bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tissue Doppler assessment of diastolic and systolic alterations of radial and longitudinal left ventricular motions in Golden Retrievers during the preclinical phase of cardiomyopathy associated with muscular dystrophy
Authors: Chetboul Valérie , Carlos Carolina , Blot Stephane , Thibaud Jean Laurent , Escriou Catherine , Tissier Renaud , Retortillo Jose Luis , Pouchelon Jean-Louis
Published: January 2006

Objective—To quantify radial and longitudinal left
ventricular free wall (LVFW) velocities in dogs during
the preclinical phase of Golden Retriever muscular
dystrophy (GRMD)-associated cardiomyopathy by use
of tissue Doppler imaging (TDI).

Animals—9 dogs with GRMD and 6 healthy control
dogs.

Procedure—All dogs (< 3 years old) were examined
via conventional echocardiography and 2-dimensional
color TDI. Myocardial velocities in the LVFW were
recorded from right parasternal ventricular short-axis
(radial motion) and left apical 4-chamber (longitudinal
motion) views. Cardiac assessments via TDI included
maximal systolic and early and late diastolic LVFW
velocities in the endocardial and epicardial layers (for
radial motion) and in the basal and apical segments
(for longitudinal motion).

Results—No notable ventricular dilatation or alteration
of inotropism was detected in dogs with GRMD
via conventional echocardiography. Compared with
healthy dogs, endocardial velocities were significantly
decreased in dogs with GRMD, resulting in marked
decreases in radial myocardial velocity gradients during
systole and early and late diastole. Similarly, basal
and apical velocities were significantly decreased in
systole and the former also in early diastole, resulting
in significant decreases in the 2 corresponding longitudinal
myocardial velocity gradients. The radial epicardial
and longitudinal late diastolic velocities were
comparable in the 2 groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated
that GRMD-associated cardiomyopathy in dogs
is associated with early marked dysfunction of both
radial and longitudinal LVFW motions. These combined
regional myocardial abnormalities might be useful
criteria for detection of dilated cardiomyopathy at
the preclinical stage of the disease in dogs. (Am J Vet
Res 2004;65:1335–1341)
Evaluation of the immunogenicity of dietary proteins in cats and the influence of the canning process
Authors: Cave Nicholas J. , Marks Stanley L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To characterize the antigen-specific immune response to dietary proteins in cats and evaluate whether there was a qualitative or quantitative difference between the responses to dietary proteins when those proteins were fed unprocessed or as part of a canned diet.

Animals—14 healthy domestic shorthair cats.

Procedure—Cats were fed 2 dietary proteins (soy and casein) either as unprocessed aqueous suspensions or as part of canned diets for 21 days. Serum IgG and IgA and salivary IgA were assayed by indirect ELISA, and antigen-specific proliferation of mesenteric lymph node-derived lymphocytes was determined.

Results—Robust serum IgG and IgA responses to dietary proteins were elicited, irrespective of the form in which they were fed. Salivary IgA responses to unprocessed proteins were not detected. However, a significant salivary IgA response to the protein isolated from the canned casein diet was observed in cats fed canned casein but not in those fed unprocessed casein. Lymphocyte proliferation to the antigens was slight, and there were no significant differences between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that cats develop robust serum IgG and IgA responses to dietary proteins when fed as either aqueous suspensions or as part of canned diets. For certain proteins, there may be an increase and a qualitative difference in the immunogenicity of canned diets, compared with unprocessed proteins. Canned diets may not be ideal for management of cats with enteritis. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:1427–1433)
Evaluation of a rapid single multiplex microsatellite-based assay for use in forensic genetic investigations in dogs
Authors: Clark Leigh Anne , Famula Thomas R. , Murphy Keith E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To develop a set of microsatellite markers,
composed of a minimal number of these markers,
suitable for use in forensic genetic investigations
in dogs.

Sample Population—Blood, tissue, or buccal epithelial
cells from 364 dogs of 85 breeds and mixed
breeds and 19 animals from related species in the
family Canidae.

Procedure—61 tetranucleotide microsatellite markers
were characterized on the basis of number and size of
alleles, ease of genotyping, chromosomal location, and
ability to be coamplified. The range in allele size, number
of alleles, total heterozygosity, and fixation index for each
marker were determined by use of genotype data from
383 dogs and related species. Polymorphism information
content was calculated for several breeds of dogs.

Results—7 microsatellite markers could be coamplified.
These markers were labeled with fluorescent
dyes, multiplexed into a single reaction, and optimized
for resolution in a commercial genetic analyzer.
The multiplex set was used to identify sires for 2
mixed litters. The test was not species specific; genotype
information collected for wolves, coyotes, jackals,
New Guinea singing dogs, and an African wild
dog could not distinguish between these species.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—This set of 7
microsatellite markers is useful in forensic applications
(ie, identification of dogs and determination of
parentage) in closely related animals and is applicable
to a wide range of species belonging to the family
Canidae. (Am J Vet Res 2004;65:1446–1450)
Effect of clopidogrel on tissue-plasminogen activator-induced in vitro thrombolysis of feline whole blood thrombi
Authors: Hogan Daniel F. , Ward Michael P.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine if clopidogrel enhanced the thrombolytic rate of tissue-plasminogen activator (t-PA) on an in vitro feline whole blood thrombosis model.

Animals—9 purpose-bred cats.

Procedure—Blood obtained from cats before (baseline) and after treatment with clopidogrel (75 mg, PO, q 24 h for 3 days) was anticoagulated with sodium citrate (9:1 volume-to-volume ratio) to which 1 µCi of I125- fibrinogen was added. Thrombi were formed by the addition of calcium chloride and bovine thrombin. Thrombi were placed into autologous plasma to which 0.1 mg of t-PA was added. Plasma samples were collected at different time points to determine the amount of released I125-fibrin split products. Thrombolytic rates were calculated by determining the time to 25%, 50%, and 75% thrombolysis (t25, t50, and t75, respectively). Confidence intervals for t25, t50, and t75at baseline were compared with those after treatment.

Results—There were no significant differences in thrombolytic rates between values obtained at baseline and after clopidogrel treatment (t25, 18.0 vs 18.5 minutes; t50, 63.3 vs 65.6 minutes; and t75, 163.0 vs 170.1 minutes, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Clopidogrel did not have an effect on the rate of thrombolysis of feline whole blood thrombi induced by t-PA in this in vitro model. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:715–719)
Effect of medetomidine on breathing and inspiratory neuromuscular drive in conscious dogs
Authors: Lerche Phillip , Muir III William W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate the effects of the α2-adrenoceptor
agonist medetomidine on respiratory rate
(RR), tidal volume (VT), minute volume (VM), and central
respiratory neuromuscular drive as determined by
inspiratory occlusion pressure (IOP) during increasing
fractional inspired concentrations of carbon dioxide
(FiCO2) in conscious dogs.

Animals—6 healthy dogs (3 males and 3 females).

Procedure—Dogs were administered 0, 5, or 10 µg of
medetomidine/kg IV. We measured RR, VT, VM, and
IOP for the first 0.1 second of airway occlusion
(IOP0.1) during FiCO2 values of 0%, 2.5%, 5.0%, and
7.5% at 15 minutes before and 5, 30, and 60 minutes
after administration of medetomidine.

Results—Increases in FiCO2 significantly increased
RR, VT, and VM. The IV administration of 5 and 10 µg
of medetomidine/kg significantly decreased RR and
VM at 5, 30, and 60 minutes for FiCO2 values of 2.5%
and 5.0% and at 30 and 60 minutes for an FiCO2 value
of 7.5%. The IOP0.1 was decreased after 30 minutes
only for an FiCO2 value of 7.5% in dogs administered
5 and 10 µg of medetomidine/kg. The IOP0.1 was
decreased at 60 minutes after administration of 10 µg
of medetomidine/kg for an FiCO2 value of 7.5%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The IV administration
of medetomidine decreases RR, VM, and
central respiratory drive in conscious dogs.
Medetomidine should be used cautiously and with
careful monitoring in dogs with CNS depression or
respiratory compromise. (Am J Vet Res 2004;65:
720–724)
Effects of a single intranasal dose of modified-live bovine respiratory syncytial virus vaccine on cytokine messenger RNA expression following viral challenge in calves
Authors: Miao Congrong , Woolums Amelia R. , Zarlenga Dante S. , Brown Corrie C. , Brown James C. , Williams Shamita M. , Scott Melissa A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To characterize cytokine messenger RNA (mRNA) expression in intranasally vaccinated calves after bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) challenge.

Animals—Twelve 8- to 12-week-old calves.

Procedures—Calves received modified-live BRSV vaccine (vaccinated) or spent tissue culture medium (mock-vaccinated) intranasally, followed by challenge 30 days later with BRSV, or mock challenge with spent tissue culture medium (mock-challenge controls). Interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) mRNA was measured in lungs, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid cells, pharyngeal tonsils, and tracheobronchial lymph nodes, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) mRNA was measured in lungs and BAL fluid cells by reverse transcriptase-competitive polymerase chain reaction assay.

Results—Resistance to clinical signs of disease was conferred in vaccinated calves. Expression of TNF-α mRNA in lungs and BAL fluid cells was higher in mock-vaccinated calves than control or vaccinated calves. In the lung, IL-4 mRNA expression was higher in vaccinated calves than control or mock-vaccinated calves. In pharyngeal tonsils, expression of mRNA for IL-4 and IFN-γ was higher in mock-vaccinated calves than control calves. In tracheobronchial lymph nodes, IFN-γ mRNA expression was higher in mock-vaccinated calves than vaccinated calves.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Although vaccinated calves had decreased clinical signs of disease after BRSV challenge, compared with mock-vaccinated calves, this difference was not related to a T helper type 1 bias, as determined by increased expression of interferon-γ mRNA relative to interleukin-4 mRNA in lungs, BAL fluid cells, or tracheobronchial lymph nodes of vaccinated calves. Pulmonary inflammation was decreased in vaccinated calves as determined by decreased expression of TNF-α mRNA. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:725–733)
Objective determination of pelvic movement during hind limb lameness by use of a signal decomposition method and pelvic height differences
Authors: Kramer Joanne , Keegan Kevin G. , Kelmer Gal , Wilson David A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate pelvic movement over a large number of strides in sound horses and in horses with induced hind limb lameness by applying methods to the pelvis that have been described for evaluating vertical head movement in horses with induced forelimb lameness.

Animals—17 adult horses.

Procedure—Horses were filmed while trotting on a treadmill before and after induction of transient mild and moderate hind limb lamenesses. Vertical pelvic movement was measured by a signal decomposition method. The vertical pelvic signal was decomposed into a periodic component (A1) that occurred at half the stride frequency (representing vertical pelvic movement caused by lameness) and another periodic component (A2) that occurred at stride frequency (representing normal vertical pelvic movement of a trotting horse). Vertical pelvic and foot positions were correlated for each stride to compare the difference between the minimum and maximum heights of the pelvis during and after stance of the right hind limb to the minimum and maximum heights of the pelvis during and after stance of the left hind limb.

Results—Maximum pelvic height difference and lameness amplitude (A1) differed significantly between sound and mild or moderate hind limb lameness conditions. Mean A1 value for vertical pelvic movement in sound horses was less than that previously reported for vertical head movement.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Pelvic height differences and signal decomposition of pelvic movement can be used to objectively evaluate hind limb lameness in horses over a large number of strides in clinical and research settings. (Am J Vet Res2004;65: 741–747)
Effects of flunixin meglumine or etodolac treatment on mucosal recovery of equine jejunum after ischemia
Authors: Tomlinson Julia E. , Wilder B. Osbone , Young Karen M. , Blikslager Anthony T.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To examine the effects of flunixin meglumine and etodolac treatment on recovery of ischemicinjured equine jejunal mucosa after 18 hours of reperfusion.

Animals—24 horses.

Procedure—Jejunum was exposed to 2 hours of ischemia during anesthesia. Horses received saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (12 mL, IV, q 12 h), flunixin meglumine (1.1 mg/kg, IV, q 12 h), or etodolac (23 mg/kg, IV, q 12 h). Tissue specimens were obtained from ischemic-injured and nonischemic jejunum immediately after ischemia and 18 hours after recovery from ischemia. Transepithelial electric resistance (TER) and transepithelial flux of tritium-labeled mannitol measured mucosal permeability. Denuded villous surface area and mean epithelial neutrophil count per mm2 were calculated. Western blot analysis for cyclooxygenase (COX)-1 and -2 was performed. Pharmacokinetics of flunixin and etodolac and eicosanoid concentrations were determined.

Results—Ischemic-injured tissue from horses treated with flunixin and etodolac had significantly lower TER and increased permeability to mannitol, compared with that from horses treated with saline solution. Epithelial denudation after ischemia and 18 hours after recovery was not significantly different among treatments. Both COX-1 and -2 were expressed in ischemic-injured and nonischemic tissues. Ischemia caused significant upregulation of both COX isoforms. Eicosanoid concentrations were significantly lower in tissues from flunixin and etodolac-treated horses, compared with that from horses treated with saline solution.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Flunixin and etodolac treatment retarded recovery of intestinal barrier function in jejunal mucosa after 18 hours of reperfusion, whereas tissues from horses treated with saline solution recovered baseline values of TER and permeability to mannitol. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:761–769)
Investigation of pulmonary deposition of a nebulized radiopharmaceutical agent in awake cats
Authors: Schulman Rhonda L. , Crochik Sonia S. , Kneller Stephen K. , McKiernan Brendan C. , Schaeffer David J. , Marks Steven L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether conscious, unsedated cats will inhale a nebulized material administered via a facemask and whether this material will reach the lower airways.

Animals—20 healthy adult cats.

Procedure—Technetium Tc99m-diaminetriaminopentaacetic acid (99mTc-DTPA) was nebulized into a spacer and administered to the cats via a closely fitting facemask. By use of a gamma camera, images were then immediately obtained to determine the distribution of99mTc-DTPA within the lower airways.

Results—Images obtained by use of the gamma camera revealed that all 20 cats had inhaled99mTc-DTPA from the facemask. In each cat, deposition of the radiopharmaceutical agent was evident throughout the lung fields.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Awake cats that were not used to the application of a facemask did inhale substances from such a device. Aerosolization of medications may be a feasible route of administration for cats with lower airway disease. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:806–809)
Effect of transport stress on respiratory disease, serum antioxidant status, and serum concentrations of lipid peroxidation biomarkers in beef cattle
Authors: Chirase Norbert K. , Greene L. Wayne , Purdy Charles W. , Loan Raymond W. , Auvermann Brent W. , Parker David B. , Walborg Earl F. , Stevenson Donald E. , Xu Yong , Klaunig James E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effect of transportation stress on serum concentrations of oxidative stress biomarkers of calves.

Animals—105 crossbred beef steer calves (mean [± SD] body weight, 207 ± 21.2 kg).

Procedure—Calves were assembled at 1 location in Tennessee, and pretransit (day –3) blood samples were collected. Calves were allotted randomly by body weight into 2 groups. Calves were transported 1,930 miles to a feedlot in Texas, and 1 group received tilmicosin phosphate (33 µg/kg, SC) upon arrival. Calves were weighed and blood samples collected on the day of arrival (day 1) and on days 15, 22, and 28. Calves were scored daily for signs of bovine respiratory disease (BRD). Serum total antioxidant capacity (TACA) and serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were determined.

Results—Transportation stress significantly decreased mean serum TACA concentrations (from 147 ± 31.2 U/mL to 133 ± 20.1 U/mL) and significantly increased serum MDA concentrations (from 10.9 ± 18.3 µg/mL to 30.2 ± 50.5 µg/mL). Calves that died had a 43% increase in serum MDA concentration on day 1, compared with calves that lived (42.2 ± 67.0 µg/mL vs 29.4 ± 49.4 µg/mL, respectively). Calves that had ≥ 3 episodes of BRD had 2-fold higher serum MDA concentrations on day 1 than healthy calves. Tilmicosintreated calves had a 20.8% significantly greater average daily gain and significantly greater serum TACA concentration than nontreated calves on day 28.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Transportation stress increases serum concentrations of oxidative stress biomarkers that are related to episodes of BRD and mortality in calves. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:860–864)
Evaluation of antiviral activity and toxicity of recombinant human interferon alfa-2a in calves persistently infected with type 1 bovine viral diarrhea virus
Authors: Peek Simon F. , Bonds Michael D. , Schaele Patrick , Weber Sarah , Friedrichs Kristin , Schultz Ronald D.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate antiviral activity and toxicity of recombinant human interferon alfa-2a in calves persistently infected with noncytopathic type 1 bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV).

Animals—5 Holstein heifers, 4 to 12 months of age.

Procedures—Calves persistently infected with noncytopathic type 1 BVDV were treated with recombinant human interferon alfa-2a every other day for 12 weeks. Viral loads were measured during the treatment period and compared with pre- and post-treatment values. Complete physical examinations were performed weekly, and calves were observed daily for signs of systemic illness. Complete blood counts and serum biochemical analyses were performed before, during, and after the treatment period. Because calves developed anemia during the treatment period, bone marrow biopsy specimens were collected. Antirecombinant human interferon alfa-2a antibody concentrations in serum samples obtained before, during, and after the treatment period were measured by use of an ELISA.

Results—Recombinant human interferon alfa-2a had no antiviral activity against noncytopathic type 1 BVDV in persistently infected calves. All calves developed microcytic anemia during the treatment period that persisted for up to 13 weeks after cessation of treatment. Anti-interferon antibodies were detected during the treatment period and persisted for at least 2 weeks after cessation of treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Because of lack of in vivo antiviral activity against BVDV, recombinant human interferon alfa-2a has little promise as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of BVDV infection, at least in persistently infected cattle. Furthermore, treatment was associated with adverse immunologic and hematologic effects. (Am J Vet Res2004;65:865–870)
Leuprolide acetate treatment of adrenocortical disease in ferrets
Authors: Wagner Robert A. , Bailey Elizabeth M. , Schneider John F. , Oliver Jack W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effects of leuprolide acetate, a long-acting gonadotropin-releasing hormone analog, in ferrets with adrenocortical diseases.

Design—Case series.

Animals—20 ferrets with adrenocortical disease diagnosed on the basis of clinical signs and plasma sex hormone concentrations.

Procedure—Ferrets were treated with leuprolide (100 µg, IM, once), and plasma hormone concentrations were measured before and 3 to 6 weeks after treatment.

Results—Leuprolide treatment resulted in significant reductions in plasma estradiol, 17 α-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrosterone concentrations and eliminated or reduced clinical signs associated with adrenocortical disease. Decreases in vulvar swelling, pruritus, and undesirable sexual behaviors and aggression were evident 14 days after treatment; hair regrowth was evident by 4 weeks after treatment. The response to treatment was transitory, and clinical signs recurred in all ferrets. Mean ± SEM time to recurrence was 3.7 ± 0.4 months (range, 1.5 to 8 months).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that leuprolide can be safely used to temporarily eliminate clinical signs and reduce sex hormone concentrations in ferrets with adrenocortical diseases. However, the safety of long-term leuprolide use in ferrets has not been investigated, and the long-term effects of leuprolide in ferrets with nodular adrenal gland hyperplasia or adrenal gland tumors are unknown. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1272–1274)
Effects of finasteride on size of the prostate gland and semen quality in dogs with benign prostatic hypertrophy
Authors: Sirinarumitr Kaitkanoke , Johnston Shirley D. , Kustritz Margaret V. Root , Johnston Gary R. , Sarkar Dipak K. , Memon Mushtaq A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effect of the 5α-reductase inhibitor finasteride on prostatic diameter and volume, semen quality, and serum dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and testosterone concentrations in dogs with spontaneous benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH).

Design—Double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

Animals—9 dogs with BPH.

Procedure—Five dogs were treated with finasteride for 16 weeks (0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg [0.05 to 0.23 mg/lb] of body weight, PO, q 24 h); the other 4 received a placebo. Prostatic diameter, measured radiographically, prostatic volume, measured ultrasonographically, semen quality, and serum DHT and testosterone concentrations were evaluated before and during treatment. After receiving the placebo for 16 weeks, the 4 control dogs were treated with finasteride for 16 weeks, and evaluations were repeated.

Results—Finasteride significantly decreased prostatic diameter (mean percentage decrease, 20%), prostatic volume (mean percentage decrease, 43%), and serum DHT concentration (mean percentage decrease, 58%). Finasteride decreased semen volume but did not adversely effect semen quality or serum testosterone concentration. No adverse effects were reported by owners of dogs in the study.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that finasteride can be used to reduce prostatic size in dogs with BPH without adversely affecting semen quality or serum testosterone concentration. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1275–1280)
Risk factors for development of dysautonomia in dogs
Authors: Berghaus Roy D. , O'Brien Dennis P. , Johnson Gayle C. , Thorne James G.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify risk factors associated with
dysautonomia in dogs.

Design—Case-control study.

Animals—42 dogs with dysautonomia examined
between October 1988 and January 2000 and 132
control dogs examined during the same period for an
unrelated problem.

Procedure—Information was gathered from medical
records and surveys mailed to owners of case and
control dogs.

Results—42 case and 132 control dogs were included;
completed surveys were returned by owners of
30 case and 103 control dogs. Dogs with dysautonomia
were significantly younger (median, 18 months)
than control dogs (median, 60 months) and more likely
to come from rural areas and to spend ≥ 50% of
their time outdoors. Compared with rural control dogs
that spent at least some time outdoors, affected dogs
were more likely to have access to pasture land, farm
ponds, and cattle, and to have consumed wildlife, at
least occasionally. The largest numbers of dogs with
dysautonomia were identified during February and
April, with relatively few dogs identified during the
summer and early fall.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Although the
cause of dysautonomia is unknown, results suggest
that dogs with dysautonomia were significantly more
likely to live in rural areas and spend ≥ 50% of their
time outdoors than were control dogs examined for
unrelated diseases. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2001;218:
1285–1290)
Comparison of immediate intradermal test reactivity with serum IgE quantitation by use of a radioallergosorbent test and two ELISA in horses with and without atopy
Authors: Lorch Gwendolen , Hillier Andrew , Kwochka Kenneth W. , Saville William J. , Kohn Catherine W. , LeRoy Bruce E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare a radioallergosorbent test
and 2 ELISA with intradermal testing for the determination
of environmental allergen hypersensitivity in
horses with and without atopic diseases.

Design—Prospective clinical study.

Animals—10 horses with recurrent urticaria, 7 with
atopic dermatitis, 16 with chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease, and 22 without atopy.

Procedure—History, physical examination, hemogram,
serum biochemical analyses, bronchoalveolar
lavage, and an intradermal test (used as the criterion
standard) with a regional panel of 73 allergens were
performed in all horses. Serum was analyzed by use
of the 3 in vitro assays of allergen-specific IgE.

Results—An ELISA based on the α chain of the highaffinity
IgE receptor, the Fc∈ receptor immunoglobin ∈
chain (Fc∈RIα) for IgE, had the overall highest kappa
statistic (0.238), positive predictive value (49%), and
negative predictive value (78%). Overall agreement
between the Fc∈RIα-based ELISA and the intradermal
test was fair. The highest kappa statistic was obtained
by the Fc∈RIα-based ELISA in horses with atopic dermatitis
(0.330). Kappa statistics for the radioallergosorbent
test and a polyclonal antibody-based ELISA
agreed slightly with that of the intradermal test at best.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—None of the 3
serum allergy tests reliably detected allergen hypersensitivity,
compared with the intradermal test. The
Fc∈RIα-based ELISA performed significantly better
overall than the other 2 tests. Low sensitivity of all 3
assays indicates the need for continued study to elucidate
a more sensitive test for the determination of
potentially pathogenic allergens in horses. (J Am Vet
Med Assoc 2001;218:1314–1322)
Epidemiologic study of risk factors for lower urinary tract diseases in cats
Authors: Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol , Osborne Carl A. , Lulich Jody P.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine proportional morbidity rates (PMR) and risk factors for lower urinary tract diseases (LUTD) in cats.

Design—Case-control study.

Sample Population—Records of 22,908 cats with LUTD and 263,168 cats without LUTD.

Procedure—Data were retrieved from the Purdue Veterinary Medical Data Base. Descriptive statistics and univariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess whether breed, age, sex, and neutering status were associated with different causes of LUTD.

Results—Mean PMR for LUTD irrespective of cause was 8/100 cats (range, 2 to 13/100 cats). Increased risk for urocystolithiasis (Russian Blue, Himalayan, and Persian cats), bacterial urinary tract infections (UTI; Abyssinian cats), congenital urinary tract defects (Manx and Persian cats), and urinary incontinence (Manx cats) was detected. Cats between 2 and < 7 years of age had increased risk for urethral plugs, neurogenic disorders, congenital defects, and iatrogenic injuries. Cats between 4 and < 10 years of age had increased risk for urocystolithiasis, urethral obstructions, and idiopathic LUTD. Cats ≥ 10 years of age had increased risk for UTI and neoplasia. Castrated males had increased risk for each cause of LUTD except UTI and incontinence. Spayed females had increased risk for urocystolithiasis, UTI, and neoplasia. Sexually intact females had decreased risk for each cause of LUTD except neurogenic disorders and iatrogenic injuries.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Specific breed, age, sex, and neutering status may be associated with specific types of feline LUTD. Knowledge of patient risk factors for LUTD may facilitate development of surveillance strategies that enhance earlier detection. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1429–1435)
Clinical indications for use of fresh frozen plasma in dogs: 74 dogs (October through December 1999)
Authors: Logan Jaime C. , Callan Mary Beth , Drew Krista , Marryott Kym , Oakley Donna A. , Jefferies Leigh , Giger Urs
Published: January 2006

Objective—To document reasons for use of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) in dogs and determine variables that apparently triggered the decision to use FFP.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—74 dogs.

Procedure—Medical records of dogs that received FFP at a veterinary teaching hospital during a 3-month period were reviewed.

Results—The 74 dogs underwent 144 transfusion episodes (TE; a TE was defined as 1 day of transfusion therapy) and received 252 units (120 ml/unit) of FFP. Fresh frozen plasma was administered to provide coagulation factors (67 TE), albumin (91), alphamacroglobulin (15), or immunoglobulins (19); for some TE, multiple clinical indications were identified. Variables that apparently triggered the decision to administer FFP included active hemorrhage with or without prolongation of coagulation times, low total plasma protein concentration, persistent vomiting associated with pancreatitis, and sepsis. Mean doses of FFP for each indication were between 8.5 and 9.4 ml/kg (3.9 and 4.3 ml/lb). Small dogs were generally given higher doses (mean dose, 13.9 ml/kg [6.3 ml/lb]) than large dogs (mean dose, 5.1 ml/kg [2.3 ml/lb]). Fifty (68%) dogs were alive at the time of discharge from the hospital.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that FFP plays an important role in the care of critically ill dogs. Because the supply of FFP is limited, guidelines for when administration of FFP may be clinically useful should be developed. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1449–1455)
Frequency of and risk factors for epistaxis associated with exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage in horses: 251,609 race starts (1992–1997)
Authors: Takahashi Toshiyuki , Hiraga Atsushi , Ohmura Hajime , Kai Makoto , Jones James H.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the frequency of epistaxis
during or after racing among racehorses and identify
factors associated with development of epistaxis.

Design—Retrospective study.

Sample Population—247,564 Thoroughbred and
4,045 Anglo-Arab race starts.

Procedure—Race start information (breed, age, sex,
racing distance, and race type) was obtained for
Thoroughbred and Anglo-Arab horses racing in Japan
Racing Association-sanctioned races between 1992
and 1997. All horses that raced were examined by a
veterinarian within 30 minutes of the conclusion of
the race; any horse that had blood at the nostrils was
examined with an endoscope. If blood was observed
in the trachea, epistaxis related to exercise-induced
pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) was diagnosed.

Results—Epistaxis related to EIPH was identified following
369 race starts (0.15%). Frequency of EIPHrelated
epistaxis was significantly associated with race
type, age, distance, and sex. Epistaxis was more common
following steeplechase races than following flat
races, in older horses than in horses that were 2 years
old, following races ≤ 1,600 m long than following
races between 1,601 and 2,000 m long, and in females
than in sexually intact males. For horses that had an
episode of epistaxis, the recurrence rate was 4.64%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested
that frequency of EIPH-related epistaxis in
racehorses is associated with the horse's age and
sex, the type of race, and the distance raced. The
higher frequency in shorter races suggests that higher
intensity exercise of shorter duration may increase
the probability of EIPH. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2001;218:1462–1464)
Bacterial isolates from blood and their susceptibility patterns in critically ill foals: 543 cases (1991–1998)
Authors: Marsh Peggy S. , Palmer Jonathan E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To assess microorganisms isolated from blood specimens obtained from critically ill neonatal foals and to evaluate their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—543 neonatal foals.

Procedure—Medical records of foals that were < 1 month old and were admitted to a referral neonatal intensive care unit were reviewed for results of bacteriologic culture of blood and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns.

Results—At least 1 microorganism was isolated from 155 of 543 (28.5%) foals.Escherichia coliwas the most commonly isolated bacterium. A single grampositive organism was detected in 49 foals. Although 90% of theE coliisolates were susceptible to amikacin, some gram-negative and gram-positive organisms had resistance against multiple antimicrobials.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Gram-negative bacteria remain the most common isolates from blood of neonatal foals; however, gram-positive organisms were also found, and with greater prevalence than reported elsewhere. Susceptibility patterns may vary, and resistance to multiple antimicrobials may develop. This is especially true for organisms such asEnterobacterspp andEnterococcusspp. Prudent empirical treatment for neonatal sepsis should include broad-spectrum antimicrobials. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1608–1610)
Serologic evidence of Rickettsia akari infection among dogs in a metropolitan city
Authors: Comer James A. , Vargas M. Camilo , Poshni Iqbal , Childs James E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether dogs in New York,
NY are naturally infected with Rickettsia akari, the
causative agent of rickettsialpox in humans.

Design—Serologic survey.

Animals—311 dogs.

Procedure—Serum samples were obtained from
dogs as a part of a study on Rocky Mountain spotted
fever and borreliosis or when dogs were examined at
area veterinary clinics for routine care. Dog owners
were asked to complete a questionnaire inquiring
about possible risk factors at the time serum samples
were obtained. Samples were tested for reactivity to
spotted fever group rickettsiae by use of an enzyme
immunoassay (EIA). Twenty-two samples for which
results were positive were tested by use of an indirect
immunofluorescence antibody (IFA) assay followed
by confirmatory cross-absorption testing.

Results—Results of the EIA were positive for 24
(7.7%) dogs. A history of tick infestation and increasing
age were significantly associated with whether
dogs were seropositive. Distribution of seropositive
dogs was focal. Seventeen of the 22 samples submitted
for IFA testing had titers to R rickettsii and R
akari; for 11 of these, titers to R akari were higher than
titers to R rickettsii. Cross-absorption testing indicated
that in 6 of 7 samples, infection was caused by R
akari.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that dogs can be naturally infected with R akari.
Further studies are needed to determine the incidence
of R akari infection in dogs, whether infection
is associated with clinical illness, and whether dogs
can serve as sentinels for human disease. (J Am Vet
Med Assoc 2001;218:1780–1782)
Prevalence of behavioral changes associated with age-related cognitive impairment in dogs
Authors: Neilson Jacqueline C. , Hart Benjamin L. , Cliff Kelly D. , Ruehl William W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the prevalence of age-related
behavioral changes, namely impairment, in a randomly
chosen population of dogs.

Design—Age-stratified cohort study.

Animals—97 spayed female and 83 castrated male
dogs that were 11 to 16 years old.

Procedure—Data on possible impairment in 4 behavioral
categories (ie, orientation in the home and yard,
social interaction, house training, and sleep-wake cycle)
linked to cognitive dysfunction were obtained from dog
owners, using a structured telephone interview.
Hospital records of dogs had been screened to exclude
dogs with dysfunction in organ systems that may cause
behavioral changes. Dogs with behavioral impairment
were those with ≥ 2 signs of dysfunction within a category.
Dogs with impairment in 1 category were considered
mildly impaired and those with impairment in ≥ 2
categories were considered severely impaired.

Results—Age by sex interactions for dogs with
impairment in any category were not significant, and,
therefore, data on castrated males and spayed
females were pooled for analyses across ages. The
prevalence of age-related progressive impairment
was significant in all categories. The percentage of
11- to 12-year-old dogs with impairment in ≥ 1 category
was 28% (22/80), of which 10% (8/80) had
impairment in ≥ 2 behavioral categories. Of 15- to 16-
year-old dogs, 68% (23/34) had impairment in ≥ 1 category,
of which 35% (12/34) had impairments in ≥ 2
categories. There were no significant effects of body
weight on the prevalence of signs of dysfunction in
the behavioral categories.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Data collected
provide estimates of the prevalence of various
degrees of age-related behavioral changes associated
with cognitive dysfunction in dogs. Age-related behavioral
changes may be useful indicators for medical
intervention for dogs with signs of cognitive impairment.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2001;218:1787–1791)
Evaluation of the embryo transfer procedure proposed by the International Embryo Transfer Society as a method of controlling vertical transmission of Neospora caninum in cattle
Authors: Baillargeon Paul , Fecteau Gilles , Paré Julie , Lamothe Pierre , Sauvé Roger
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate efficacy of embryo transfer into seronegative recipients, using the procedure proposed by the International Embryo Transfer Society (IETS), for preventing vertical transmission ofNeospora caninumin cattle.

Design—Prospective clinical trial.

Animals—87 recipient cows and heifers and their embryo transfer calves from 22 donors originating from 9 dairy herds.

Procedure—Neospora caninumserologic status of donors and recipients was determined before collection and transfer of embryos. Viable embryos were washed and treated with trypsin. Recipients in experimental groups A (n = 50) and B (29) were seronegative and received embryos from seropositive and seronegative donors, respectively. Recipients in group C (n = 8) were seropositive and received embryos from seronegative or seropositive donors. Antibody titers againstN caninumwere determined monthly during pregnancy in recipients and in calf blood samples collected at birth. Tissues collected from stillborn calves and aborted fetuses were analyzed histologically and by immunohistochemical (IHC) methods.

Results—76 calves and 11 fetuses and stillborn calves were examined. All calves from groups A and B were seronegative (n = 70) or lacked evidence of infection by use of tissue analysis (9). In group C, 5 of 6 calves were seropositive at birth, and IHC results were positive for 1 of 2 calves. Vertical transmission rate was significantly lower in groups A and B (0%) than in group C (75%).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Embryo transfer into seronegative recipients, using the procedure proposed by IETS, is an effective way to prevent vertical transmission ofN caninum. Results provide support for pretransfer testing of all embryo transfer recipients. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218: 1803–1806)
Epidemiologic characteristics of rabies virus variants in dogs and cats in the United States, 1999
Authors: McQuiston Jennifer H. , Yager Pamela A. , Smith Jean S. , Rupprecht Charles E.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate epidemiologic features of rabies virus variants in dogs and cats in the United States during 1999 and assess the role of bat-associated variants.

Design—Epidemiologic survey.

Sample Population—Rabies viruses from 78 dogs and 230 cats.

Procedure—Brain specimens from rabid dogs and cats were submitted for typing of rabies virus. Historical information, including ownership and vaccination status, was obtained for each animal. Specimens were typed by use of indirect fluorescent antibody assay or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assay and nucleotide sequence analysis.

Results—Nearly all animals were infected with the predicted terrestrial rabies virus variant associated with the geographic location of the submission. A batassociated variant of rabies virus was found in a single cat from Maryland. More than half (53%) of submitted animals were classified as owned animals, and most had no known history of vaccination. One vaccination failure was reported in a dog that did not receive a booster dose of rabies vaccine after exposure to a possibly rabid animal.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Bat-associated rabies virus variants were not a common cause of rabies in dogs and cats during 1999. Vaccine failures were uncommon during the study period. Because most rabid dogs and cats were unvaccinated and were owned animals rather than strays, educational campaigns targeting owners may be useful. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1939–1942)
Prevalence and clinical implications of anthelmintic resistance in cyathostomes of horses
Authors: Tarigo-Martinie Jaime L. , Wyatt Amy R. , Kaplan Ray M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the prevalence and clinical implications of anthelmintic resistance in cyathostomes of horses.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—80 horses on 10 farms in a 5-county region of northeast Georgia.

Procedure—On each farm, horses were stratified in descending order according to pretreatment fecal egg count (FEC), blocked into groups of 4, and then randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups: no treatment (controls), and treatment with pyrantel pamoate, fenbendazole, or ivermectin. Fecal samples were collected 24 hours prior to treatment and 2, 4, and 6 weeks after treatment for determination of FEC. Mean percentage of reduction in FEC was then calculated for each treatment group. For horses from each farm, the efficacy of each anthelmintic was categorized on the basis of mean percentage of reduction in FEC at 2 weeks after treatment (< 80% reduction = ineffective; 80 to 90% reduction = equivocal; and > 90% reduction = effective).

Results—Pyrantel pamoate was effective at reducing FEC in horses from 7 farms, ineffective in horses from 2 farms, and equivocal in horses from 1 farm. Fenbendazole was ineffective at reducing FEC in horses from 9 farms and equivocal in horses from 1 farm. Ivermectin was effective at reducing FEC in horses from all 10 farms.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that cyathostome resistance to fenbendazole is highly prevalent, and resistance to pyrantel pamoate is high enough to warrant concern. Resistance to ivermectin was not detected. On the basis of these data, it appears that ivermectin continues to be fully effective in horses. However, too few farms were used in this study to determine the prevalence of cyathostome resistance to ivermectin. Therefore, the efficacy of ivermectin should continue to be monitored closely. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:1957–1960)
Suspected caffeine and ephedrine toxicosis resulting from ingestion of an herbal supplement containing guarana and ma huang in dogs: 47 cases (1997–1999)
Authors: Ooms Tara G. , Khan Safdar A. , Means Charlotte
Published: January 2006

Objective—To describe the clinical signs following ingestion of an herbal supplement containing guarana and ma huang in dogs, estimate minimum dose at which clinical signs of toxicosis and death were reported, and evaluate treatment options.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—47 dogs with evidence of ingestion of an herbal supplement containing primarily guarana and ma huang.

Procedure—Records of dogs that had ingested an herbal supplement containing ma huang and guarana between July 1997 and October 1999 were retrieved from the National Animal Poison Control Center database. Data were retrieved and reviewed regarding signalment, dose ingested, clinical signs, laboratory test results, treatment, and final outcome. Cases were assessed by staff veterinarians as toxicosis or suspected toxicosis on the basis of strength of evidence supporting a diagnosis.

Results—Most dogs (80%) developed clinical signs of toxicosis within 8 hours of ingestion, and clinical signs persisted for up to 48 hours. Hyperactivity, tremors, seizures, and behavior changes were reported in 83% of dogs; other signs included vomiting (47%), tachycardia (30%), and hyperthermia (28%). Seventeen percent of the dogs died or were euthanatized. Estimated doses of guarana and ma huang ranged from 4.4 to 296.2 mg/kg (1.98 to 133.2 mg/lb) and 1.3 to 88.9 mg/kg (0.58 to 40.0 mg/ lb) of body weight, respectively; minimum dose at which death was reported was 19.1 mg of guarana/kg (8.7 mg/lb) and 5.8 mg of ma huang/kg (2.6 mg/lb).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Accidental ingestion of herbal supplements containing primarily guarana and ma huang in dogs can lead to a potentially lethal condition that may require prompt detoxification and supportive treatment for several days. Most dogs recovered with supportive treatment. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:225–229)
Treatment with a combination of doxorubicin, surgery, and radiation versus surgery and radiation alone for cats with vaccine-associated sarcomas: 25 cases (1995–2000)
Authors: Bregazzi Victoria S. , LaRue Susan M. , McNiel Elizabeth , Macy Dennis W. , Dernell William S. , Powers Barbara E. , Withrow Stephen J.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare use of doxorubicin, surgery, and radiation versus surgery and radiation alone for treatment of cats with vaccine-associated sarcoma.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—25 cats with vaccine-associated sarcomas.

Procedure—Time to first recurrence and survival time were compared between the 2 treatment groups. The number of surgeries (1 or > 1) were compared with respect to time to first recurrence and survival time.

Results—Median time to first recurrence was 661 days for the group that received doxorubicin, surgery, and radiation. Median time to first recurrence has not yet been attained for the group treated with surgery and radiation alone. Median survival time was 674 days for the group treated with doxorubicin, surgery, and radiation and 842 days for the group treated with surgery and radiation alone. For time to first recurrence and survival time, significant differences were not detected between cats that had 1 surgery and those that had > 1 surgery.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Significant differences between the 2 treatment groups were not detected. The efficacy of doxorubicin in the treatment of vaccine-associated sarcomas is uncertain. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2001;218:547–550)