluation, hyperglycemia at 24 hours, or diagnosis of chronic renal failure were significantly associated with increased mortality rate. Greater serum albumin concentrations prior to and at 96 hours following TPN administration were significantly associated with decreased mortality rate. Mechanical and septic complications were infrequent and not associated with increased mortality rate. Most cats had multiple diseases. The overall mortality rate was 52%; among 75 cats, 36 recovered, 23 were euthanatized, and 16 died as a result of their primary illness or complications associated with their illness.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated high mortality rate in cats maintained on TPN that had multiple concurrent diseases associated with a poor prognosis. Indicators of poor prognosis included a history of weight loss, hyperglycemia at 24 hours following TPN administration, hypoalbuminemia, and chronic renal failure. (J Am Vet med Assoc 2004;225:242–250)
Evaluation of long-term home monitoring of blood glucose concentrations in cats with diabetes mellitus: 26 cases (1999–2002)
Authors: Kley Saskia , Casella Martina , Reusch Claudia E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate owner compliance with longterm
home monitoring of blood glucose concentrations
in diabetic cats and assess the influence of
home monitoring on the frequency of reevaluation of
those cats at a veterinary hospital.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—26 cats with diabetes mellitus.

Procedure—Medical records of diabetic cats for
which home monitoring was undertaken were
reviewed, and owners were contacted by telephone.
Signalment, laboratory test results, insulin treatment
regimen, details of home monitoring, clinical signs
during treatment, frequency of follow-up examinations,
and survival times were evaluated.

Results—Monitoring of cats commenced within 12
weeks (median, 3 weeks) after initial evaluation; 8
owners were unable to perform home monitoring,
and 1 cat was euthanatized after 1 week. In 17 cats,
duration of home monitoring was 4.8 to 46.0 months
(median, 22.0 months); 6 cats died after 7.0 to 18.0
months (median, 13.0 months). In 11 cats, home
monitoring was ongoing at completion of the study
(12.0 to 46.0 months' duration). Fourteen owners
completed blood glucose curves every 2 to 4 weeks.
Cats managed with home monitoring received higher
dosages of insulin, compared with cats that were not
monitored. Four of 17 cats managed by home monitoring
had transient resolution of diabetes mellitus for
as long as 1 year. Home monitoring did not affect the
frequency of reevaluation at the veterinary hospital.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Owner compliance
with long-term home monitoring appeared to
be satisfactory, and home monitoring did not affect
the frequency of reevaluation of patients by veterinarians.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2004;225:261–266)
Tension band stabilization of fractures and luxations of the thoracolumbar vertebrae in dogs and cats: 38 cases (1993–2002)
Authors: Voss Katja , Montavon Pierre M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the outcome of dogs and cats in which a tension band technique was used to stabilize traumatic fractures and luxations of the thoracolumbar vertebrae.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—38 client-owned animals (22 dogs and 16 cats) weighing between 1.4 and 45 kg (3 and 99 lb).

Procedure—Medical records of cats and dogs that underwent tension band stabilization of thoracolumbar fractures and luxations at the University of Zurich between 1993 and 2002 were reviewed. The stabilization technique was a modification of a spinal stapling technique with a figure 8 hemicerclage wire placed in a tension band fashion across the lesion. Neurologic status, lesion location and type, and concomitant traumatic injuries were assessed from the medical records and preoperative radiographs. Clinical outcome and complications were determined through follow-up examinations or telephone conversations with the owners.

Results—Complete or satisfactory neurologic recovery was achieved in 30 (79%) patients. Seven patients were euthanatized (6 owing to poor neurologic recovery and 1 owing to implant failure), and 1 dog was managed at home despite paraplegia. Clinically, only 4 patients (11%) had evidence of implant or fixation failure; all were dogs weighing > 16 kg (35 lb).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the tension band technique may be appropriate for stabilization of fractures and luxations of the thoracolumbar vertebrae in cats and small- or medium- sized dogs. In larger dogs, fixation strength may be insufficient to stabilize certain fracture types and ancillary external or internal fixation methods may be needed. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:78–83)
Seroprevalence of Mycobacterium avium subsp paratuberculosis infection among dairy cows in Colorado and herd-level risk factors for seropositivity
Authors: Hirst Heather L. , Garry Franklyn B. , Morley Paul S. , Salman M. D. , Dinsmore R. Page , Wagner Bruce A. , McSweeney Kevin D. , Goodell Gregory M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To estimate seroprevalence ofMycobacterium aviumsubspparatuberculosis(MAP) infection among adult dairy cows in Colorado and determine herd-level factors associated with the risk that individual cows would be seropositive.

Design—Cross-sectional observational study.

Animals—10,280 adult (≥ 2 years old) dairy cows in 15 herds in Colorado.

Procedure—Serum samples were tested with a commercial ELISA. A herd was considered to be infected with MAP if results of mycobacterial culture of ≥ 1 individual cow fecal sample were positive or if ≥ 1 culled cow had histologic evidence of MAP infection.

Results—424 of the 10,280 (4.12%) cows were seropositive. Within-herd prevalence of seropositive cows ranged from 0% to 7.82% (mean, 2.6%). Infection was confirmed in 11 dairies. Cows in herds that had imported ≥ 8% of their current herd size annually during the preceding 5 years were 3.28 times as likely to be seropositive as were cows in herds that imported < 8%. Cows in herds with ≥ 600 lactating cows were 3.12 times as likely to be seropositive as were cows in herds with < 600 lactating cows. Cows in herds with a history of clinical signs of MAP infection were 2.27 times as likely to be seropositive as were cows in herds without clinical signs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Annual importation rate, herd size, and whether cows in the herd had clinical signs typical of MAP infection were associated with the risk that individual cows would be seropositive for MAP infection. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2004;225:97–101)
Use of a particulate extracellular matrix bioscaffold for treatment of acquired urinary incontinence in dogs
Authors: Wood Jeffrey D. , Simmons-Byrd Abby , Spievack Alan R. , Badylak Stephen F.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate use of a particulate bioscaffold
consisting of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of the urinary
bladder from pigs for treatment of acquired urinary
incontinence in dogs resistant to medical treatment.

Design—Case series.

Animals—9 female dogs with acquired urinary incontinence.

Procedure—In 6 dogs, 30 mg of particulate ECM in
1.0 mL of a carrier consisting of glycerin and saline
(0.9% NaCl) solution was injected into each of 3
equally spaced sites around the circumference of the
internal urethral sphincter via an endoscopic technique.
In the remaining 3 dogs (control dogs), 1.0 mL
of the carrier alone was injected in 3 equally spaced
sites around the circumference of the internal urethral
sphincter in a similar manner.

Results—For dogs treated with the ECM, median
duration of urinary continence following treatment
was 168 days (range, 84 to 616 days), whereas for the
control dogs, median duration of urinary continence
following the procedure was 14 days (range, 7 to 31
days). Two of the 3 control dogs were treated with the
ECM at the end of the study and were continent for
119 and 252 days. No adverse effects were observed
in any dog.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that endoscopically guided injection of particulate ECM
into the internal urethral sphincter may be useful for the
treatment of acquired urinary incontinence in female
dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;226:1095–1097)
Minimum alveolar concentration of isoflurane in mechanically ventilated Dumeril monitors
Authors: Bertelsen Mads F. , Mosley Craig A. E. , Crawshaw Graham J. , Dyson Doris , Smith Dale A.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of isoflurane in mechanically ventilated Dumeril monitors (Varanus dumerili).

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—10 healthy adult Dumeril monitors.

Procedure—Anesthesia was induced with isoflurane in oxygen delivered through a face mask. Monitors were endotracheally intubated, and end-tidal and inspired isoflurane concentrations were continuously measured. After equilibration at an end-tidal-toinspired isoflurane concentration ratio of > 0.9 for 20 minutes, an electrical stimulus (50 Hz, 50 V) was delivered to the ventral aspect of the tail for up to 1 minute and the monitor was observed for purposeful movement. End-tidal isoflurane concentration was then decreased by 10%, and equilibration and stimulation were repeated. The MAC was calculated as the mean of the lowest end-tidal isoflurane concentration that prevented positive response and the highest concentration that allowed response. A blood sample for blood gas analysis was collected from the tail vein at the beginning and end of the anesthetic period.

Results—Mean ± SD MAC of isoflurane was 1.54 ± 0.17%. Mean heart rates at the upper and lower MAC values were 32.4 ± 3 beats/min and 34 ± 4.5 beats/min, respectively. During the experiment, Paco2decreased significantly from 43.1 mm Hg to 27.9 mm Hg and blood pH and HCO3 concentration increased significantly from 7.33 to 7.64 and from 25.3 to 32.9 mmol/L, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The MAC of isoflurane in Dumeril monitors was similar to that reported in mammals but lower than values reported in other reptiles. This difference may be reflective of the more advanced cardiovascular physiologic features of monitor lizards. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005; 226:1098–1101)
Bilateral cavernous sinus syndrome in dogs: 6 cases (1999–2004)
Authors: Rossmeisl John H. , Higgins Michael A. , Inzana Karen D. , Herring Ian P. , Grant David C.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical features, diagnostic
imaging abnormalities, underlying disease, disease
progression, and outcome in dogs with bilateral cavernous
sinus syndrome.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—6 dogs.

Procedure—Dogs were included if clinical signs consistent
with bilateral cavernous sinus syndrome (ie,
deficits of the third, fourth, and sixth cranial nerves
and at least 1 of the first 2 branches of the fifth cranial
nerve) were present and a lesion of the cavernous
sinus was identified by means of diagnostic imaging
or postmortem examination.

Results—5 dogs were evaluated because of problems
referable to abnormal ocular motility or pupillomotor
dysfunction, and 1 dog was evaluated because
of partial motor seizures involving the face and bilateral
mydriasis. Four dogs had neurologic signs referable
to an extrasinusoidal lesion at the time of initial
examination, and the remaining 2 dogs eventually
developed extrasinusoidal signs. Besides neuroanatomic
location, the only consistent neuroimaging
feature was variably intense, heterogeneous
enhancement of cavernous sinus lesions. Neoplasia
was histologically confirmed as the underlying cause
in 5 of the dogs and was suspected in the remaining
dog. Median survival time for the 4 dogs that were
treated was 199 days (range, 16 to 392 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that bilateral cavernous sinus syndrome is rare in
dogs but should be suspected in dogs with compatible
clinical signs. Affected dogs have a poor prognosis, and
dogs with clinical signs of bilateral cavernous sinus syndrome
should be systematically evaluated for neoplastic
disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;226:1105–1111)
Use of bovine single nucleotide polymorphism markers to verify sample tracking in beef processing
Authors: Heaton Michael P. , Keen James E. , Clawson Michael L. , Harhay Gregory P. , Bauer Nathan , Shultz Craig , Green Benedict T. , Durso Lisa , Chitko-McKown Carol G. , Laegreid William W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether a selected set of 20
single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers derived
from beef cattle populations can be used to verify sample
tracking in a commercial slaughter facility that
processes primarily market (ie, culled) dairy cows.

Design—Prospective, blinded validation study.

Animals—165 cows and 3 bulls from 18 states (82%
Holstein, 8% other dairy breeds, and 10% beef breeds).

Procedure—Blood was collected by venipuncture from
randomly chosen animals just prior to slaughter. The
purported corresponding liver samples were collected
during beef processing, and genotype profiles were
obtained for each sample.

Results—On the basis of SNP allele frequencies in
these cattle, the mean probability that 2 randomly
selected individuals would possess identical genotypes
at all 20 loci was 4.3 × 10-8. Thus, the chance of a
coincidental genotype match between 2 animals was 1
in 23 million. Genotype profiles confirmed appropriate
matching for 152 of the 168 (90.5%) purported bloodliver
sample pairs and revealed mismatching for 16
(9.5%) pairs. For the 16 mismatched sample pairs,
33% to 76% of the 20 SNP genotypes did not match
(mean, 52%). Discordance that could be attributed to
genotyping error was estimated to be < 1% on the
basis of results for split samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that this selected set of 20 bovine SNP markers
is sufficiently informative to verify accuracy of sample
tracking in slaughter plants that process beef or dairy
cattle. These or similar SNP markers may facilitate
high-throughput, DNA-based, traceback programs
designed to detect drug residues in tissues, control of
animal diseases, and enhance food safety. (J Am Vet
Med Assoc 2005;226:1311–1314)
Effect of delayed colostrum collection on colostral IgG concentration in dairy cows
Authors: Moore Malantus , Tyler Jeff W. , Chigerwe Munashe , Dawes Maisie E. , Middleton John R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the effect of timing of firstmilking colostrum collection on colostral IgG concentration.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—13 healthy Holstein cows.

Procedures—All calvings were observed. After parturition, calves were not allowed to suckle and were separated from the dam. Colostrum was collected from a single randomly selected quarter at 2, 6, 10, and 14 hours after parturition until all 4 quarters were sampled. Colostral IgG concentration was determined via radial immunodiffusion.

Results—Mean colostral IgG concentration was 113, 94, 82, and 76 g/L at 2, 6, 10, and 14 hours after calving, respectively. Colostrum collected 6, 10, and 14 hours after calving had significantly lower IgG concentrations than did colostrum collected 2 hours after calving. Mean colostral IgG concentration at 14 hours after calving was significantly lower than that at 6 hours after calving. Cows in their third or greater lactation had mean colostral IgG concentrations 2 hours after calving (132 g/L) that were greater than the first and second lactation cows (mean, 95 and 100 g/L, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicate that early or immediate colostrum collection from dairy cows will maximize colostral IgG concentration. Adjustment of routine dairy farm management procedures may be required to maximize colostrum quality and minimize prevalence of failure of passive transfer in dairy calves. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:1375–1377)
Comparison of two techniques for injection of the podotrochlear bursa in horses
Authors: Piccot-Crézollet Cyrille , Cauvin Eddy R. , Lepage Olivier M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To compare accuracy of 2 methods for injection of the podotrochlear bursa in horses.

Design—Observational study.

Animals—17 French Standardbreds.

Procedure—In each horse, contrast medium was injected into the podotrochlear bursa of 1 foot by use of a distal palmar approach with the needle inserted parallel to the sole (DPPS) and into the podotrochlear bursa of the other foot by use of a distal palmar approach to the navicular position (DPNP). Podotrochlear bursa injection was evaluated by means of radiographic examination in all horses and postmortem examination in 6.

Results—Contrast medium was successfully injected into the podotrochlear bursa in 6 of 16 feet in which the DPPS method was used and 14 of 17 feet in which the DPNP method was used; these results were significantly different. Failure was attributed to contrast medium invading the distal interphalangeal joint, contrast medium pooling palmar to the deep digital flexor tendon, contrast medium located in the podotrochlear bursa and the distal interphalangeal joint, contrast medium located in the podotrochlear bursa and the area palmar to the deep digital flexor tendon, and an inability to inject contrast medium despite adequate needle placement.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that the DPNP technique can be used successfully for injection into the podotrochlear bursa in horses. However, radiographic assessment should be used to confirm that material was injected into the bursa. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:1524–1528)
Prevalence and risk factors associated with outcome of surgical removal of pedunculated lipomas in horses: 102 cases (1987–2002)
Authors: Garcia-Seco Elena , Wilson David A. , Kramer Joanne , Keegan Kevin G. , Branson Keith R. , Johnson Philip J. , Tyler Jeff W.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the prevalence of pedunculated lipomas and identify risk factors affecting postoperative complications and survival in horses at a veterinary teaching hospital undergoing surgery for colic caused by pedunculated lipomas.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—102 horses with a diagnosis of pedunculated lipoma.

Procedure—Age, breed, weight, and sex of horses with pedunculated lipomas were compared with the total equine hospital population and the population of horses admitted for abdominal surgery during the same period. Follow-up information was obtained by reevaluation or contact with owners via telephone or written request.

Results—Prevalence of pedunculated lipomas as a reason for abdominal surgery in horses, compared with the population of horses with and without lipomas admitted for abdominal surgery, was 10%. Castrated male Saddlebred and Arabian horses > 14 years old were identified as being at risk for developing pedunculated lipomas. Postoperative complications were detected in 72% of horses with pedunculated lipomas. Variables associated with low survival rates included surgery before 1992, heart rate > 80 beats/min, abnormal color of abdominal fluid, pale mucous membranes, surgery requiring intestinal resection, and inability to attain a mean arterial pressure ≥ 100 mm Hg. Horses undergoing surgery from 1992 to 1996, weighing < 409 kg (900 lb), or requiring jejunojejunal anastomosis had a high survival rate.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although many of the variables reflected the health of the horse at the time of surgery, results may help veterinarians recognize risk factors associated with development of pedunculated lipomas and better predict the outcome of horses undergoing surgery for colic caused by pedunculated lipomas. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005; 226:1529–1537)
Association of the risk of development of hypothyroidism after iodine 131 treatment with the pretreatment pattern of sodium pertechnetate Tc 99m uptake in the thyroid gland in cats with hyperthyroidism: 165 cases (1990–2002)
Authors: Nykamp Stephanie G. , Dykes Nathen L. , Zarfoss Mitzi K. , Scarlett Janet M.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To assess whether the risk of development of hypothyroidism after treatment with iodine 131 (131I) was associated with the pattern of sodium pertechnetate Tc 99m activity in the thyroid gland detected via scintigraphy before treatment in cats with hyperthyroidism.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—165 cats.

Procedure—Medical records of cats with hyperthyroidism that had been treated with131I (from 1990 to 2002) and had undergone scintigraphy of the thyroid gland before treatment were reviewed; data regarding signalment, scintigraphic findings (classified as unilateral, bilateral-asymmetric, bilateral-symmetric, or multifocal patterns), serum total thyroxine (T4) concentrations before treatment and prior to hospital discharge, and131I treatment were collected. A questionnaire was sent to each referring veterinarian to obtain additional data including whether the cats subsequently developed hypothyroidism (defined as serum total T4concentration less than the lower reference limit ≥ 3 months after treatment).

Results—50 of 165 (30.3%)131I-treated cats developed hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism developed in 39 of 109 cats with bilateral, 10 of 50 cats with unilateral, and 1 of 6 cats with multifocal scintigraphic patterns of their thyroid glands. Cats with a bilateral scintigraphic pattern were approximately 2 times as likely to develop hypothyroidism after131I treatment than were cats with a unilateral scintigraphic pattern (hazard ratio, 2.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.04 to 4.2).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Cats with hyperthyroidism that have a bilateral scintigraphic pattern in the thyroid gland before131I treatment appear to have a significantly higher risk of subsequently developing hypothyroidism, compared with cats with a unilateral scintigraphic pattern. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:1671–1675)
Correlation of cell-mediated immunity against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus with protection against reproductive failure in sows during outbreaks of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome in commercial herds
Authors: Lowe James F. , Husmann Robert , Firkins Lawrence D. , Zuckermann Federico A. , Goldberg Tony L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether cell-mediated immunity against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus is correlated with protection against reproductive failure in sows during clinical outbreaks of PRRS in commercial herds.

Design—Outbreak investigation in 4 swine breeding herds.

Animals—97 sows.

Procedures—On each farm, blood samples were collected from sows with clinical signs (abortion or increased fetal death; case sows) and from clinically normal sows (control sows). The intensity of the cell-mediated immune (CMI) response was determined by use of an interferon-γ enzyme-linked immunospot (ELISPOT) assay. Multiple logistic regression analyses andttests were used to compare ELISPOT assay values between case and control sows. Multiple linear regression was used to investigate associations between cell-mediated immunity and the magnitude of clinical signs.

Results—In 2 farms, case sows had lower ELISPOT assay values than control sows. A negative association between the intensity of the CMI response and the number of pigs born dead per litter was detected on 1 farm. In 1 farm, no association was detected between the intensity of the CMI response and protection against reproductive failure.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Evidence that a strong CMI response was correlated with protection against clinical PRRS was detected in 3 of 4 farms. However, farms and sows within farms varied considerably in their immune responsiveness and in the degree to which they were protected clinically. Increasing cell-mediated immunity within infected herds has the potential to decrease clinical reproductive disease, but only if the sources of intra- and interfarm variation in the intensity of cell-mediated immunity to PRRS virus can be identified. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:1707–1711)
Changes over time in echocardiographic measurements in young Standardbred racehorses undergoing training and racing and association with racing performance
Authors: Buhl Rikke , Ersbøll Annette K. , Eriksen Lis , Koch Jørgen
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate changes over time in echocardiographic measurements in young Standardbred racehorses undergoing training and racing and determine whether there was any relationship between cardiac dimensions and racing performance.

Design—Longitudinal observational study.

Animals—103 horses.

Procedure—2-dimensional and M-mode echocardiography was performed 4 times at 6-month intervals.

Results—Significant cardiac enlargement took place during the study period as indicated by increases in left ventricular internal diameter in diastole (LVIDd), estimated left ventricular muscle mass (LV mass), and mean wall thickness attributable to eccentric left ventricular hypertrophy. Estimated body weight was positively correlated with left ventricular size, and males had significantly larger LVIDd and LV mass than did females. Horses that were racing regularly had larger LVIDd and LV mass than did unraced horses. A significant relationship between left ventricular size and racing performance was observed. The relationship was strongest at the time of the fourth examination.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that age must be taken into account when interpreting results of echocardiography in young Standardbred racehorses because significant cardiac enlargement takes place with age and training. A larger heart was found in horses that were racing, and size of the heart was correlated with athletic performance of the horse. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226: 1881–1887)
Characteristics of pain and response to analgesic treatment in dogs and cats examined at a veterinary teaching hospital emergency service
Authors: Wiese Ashley J. , Muir William W. , Wittum Thomas E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To estimate the prevalence and characteristics of pain in dogs and cats examined by an emergency service at a veterinary teaching hospital and evaluate the response of dogs and cats with signs of pain to analgesic treatment.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—317 dogs and 112 cats.

Procedure—A questionnaire was used to categorize the characteristics of pain. The location, cause, and signs of pain were determined by obtaining a thorough history and conducting a physical examination. Pain was categorized by type (superficial somatic, deep somatic, or visceral), mechanism (inflammatory, neuropathic, or both), severity (mild, moderate, or severe), and duration. Evidence for primary or secondary hypersensitivity and hyposensitivity to manipulation was determined. The response to single or multiple analgesic drug administration was assessed.

Results—179 (56%) dogs and 60 (54%) cats had signs of pain. In most of these dogs and cats, pain was classified as acute (< 24 hours' duration) and of moderate severity and was associated with primary hypersensitivity. Most dogs had deep somatic pain; most cats had visceral pain. Inflammation was the most common mechanism. One hundred nineteen (66%) dogs and 41 (68%) cats were treated with analgesic drugs. Analgesic treatment was considered effective in 73 (61%) dogs and 31 (76%) cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that moderate to severe acute somatic pain caused by inflammation is common in dogs and cats examined by an emergency service and that a combination of multiple analgesic drugs is more effective than any single analgesic drug in the treatment of pain in these dogs and cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:2004–2009)
Use of pedometers to measure physical activity in dogs
Authors: Chan Catherine B. , Spierenburg Marguerite , Ihle Sherri L. , Tudor-Locke Catrine
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine whether pedometers can be used to measure physical activity in dogs.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Animals—26 dogs.

Procedure—To determine pedometer accuracy, number of steps recorded with the pedometer as dogs walked, trotted, and ran for a distance of approximately 30 m (100 ft) at each gait was compared with actual number of steps. Dogs and owners then wore pedometers for 7 to 14 days, and dog pedometer output was compared with body condition score, owner-reported activity of the dog, and owner pedometer output.

Results—Most owners classified their dogs as active or quite active and indicated that their dogs exercised 3 to 7 days/wk. For all dogs, body condition score was 5, 6, or 7 on a scale from 1 to 9. At a walk, pedometers overestimated actual number of steps by approximately 17% in large and medium dogs and underestimated actual number of steps by approximately 7% in small dogs. No significant differences between pedometer-recorded and actual number of steps were detected when dogs trotted or ran. Number of steps per day for the dogs was significantly correlated with owner-reported activity of the dog (r= 0.305) and number of steps per day for the owners (r= 0.469) and was inversely correlated with body condition score (r= −0.554).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that pedometers can measure physical activity in dogs with reasonable accuracy. A lower number of steps per day was associated with a higher body condition score, and less active owners generally had less active dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:2010–2015)
Effect of intrauterine administration of ceftiofur on fertility and risk of culling in postparturient cows with retained fetal membranes, twins, or both
Authors: Scott H. Morgan , Schouten Michael J. , Gaiser Jeffrey C. , Belschner Austin P. , Jordan Ellen R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine the effect of intrauterine administration of ceftiofur sodium on fertility and the risk of culling in postparturient cows with retained fetal membranes (RFM), twins, or both.

Design—Single-blind randomized clinical trial and prospective cohort study.

Animals—2,442 cows that calved from January 1, 2000, to May 31, 2001.

Procedure—Cows with RFM, twins, or both were randomly allocated to control or treatment (ceftiofur) groups. Ceftiofur-group cows received 1 g of ceftiofur sodium sterile powder reconstituted with 20 mL of sterile water as a single intrauterine infusion once between 14 and 20 days after parturition. Controlgroup cows received no treatment. Cows that calved but did not have RFM or twins were considered the referent group. Reproductive, culling, and health data were recorded.

Results—There was no significant difference in the overall proportion of ceftiofur-group cows confirmed pregnant, compared with cows in the control group. Ceftiofur-group cows were significantly less likely to be culled and were culled at a later time in lactation than control-group cows. In the cohort study, the risk of pregnancy and the risk of being culled in ceftiofurgroup cows were not significantly different from cows in the referent group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Intrauterine treatment of cows with RFM, twins, or both with ceftiofur sodium increased longevity of cows in the herd as measured by the risk of culling and the time to culling. Intrauterine administration of ceftiofur in cattle is considered extralabel drug use, and the attending veterinarian must follow the AMDUCA guidelines for extralabel drug use. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005:226:2044–2052)
Heel bulb lacerations in horses: 101 cases (1988–1994)
Authors: Janicek John C. , Dabareiner Robin M. , Honnas Clifford M. , Crabill Mark A.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical history, structures involved, treatment, and outcome of lacerations of the heel bulb and proximal phalangeal region (pastern) in horses.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—101 horses.

Procedures—Medical records of horses with lacerations of the heel bulb and pastern were reviewed, and follow-up information was obtained.

Results—75 horses were Quarter Horses. Most horses were not treated with antimicrobial drugs prior to referral. Mean ± SD time from injury to referral was 24 ± 45 hours (range, 1 to 168 hours). Lacerations were most frequently caused by contact with wire or metal objects. In 17 horses, lacerations involved synovial structures; the distal interphalangeal joint was most commonly affected. One horse was euthanatized after initial examination. Wound treatment consisted of cleansing, lavage, debridement, lavage of affected synovial structures, suturing of fresh wounds, and application of a foot bandage or cast. Fifty-six horses were treated with systemically administered antimicrobial drugs. Follow-up information was collected for 61 horses. Fifty-one horses returned to their intended use and had no further complications; 10 horses had complications associated with the wound, and of those horses, 5 were euthanatized and 1 horse died from an unrelated cause. Horses with lacerations that involved synovial structures had worse outcomes than horses with lacerations that did not involve synovial structures.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Horses that sustain heel bulb lacerations can successfully return to their intended use. Involvement of the distal interphalangeal joint is associated with poor prognosis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:418–423)
Clinical description and mode of inheritance of idiopathic epilepsy in English Springer Spaniels
Authors: Patterson Edward E. , Armstrong P. Jane , O'Brien Dennis P. , Roberts Monica C. , Johnson Gary S. , Mickelson James R.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To determine clinical characteristics and
mode of inheritance of idiopathic epilepsy (IE) in
English Springer Spaniels.

Design—Original study.

Animals—45 dogs with IE and 74 siblings and their
respective parents.

Procedure—IE was diagnosed on the basis of age at
the time of seizure onset and results of laboratory
testing and neurologic examinations. Simple segregation
analysis was performed with the Davie method.

Results—Median age at the onset of seizures was 3
years; however, 9 (20%) dogs were between 5 and 6
years old at the time of the onset of seizures. Twentyone
dogs (47%) had generalized seizures, and 24
(53%) had focal onset seizures. Results of segregation
analysis were consistent with partially penetrant
autosomal recessive or polygenic inheritance.
Simulated linkage indicated that there was a 58%
chance of obtaining suggestive linkage with the available
pedigrees.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of the
present study suggest that in English Springer Spaniels,
IE segregates in a manner that is consistent with partially
penetrant autosomal recessive inheritance (ie, a
single major locus with modifying genes) or polygenic
inheritance. Given enough families with accurate phenotypic
information and available DNA, it should be possible
to use genetic linkage analysis to identify chromosomal
segments containing the causative gene or
genes. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;226:54–58)
Assessment of stress levels among cats in four animal shelters
Authors: McCobb Emily C. , Patronek Gary J. , Marder Amy , Dinnage Julie D. , Stone Michael S.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To measure stress levels among cats in traditional and enriched shelter environments via behavioral assessment and urine cortisol-to-creatinine ratios.

Design—Cross-sectional observational study.

Animals—120 cats in 4 Boston-area animal shelters

Procedure—Cats were randomly selected and observed during 3 periods (morning, midday, and afternoon) of 1 day and scored by use of a behavioral assessment scale. The next day, urine samples were collected for analysis of the urine cortisol-to-creatinine ratio. Information about each cat's background before entering the shelter was collected.

Results—Stress scores were highest in the morning. The relationships between the amount of time cats spent in the shelter and the cat stress score or urine cortisol-to-creatinine ratio were not strong. There was no correlation between the cat stress score and urine cortisol-to-creatinine ratio. Urine cortisol-to-creatinine ratios did correlate with signs of systemic disease and were significantly lower in cats in the more environmentally enriched shelters, compared with cats in the traditional shelters. Urine cortisol-to-creatinine ratio was highest among cats with high exposure to dogs. Of the cats in the study, 25% had subclinical hematuria detectable on a urine dipstick.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In this study, the cat stress score was not a useful instrument for measuring stress because it failed to identify cats with feigned sleep and high stress levels. Urine cortisol-tocreatinine ratios can be monitored to noninvasively assess stress levels in confined cats. Environmental enrichment strategies may help improve the welfare of cats in animal shelters. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:548–555)
Evaluation of client compliance with short-term administration of antimicrobials to dogs
Authors: Adams Vicki J. , Campbell John R. , Waldner Cheryl L. , Dowling Patricia M. , Shmon Cindy L.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To describe the degree of and variability in the level of client compliance and identify determinants of client compliance with short-term administration of antimicrobial medications to dogs.

Design—Prospective study.

Sample Population—90 owners of dogs prescribed antimicrobials.

Procedure—Eligible clients were invited to participate when antimicrobial medications were dispensed. Data were collected during a follow-up appointment by use of a client questionnaire, residual pill count, and return of an electronic medication monitoring device. Attending veterinarians also completed a questionnaire that asked them to predict client compliance. Methods of assessing compliance were compared with nonparametric tests. Generalized estimating equations were used to investigate potential determinants of compliance.

Results—Median compliance rates of 97% of prescribed container openings, 91% of days when the correct number of doses were given, and 64% of doses given on time as assessed by the electronic medication monitoring devices were significantly lower than the median compliance rates of 100% for client self-report of missing doses and pill count. Veterinarians were unable to predict client compliance. The dosage regimen significantly determined compliance. Clients giving antimicrobials once or twice daily were 9 times more likely to be 100% compliant, compared with 3 times daily dosing.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The combination of reported missed doses and pill counts was a significant predictor of compliance as measured by electronic monitoring. Electronic monitoring caps provided useful information only when they were used appropriately. Asking clients about missed doses and performing pill counts are the most practical assessments of compliance in practice. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:567–574)
Community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in horses and humans who work with horses
Authors: Weese J. Scott , Rousseau Joyce , Traub-Dargatz Josie L. , Willey Barbara M. , McGeer Alison J. , Low Donald E.
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate the prevalence of nasal colonization with methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) in horses and horse personnel.

Design—Prospective prevalence study.

Sample Population—972 horses and 107 personnel from equine farms in Ontario, Canada and New York state.

Procedure—Nasal swab specimens were collected from horses and humans on farms with (targeted surveillance) and without (nontargeted surveillance) a history of MRSA colonization or infection in horses during the preceding year. Selective culture for MRSA was performed. Isolates were typed via pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, and antibiograms were determined.

Results—MRSA was isolated from 46 of 972 (4.7%) horses (0/581 via nontargeted surveillance and 46/391 [12%] via targeted surveillance). Similarly, MRSA was isolated from 14 of 107 (13%) humans (2/41 [5%] from nontargeted surveillance and 12/66 [18%] from targeted surveillance). All isolates were subtypes of Canadian epidemic MRSA-5, an uncommon strain in humans. All isolates were resistant to at least 1 antimicrobial class in addition to β-lactams. On all farms with colonized horses, at least 1 human was colonized with an indistinguishable subtype. For horses, residing on a farm that housed > 20 horses was the only factor significantly associated with MRSA colonization. For humans, regular contact with > 20 horses was the only identified risk factor.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results confirm a reservoir of colonized horses on a variety of farms in Ontario and New York and provide evidence that 1 MRSA strain is predominantly involved in MRSA colonization in horses and humans that work with horses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2005;226:580–583)
Evaluation of long-term effects of endoscopic injection of collagen into the urethral submucosa for treatment of urethral sphincter incompetence in female dogs: 40 cases (1993–2000)
Authors: Barth Andrea , Reichler Iris M. , Hubler Madeleine , Hässig Michael , Arnold Susi
Published: December 2005

Objective—To evaluate long-term success of endoscopic
injection of collagen into the urethral submucosa
in female dogs with urinary incontinence caused
by urethral sphincter incompetence.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—40 incontinent female dogs.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed for outcome
and other results for dogs in which a cystoscope
was passed into the urethra for deposition of 3
collagen deposits into the submucosa.

Results—27 (68%) dogs were continent for 1 to 64
months (mean, 17 months) after the collagen injection.
In another 10 dogs, incontinence improved and in 6 of
these dogs, full continence was regained with administration
of additional medication. In 3 dogs, incontinence
was unchanged. As long as 12 months after
injection, there was a deterioration in the initial result in
16 dogs, after which their condition stabilized. Mild and
transient adverse effects developed in 6 (15%) dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Long-term success
of endoscopic injection of collagen was satisfactory.
Relapse of incontinence might be caused by flattening
of the collagen deposits rather than resorption of
the collagen. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2005;226:73–76)